Online entries for the upcoming Bendigo Relay for Life closed on Friday with 72 teams, plus nearly 200 carers and survivors, already registered and late entries still accepted on the day.

Since 2000 the Bendigo event, which sees teams challenge themselves in a relay style overnight run or walk, has raised more than $2.6 million for cancer research, support and education programs in Victoria for all forms of cancer.

Last year more than 70 teams comprising of 1500 entries took part to raise more than $164,000.

The Rainbow Warriors have been one of Bendigo’s most prolific fundraising teams in recent years and have raised more than $60,000 since 2009.

Team leader Janine Cugura, who said the group had raised about $15,000 this year in addition to $10,000 from their popup op shop, said she would encourage everyone to get involved.

“It is a good way to come together as a community to celebrate those who have survived cancer as well as remember those who have died,” she said.

"I can't wait.

“Cancer has touched so many people.

"This is about good awareness.

“It is a great community event where we can all come together to fight back against this horrible disease."

The opening ceremony for the event takes place at 5.45pm on Friday April 4 at the La Trobe University Athletics complex in Flora Hill.

The closing ceremony will be at 3pm on Saturday April 5.

For more information visit www.relayforlife.org.au