POTATO and spoon races, potato-peeling competitions and many other curious contests were part of the COUCH Potato Olympics at Fogarty Park yesterday.
The afternoon event was organised to raise awareness of the need for a Cairns oncology unit and to raise money for the cause.
The highlight of the afternoon was a walk along the Esplanade, which attracted 5200 people.
Walkers chose between 3km or 5km strolls with former Cairns Taipans star and now NBA recruit Nathan Jawai a surprise as one of the eager participants.
Jawai is home in the Far North for a quick holiday before returning to Canada to take up a contract with the Toronto Raptors.
Committee for the Oncology Unit at Cairns Hospital public relations director Bob McGill said the event was a great success.
"The Potato Olympics started about 2pm and we had other entertainment on stage from musicians who donated their own time," he said.
"At 3.45pm, we released some doves and observed a moment’s silence for cancer patients who didn’t make it.
"We were really happy with the day, there was a great sense of community."
About $7000 was raised for COUCH by donations and entry fees for the walk.
Back in April, COUCH had a significant win with the State Government announcing plans for radiation oncology services as part of its new $450 million extension of Cairns Base Hospital.
Mr McGill said COUCH now was focused on developing accommodation or a "well-being" centre for cancer patients or visiting families close to Cairns Base Hospital.
This could involve buying a hotel or similar accommodation.
