WesTrac raises more than $211,000 for cancer research

Dozens of WesTrac cyclists donned yellow and black lycra for WA’s largest cycling fundraiser on October 12 and 13, raising more than $211,000 for life-saving cancer research.

The annual MACA Cancer 200 – Ride for the Perkins kicked off on October 12, with nearly 2000 participants cycling 200km from Perth to Mandurah, and back, over two days.

A team of 39 riders from WesTrac hit the road to raise funds for the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research.

WesTrac asset management manager Ian Ilsley decided to participate this year after his brother-in-law was recently diagnosed with cancer.

“I have lost friends and WesTrac colleagues to cancer, but it didn’t really hit me until my brother-in-law was diagnosed, so I decided it was time to do my bit,” he said.

“There isn’t a person cancer hasn’t touched, and I thought now is a good a time as any to help support the cause and get around a local event.”

WesTrac general manager Geoff Bailey says the commitment of the group of WesTrac employees taking part in the ride was admirable.

“When the call went out across WesTrac to don some lycra and participate in this remarkable charity ride, we were overwhelmed with the response,” he said.

“Everyone in our team knows a family member, loved one, or friend who has been affected by this deadly disease, and the entire team’s fundraising efforts are a testament to our aim to help unlock the next breakthrough in the fight against cancer.”

The funds raised will help supply the team of scientists at Harry Perkins with a variety of essential equipment and tools.

“To know that we have helped support the life-changing work carried our by researchers at Harry Perkins by simply jumping on a bike and riding a couple hundred kilometres is a fantastic feeling,” Mr Bailey said.

“I am so proud of the entire WesTrac team and despite the aches and pains we might have over the next few days, it is entirely worth it to support this incredible cause.”