Decked out in bright swimwear they made their way through seven ocean pools from Coalcliff to Towradgi – raising around $25,000. Cancer Council NSW southern region representative Tina Hunt said the funds went directly to help cancer patients and their carers throughout the Illawarra.

‘‘This money funds services such as the Cancer Council information centre at Wollongong Hospital where our volunteers help cancer patients directly with quality information and support,’’ she said. ‘‘Plus our general and practical support programs where volunteers transport patients to treatment, and provide carer respite and companionship. 

‘‘It also helps us advocate for important issues that face patients and carers.’’

The challenge has now raised $200,000 for Cancer Council NSW since  its inception in   2002.