Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea events were held at the Commercial Hotel in Koroit and the Port Fairy Senior Citizens Centre.

The Kelly sisters hosted the Koroit event in memory of their parents Josie and Daniel ‘Titch’ Kelly, who both died from the disease.

Daughter Donna Daly said the event brought back fond memories of her mum running the annual morning tea, which she did for 22 years.

Mrs Daly and her sisters Liz Noonan, Trish, Mary and Angela Kelly have continued their mum’s tradition, organising the fundraiser for the past three years. 

“About 130 people came and a few more dropped in and made donations,” Mrs Daly said.

They raised more than $4500 through morning teas, raffles and lucky dips.

Homemade preserves made and donated by Koroit resident John Beard also helped their fund-raising efforts.

The sisters raised $800 more than last year. 

“It’s great. We’re an older community. The ladies get together and they already know what they want to eat.

“It’s lovely for the community. We’ve all been touched by cancer,” Mrs Daly said.

The Port Fairy Belfast Lions Club catered for 140 people in the hall and delivered 160 plates to local businesses.

New Lions member Maureen Hedger organised the event. She said they had a wonderful day and raised about $2000. 

“All of the Lions ladies and their friends have been very busy baking,” Mrs Hedger said. 

She said the day was extra special as her son Ken, 42, is fighting the disease. 

“We have a son with cancer and it meant a lot to me to have our fellow Lions’ support.

“Every dollar helps and goes to cancer research. It might prevent someone from going through what we’re going through.”

“It was a wonderful day socially. We spoke to people we haven’t seen for years.”