The Sydney Cricket Ground is awash with pink, a striking tribute to a cause that transcends sport and touches lives nationwide. For the 17th annual Jane McGrath Day at the NRMA Insurance Pink Test, the McGrath Foundation has teamed up with Cricket Australia and communities across the country in a historic effort to broaden its mission. What began as a campaign for breast cancer care has now grown into a beacon of hope for all cancers.
This year’s event is an emotional milestone. It marks the first time the Pink Test has rallied support for patients affected by all types of cancer. The McGrath Foundation has introduced Virtual Pink Seats, inviting Australians to join in this new chapter by helping fund cancer care nurses who provide vital support to individuals and families navigating the toughest moments of their lives.
Standing amidst the sea of pink, Glenn McGrath, co-founder and president of the McGrath Foundation, expressed his gratitude to the nation for its overwhelming support. On the morning of Day 3 of the Pink Test, more than 250,000 Virtual Pink Seats had already been sold. While this is a remarkable figure, McGrath urged Australians to dig deeper, emphasising the importance of meeting their ambitious target.
“This year’s Pink Test has been extraordinary,” McGrath said, his voice filled with pride and emotion. “The generosity of the Australian people never ceases to amaze me. Seeing so many come together for such an important cause is truly special. Today, we’re not just celebrating cricket; we’re standing in solidarity with every person affected by cancer. And we’re just getting started.”
For the past two decades, the Foundation has focused on breast cancer care, creating a legacy that has touched countless lives. With its expanded mission, it now aims to tackle broader disparities in cancer care. The goal is ambitious yet deeply necessary: to ensure equitable access to McGrath Cancer Care Nurses, no matter the type of cancer or the location of the patient.
The palpable sense of unity at the SCG reflects how deeply Australians resonate with this cause. Volunteers donned pink shirts, fans filled the stands with shades of rose, and the iconic bandana—a symbol of Jane McGrath’s enduring legacy—was worn with pride. Social media buzzed with messages of hope, remembrance, and encouragement, as the Virtual Pink Seats initiative allowed people across the country to participate from their homes.
Tracy Bevan, McGrath Foundation Ambassador and Director, spoke passionately about the emotional impact of this year’s campaign. “Every Pink Test is a celebration of Jane’s vision, but this one feels especially profound. To see communities come together, not just for breast cancer but for all cancers, shows how far we’ve come. Jane’s dream was to make a difference, and today, her dream is larger and more impactful than ever.”
The messages pouring in with every Virtual Pink Seat sold were a testament to the strength of community. Stories of loved ones lost, survivors celebrated, and ongoing battles fought brought a sense of shared purpose to the event. Each $20 donation to purchase a Virtual Pink Seat not only funds essential care but also symbolises a personal connection to the cause.
Jane McGrath Day has always been more than a cricket tradition. It’s a rallying point for Australians to show their compassion and commitment. This year’s transformation of the day’s focus to encompass all cancers adds even greater significance to its legacy.
Fans who attended the SCG were also encouraged to donate in exchange for limited-edition Pink Test bandanas, with proceeds contributing to the Foundation’s expanded mission. Those unable to attend in person found ways to participate, whether through social media campaigns, workplace fundraisers, or purchasing Virtual Pink Seats online. The simplicity of the initiative—encouraging people to dedicate a seat to someone affected by cancer—resonated deeply with Australians of all ages and backgrounds.
The McGrath Foundation has long been synonymous with hope, resilience, and community spirit. Founded in memory of Jane McGrath, whose battle with breast cancer inspired a nationwide movement, the Foundation has since evolved into a vital part of Australia’s healthcare landscape. Its Cancer Care Nurses have provided support to tens of thousands of families, and with this year’s shift to include all cancers, that reach is set to grow exponentially.
Glenn McGrath’s words captured the essence of this year’s effort: “It’s not just about raising funds. It’s about making sure no one feels alone during one of the hardest journeys of their life. This Pink Test represents what we can achieve when we come together for a cause bigger than ourselves.”
The NRMA Insurance Pink Test has always been a unique blend of sport and philanthropy, uniting cricket fans and communities in a way few events can. This year, however, it has become a platform for something even greater—a chance to address inequities in cancer care and ensure that support is available to anyone who needs it, regardless of their circumstances.
As the day unfolded, the SCG stood as a symbol of what collective action can achieve. The Pink Test isn’t just about breaking records or hitting targets. It’s a reminder of the power of community, the strength of compassion, and the enduring legacy of one woman’s vision.
With the final days of the Test ahead, Australians have an opportunity to contribute to this historic campaign. Whether by purchasing a Virtual Pink Seat, sharing a story, or simply wearing pink, every gesture counts. The McGrath Foundation’s mission is clear, and the nation’s response has been nothing short of extraordinary.
By the close of this year’s Pink Test, the hope is that the McGrath Foundation will have not only reached its fundraising target but also inspired a renewed commitment to care, equity, and compassion in cancer treatment. As Glenn McGrath so aptly put it, “This is about more than cricket; it’s about changing lives.”
And in that, the Australian community is batting well above average.
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