What began as a family’s personal heartbreak has transformed into a movement of national generosity, with Baking for Brain Cancer raising more than $67,000 and counting for vital brain cancer research.
The fundraiser, inspired by Berwick local Tonie Dalton’s battle with glioblastoma, saw more than 80 bakeries and cafes across Australia take part in the inaugural event on Saturday, 31 May, donating proceeds from selected items to support research through The Brain Cancer Centre in partnership with Carrie’s Beanies 4 Brain Cancer.
At the heart of the campaign was Berwick’s Phil’s Pies and Pastries—Tonie’s family business—where a record $34,517.19 was raised in a single day. Online donations through the “Shout For Good” page also climbed past $32,846 as of 1 June, with additional contributions still coming in from other participating stores.
“We are still waiting for the amount raised by the 80+ bakeries and cafes who got on board as well,” Dalton’s family said with excitement.
“To the 80+ bakeries who gave their time and talent. To every customer who showed up hungry for a cause. To every story shared, dollar donated, and coffee poured. We are so truly grateful.
“Every dollar counts when it comes to brain cancer research, and the amount that has been raised will be able to make a big difference for those at the front line fighting this terrible disease.
The highlight was seeing the community coming together for a great cause and supporting the fundraiser.
“The queue out the door all day was amazing. Everyone from the community came together as one,” the family said.
“The buzz and the energy from around the shop (not to mention how chaotic it was!) gave the day such a good feel. From the youngest, to the oldest, so many different nationalities and communities, all came together — it was just wonderful.”
“We have been overwhelmed with the incredible support we’ve received, and feel so blessed by the support of our local community. We had so many people come through the doors, visit and say hi, and dig deep to support the day. It’s been truly incredible.”
In the lead-up to the event, they were particularly moved by the number of people who reached out to share how their lives had been touched by brain cancer.
“We have had such an incredible amount of support from people, especially from people in the brain cancer community,” the family said.
“Hearing their stories both in the leadup to the day, and on the day, was particularly moving, and how our story impacted their stories. It was also particularly beautiful that Mum was able to make a very quick guest appearance on the day. Seeing her drive and determination, that in spite of having just had brain surgery she was willing to come out on the day, was inspiring.”
Rooted in faith, the Dalton family has found strength amid uncertainty. Their message to others is one of hope:
“As much as this is devastating for your family, trying to make a difference can create joy and hope for families going through this,” they said.
“Know that there is still hope, and joy can still be found in the midst of darkness. Having faith that, in spite of suffering, all things will work out for our good, and that God loves us, and gives us the strength to carry on. So faith, hope and love will see us through (1 Corinthians 13:13).”
Among the attendees was Sarah Kelly, a Beaconsfield local who is living with terminal brain cancer. She visited five bakeries on the day to thank both customers and staff for their support.
“It was quite an emotional time as I felt surrounded by people who truly cared, and some affected themselves,” she said. “The community support blew us away.”
Sarah praised the Dalton family for their courage and generosity in the face of Tonie’s devastating diagnosis.
“I know that Phil, Tonie, and their beautiful children Lauren and Nathan have been affected by Tonies’ terminal diagnosis of grade 4 brain cancer which is the worst kind,” she said.
“What’s remarkable is that they took the incredible initiative to not only give so generously of their goods, time and staffing, but also inviting so many other bakeries to take part – which spreads the awareness so far and wide, which makes an incredible difference to building the profile of the need for more funding. The more we talk about it the more chance we have of finding a cure.”
She described Baking for Brain Cancer as more than just a fundraiser—it’s the beginning of something much bigger.
“This concept has the ability to grow far beyond what happened on Saturday. The passion the Dalton family has shown, in the midst of such grief and trauma, is nothing short of remarkable,” Sarah said.
“There is a desperate need for more funding support; particularly at a government level, but there’s a lot of great grass roots fundraising that is currently happening, while we wait, and keep lobbying our politicians.”
Sarah shared that she lives with an acquired brain injury that affects her short-term memory and motor function. But the most heartbreaking part is the fear of not seeing her daughter grow up.
“I have found that choosing to live with hope is far better for me and my family to be able to function day-to-day; without being overcome with grief and the loss of an imagined future together,” she said.
“One positive that’s come from all of this is that it has helped me really shape. What is important in my life for me. This is family, my faith, and authentic relationships. I just need to be the best version of myself.”
Baking for Brain Cancer is set to return next year, with organisers hopeful the event will be held again on 30 May 2026.
Donate to the cause: www.bakingforbraincancer.com
