Miss Langman lost her nan to an aggressive form of cancer five years ago, and has watched cancer affect many more people in her home town.

Motivated by the memory of her loved ones and the desire to make a difference, she will host Combating Cancer – Warracknabeal on Sunday.

The day will feature a range of market stalls and goodies to raise money for the Cancer Council.

Miss Langman, 19, said the idea for Combating Cancer came after a Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre supporter approached her about donations.

“But was told I was too young to do it. You had to be over 25, and I was only 18 at the time,” she said.

“So I decided to host a fundraising day instead.

“We have more than 30 stallholders already signed up, and still have space for more if anyone is interested.

“I would love to see at least 100 people come through the doors on the day.”

Miss Langman said the only way to reduce cancer’s impact was to raise money for research centres that worked tirelessly to find cures.

She and the Combating Cancer committee have already hosted a bake sale for the cause, which raised about $1300.

They hope to raise $3000 on Sunday.

Miss Langman said community support for the event had so far been amazing.

“Their willingness to help has been overwhelming,” she said. 

“Businesses including Your Regional Butcher, Jono and Johno, The Creekside, Werrigar, Jonasson's Kitchen Solutions, Warracknabeal Pharmacy, Lee's Convenience Store, Woodbine, Emmetts and Ben Bentley have shown support. We also have the Apex club, Country Fire Authority, Scouts and the men’s shed involved. 

“If all goes successfully, Combating Cancer will become an annual event.

“I would like to say a big thank you to all those who have helped so far, and a big shout out to the committee – Tennille Jonasson, Nadine Whelan, Kelly Knoop, Nakita Langman, Shane Langman and Julie Langman – for all their support and help with making my idea a reality.”

The market will run from 10am to 2pm at the Warracknabeal Community Centre at Anzac Park. Entry is via a gold coin donation.

Miss Langman said people could visit the Combating Cancer – Warracknabeal Facebook page for more information.

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