More than 125,000 Australians came together around the nation today to raise money for breast cancer research through the Mother’s Day Classic.

The 8km walk or run is a tribute to loved ones affected by the disease, which kills seven women on average every day in Australia.

Event organiser Sharon Morris said 40,000 people were expected for the Melbourne event in the Royal Botanic Gardens and about 11,000 in Brisbane’s South Bank.

She says the majority of those involved in the fun run know someone affected by the disease.

“We’ll often see generations of mum, grandma and their daughters walking together,” she said.

“And some people do put on the sneakers and participate in terms of getting their personal best, but the majority are just out there for a great cause.”

Organisers say they are confident of raising $5 million for the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s research program at this year’s event.

The event has raised more than $20 million since its inception in 1998.

Queensland organiser Jan Bray says it is an opportunity to honour those who have been affected by the disease.

“I get feedback about how important it is for women with breast cancer and the families who have lost people to the disease,” she said.

“They actually say that by participating it makes them feel supported and recognised. And that experience really gives them some strength.

“I think it’s really good for the families, too, because it’s a way to remember.”

Ms Bray says the event continues to grow every year.

“At the end of the day you’re a success if you actually make one person aware to go and do the checks that they need to do so that you can stop a death,” she said.

“The money’s good obviously because we need to fund these programs, but it’s celebrating life and people’s lives who’ve unfortunately not survived.”