Mrs McFarlane will take part in the Queens Baton Relay for the 2018 Commonwealth Games.

The Mother’s Day Classic national event said 11 of its volunteers will take part in the relay throughout Australia.

“Our volunteers are the lifeblood of the Mother’s Day Classic, without them we would not have been able to raise more than $33.2 million for breast cancer research over the last 21 years,” MDC CEO Sharon Morris said.

Name: Kate Butterfield

Year of Birth: 1978

Nomination Story: Kate is a former police officer with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder who started the Run Brave initiative to raise awareness of the benefits of running for those struggling with mental health issues. She has created a fun, supportive and encouraging environment for people of all fitness levels to complete a five-kilometre event across Australia in 2016, fostering community spirit and raising $1,853 for Lifeline. The initiative is constantly growing in popularity and all participants are benefitting from improved physical and mental health through connection with other likeminded people, at all stages of fitness.

Batonbearer 2

Name: Zarley Oakman

Year of Birth: 2001

Nomination Story: As a baby, Zarley was never expected to walk or talk. Despite the challenges she has faced through her intellectual disability, Zarley has shown extraordinary strength and determination to not only embrace life but exceed everyone's expectations. She is an adored member of her family, school and wider community. Zarley always considers other before herself, supporting and uplifting her peers. She is a very talented athlete. During a cross country event, she was leading the others by a great margin, but stopped several times to give encouragement and support to others who were struggling. Zarley represents the spirit of the Commonwealth Games.