A Sunbury bakery is opening its doors to the community Saturday 31 May in a heartfelt fundraiser to support brain cancer research, a cause that hits close to home for Ottimo Bakery owner Rebecca Bremner.
The Baking for Brain Cancer initiative brings together bakeries across the country to raise much-needed funds for brain cancer research, with each participant offering baked goods and special experiences in exchange for donations. For Ms Bremner, the decision to get involved is deeply personal.
“I have two reasons for supporting this cause,” said Ms Bremner. “My beautiful cousin Bek was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer in 2023. She’s an incredibly strong woman and wants us to help make a difference for the families who will face this diagnosis in the future.”
Bremner also draws inspiration from her first baking mentor, the late John Reid of Red Beard Bakery, who passed away from brain cancer in 2021.
“John encouraged me to open my bakery, and I still hear his words of guidance every day,” she said.
As part of the fundraiser, Ottimo Bakery will be offering guided tours of the bakery, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the baking process, including product tastings and demonstrations. Entry to the tours will be by donation, with all proceeds going directly to brain cancer research.
“Every little bit helps,” Ms Bremner said. “Just $500 can fund 45 vials for testing – each one could lead to a clinical trial, a new treatment, or even a cure. Progress matters, because brain cancer statistics have been stagnant for too long.”
Ms Bremner, a Sunbury local, opened Ottimo Bakery at 57 O’Shanassy St after years of dreaming and planning, all while juggling the challenges of new motherhood and personal loss.
“The bakery is part of John’s legacy, and now it’s also part of Bek’s story,” she said. “I’ve been dealt this harsh reality twice, so I’m using my platform to make a difference.”
