General News
10 March, 2026
Cawood cycling for cancer research
A former Horsham local will cycle 1400 kilometres from Canberra to Hobart next month to raise funds for cancer research as part of the Tour de Cure’s 2026 Signature Tour.
Daniel Cawood, now based in Mildura, is WFI Insurance’s state manager for Victoria. His company is a presenting partner of the Tour de Cure’s 2026 Signature Tour, which aims to raise $2 million for cancer research, prevention, and support programs across Australia.
Regionally based cancer support services will also benefit, with $10,000 donated to local cancer charities along the tour route each night.
Mr Cawood, who only jumped on a road bike in December, will join more than 200 cyclists on March 13, departing Canberra’s Australian War Memorial for the nine-day ride to Hobart, travelling through communities like Ballarat, Geelong and Launceston.
Mr Cawood said the partnership offers a chance to highlight the unique risks and challenges facing regional and rural communities that WFI has served for over 100 years.
“Our regional communities are the backbone of Australia," he said.
"When diagnosed with cancer, they often must travel far from home to access treatment, away from families and support networks.
"Many also juggle farming and small business responsibilities; the strain is immense."
Mr Cawood said he has seen first-hand the impact cancer has on family, friends, his peers and the many clients he has served over the years.
"The impacts are heavily felt in regional communities," Mr Cawood said.
"This is about making a difference, helping to raise lifesaving funds and ultimately a cure.
"This is the contribution I’m hoping to make over the nine days of riding.”
Research shows cancer survival rates are 13 per cent lower for Australians in rural areas than in cities, largely due to limited access to treatment centres.