Emily Chapman Laing
Bright pink flamingos are flocking to yards in Pearcedale.
The friendly stunt is in support of the local cricket club’s McGrath Foundation fundraiser.
The annual Pink Stumps Day will be run by the Pearcedale Cricket Club in an effort to raise money to fund McGrath Breast Care Nurses and the incredible support services they provide to families experiencing breast cancer.
The game will be held on Sunday 26 February at Pearcedale Cricket Club.
As part of the fundraising initiative, volunteers have created a fun way to promote awareness of the cause – by placing flocks of inanimate flamingos in yards alongside a catchy promotional sign.
The flock kindly asks for donations via the QR code provided, as well as showcasing details of the upcoming game.
The idea came from a similar campaign overseas, and was employed by Donna Williams, wife of Pearcedale Cricket Club President Andrew Williams.
Pearcedale Cricket Club Committee member Renae Smith took to Facebook with a photo of the flock, and the response was unbelievable.
“All these people were saying, ‘Can I have them to put at my mum’s place? Or can I have them to put at my sister’s place?’” she said.
The club has been involved with half a dozen Pink Stumps Days so far, raising more than $2000 each year.
The flamingo flock has raised more than $800 for the McGrath Foundation.
With over a week left until the big day, it’s looking like the club is set to reach a new fundraising record.
“Most of the money comes on the day,” Renae said.
“If we could hit $3000, that’d be awesome.”
Though the club houses many knowledgeable cricket players, Pink Stumps Day will put the club mums to the test.
“There’s no skill involved at all,” Renae laughed.
With everyone dressing up in their finest bright pink garb, and team players being drawn from a hat randomly on the day, the game is sure to see some interesting team outfits.
Donation teams will be set up ready to turn community support for local mums showing off their cricket finesse, or lack thereof, into much-needed support for those dealing with breast cancer.
According to Cancer Australia, breast cancer remains the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, and the second most common cause of death from cancer in females.
Approximately nine Australians lose their lives to breast cancer every day.
More than 20,000 people were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022, with 99 per cent of those diagnosed being women.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation estimates that one-in-seven women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
While the past three decades have seen a 43 per cent reduction in terminal cases of breast cancer, the incidence of breast cancer diagnoses has increased by 33 per cent.
The McGrath Foundation provides invaluable emotional, physical and psychological care throughout the diagnosis and treatment process.
Currently, the foundation funds 193 nurses, with hopes to reach 250 nurses by 2025.
“Come and support the flamingos and get dressed up in as much pink as you can get,” Renae said.
To donate, please visit pinkisthecolour.com.au/fundraisers/pearcedalepanthers/pink-stumps
