Sport
15 December, 2025
Outrigger paddlers take to the water for fundraiser
MORE than 30 outrigger enthusiasts from across Far North Queensland have taken to the water, rallying behind Pink Ink Australia, a charity supporting women and men after breast cancer treatment.
The spirited fundraiser was driven by Coconuts Outrigger Canoe Club member Anita Darveniza, who brought the community together for a cause close to many hearts.
At first light, more than 30 paddlers launched from Coconuts Beach and in perfect conditions of calm seas and light winds, powered 22km north to Bramston Beach.
After two hours on the water, they were greeted with cheers, smiles and a well earned celebratory breakfast.
The event was about more than endurance, it was about connection, support and giving back.
“We wanted to combine our love of the ocean with something meaningful,” Ms Darveniza said.
The paddle raised $1400 for Pink Ink Australia, a nationally recognised charity organisation which provides relief, support and assistance to women and men who have survived breast cancer.
It helps survivors regain confidence after breast cancer treatment, through medical, cosmetic or artistic tattooing.
These simple tattoos may help ease the distress and suffering caused by residual scarring, body disfigurements which have occurred due to mastectomy, breast cancer surgery, chemotherapy or radiation treatment.
Pink Ink offers funding for these tattoos which are an important part of a full physical, mental and emotional recovery from breast cancer.
Pink Ink founder and breast cancer survivor, June Belkovskis gained inspiration to establish the organisation in 2023 when her friend suffered severe disfigurement and trauma after a double mastectomy.
Building on this success, the club hopes to host this fundraiser again in coming years to continue supporting Pink Ink’s inspiring mission.
Please visit www.pinkinkaustralia.org.au for further details.