Paint the Town Red 2026 Unites Communities in Support of Patients and Families 

September marked another successful Paint the Town Red campaign, with individuals, community groups and organisations across Australia coming together during Blood Cancer Awareness Month to raise vital funds and awareness for patients and families undergoing bone marrow and stem cell transplants. Through a range of creative fundraising activities, supporters helped ensure Arrow can continue providing practical and emotional support to those navigating the transplant journey. 

A standout supporter once again was Sage Wilder, who hosted his annual Strong and Mindful community event for the third consecutive year. The family-friendly strength and Pilates session brought people together to move, connect and support an important cause, raising over $2,000. Through his ongoing commitment and community spirit, Sage has become a valued champion of the Paint the Town Red campaign. 

The campaign was also boosted by the continued generosity of Liverpool Catholic Club, which donated $5,000 for the third year running.  We also enjoyed another successful and fun year at the ANZTCT Annual Scientific Meeting, where the popular Paint the Town Red Dinner once again brought delegates together for an evening of celebration, connection and fundraising, raising $3,800. Now in its third year, the event has contributed more than $10,000 towards supporting patients and families. 

Another heartfelt contribution came from Vivien Laycock, who organised Let the Blood Run Free, a lawn bowls fundraiser at Captains Flat Bowling Club. Inspired by her sister’s bone marrow transplant journey, the intimate community event raised $350 and highlighted the personal stories that drive so many supporters to get involved. 

This year we also had a Halloween house collecting donations from their ‘Arroween’ display raising just over $100. 

Together, these activities raised over $11,000 for Paint the Town Red 2026. We are incredibly grateful to every individual, organisation and community group who supported the campaign and helped make a meaningful difference to patients and families when they need it most. 

Following the success of this year’s campaign, Paint the Town Red is evolving from a September-focused fundraiser into a year-round opportunity for supporters to get involved. While Blood Cancer Awareness Month will remain an important time to raise awareness, individuals, community groups and organisations can now host Paint the Town Red fundraisers at any time throughout the year. Whether it’s a fitness event, workplace activity, community gathering or something completely unique, every fundraising effort helps support patients and families facing the challenges of a bone marrow or stem cell transplant. We look forward to seeing Paint the Town Red continue to grow, with more people finding their own way to make a difference throughout the year.