A voluntary-run camp that provides four fun-filled days for children with cancer has been postponed.
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Ballarat's Cops N Kids Camp was set to celebrate its 25th year this November, but celebrations have been put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Co-founder and camp organiser John Moloney said the decision to postpone the camp to next year was made to protect the health of the children and their families.
He said it was also important to take the pressure off the large number of businesses who usually provide their services free of charge to the children, including Sovereign Hill as the camp's accommodation provider.
Sixty three children aged five to eight-years-old participated in the four-day Ballarat camp in November last year.
More than 60 volunteers made the camp happen, including Challenge volunteers who are trained to care for the children, Victoria Police members and the people working behind the scenes.
Community fundraising efforts support the running of the camp and generous businesses and community groups make packed days of fun activities possible.
Some of the highlights include Ballarat Aero Club members who offer flights on their small planes, a visit to the Ballarat Wildlife Park, Sovereign Hill's Aura show and a ride on the paddle steamer on Lake Wendouree.
READ ABOUT THE 2019 CAMP: How the Cops N Kids camp provided a fun-filled distraction for 60 sick children
The camp was originally established 25-years-ago by members of the Ballarat Police who wanted to provide an entertaining and invigorating experience for children with cancer.
"If you had asked me way back in 1995 that we would still be doing this in 25 years, I probably would have said we wouldn't have had a chance," Mr Moloney said.
"But the response and the feedback from the families who want you to keep going tell you it makes a world of difference.
"From their words you can see you have really made a difference to their lives."
Mr Moloney said the children looked forward to the camp which was an escape from the everyday challenges of their lives and their families looked forward to the break.
He said although COVID-19 had halted many fundraising efforts, generous donations from community members and businesses this year would help secure the future of the camp.
"That lays the foundation for next year so we can head off and do it confidently," Mr Moloney said.
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"We are always very appreciative of the donations that come in and the support from people along the way that make it happen for us.
"You can have a dream but if people don't support you that seed never gets the chance to germinate.
"This year some people have gone well above to support us. It reassures us we are doing something right and hopefully will be well and truly back on track next year."