A Whirl Of Skirts, Challenges And Hope

On August 3, 2024, the streets from Mackay Harbour to Seaforth became a whirl of vibrancy and colour as participants united in bright tutus for the 2024 Tutu Challenge in support of ovarian cancer research.

Miss Diamond International Finalist of 2024, Jennifer-Lee Houseman, who is widely recognised for her modelling and dancing talents, organised the event, and the day turned out to be a powerful demonstration of solidarity in the fight against one of the most common cancers affecting women.

Under the banner of #loveyourovaries, the challenge aimed to highlight the importance of ovarian cancer awareness, as nearly 20,000 Australian women are diagnosed with the disease each year. Miss JLee's efforts were part of a growing movement to shine a light on this vital cause.

Participants were greeted by JLee, who radiantly wore a bright red tutu.

"Her passion was contagious," said her proud mother, Jacqueline Houseman.

"She handed out steel badges to each participant, a token of remembrance and a symbol of their shared commitment to the cause."

Miss JLee's dedication was evident throughout the day, with the event raising $500 for ovarian cancer research. The convoy, made up of bikes and cars, embarked on a route that was as much about the journey as it was about the destination.

Along the way, participants stopped at various locations to complete challenges designed to test their resilience and build connections with those involved.

From bowling at the Seaforth Bowls Club to climbing palm trees and hunting for a vintage 1946 Excelsior, each task was met with enthusiasm and fun.

In a playful twist, participants collected Scrabble tiles at each stop, adding an element of strategy to the day's events, which culminated in a final Scrabble game at the end of the challenge.

As the sun set, the event concluded with a celebration of achievements and prizes were awarded, however Ms Houseman noted that "the greatest prize of all was the sense of community and shared purpose that permeated the event."

Looking ahead, Jennifer-Lee is already planning another fundraising event for 2025. The event, which will undoubtedly involve tutus, is anticipated to be another fun-filled day aimed at raising further awareness and support for ovarian cancer research.

“We invite everyone to mark their calendars for the Tutu Challenge 2025, set to take place on the second weekend of August 2025, promising an even bigger and brighter event,” Ms Houseman said.

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Miss Jlee Houseman – Miss Diamond International Finalist 2024 raised $500 for ovarian cancer research at the 2024 Tutu Challenge. Photos supplied

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