THE annual IMB Cook Community Classic will be held this Sunday at Cronulla beach and park to raise much-need funds for Sutherland Shire's grassroots charities and community organisations.
Since starting eight years ago, the Classic has raised more than $500,000 and helped in excess of 50 charities and organisations in the area that make a difference to the shire's well-being. These include 2nd Caringbah Scouts, Kookaburra Kids, Sylvanvale, The Beauty Bank, Cronulla Outriggers, NSW Homicide Victims Support Group, Project Youth, Neighbourhood Aid and Bate Bay surf life saving clubs.
Patron and founder, Cook MP Scott Morrison, said the event highlighted the region's sense of community spirit.
Mr Morrison and Bluestone managing director Ben Fairfax are looking forward to Sunday's event with the Woolooware Bay development company coming onboard as a major sponsor this year.
The 2014 Classic attracted about 5000 spectators, and organisers expect a similar turn-out this year.
The day's events start at 8am with beach soccer. The popular 1-kilometre swim starts at 9am, followed by the 2-kilometre swim at 10am and Bate Bay Battle at 11am.
The event's organisers say about 200 swimmers and 10 socccer teams have registered so far.
Cronulla Park will be the venue for a colourful program of live entertainment, including Sylvanvale Drum Beats, Kirrawee High School Band, Ettingshausens Dance Troupe and Ronald McDonald Magic Show.
There will be food stalls, live music and a petting zoo for the kids, and Sharks players will be there to meet their fans.
IMB Bank has been the event's major sponsor since 2008. Other sponsors are Woolooware Bay, Sylvania BMW and Kareena Hospital.
