“A weekend to remember” is planned for 60 women who are coming from all over Australia to Geelong. It’s the third Women’s Brain Cancer Retreat run by Geelong group Peace of Mind who offer brain cancer support. The group are made up of sufferers and carers. They’ll be staying at the stunning Waurn Ponds Retreat at Deakin University.
Our community have pitched in to make this a special treat for the girls. The Torquay Rotary Club are cooking a BBQ which will be held at our picturesque Eastern Beach. For those who are up for a party, we are heading in to town to the Piano Bar and other venues.
On Saturday after an optional early morning yoga session, pampering begins. Up to 40 professionals are volunteering their time to deliver massage, foot baths, spray tanning, nails, hair, makeup etc. Lunch is on Café Palat and hosted by Beavs.
The evening begins with a cocktail party, then two amazing guest speakers. Marcella Zemanek (the late wife of TV/ radio personality Stan Zemanek) and Torquay local and inspiration Sean Purcell.
On Sunday the girls are chauffeured in classic cars to Mt Duneed and Provencial Wineries to sample some local treats before lunch at the historic Batesford Hotel.
“We want to make it a special weekend for the women. Brain Cancer can be so isolating. It’s a chance for them to form friendships and forget for a weekend. We run these events on an extremely small budget but manage to recruit over $80,000 of in-kind support to help make these retreats possible each year. Peace of Mind is a volunteer run organisation and we are incredibly thankful for the generous support of businesses, volunteers and the community.” says Founder Bec Picone. Thanks Geelong and community for making it a weekend to be remembered!
Story: Jacqui Bennett Photo: Thanks to the Surf Coast Times, taken by Peter Marshall, shows from the left, Bec Picone, Founder of Peace of Mind, Dot Brain Cancer victim carer and volunteer Melissa Ruff.
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