Wide Bay residents are being urged to paint the region pink and throw their support behind this year's International Women's Day Fun Run presented by Queensland X-Ray.
The annual event - which takes place on Sunday 10 March - raises vital funds for life-saving breast cancer research, as well as services and equipment for Mater breast cancer patients.
While 23,000 runners, joggers and walkers will take part in the 5km event in Brisbane CBD, Wide Bay residents can take part in a waterfront walk or run on the same day at Nielson Park, Bargara, at 8am.
Mater Private Hospital Bundaberg General Manager Catherine Hackney said the cause was close to home for many residents in the region.
"Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Wide Bay Burnett, with one in nine women expected to be diagnosed by the age of 801," Ms Hackney said.
"Our team wants to do all it can to encourage the community to prioritise their health and wellbeing, and that includes highlighting the importance of knowing the signs of breast cancer and early detection.
"That's why we throw our support behind events such as the International Women's Day Fun Run – because we know the difference it can make to patients across the state."
Sasha Barritt is an Administration Support Officer at Mater Private Hospital Bundaberg.
She didn't have to think twice about signing up to the 5-kilometre event.
"I really enjoyed participating last year, so it was easy to put my hand up for this event again," Ms Barritt said.
"It's great to have this event here in Bundaberg in conjunction with the other events being held around the state."
Ms Barritt will be participating with her two "fur babies" and is aiming to raise $400 towards the cause.
"Breast cancer affects so many women all around the world and to be able to contribute and show support is an amazing feeling.
"I encourage everyone to get some friends together, do the IWD Fun Run and have a coffee together afterwards."
Mater Foundation Chief Executive Andrew Thomas said the support of fun runners made a huge difference in support those with breast cancer.
"Queensland has backed the fight against breast cancer like never before," Mr Thomas said.
"This year's event will be the biggest ever – and there's still time for Queenslanders everywhere to sign up online to a fun run in their community.
"Everyone can join the Sea of Pink.
"It's a fantastic way to stay fit, have fun – and fight breast cancer."
The virtual challenge allows people to walk, jog or run 5-kilometres, or choose their own distance, in their neighbourhood any time between Sunday 3 March and Sunday 10 March.
