Joyce runs last leg

The sole local runner in the Patonga leg of the relay was 69-year-old Joyce Chambers.

Joyce was chosen by SOCOG and the Sydney Paralympic Organising Committee as a torchbearer because of her involvement in the organisation of the Patonga farewell to the flame and for her efforts in raising funds for the games.

A volunteer for both events, Joyce was responsible for the raffle of a framed, signed shirt and cap which once belonged to cricketer Steve Waugh.

The main prize was won by Frank Collison of Winston Hills and second prize of a Paralympic Pack was won by Rana King of Terrigal, an employee of Mr Jim Lloyd, Member for Robertson.

The raffle raised $2643 for the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games.

Joyce Chambers said: "My highlight was being able to give my torch to each of the disabled wheelchair-bound children from a local special school and seeing their faces as they each held it and had their photograph taken."

Cec Bucello, October 19