The bosses of some of Australia’s best-known companies are doing their bit to fund breast cancer research.

CEO of ME Bank Jamie McPhee is one of many corporate executives taking up the Boardroom Challenge in support of the Mother’s Day Classic.

ME Bank has supported the event since 2005 and is this year’s major sponsor.

“I think it’s a great initiative to further enhance the whole money raising challenge for breast cancer,” Mr McPhee said. “It’s a disease that we really need to find a cure for.”

Breast cancer research is crucial because one in eight women will develop the disease, Mr McPhee said.

He is adamant that those like himself who hold powerful and privileged positions in society have a duty to give back to worthy causes like these.

“It’s just fundamental to those of us in that position to absolutely give back to society,” he said.

The challenge for Mr McPhee and his other boardroom rivals is to raise as much money as they can in the lead up to Sunday’s annual fun run and walk, with serious bragging rights at stake.

As of Tuesday, the managing partner of Cornwall Stodart Lawyers, Michelle McLean, was clearly in the lead, followed by David Jones CEO Paul Zahra and HOSTPLUS chief David Elia.

Mr McPhee was close behind in fourth place, having reached his target of $11,000, with hopes of raising more.

“It just creates a little bit of simple rivalry between a group of company leaders to see who can raise the most money from their networks for the Mother’s Day Classic,” Mr McPhee explained.

The employees at ME Bank have rallied behind their boss with various other fundraising activities, such as selling bandanas and homemade cookies. To date, the company has raised $200,000 for the cause.

“Our staff love being involved,” Mr McPhee said.

Those wanting to take part in the Boardroom Challenge or to donate to the participants can do so at www.mothersdayclassic.com.au.

The New Daily is a proud sponsor of the Mothers’ Day Classic, a fun run and walk, which raises funds for breast cancer research. It will take place on May 11. Visit the website to register online before the event. 

For details of The New Daily’s Mother’s Day Classic photo competition, click here.