TASMANIAN greyhound racing has made a sizeable contribution to the McGrath Foundation courtesy of the state’s involvement in the Go The Pink Dog campaign.
February’s Go The Pink Dog! campaign came to a close last night and it raised $120,500 for the McGrath Foundation, of which Tasmania contributed $7500.
During February 16 chasers wearing the pink vest saluted at Tasmanian greyhound meetings with each win securing a donation of $500 to the McGrath Foundation.
A host of celebrities supported the campaign including TV personality Denise Drysdale, celebrity chef Stephanie Alexander, Melbourne Vixens netball captain Bianca Chatfield and Parliamentary Secretary for Health & Ageing Catherine King in cheering the 241 pink number 8 greyhounds to win races in VIC, NSW, TAS and WA during February.
“Facts such as 1 in 11 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer before their 75th birthday and breast cancer being the most common cause of cancer death for women in Australia clearly indicate why awareness campaigns are required,” said champion cyclist Anna Meares who put her name and reputation behind the campaign.
“It is largely because of awareness campaigns that women have more knowledge and it is shown very clearly that early detection can, and does, reduce the likelihood of death.”
“Count me in any campaigns to raise awareness”, Meares said.
As well as educating women to be ‘breast aware’, the McGrath Foundation also currently employs 61 McGrath breast care nurses across Australia.