Run, march to raise melanoma awareness

Skin and sun safety will be the focus of the Bunbury Melanoma March around the Leschenault Inlet on Sunday, which aims to raise awareness of Australia’s fourth most common cancer.

With registrations starting at the Bunbury Power Boat Club from 7.30am, participants can complete a 5km march or 10km run while also having the opportunity to access free skin checks.

Encouraging the community to come along for the march, Melanoma WA member and cancer fighter Brad Gray said supporting the event and taking advantage of these skin checks could go a long way.

“We all enjoy the outdoors but we also need to take more care by remembering to wear sunscreen, long sleeves and hats,” Mr Gray said.

After finding a lump underneath his jaw in 2014, Mr Gray has since undergone a string of surgeries on his jaw, neck, vertebrae, aorta and brain.

“I was diagnosed with stage four melanoma in 2014 so for the last three years I’ve come along to the march to raise awareness and encourage people to come and get checked,” he said.

“I live every three months and find out how I’m going.

“It’s a general sort of rollercoaster so I’m here to remind people to take the proper precautions.”

Marchers and runners can also enjoy family-friendly games and entertainment at the end of the event.