Supporting the WBSLC Pink and Blue Swim, Walk & Run
GPA was proud to be the major partner for the Pink and Blue event for the 5th year running. The event run by West Beach Surf Life Saving Club raises funds for St Andrews Hospital and the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.
GPA was first involved in the event 11 years ago, when staff members took part in the inaugural fundraising swim, of around 50 participants.
“We first became interested in this event after a visit to the surf club and bumping into some old friends/colleagues from Pirie who were on the organising committee. Their passion and commitment to this event was evident from the beginning so we quickly signed up.” Jason King – GPA staff member and long time participant.
The event resonated with several GPA staff, especially those who’s families had been impacted by cancer and had a personal interest in supporting the event.
Over the years the small group of staff participating in the event began to grow, with staff involved requesting the company support the event with further donations. The GPA Andrew Ursini Charitable Fund was identified as a perfect event partner sharing the ambition of supporting cancer research and those affected by cancer.
“Geoff McKinnon, chair of the GPA Andrew Ursini Charitable Fund at the time, put the proposal to the committee to be the major sponsor of the of the Pink & Blue event. The event organizers were overwhelmed with the generosity of the GPA Andrew Ursini Charitable Fund offer to take over as the major sponsor of the event and contribute $50k.” John Gillies – GPA staff member and long time participant.
Since becoming a major partner, GPA has had increasing involvement in the event each year. In 2025, over 70 GPA staff, family and friends completed a swim, walk or run contributing to making the event the biggest yet – with 1500 participants!
A popular event on our staff calendar, which is looked forward to each summer; GPA staff are proud to show their support and engage with the local community.
“Andrew would say one of his most difficult challenges in his 10 + year cancer “journey,” was to try and “Live In The Now.” I’m so grateful to see this projected in all the smiles, laughter and connections shared by friends and strangers alike bought together by this wonderful event!” – Evelina Ursini – Andrew’s wife and GPA AU Board Member.
GPA congratulates WBSLC for seamlessly running a successful event, year after year. It is a pleasure to be part of, especially, the sponsors’ launch event where we get to hear first-hand the benefits of the fundraising donations.
“GPA look forward to supporting the event in years to come and expect its success to continue to grow!” Alf Sanzo – GPA AU Chair.
