Based in the Southern Highlands, Rare Cancers Australia hosts the Kosi Challenge hike and ride to raise much needed funds for the 52,000 Australians diagnosed each year with a rare or less common cancer.

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The Challenge consists of a bike ride from Parliament House in Canberra to Thredbo over two days, March 19-20, 2020 and a hike from Thredbo to the Summit of Mount Kosciuszko on Saturday, March 21 2020.

Rare Cancers Australia CEO Richard Vines spoke about the importance of the event.

"The Kosi Challenge isn't just a hike or a ride," Mr Vines said.

"It is a statement to all of those affected by rare or less common cancer that we are here for you. You are not alone."

In 2019 a record number of over 460 supporters took the Challenge to hike Australia's highest peak.

At the same time participants raised over $280,000, which helps provide both care and tangible support for Australians diagnosed with a rare or less common cancer.

With the New Year just around the corner, Rare Cancers Australia has opened its registrations early and is setting an ambitious target of raising over $350,000 for the event in 2020.

The Kosi Challenge began in 2013 with Rare Cancers Australia's co-founders Richard and Kate Vines embarking on a 'Parliament to Peak' walk from Parliament House Canberra to Mount Kosciuszko in an effort to raise awareness for rare and less common cancers.

Richard and Kate reached Thredbo National Park and were joined by 35 supporters of the organisation.

This small but highly passionate and motivated group became the first participants of the inaugural Mount Kosciuszko Challenge.