But it is a reality she has had to face in the lead up to Thursday’s cancer research fundraiser.

The popular Hotel Warrnambool chef is currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer but that won’t stop her attending the event.

In December, the event took on greater significance for Mrs Whelan who originally became involved after losing neighbours to cancer more than fifteen years ago.

“It was two days before Christmas last year when we got told the results from the test were positive,” she said.

“By January 4 I had a breast removed and on the 28^th of February I started chemo.”

Mrs Whelan has 10 more chemotherapy sessions and will then start six weeks of radiation treatment.

“I have no hair left,” she said.

“But I’m OK.”

“Everyone at the hospital has been great. I mean everyone. The whole system, all the way through.”

This year, the chef famous for her sticky-date pudding, is trying a new role outside the kitchen.

“This is my first year as a guest,” she said.

“I’ve still made my crab apple jelly and lemon butter for the stall but I’ll sit on this side of the kitchen.”

Booking numbers for this year’s event are already more than 65 with the venue committing to fill all available seating.

“We won’t turn anyone away,” Mrs Whelan said.

“We’ll welcome whoever wants to come through the doors.”

For some in the community it has become a tradition.

“We’ve got tables of ladies who have been coming for the last 15 years,” she said.

“Every person that comes through those doors are making a difference to cancer research.

Mrs Whelan said over the years they had raised $20,000 for cancer research.

“I used to always came in early and make the fresh scones and sandwiches.

“In fact everyone in the kitchen makes something like jams, slices and cakes and we sell it on the stalls.”

Mrs Whelan said suppliers had also been generous.

“All of our suppliers like Materia brothers, PFD, and Norfolk Butchers have donated prizes,” she said.

“They’ve given us things to raffle off and raise more money.

“I’m just hoping for a great morning. 

“I’m hoping we’ll fill the place with people who will sit down, have a chat and a laugh and enjoy some morning tea together.”

Hotel Warrnambool’s Biggest Morning Tea is Thursday from 9am to 11am.