Rally for Mars: Supporting Our Derby Heart

For over 14 years, Marinda "Mars" Swarbrick, beloved as ScareBear, has been the beating heart of Australia's roller derby community. More than just a phenomenal player on the track, Mars is a coach, leader, organiser, commentator, and the ultimate cheerleader who has poured countless hours into lifting others up and keeping our community strong. From coast to coast, skaters across Australia know Mars as one of our most cherished and respected figures in derby.

Now, our community champion needs us.

Mars recently received a cervical cancer diagnosis and will be undergoing intensive CRT (Chemoradiation) treatment. While Australia's healthcare system will cover the core medical costs, Mars and their husband Patrick are facing the mounting pressures that come with serious illness: expenses and challenges that extend far beyond what Medicare covers.

How We Can Help

The roller derby community has always operated as one big team, and it's time to show up for one of our most devoted teammates. Your contributions will help Mars focus entirely on healing, without the stress of everyday financial burdens.

Your support will provide:

• Medical expenses not fully covered by Medicare

• Food and essentials including grocery deliveries and meal services

• Transportation to and from treatment appointments

• Household support such as cleaning services and pet care

• Accommodations to allow Mars to stay involved in roller derby

• Unexpected costs that inevitably arise during cancer treatment

Why Mars Matters

Every skater who has crossed paths with Mars knows their incredible generosity of spirit. They've been there for countless teammates through victories, defeats, injuries, and personal challenges. Mars has given so much derby love over the years. Now it's our turn to give it back.

Let's rally for Mars: our ultimate teammate, our community pillar, and the embodiment of derby love.

Every contribution, no matter the size, helps ensure Mars and Patrick can focus on what truly matters: treatment, recovery, and staying strong together. Let's show Mars just how much our community loves them.