• Sydney Airport to partner with Cure Cancer Australia for 2017 Sydney Airport Community Christmas Giving Appeal
• Partnership to kick off with airport ‘BARBECURE’ event in November
• Funds raised to support Australian early career cancer researchers

Sydney Airport has confirmed Cure Cancer Australia will be its charity partner for the 2017 Sydney Airport Community Christmas Giving Appeal.

The partnership will see funds raised by the appeal invested in Australia’s brightest early career scientists working across all areas of cancer research, and all cancer types. Sydney Airport Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kerrie Mather said the charity was an obvious choice and would help raise much needed research funds.

“With 29,000 people working at Sydney Airport across 800 businesses, and over 42 million passengers a year, the Sydney Airport Community Christmas Appeal showcases the great generosity of spirit that exists across the airport community,” Ms Mather said.

“Cure Cancer Australia is not only investing in research, but they’re investing in our future leaders in this field – and we look forward to supporting them as part of the Christmas Appeal.” Cure Cancer Australia CEO Floyd Larsen said the organisation was delighted to be partnering with Sydney Airport this Christmas. “Cure Cancer Australia exclusively funds early career researchers who offer new perspectives and innovative ideas across all areas of cancer research, because we believe that by supporting them, we have the best chance of one day finding a cure for cancer,” Ms Larsen said.

“Our partnership with Sydney Airport will provide us with an amazing platform to drive awareness, and is an unparalleled opportunity to help raise critically important funds.” The Christmas Appeal launches on Sunday, 12 November with a special ‘BARBECURE’ event at the airport, giving visitors the chance to enjoy a classic Australian tradition and get the appeal off to a strong start.

The appeal will once again feature Sydney Airport’s iconic runway run, where members of the public will have the unique opportunity to complete a running race on the airfield, followed by a BARBECURE for everyone taking part. Ticket proceeds from the day will go to the Appeal, and will be available for sale in September.

The annual Hangar Dinner will also be held in December, with the airport community coming together to celebrate Christmas with breathtaking views of the airfield, while raising money for Cure Cancer Australia.

The Christmas Appeal has raised more than $1 million for charity since it began in 2012, including a record $316,000 in 2016. The appeal forms part of Sydney Airport’s community investment strategy, which seeks to contribute to and enrich the communities surrounding the airport.