mother’s day classic

We’re all about taking action to create brighter futures: for members, for women and for our community. That’s why we’ve been a proud partner of the Mother’s Day Classic since the beginning.

Over the past 26 years, this national walk/run has attracted more than 1.6 million participants Australia-wide, raising funds for vital research into breast cancer. The Mother’s Day Classic is going even further in 2024, giving participants the option of supporting ovarian cancer research for the first time.

While the survival rate for breast cancer has increased from 84 to 92% since the event began in 1998, treatment advances for ovarian cancer have been limited and the survival rate for this disease remains at just 49%, with no early detection test.

Inspired by women

More than 80% of our members are women. And since 12 Australian women die each day from either breast or ovarian cancer, many members know the illness too well: personally, through loved ones, or through work.

Everyone would agree that even one death is too many.

The Mother’s Day Classic takes the fight against breast and ovarian cancer to the streets — literally. Founded by Women in Super (a group we helped set up) it raises funds for research that could transform the future for those fighting today so tomorrow’s women won’t have to.

Walking (and running) from strength to strength

From small beginnings in 1998, the Mother's Day Classic has grown into one of Australia's largest national charity events and an integral part of Mother's Day. Each year, more people (including the HESTA team) walk, run, or volunteer at events across the country.

Most importantly, the Mother’s Day Classic has raised $44 million to support the National Breast Cancer Foundation. In fact, it’s now the foundation’s biggest donor.

Get fit, stand strong, have fun, save lives

It’s more than a fundraiser. The Mother’s Day Classic brings the community together: to remember, to support, to celebrate. It’s emotional, inspiring, and a direct way to help beat breast and now ovarian cancer.

Never experienced a Mother’s Day Classic? It might be time to pull on your trainers, grab a few buddies and sign up. You can also volunteer on the day or join an organising committee that works year-round.

You’ll be repaid with fun, fitness and pride in helping our next generation look forward to a healthier future.