30/01/2024
The Northern Territory Football League (NFTL) Umpires Association has raised money as a tribute to Kiim Parnell, their former umpire and committee member who passed from breast cancer in 2023.
The association holds an annual auction to raise funds, and in 2023 the committee decided to donate half the proceeds to Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) in Kiim’s honour.
“Kiim was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2018 and fought bravely before passing away on 16 May 2023,” says association member Sharyn Morcom. “Kiim umpired her first game in 2014 and her last in January 2022, with more than 134 regular season games, 13 finals and 7 Grand Finals across various grades to her name.”
As a breast cancer survivor herself and an active Consumer Representative for the NT within the BCNA network, Sharyn said it’s a cause that hits close to home. “I believe that the only way to improve the outcomes for women and men diagnosed with breast cancer is through research and awareness – and that costs money – so as a group we were proud to contribute to BCNA.”
BCNA CEO Kirsten Pilatti said she was inspired by the dedication and spirit shown. “More than 20,000 people are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer in Australia this year alone, and every time someone is told they have breast cancer, the impact extends to their family, friends, and those around them in the community,” Ms. Pilatti said. “On behalf of the team at BCNA and all the members we support, we want to say thank you for the effort, passion and inspiration provided by the NTFL Umpire’s Association.”
BCNA is the peak national organisation representing and supporting Australians affected by breast cancer, and last year more than 600 events were held to benefit BCNA in communities across Australia, from sporting clubs to groups of friends.
The association has numbered lockers in the umpire’s changeroom at TIO Stadium, which are put up for auction each NTFL season to raise funds. Owners of the lockers can retain their locker for the fee of $50, while any vacant lockers are auctioned to the highest bidder with bids capped at $50. “The auction provides a bit of fun and healthy competition amongst the umpiring group as we have more umpires than lockers,” explains Sharyn.
The President of the Umpires Association, Mark Noonan, will present the $600 cheque at TIO Stadium on Thursday 1st of February before training.
Funds raised will directly assist BCNA in supporting Australians affected by breast cancer. This support includes an immense library of wonderful resources, free and confidential support via the Helpline, extensive information on BCNA’s website and providing a voice through their policy and advocacy work.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Date: Thursday February 1, 2024
Time: 5.30PM
Location: TIO Stadium, outside the Bonson Gates
Interview: Cheque presentation with interview opportunities, including NFTL Umpires Association President Mark Noonan.
About us:
Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is Australia’s leading breast cancer consumer organisation. BCNA provides information and support to those diagnosed and their supporters, opportunities to connect with others going through a similar situation and work to influence a stronger healthcare system to ensure all Australians affected by breast cancer receive the very best care, treatment and support.
Contact details:
Rachael Stewart
Media and Communications Manager
03 9805 2540
For further information on BCNA please visit www.bcna.org.au
