Members of the Sri Sathya Sai International Organisation across Australia came together on Sunday, 10 May 2026 to participate in the annual Mother’s Day Classic, joining communities nationwide to raise awareness and funds for breast and ovarian cancer research.
From Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney, 45 participants and a dog walked in a spirit of unity, compassion and gratitude, reflecting the Organisation’s commitment to selfless service and community wellbeing.
In Brisbane, families, young adults, children from the SSE programand even a much-loved dog gathered at the South Bank Cultural Court under crisp blue skies before beginning the walk with the Sai Gayatri prayer along the Brisbane River. The atmosphere was joyful and uplifting, with participants enjoying conversation, encouragement from the wider community and activities at the finish line including face painting, crazy photo booths and (interactive wellness stalls) and even a bike ride workout to blend their own smoothies. A group photo became a special moment of togetherness and gratitude. A highlight of this group is the yearly participation of the pet dog, Snoopy, who is a sweet 16-year-old boy and cancer survivor along with his owner.
In Melbourne (Naarm), members from the Melbourne Centre participated in the walk at Alexandra Gardens and The Tan, joining thousands of others in support of individuals and families affected by cancer. Despite cool and cloudy weather, participants walked enthusiastically, sharing moments of reflection on the importance of compassion, gratitude and collective community action along the way. Many found meaning in the opportunity to personalise commemorative medals in honour or remembrance of loved ones, creating a powerful sense of empathy and connection to the cause.
In Perth, the walk at Charles Paterson Park became a moving reflection on the sacred role of Mothers. The love, sacrifice, and strength of a mother are sacred forces that shape our lives long before we understand their depth. Participants walked in honour of mothers, grandmothers, aunties, sisters and friends who have shown courage, endured illness and whose love continue to shape lives and communities. The event was described as more than a physical journey, but an act of gratitude, hope and collective service inspired by the values of compassion and unity.
Meanwhile in Sydney, members of the NSW Region participated in the walk at Parramatta Park, taking part in ceremonies including a minute of silence and the “Embrace and Honour” tribute for those impacted by breast and ovarian cancer. The event concluded with reflections shared on Alive FM by Sister Durga Siva, who marked her tenth year participating in the Mother’s Day Classic.
Q1: Durga, this is your tenth year participating in the Mother’s Day Classic — what keeps bringing you and your team back each year?
Sis Durga: The Sathya Sai International Organisation aligns very naturally with the mission of the Mother’s Day Classic. At the heart of both is selfless service, compassion, and coming together as one community for a greater cause.
Q2: The Sri Sathya Sai International Organisation is known for its strong spirit of service and community – how do those values connect with the Mother’s Day Classic mission?
Sis Durga: “Hands that help are holier than lips that pray,” and the Mother’s Day Classic gives us a beautiful opportunity to put that teaching into action — supporting families affected by breast and ovarian cancer while spreading hope, love, and unity.
Q3: What has been the most meaningful or memorable part of your Mother’s Day Classic experience over the past ten years
Sis Durga: The most meaningful part over the past ten years has been witnessing how people from all walks of life come together with such sincerity and love. Seeing families walk in honour of loved ones, volunteers serving tirelessly. Beyond fundraising, it has been the feeling of unity and shared purpose
Across all states, participants reflected on the simple yet powerful impact of walking together with a shared purpose. Whether honouring loved ones, supporting ongoing research or strengthening community bonds, the Mother’s Day Classic served as a reminder that acts of unity and kindness can inspire hope and positive change.
Through participation in this important national event, members of the Sri Sathya Sai International Organisation reaffirmed the values of love in action, community service and caring for one another, and truly walked the talk of His Divine words “My Life is My Message “, one step at a time.
