Conquer NF In Colour 2024
December 11, 2024
Delivering colour, chaos, and community awareness.
The Conquer NF in Colour events have become a vibrant symbol of hope, unity, and action in the fight against neurofibromatosis (NF).
Over three incredible weekends in November and December, more than 750 participants from diverse backgrounds in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane united to raise awareness and funds for those impacted by NF, while celebrating the strength and resilience of the NF community. They were supported by close to 120 volunteers and spectators!
Over the course of these three events, Conquer NF in Colour has raised over $120,000, funding crucial support and advocacy initiatives for those living with NF. The events have also created a space for connection and empowerment, giving the NF community a louder voice and a brighter platform.
Melbourne highlights
Kicking off the series in Princes Park in Melbourne on Sunday 17 November, we were joined on ground by Children’s Tumour Foundation Patron and Nine News Host, Alicia Loxley as emcee, as well as TV host and weatherman Dan Anstey from the Weekend Today Show.
Across six big half hour spots, our team, ambassadors, and members of the community were given the opportunity to share knowledge, share their experiences and communicate the complexity and diverse nature of this condition – all with a fun, colourful canvas as backdrop!
The episode reached a total of 674,000 with an average of 235,000 viewers! It ranked 18 for the day, including peak activity, giving us significant and unprecedented exposure to a national audience.
Huge thanks to Captain of the Colour run, Lewis and his family for being part of the broadcast, as well as NF Ambassador Janu D, NF Hero Jack and his family, and adult NF2 Hero, Michael Nguyen! Each contributed their own personal experience, while also reaffirming how important it is for NF families across Australia to know there is a free and specialised service for THEM.
WATCH THE WEEKEND TODAY SHOW MASH UP!
An article featuring Patron Alicia Loxley appeared in 9Honey the following week which can be read HERE.
Thanks to volunteer photographers, OG Gueco and Elena Rufenacht we were able to capture many moments of fun throughout the morning.
View or download photos and videos HERE
Sydney highlights
Returning for third year to Wentworth Park in the heart of the CBD, we saw more runners and more volunteers than ever before, as well as veteran emcee Pete Deppeler from the Kyle and Jacqui O Show! We were joined on stage by ambassador, Simon Hill and musical talent, Lachlan Fitzgerald.
Captain of the Sydney Colour Run, Katya and her carer Ann provided attendees with an account of their experience before leading runners out on the course in a burst of blue and green!
The day was relaxed, fun and the spin and win wheel did not stop turning!
You can download or view the photos taken by volunteer photographer William Elder HERE.
brisbane highlights
The lead into the Brisbane event was marked by extreme weather conditions and the threat of rain. Not just any rain, LOTS OF RAIN. Getting the team to Brisbane was almost as problematic, but arrive we did and with a few small adjustments to the set up and the blessing of the weather gods, we had a clear morning.
Aussie actor and Children’s Tumour Foundation Ambassador, Dan Ewing returned as emcee for a second year and the event kicked off with a chat with Captain of the Colour Run in Brisbane, Archie and his family and was soon followed by the usual cloud of blue and green powder.
As runners took off across the soggy grass, volunteers got into the spirit of the event, showering them with as much powder as they could manage and then dousing themselves as well.
The puddles only added to the fun and gave the kids a natural splash zone to throw themselves into at the end of the run! Back in the village, we were treated to the soulful sounds of Meg Ripps as everyone kicked back with a snow cone to await the prize draws.
As a few menacing drops signalled that our time in the sun was almost over, we said goodbye to our families and packed away the gear – complete in the knowledge that we succeeded in delivering three epic events and that we were done for another year!
Within half an hour that same sporting field was completely underwater as the deluge finally broke! #perfecttiming
You can check out the great photos from volunteer photographers @Tiff.Kou and Nick Bamber.
You can view or download photos HERE
thank you
Conquer NF in Colour is more than just an event—it’s a movement. As we continue to grow and innovate in the coming years, the initiative will continue to bring people together in a shared mission: to conquer NF and create a future filled with hope and possibility.
But they could not be possible without:
- Mildren Events: our long-term partners who ensure the day runs smoothly every time.
- Cameron Cortazzo: the man in the penguin suit who never tires and will challenge anyone to a colour battle.
- Event partners: PIXO and Nature who supported the event with matched giving funds
- Prize Partners: PSI Cycling, The Card Network, The Games Experts, Starboard Games, Belkin, Darrell Lea, Novotel Darling Harbour, Virtual Room Australia, SCG, Brisbane Golf Club, Nudgee Golf Club, St Lucia Golf Links, Go Ballooning, Stephanie's, Escape Manor Brisbane, Suncorp Stadium, Reine and La Rue, Carlton Football Club and Hey Doodle!
- Venue partners: Wentworth Park Sporting Trust, Melbourne City Council and City Parklands Brisbane.
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