Top stair climb fundraisers see the impact of their efforts
More than $1 million raised for cancer research over three years
As key fundraisers from the 2025 Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb, Lieutenant Tanya Lumley from Strathbogie Fire Brigade and Lieutenant Tom Prunty from Buninyong-Mount Helen Fire Brigade were invited to visit the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre to see how funds raised through the event support cancer
The visit was an opportunity to meet with researchers, tour the facilities and gain an understanding of the life-changing work being undertaken at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.
During the visit, Tanya and Tom met with Professor Kirsten Brown and her team, who shared insights into the innovative research projects being supported through community fundraising initiatives such as the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb.
Tanya said the experience gave her a new perspective on the importance of the event and the impact of every donation.
“Spending time with Professor Kirsten Brown, touring the research facilities and hearing about the work being done was both inspiring and eye-opening," she said. "It shifted the focus from simply raising money to meeting the people behind the research and seeing the dedication and expertise they bring to improving the lives of cancer patients and their families every day.
"What really stayed with me was hearing about the challenges that can arise when funding and resources are limited, and how critical ongoing support is to keeping such important work moving forward. Seeing the direct connection between the funds we raise and the research being undertaken made me so proud to be part of the Stair Climb.
"It was a powerful reminder that every dollar donated and every person who gets behind this event is helping make a real difference and giving researchers the opportunity to continue changing lives.”
Tom reflected on the experience, saying: “I was fortunate to be invited by the team at the 000 Foundation to tour some of the facilities at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre this week".
"It was a great opportunity to see firsthand the incredible cancer research being undertaken right here in Melbourne, and to learn more about the impact of funds raised through the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb. Seeing the equipment purchased through these fundraising efforts really highlighted how every dollar raised helps support research and unlock larger grants for future projects.
"The visit was particularly meaningful for me, as my brother spent his final days in the palliative care unit at Peter Mac following a short battle with bowel cancer. It was a reminder of why supporting cancer research is so important.
"I’m proud to once again be participating in this year’s Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb, raising much-needed funds to support this vital research. Knowing the difference these funds make only strengthens my commitment to the cause and to helping improve outcomes for future patients and families”
The Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb has become one of the largest emergency services fundraising events in Australia, raising more than $1.1 million in 2025 alone. Funds raised supported beneficiaries, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Lifeline and the 000 Foundation.
For Tanya and Tom, the visit served as a powerful reminder that every step climbed, every donation received and every conversation held in support of the event contributes to something far greater, providing hope for those impacted by cancer and helping advance research that has the potential to save lives.
Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb