OREANDA-NEWS.  Rio Tinto is proud to acknowledge its employees, their families and friends who have helped raise almost $21 million for life changing cancer research at QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute in Brisbane, Australia.

Since 2011, Rio Tinto and its employees have partnered with QIMR Berghofer through the Rio Tinto Ride to Conquer Cancer, Queensland’s largest fundraising series, to support vital cancer research at the institute.

Over the five years of the ride, 6000 people including over 600 Rio Tinto employees, their families and friends have taken part in the two day, 200 kilometre event either as riders, bike techs, crew members or volunteers.

Rio Tinto employees alone raised over $1.2 million and the company’s contribution as title sponsor has allowed more money to go directly to cancer research and programmes at QIMR Berghofer.

By investigating the causes of more than 13 cancers including skin, brain, colorectal, breast, ovarian, lung and lymphoma, QIMR Berghofer’s doctors, scientists and researchers are working to develop the most accurate diagnostics as well as new, targeted drugs, vaccines, and immunotherapies. These treatments have the potential to allow for earlier detection, increase survival rates as well as reduce the side effects of anti-cancer therapies.

Team Rio Tinto co-captain and five year ride veteran Martyn Robotham said everyone involved was proud to support the inspiring work of the researchers, doctors and scientists who are making such amazing progress in the fight against cancer.

“Cancer doesn’t discriminate with one in two Australians diagnosed with this dreadful disease in their lifetime.

“I lost my dad and two cousins to cancer and I know too many people who are currently battling the disease.

“Like many of my Rio Tinto colleagues I have been very proud to support the ride, and whilst 2015 is the final year of this event Rio Tinto remains committed to supporting the quest to find a cure for cancer and we look forward to continuing our strong relationship with the QIMR Berghofer team.

Rio Tinto would like to acknowledge and thank everyone involved in supporting the ride since 2011, in particular Blackwoods, Adamas Diamonds, Key Merchandise and The Coffee Club.