Stars sing for a cure

Charley Cestnic, 14 , during first-round auditions.

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Singers are hitting their notes at the annual Star Search for a Cause auditions.

Organiser Naomi Horsley said it not only gave up to 100 singers a chance to strut their stuff on stage but all entry fees were donated to the Cancer Council to support people with cancer.

This may be the big chance for those confining their talents to singing in the shower or around the house, Ms Horsley said.

Singers compete against their own age-level in the junior, intermediate, senior or over-21 categories.

“It’s amazing the talent that you see in the junior section – the big voices in these little people.

“We also want the older age groups out there as well. Just because you’re 25 years or older doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go out and have fun with it.

“This is a chance to perform, to gain experience … You never know who is watching.”

Last year, the all-ages competition raised $5000 – which was donated to brain cancer research at Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute.

Brain cancer has a lower profile and lower survival rates than more common forms of cancer. It also receives less funding for support and research services.

Recently, organisers donated $1000 of X-Box and PS4 console games for patients at Monash Children’s Hospital.

“We want those funds to go to research as well as people going through a cancer journey,” Ms Horsley said.

“What better way to help children sitting in a hospital all day. At least, it’s brightening their lives a little.”

Auditions are at The Factory, 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne East on Saturday, 26 May, 6-9pm. $15 entry fee.

Bring or play your own backing music.

Details: starsearch4ac.com.au or 0458 557 319.