As Breast Cancer Awareness Month came to a close on October 31, Mudgee resident Hugh Bateman made his triumphant return home after completing a 2900km ‘Pink Tractor Trek.’ A journey which saw him raise over $355,000 for the McGrath Foundation.

Mr Bateman, a real estate agent and auctioneer, departed Mudgee on October 9 visiting locations across NSW including Dubbo, Wollongong and Coffs Harbour, hosting fundraising events at each location in conjunction with local real estate agencies. He also generated donations via his website pinktractortrek.com.au.

Mr Bateman completed his trek with a welcome home parade down the main street of Mudgee. Flanked by antique tractors and fire engines he was cheered on by crowds of locals dressed in pink who’d come out to celebrate his achievement. When reflecting on his journey, Mr Bateman said ‘It’s been full on but when I came over the bridge and saw all the people, that’s when it really hit home. It was so great to see the community get involved and support the work the Foundation and their McGrath Breast Care Nurses do.’

‘The donations have been above expectations and I can’t thank everyone enough for getting behind the Pink Tractor Trek,’ said Hugh. ‘I think it’s because everyone knows somebody touched by breast cancer and it’s a growing disease.’

McGrath Foundation Ambassador and Director, Tracy Bevan said, ‘A huge congratulations and an even larger thank you to Hugh for his outstanding fundraising efforts, which will go a long way towards us supporting even more families with the vital service of a McGrath Breast Care Nurse.’