A teacup raised $2600 during an auction at Tea by the Sea - a massive Australia's Biggest Morning Tea event run by JCI Illawarra.
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The auction was conducted by the first Australian Apprentice of the Year winner and head of development at Yellow Brick Road, Andrew Morello.
After some spirited bidding, two people paid $1300 each to secure a Cancer Council teacup and apron, which have added meaning because of the spirit of generosity at the annual fundraising event.
The winning bids were from Stephen Craig, of Cratec Constructions, and Pennylaine Anzani, of Scarborough Hotel.
Anxious to beat last year's total of $1300, Mr Morello decided to throw in a tour of Yellow Brick Road in the Sydney CBD and lunch at a Japanese restaurant below in Chifley Square when the bidding reached $1100.
That was when Mrs Anzani threw in a bid for $1200, which then prompted Mr Craig to bid $1300. And Mr Morello invited her to match it so he could sell a cup and apron to both and raise twice as much for the Cancer Council.
Mr Craig said he was inspired to bid so much because of his own battle with bowel cancer and this was a way he could help others going through something similar.
"It is just a terrible thing," he said.
"I have had it for 18 months and gone through three operations and chemo. The guy who treats me is Professor Phil Clingan and everyone at his clinic is just really good.
Mrs Anzani said it was a spur-of-the-moment decision to come in with such large bids at the end.
This was because she was so moved by the event, the stories told and other people's generosity in helping to fund cancer research, prevention information and support services.
"Every year JCI put in so much effort," she said.
"I have been sponsor and an advocate of their events for over three years and inspired by their achievements and determination.
"I hope the local community continues to support charity events such as this in the future."
Mr Morello said he had spoken at JCI Illawarra a number of times and wanted to do more to support them because they did so many great things for the community.
Donations can be made online at http://nsw.cancercouncilfundraising.org.au/teabythesea2013 until Sunday.
A final total will be announced next week.
