The group will mark 30 years since its inception, a historic change of leadership and its 22^nd walkathon event.

Husband and wife Noel and Fay Allwood will take the reigns of Friends of Palliative Care in the first change of leadership since president and founder Pat Allen started the group in 1986.

Mrs Allen, who received an OAM for her instrumental role in the group, said she was pleased to hand over the group to her close friends, though she would stay on in a limited role.

“I love these two to death,” she said.

“We’ve became great friends, I’m most fortunate to know them.”

Mr Allwood said the cause was close to his heart.

“Our son had a brain tumour many years ago and passed away,” he said.

“You don’t know what’s around the corner.

“But it’s a terrific service when you see the people we help.”

Ms Allen, who left her native Ireland to make Maitland her home at 19, said the group had helped thousands of locals and families dealing with terminal illnesses.

“It’s a part of my heart,” she said.

“I’m a better person for having reached out.”

She said she still remembers receiving a call from her mother in Ireland after being diagnosed as terminally ill.

“She just said ‘I love you my Pat,’,” Mrs Allen said.

“She lived in a very Catholic area and per palliative carer was from a very Protestant area. 

“That image of him comforting her – I can still see it.”

The first walkathon took place in 1994 and covered an incredible distance from the Mater Hospital to Greenhills. Four years later it moved to Tocal, where it has been held each year since. 

The group uses the money it raises through events including the walkathon to buy medical equipment, subsidise medication and ongoing expenses for those in need.

The walkathon and fun run will take place on Sunday May 15 at Tocal from 8.30am. More information contact Fay Allwood on 4933 1926 or visit fopinc.org.