Launceston family raise more than $33K ahead of Launceston Relay for Life

Last year carpenter Luke Bruinewoud was unexpectedly diagnosed with testicular cancer. 

But, rather then dwell on the negatives, the 27-year-old, along with partner Kate Parish and one-year-old daughter Frankie decided to raise money for the Cancer Council.

Following a fundraising dinner event held earlier this month, the family has so far raised $33,700, with more donations on the way. 

Ms Parish said the support had been incredible. 

"It's been overwhelming. We raised more than $26,000 at the event alone, and there is still more coming," she said. 

"Not many people want to talk about cancer, especially young people.

"But it affects more people than you realise." 

UNOBruno, as the family are known, will be among 70 teams and more than 1200 people expected to take part in Launceston's Relay for Life at the weekend. 

The event has raised more than $3.6 million in the past 19 years and Relay for Life state manager Anthony Edwards said the Launceston community had always been incredibly loyal. 

"It's because of these people, who come back year after year, that Relay For Life will always be part of this community," he said. 

"People are involved in Relay For Life to remember those who have passed, to celebrate those who have survived and to support Cancer Council Tasmania."

Cancer Council Tasmania chief executive Penny Egan said this year's event would feature some exciting new changes, including the introduction of two precincts.

"The stage precinct will provide a number of new bands and music entertainment and will also support the three major ceremonies: opening, remembrance and closing," she said.

"The new food precinct will allow participants to purchase food and sit and relax while watching the action around the stadium this year."