A friend’s breast cancer diagnosis and chemotherapy journey left the Launceston resident ready for action.

With the help of her husband Wayne, Mrs Fenton created The Groovers, a fundraising team that participates in Relay for Life.

“Another friend was part of a Relay team that year and I joined to see what it was all about,” she said.

The year after The Groovers was created, the team participated in its first Relay for Life with about 10 members.

On Saturday, the team will participate in its 12^th Relay for Life. There now about 30 members.

“Not all of our team are walkers on the day, but some that help out through the year fundraising as well.”

The Groovers have raised $27,065 for the 2018 Relay for Life – last year they raised $15,218.

The Fentons have also been joined in their Relay for Life team by their daughter Sophianne, who shaved her head to raise funds for the team and awareness for Relay for Life.

“Soph produced a variety night at the casino, which she will be doing again later this year and another team member Di Rigby will be shaving her head,” Mr Fenton said.

Mr Fenton said every team member of The Groovers had either lost close family or friends to cancer or knew someone who was going through their own cancer journey.

The Groovers fundraise all year round with head shaves, Bunnings barbecues, footy tipping, afternoon teas, entertainment books and events such as Halloween parties and country music afternoons to raise money.

Member Vicki Bellinger has also raised $1000 for the event through her homemade greeting cards.

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“We fundraise all year … we are all very passionate about raising money for Relay and we especially like the fact that the money stays in Tassie to help our family and friends,” Mr Fenton said.

“Relay For Life creates great awareness and friendships are made on the track, talking to complete strangers as you're walking around.”

Cancer Council Tasmania’s Relay For Life state manager Anthony Edwards said The Groovers were another example of teams statewide that supported Relay every year.

“Since 2001, 71 events have been held which is testament to the event’s longevity and incredible support Tasmanians give to this event every year,” Mr Edwards said.

“In this time, Relay For Life has raised $13.3 million from Tasmanian communities. Relay For Life has become an iconic community event that has cemented itself into communities across Tasmania.

“Cancer Council Tasmania is incredibly appreciative of what people contribute to help us provide support, prevention and research programs all year-round.”

FACT FILE

WHO: Cancer Council Tasmania

WHAT: Relay for Life 2018

WHEN: March 24-25. The event will start about 2pm on Saturday and finish about 10am on Sunday.

WHERE: Northern Athletic Centre, St Leonards

HOW TO HELP:  Click here to donate to an individual or team