It’s also a great chance to spread awareness and learn all about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

Local dietician Lois Skotnicki will spend next Saturday at Seiffert Oval talking with relay participants and local residents about the importance of eating right and getting regular exercise.

‘‘The relay isn’t just about fundraising it’s also about raising awareness about cancer in the community,’’ Mrs Skotnicki said.

To help get the message across Mrs Skotnicki will be in the Health Tent running a full day of activities for children and adults.

‘‘Having the right eating habits and eating healthy foods is important – especially making sure you eat enough fruit and vegetables, they are very important,’’ she said.

‘‘We will be using the ‘swap it’ program to ask people to look at what they can swap to live a healthier lifestyle. Things like swapping a sedentary activity for an active one or a fatty food for a low fat food. It’s all about making small steps towards a larger goal.’’

Mrs Skotnicki said the city’s first Cancer Council Relay for Life is shaping up to be a fun day out with plenty of entertainment for the whole family.

As well as wandering vegetables, Billy Blood Drop from the Australian Red Cross Blood Service will be at the oval to talk about the importance of donating blood.

Thirty-four per cent of all blood donated is pledged towards cancer patients and becoming a donor is an easy way to help those in need.

As well as her duties in the Health Tent Mrs Skotnicki said she would get out on the oval for a few laps with her Queanbeyan Hospital team.

‘‘I will definitely get out and do few laps. It will be a lot of fun – there is a lot happening and plenty of entertainment during the day,’’ she said.

‘‘Anyone can come down and register on the day without having to walk the full 24 hours. ‘‘The day is all about fundraising and getting together for a great community event.’’