A community walk held in Lota successfully raised more than $7,000 for Richie’s Rainbow Foundation, bringing together locals to support children with cancer.
Community Walk Returns to Lota
The annual Richie’s Rainbow Walk took place at Lota Park on 18 May 2025, marking its fourth year of community participation and the third birthday of Richie’s Rainbow as a registered charity. The event saw a strong turnout from families, friends, and volunteers, all walking in support of the foundation’s work with children diagnosed with cancer.
Check-in began at 9:00 a.m. The walk started at 10:30 a.m. Participants had the option of completing a 10k or 5k route along the Lota, Manly, and Wynnum foreshore.
Richie’s Rainbow: A Legacy of Support
Richie’s Rainbow Foundation was established to raise awareness about childhood cancer. The foundation’s particular focus is on rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare childhood sarcoma. Each year in Australia, around 800 children aged 0–14 are diagnosed with cancer. About 100 do not survive. The foundation also supports research into improving survival rates and treatment options for these conditions.
The organisation works closely with the Queensland Children’s Hospital and the Australian and New Zealand Sarcoma Association to fund research and provide support services. Past initiatives include the iPad scheme and family respite programs.
Activities and Participation
The 2025 walk featured live music, food stalls, face painting, a family fun zone, and raffles. Participants were encouraged to wear gold. Gold symbolises childhood cancer awareness. Many brought pets and dressed in themed outfits. Registration was $25 per walker.
Funds raised will help continue research efforts and provide practical assistance to families affected by childhood cancer.
Volunteer Effort Behind the Scenes
Organisers credited much of the event’s success to its volunteers. They arrived early and stayed late to ensure the event ran smoothly. The foundation regularly invites members of the public to support its mission through fundraising, volunteering, or event participation.
Continued Commitment to Childhood Cancer Awareness
Now in its fourth year, Richie’s Rainbow Walk continues to grow in reach and community support. The foundation plans to maintain its annual event schedule and expand its impact through ongoing research funding and family support programs.
Published 20-May-2025
