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Together We Did the Distance in 2026

Throughout August, our Can Assist branches brought their communities together for our annual peer-to-peer fundraising challenge, Can Do the Distance.

Across the walks, we saw fundraisers, donors, members, volunteers and families who are, or have been, supported by Can Assist all coming together to walk, connect and show their support for people affected by cancer in their local communities.

These walks are a wonderful way to bring local communities together, raise additional donations and showcase the important work our branches are doing to support people affected by cancer.

They’re also a valuable opportunity to put Can Assist in front of new audiences. Local newspaper, radio, online and community coverage can help more people discover Can Assist — including people who may not yet know we’re here to support them when cancer strikes.

The more people who know about Can Assist, the more likely we are to reach people who need our support — ideally earlier in their cancer journey, so they know they don’t have to navigate it alone.

We’re so proud of everyone who got involved and helped make this year’s Can Do the Distance so special.

We hope these stories give our branches ideas and inspiration for Can Do the Distance 2027, including how their local walk can create meaningful stories and media opportunities for their community.

FORBES – SATURDAY 22 AUGUST

Forbes Branch Do the Distance!

Forbes hosted their Can Do the Distance walk on a beautiful sunny day by Lake Forbes with 140 people attending. This was their second year hosting a walk for Can Do. 

Lake Forbes

The Bridge to Bridge route gave people the choice to walk one lap or keep going, making it easy for everyone to take part at their own pace. The Forbes Branch set up their Can Assist tent by the lake, creating a place for walkers to meet, have a chat, donate and connect before setting off.

Beau Hartwig and Ann Bray, patients supported by the Forbes Branch, joined the walk with their families.   

Fundraiser Melissa celebrated for her efforts

The day also included a special moment for Melissa Nicholson, who received a certificate recognising her fundraising efforts, so far she has raised $1842 for Forbes. Melissa walked in honour of her sister Kristie who was assisted by Forbes during her cancer journey. 

After the walk, everyone headed to Forbes Sport & Recreation Club from midday for a well-earned sausage sizzle.  


Local Media:
Join Sunday morning walk for CanAssist
Step up for CanAssist, local families, this Sunday 

 

TAMWORTH BRANCH – SATURDAY 22nd AUGUST

Tamworth walkers in front of Can Assist Truck

Tamworth was back for a second year of Can Do the Distance, following the success of last year’s walk.

This year, the weather certainly put the community to the test, with rain and flooding in the lead-up to the event. But a little rain wasn’t going to stop Tamworth! Ten determined walkers braved the wet weather to come together at King George Avenue and take part.

The branch also introduced a $15 entry fee, giving people a simple way to take part while helping raise additional funds for their local Can Assist Branch.

Tamworth Vice President Bill Moss also took on his own Can Do the Distance challenge, aiming to reach an incredible 100,000 steps throughout August. Bill has raised up to $2,500 for the branch so far — an amazing effort!

Despite the weather, Tamworth showed that Can Do the Distance is about more than the walk itself. It’s about getting involved, supporting your community and finding ways to make a difference.

The branch is already looking ahead to 2027 and is keen to build on this year’s event and bring even more of the Tamworth community together.

PARKES BRANCH – SUNDAY 23 AUGUST

Parkes came together on a beautiful sunny Sunday morning for their Can Do the Distance walk around North Parkes Oval, with 75 people joining in.

The morning brought together members, volunteers, fundraisers, families and local supporters for a few laps, plenty of conversation and a chance to show their support for people affected by cancer in country NSW.

The Parkes Branch also set up a Can Assist tent where people could make donations, have a chat with the team and find out more about Can Assist. The day even resulted in a new volunteer signing up to get involved!

It was a lovely opportunity for the Parkes community to get moving, catch up with familiar faces and come together for a cause close to home.


Parkes Branch Do the Distance and Mornos!

A morning tea was also hosted after the walk, giving those who stayed a chance to sit down, have a chat and enjoy some time together.

PEAK HILL BRANCH – SATURDAY 29 AUGUST

Peak Hill enjoyed a beautiful sunny day for their Can Do the Distance walk with around 30 people attending. While not everyone took part in the walk, there were plenty of ways for the community to get involved and support the day.

The walk started at Peak Hill Memorial Park before heading along Derribong Street to Whitton Park Road and returning to the park.

The community really got behind the day, with Coles in Parkes donating towards the BBQ and local businesses generously donating gifts for a raffle, including Harvey Norman in Dubbo, Bunnings, Kmart and Kaisercraft. The raffle prizes were drawn at the Ex-Services Club on Saturday night.

Local man Rick Read also ran a 100-square chart at $20 a square, adding another great fundraising effort to the day.Together, the raffle, 100-square chart and donation tins raised an incredible $2,581, alongside $2,050 raised through Grassrootz — an outstanding effort from the Peak Hill community!

A special mention also goes to Linda Gaunt, an 85-year-old long-time member of the Peak Hill Branch, who took part in the walk and raised an incredible $500 for the branch. After the walk, everyone was invited to enjoy a free sausage sandwich, cupcakes and a cool drink — a lovely way to finish a fantastic day together.

HARDEN BRANCH – SUNDAY 31 AUGUST

 

Leanne walking with Ellie’s daughter Ivy

Harden came together for Ellie’s Walk, led by Ellie’s sister Leanne Schulz, the face of this year’s Can Do the Distance campaign.

Leanne walked an incredible 270km throughout August (10km for every year of Ellie’s life) finishing her challenge with the final 5km at the community walk. Leanne’s family were there to share the special day, alongside Ellie’s husband Paul and daughter Ivy.

Ellie’s daughter Ivy

Held at Harden oval, the walk brought around 70 people together on the day, with 50 people joining Leanne for her final 5km. The oval gave the community a wonderful place to come together, with people able to walk alongside Leanne, join at different points, or sit and watch and cheer her on.

Leanne has raised an incredible $4,036 for the Harden Branch, with the support of the local community. She got local businesses behind her challenge, with posters popping up around town and businesses finding their own ways to get involved. One local coffee shop even donated $1 from every coffee sold, raising an extra $68 for Can Assist over the month.

The Harden Branch supported Leanne throughout the organisation of the walk and on the day, as well as hosting a raffle to give locals another way to get involved and support the branch.

A local butcher generously donated the sausages for a fundraiser sausage sizzle, with Leanne’s husband taking charge of the BBQ while everyone came together after the walk.

It was a beautiful community celebration of Ellie’s life and Leanne’s incredible challenge, with local businesses, families, volunteers and friends all coming together to support Leanne and raise funds for people affected by cancer in their community.

Local Media:
Do it For Ellie: One Sister’s Dream Carried Out By Another – Twin Town Times 

 

A huge thank you to every branch who gave Can Do the Distance a go this year, in whatever capacity they could.

Save the date for August 2027!

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Armidale’s Jenny Bourke named New England-Northern Inland Volunteer of the Year

2026 New England Northern Inland Volunteer of the Year Jenny Bourke (centre with glasses)

Armidale volunteer Jenny Bourke has been named the 2026 New England-Northern Inland Volunteer of the Year, recognising her work supporting older people, people living with cancer and vulnerable tenants.

Bourke received the region’s top volunteering honour at the 2026 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards ceremony at Armidale City Bowling Club.

She divides her time between three local organisations — Can Assist Armidale, Care for Seniors and the New England & Western Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service.

Through those roles, Bourke prepares meals and activities and organises bus outings for older people, raises money and provides care and support for people living with cancer and provides governance, strategic advice and advocacy for vulnerable tenants.

She was also named the New England-Northern Inland Senior Volunteer of the Year.

The awards, hosted by The Centre for Volunteering, recognise the contributions of volunteers and volunteer teams across NSW and are celebrating their 20th year in 2026.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said volunteers across New England and the Northern Inland played an important role in their communities.

“Volunteers help build strong and healthy communities across the state,” Rygate said.

“They are always there when we need them most, giving their time and support across all areas of life including health, emergency services, education and community sectors.

“Volunteers are role models for others, highlighting how volunteering can have such a positive impact on people and places. These awards celebrate the volunteering effort and impact.”

Jenny Bourke

3 Sept 2026

netimes.com.au

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Leanne completes 270km walking challenge in memory of late sister, benefiting two branches

Leanne has reached her goal of walking 270km in the month of August.

 

Leanne Schulz has completed her 270km ‘Can You Do The Distance For Ellie’ walking challenge alongside a strong crowd of supporters in Harden on Sunday 30 August.

Raising funds for the Harden-Murrumburrah and Young-Boorowa branches of Can Assist, the goal to raise $2700 for both branches has been blown out of the water.

As it stands, nearly $10,000 has been raised by Leanne and her team.

Leanne took on the challenge in memory of her late sister Ellie who lost her battle with adenocarcinoma, a rare cancer of the bladder, in April 2024.

Ellie was 27 when she passed away, with Leanne setting her walking and fundraising goals accordingly in remembrance of her sister.

Beginning Sunday’s walk at McLean Park hand-in-hand with Ellie’s daughter Ivy, Leanne walked the last five kilometres flanked by friends, family and strangers willing to support the cause.

“I said to the crowd that I thought Ellie would be with us every step of the way, having a bit of a giggle and wanting us to have fun, so we took on that mantra for the day,” Leanne said.

“I’m really hoping it makes a difference, that it helps our branches and helps the community.”

Leanne has not walked alone throughout the challenge, with Ellie’s former colleague at FTS Financial Planning Josh Wachner and her friend Macca Aldridge also completing 270km challenges.

The three of them crossed the line together on Sunday having completed a combined distance of 810km, longer than a returned trip from Harden to Sydney.

The Hard Rock gym in Harden was also involved, with its members combining to crank out 270km on the treadmill during the month of August.

“It was so nice to do that last 5km with a bunch of people I knew, and some that I didn’t.

“We’ve done it for Ellie to give back on her behalf, but I finished thinking ‘what’s next?”

Maxine Davis is the vice president of the Harden-Murrumburrah branch of Can Assist, and said she is immensely proud of the fundraising effort.

“We’re always ecstatic when anyone wants to raise funds for us, and it’s not just raising the funds, it’s also promoting our branch,” Maxine said.

Can Assist provide local cancer patients with fuel vouchers, accommodation, access to government assistance and a host of other helping hands.

“The money that Leanne has raised goes directly into each individual branch, and every dollar stays within that branch and is used for the local community,” Maxine said.

“She’s done an amazing job, it would have been very emotionally hard for her and her family to be getting out and pounding the pavement, but to do it and raise funds for Can Assist while remembering her gorgeous sister Ellie, and with Ivy as well, it’s just amazing.”

On a short walkin Young with Leanne last Friday, she spoke about the joys and challenges of a month putting one foot in front of the other.

“Ellie was a Harden girl, she grew up in Harden and went to school there, then she moved over to Young for work and to start her adult life,” Leanne said.

“She had the support of her hometown and her new community in Young, and that was the reason I chose to do the fundraising for both.

“I spent a couple of months prior to the challenge getting myself prepared physically, but I didn’t prepare myself as well for the emotional challenge that it was going to be.

“I’ve done walks as long as 15km, they’ve always been walks with a purpose, and not just counting my everyday steps.

“It’s been nice watching other people smash that goal or get on board, it’s encouraged me to keep going.

“I definitely want to keep doing fundraising for Can Assist, they’re so important for our communities especially in terms of practical support for cancer treatment.

“Ellie’s cancer was quite rare, so we had to go to the city for specialist appointments

“It was hundreds of kilometres of travel and so much time away from home.

“Without their help Ellie wouldn’t have been able to have her little daughter with her while she was being treated.”

 

September 2, 2026

youngwitness.com.au

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Oberon Winter 2026 Highlights

L_R Pip, Jade, Ian, Benny, Red, Nathan, Jess, Jenna, Dean, Luke,

Renee, Jade, Blake, Brenda, Pru, Vanessa, Des, Deb, Mia

2026 Tigers charity day have raised an amazing $80,000.00

We truly appreciate all the hard work that the club do for us every year. They go above and beyond for our charity year after year.

 

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Leeton Winter 2026 Highlights

Some of the Leeton members enjoying a walk

Can Assist Leeton Members walked every Monday and Friday in Leeton for the Can Do challenge. Members gathered sponsors and raised a lot of money for local cancer patients. Up to 12 members walked on any given day and those who couldn’t walk joined us for coffee afterwards. This event not only raised money but it also raised awareness as we wore our bright green Can Assist shirts and attracted a lot of comments while walking and enjoying a coffee.

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The Young and Boorowa Branch of Can Assist look back at 2025-26

The Young and Boorowa branch of Can Assist look back at previous year.

The Young and Boorowa Branch of Can Assist have looked back at the support they have provided over the previous year and are preparing for the year ahead after their recent annual general meeting.

Young and Boorowa branch president Gail Hanigan reflected on the support the branch provided in the 2025/26 financial year in her president’s report.

Ms Hanigan said the branch assisted 80 cancer patients across both towns with $74,244 for treatment, travel and accommodation.

“Many others sought non-medical information such as location of treatment facilities,” Ms Hanigan said.

Over the year, the Young and Boorowa branch received $103,000 in donations, including $60,000 in two bequests.

Ms Hanigan highlighted the various community groups and events which helped to financially support the branch over the year, as well as the branch’s involvement in community events.

Among the events and organisations highlighted were the Young District Anglers SW Bank, the Tubbul Campdraft committee, Boorowa Rotary Op Shop, Young Fire and Rescue, Young Services Club Cherry Festival, and the Young Croquet Club, as well as members of the branch and community.

“To our other executive – Chris, Kaylene and Pene and members – all volunteers, thank you for all that you do to support local cancer patients and their families in the Young and Boorowa areas,” Ms Hanigan said.

“Thank you to all in the community who have contributed in any way to enable Young Boorowa Can Assist to continue with this support.”

Over the past year the Young and Boorowa branch welcomed three new members – Dianna Hamilton, Julie Kerr and Wendy Hobson.

The branch sadly farewelled member Betty Smithers who passed away.

boorowanewsonline.com.au

August 27, 2026

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Coota Restorers Car Club Donates $2,000 To Can Assist Cootamundra

John McEvoy (RDA), Paul Braybrooks President CRCC, Colleen Flynn (CanAssist), Olwen Smith (RDA).

At their recent July AGM, the Cootamundra Restorers Car Club (CRCC) invited representatives from Can Assist and Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) as guests. The representatives were then given donations of $2000 each from Car Club President, Paul Braybrooks.

Can Assist, represented by Colleen Flynn, and the RDA, represented by Olwen Smith and John McEvoy, are both organisations that are run by volunteers who work tireless to improve the lives of people within and surrounding the Cootamundra community.

The guests gave a short talk to the members present, and highlighted the important role they play within the Cootamundra community.

While the need for donations was expressed by each organisation, severe gratitude was expressed by both, as well as appreciation of the Car Club’s donation.

Colleen Flynn spoke about the work done by their tireless volunteers, which has served more than 600 residents of Cootamundra, Stockinbingal and Bethungra for 40 years.

Cancer Council reports there are more than 170,000 new diagnoses each year, with one third of all diagnoses from NSW (31,000 men and 26,000 women).

Can Assist (unique to NSW) has 50 branches across the state, and Colleen said the organisation relies on clients contacting them first. This, Colleen said, is because not everyone is looking for assistance.

Outgoing expenses, she said, varies from $2000 to $10,000 per month. These statistics are dependent on needs, transport assistance (with particular mention of the rising fuel prices), pharmacy needs and support.

 

August 20, 2026

cootatimes.com.au

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Celebrating Can Assist Hay

President Jane Griffiths (front left) is pictured with Can Assist Life Member Reg Fell and (behind) fellow members Joanne Dunn, Judy Callaghan, Susie Wall and Carol Oataway.

 

For more than 25 years, the Hay community has rallied behind local people facing cancer through the wonderful work of Can Assist Hay.

The local branch was established in 1999 by a group of far-sighted Hay citizens who recognised that cancer treatment could place an enormous financial burden on families.
Their goal was simple — to ensure local patients could access the medical treatment they needed without the added worry of expenses.

The current committee and members remain mindful that they are continuing the work of those original founders, as well as the many volunteers who have contributed over the years and are no longer with us.
Can Assist Hay has held countless fundraising activities, with locals regularly seeing its BBQ at auctions, car rallies, music festivals at One Tree, funerals, Bonanza Night and many other community events.

Individual fundraising efforts have also made a significant difference, including Garry May shaving his locks for charity and Reg Fell’s ongoing collection of cans and bottles.
Bradley Tredrea is currently assisting with the collection in Reg’s absence.
The branch is also extremely grateful for the ongoing support of the Rust and Dust Rally and its committee, which has raised funds for both Can Assist and Angel Flight over many years.

At the recent Annual General Meeting, 18 people attended and two new members joined the branch. Jane Griffiths was elected President, Carol Oataway Treasurer and Joanne Dunn Secretary.  Susie Wall and Vilma Baulch are the Catering Officers, and Mandy Barnes is the patient liaison officer.
The branch also acknowledged the invaluable contribution of the women who assist with funeral catering. Their support provides an important service to grieving families at an incredibly difficult time.

Can Assist Hay is fortunate to be in a position to provide generous assistance to local cancer patients and their families — assistance that is not possible through every Can Assist branch.
However, this support is only possible because of the generosity and commitment of local volunteers and donors.

The branch is now encouraging anyone who has been helped by Can Assist, or anyone in the wider community who would like to give something back, to become involved. Volunteers are needed for BBQs, cooking, catering, washing up, sandwich making and collecting cans and bottles.

 

thegrazier.com.au

19 Aug 2026

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Deniliquin Can Assist awarded 2026 Deniliquin Business of the Year

Deniliquin Can Assist volunteers Jenny Fellows, Colleen Henderson, Kellie Crossley, Bianca Armytage and Liz Whyke with Deniliquin Pastoral Times general manager Nigel Lutton. Photo by Rebecca Flisher

Deniliquin Can Assist is the toast of the community after winning the coveted Deniliquin Business of the Year on Friday evening.

One of two awards the charity organisation claimed as part of the Deniliquin Business Chamber’s Business Excellence Awards, the announcement was welcomed by the more than 200 people in attendance.

Deniliquin Can Assist also received the award for Outstanding Community Organisation.

Deniliquin Can Assist president Kellie Crossley said the accolades reflect the “strength and generosity of the Edward River community”, which continues to rally behind the volunteer‑run charity.

“We wouldn’t be here without incredible community support,” Mrs Crossley said.

“Everyone deserves to have equal access to cancer treatment, and our committee members enjoy what we do.”

Committee member Jenny Fellows said the dual win was deeply emotional for the group.

“We are just overwhelmed and overjoyed; very humbled,” she said.

“It just shows the strength of the community.”

Since forming in 2017, Deniliquin Can Assist has raised more than $500,000, with every dollar staying local to support residents undergoing cancer treatment.

The branch provides help with travel, accommodation, medical and pharmaceutical costs, essential household expenses and practical assistance.

In the past financial year alone, the group delivered over $100,000 in direct support to local patients.

In her acceptance speech, Mrs Crossley thanked the many clubs, organisations and individuals who fundraise and donate regularly, along with major supporters Purtill Group and the Deni Ute Muster, where Can Assist has run pig races, ferret races and yabbie races in past years to raise funds.

Mrs Crossley also acknowledged the “incredible committee” whose dedication keeps the organisation moving.

Judges awarding Business of the Year praised the group’s commitment, noting that while strategic planning and coordination are essential, it is “the dedication and passion of the Can Assist team that truly drives the organisation forward”.

“Their commitment goes far beyond volunteer hours – they choose to give back because they see the real impact their support has on local families,” the citation read.

“For them, the reward is simple: the joy of knowing their efforts make a meaningful difference in people’s lives and strengthen the community they care about.”

Highlighted was Can Assist’s vital role in the region, its strong partnerships with local clubs, schools and community groups, and its close work with health professionals to ensure no-one faces cancer alone.

It also recognised the branch’s major fundraising events, including the popular High Tea and the Ute Muster ferret races, which bring people together while raising essential funds.

More than 200 people attended the gala evening, enjoying a welcome soirée before settling in for a two‑course meal and an evening of recognition, applause and community pride.

Background music from South West Music teacher David Bathgate set the tone before more than 20 awards were presented, honouring the passion, innovation and dedication of local businesses, organisations and individuals who help the region thrive.

Aug 17, 2026

sheppnews.com.au

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Armidale Winter 2026 Highlights

Jenny Bourke and Ruth Cason presenting at The Pharmacy’s information day.

A Successful Year of Fundraising and Advocacy

Our financial year ended on a very positive note, with our fundraising efforts rewarded by increased funds. This has enabled us to give more back to our community by providing financial assistance to local people affected by cancer.

Our Year of Advocacy

Our Branch’s ‘Year of Advocacy’ initiative has been put into practice throughout the year. Two volunteers, usually members of our Executive Committee, have given presentations to two local Rotary clubs, a Lions Club, a local pharmacy and the Oncology Department at Armidale Hospital. Members have also volunteered at public events, including the Sunday Markets.

The purpose of these presentations and community activities has been to ensure that people affected by cancer are aware of Can Assist and our willingness to provide financial assistance when needed. We are already seeing the benefits, with an increase in referrals from people who were previously unaware of the assistance available.

Ruth Cason and Jenny Bourke delivering a presentation at the Movie Night

Our Patient Liaison Officer, Ruth Cason, with the assistance of members, organised a successful Movie Night fundraiser at the Playhouse Armidale. The film Ladies in Black was chosen and enjoyed by a very appreciative audience.

The evening also provided an opportunity for our President, Jenny Bourke, and Ruth to speak to the audience about Can Assist and the support we provide to cancer patients in our community.

President Jenny Bourke giving a presentation at the book launch.

Our growing connection with Armidale Rotary Club led to another wonderful opportunity. Our Branch was invited to the launch of a book about navigating a cancer diagnosis, with Can Assist receiving donations from ticket sales.

One of the authors, Professor Louise Chappell, was born and educated in Armidale. Having experienced a cancer diagnosis herself, the book draws on her first-hand experience.

Once again, this event provided an opportunity for Jenny Bourke to speak about Can Assist. Donations from members of the audience followed, with our QR code enabling people to donate immediately.

Mountview Pharmacy invited Can Assist Armidale and Nurse Next Door to an information session at the Armidale Bowling Club. This was another valuable opportunity to spread the word about our organisation and the assistance we can provide. Two new clients were identified as a result of the session.

Rotary Central Armidale also made a generous donation to our Branch. Their major fundraiser each year is their huge Book Fair and, in the true spirit of reciprocity, our Secretary, Irma Bantjes, and another member volunteered to assist with their event.

Our Executive Committee also arranged an information session with staff from the Armidale Hospital Oncology Department. This was particularly beneficial for new staff who may not yet have been aware of Can Assist and therefore may not have known to mention our assistance to patients.

While the initial purpose of our ‘Year of Advocacy’ was to increase community awareness of our availability to provide financial assistance, a second and equally rewarding outcome has emerged. Donations from the community have increased as more people recognise Can Assist as a worthwhile cause.

Looking Ahead

The new financial year has begun with increased optimism. Our members continue to enjoy each other’s company while volunteering their time and skills in support of our worthwhile cause.

We look forward to another year of working together to ensure that local people affected by cancer receive the support they need when they need it most.

Jenny Bourke and Helen Duval selling Raffle tickets