Camera Warehouse digs deep for ovarian cancer

Sydney Camera store owner Ben Noori has begun an epic walk from Sydney to Byron Bay, some 800km, as a fundraiser for Ovarian Cancer Australia Limited.

Noori, who owns Sydney store Camera Warehouse, lost his wife Michelle to Ovarian cancer in 2023, and has taken on the challenge to raise awareness of the illness that is one of Australia's deadliest female cancers. 

Each year, more than 1,800 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, which has a 5-year survival rate of just 49%.

Noori's fundraising efforts have already raised a whopping $28,000, with Camera Warehouse also promising to donate $2 from every order in May and June to the cause. Noori hopes to raise $50,000 before he arrives in Byron Bay on or around June 3, his late wife's birthday.

"My initial plan was to undertake this trek solo, reflecting the profound sense of solitude Michelle experienced throughout her 6-year battle with cancer," explains Noori.

"Despite being surrounded by support, she often mentioned she felt profoundly alone.. This walk, while deeply personal, has grown into a collective endeavour, with loved ones rallying to support the cause."

"I may have the honour of having Michelle’s brothers by my side on this trek and I know Michelle would be smiling up there to see us walk side by side for such a cause."

Noori says he is carrying Michelle's ashes with him, and intends to scatter them in the ocean on her favourite beach in Byron.

You can follow Ben Noori's progress on the Quest for a Cure - Sydney to Byron Bay on foot Facebook page, and donate to the cause here.