In Australia, over 20,000 women are living with metastatic (incurable) breast cancer – that’s 1 in 7 women affected and 56 diagnosed per day. In South Australia, women have had 2.5 million breast screens over the past 36 years (Breast Cancer Network Australia, BreastScreen SA).
To show their support this Breast Cancer Awareness month, Summit Aquatic and Leisure Centre stood with the National Breast Cancer Foundation to host a Pink Ribbon Breakfast and raffle. Almost $600 was raised for the foundation’s life-saving research by Mount Barker community members and survivors.
Led by Community Engagement Coordinator Peyton Daniels, the breakfast included an accessible information session from guest speaker BreastScreen SA Nurse Emily Mishal, a body-positive, interactive belly dancing session from Belly Dance Academy and a community presentation from Lions Assistance Dogs.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation is a leading not-for-profit organisation funding breast cancer research towards their vision of zero deaths from breast cancer.
BreastScreen SA is a South Australian organisation dedicated to helping save lives and improving the health outcomes of South Australian women.
Community support beyond aquatics
Peyton said meaningful conversations, new connections and powerful stories were a highlight of the morning.
“We were fortunate to have multiple breast cancer survivors, as well as family members of survivors attend the event. As they shared their personal journeys and experiences with breast cancer, attendees said it helped them feel less alone in their journey.
“The day was only possible through the generosity and support of local businesses, community partners and volunteers. Thank you to all our attendees for your contributions including donations and raffle purchases.”
Emily educated attendees on common myths and misconceptions, important facts about screenings like mammograms, risk factors and the critical role early detection plays in improving outcomes to reduce fear and uncertainty.
Patrons were also engaged in a fun and interactive belly dancing session with Nayima Hassan from Belly Dance Academy, who drew from her own experience with breast cancer while using movement to promote body positivity, confidence and joy.
An inspiring presentation from community partner, Lions Assistance Dogs educated patrons on the impact assistance dogs have within the community to promote independence, safety and quality of life for the people they support.
Nathan Hart, Venue Manager at Summit said:
“The Pink Ribbon Breakfast was a great example of our Mount Barker communities coming together to promote health, wellbeing and inclusion while supporting those impacted by breast cancer.”
Since opening in 2025, Summit has built a thriving community hub that brings people together in a positive and welcoming environment. The venue hosted the first major swim championship for the state in 2026 and has recently been named Watch Around Water Centre of the Year.
Both Summit and Belgravia Leisure are committed to supporting women at all stages of recovery with their physical, mental, emotional and social health.
To learn more, visit the Summit website.
