Whether it is a humble Bunnings barbecue or fancy black tie event, residents are usually pretty happy to open their wallets. 

We have seen and reported on numerous causes that have flourished due to community and volunteer support alone.

Annette St Clair watched as her daughter, Amie, fought metastatic melanoma for two years.

The passionate young softballer showed amazing fight and determination. 

Then Mrs St Clair endured something no parent should – she said goodbye to her daughter.

Amie died just after her 23^rd birthday in 2009.

It is a loss that is still felt within the community not only because of how well known Amie was but because of how young and brave she was.

Mrs St Clair grieved for her daughter and does so every day but she also chose to take action.

She carried on Amie’s legacy of raising money and awareness for those with melanoma.

The Amie St Clair Melanoma Trust is a flourishing non-profit organisation that has allowed for the employment of a melanoma care nurse in the region.

Charity softball days, an annual ball, market days, entrants in Thomas Bros Wagga Takes 2 – the trust is the beneficiary of numerous community events.

And now they can add one more to the list – annual fun run.

The inaugural Lap the Lake was held in Wagga on Sunday and with about 100 participants registered on Saturday evening, it was looking like it could get a slow start.

But entrants more than doubled overnight and an impressive turnout participated on Sunday morning.

Is it because people are keen to take a stroll around the lake or is it because they are willing to support this cause in any form?

For an inaugural event to receive such support is tremendous.

Some could argue raising awareness is equally as important as raising money and 200 fresh faces is a good audience.

Perhaps it is the cause or perhaps it is because the St Clair family are genuinely lovely people but whatever the reason, it is certain the trust has a following in Wagga.

And the following looks to remain loyal in Amie’s memory in the hopes a cure is found.