Whyalla's Relay for Life secretary Lesley Ann Gebbie said she was unsure what to expect and was ecstatic when the results were read out Sunday morning.

"It was fantastic considering the time people had to raise money," she said.

Ms Gebbie said the relay committee had aimed to raise $45,000 as this year their main focus was to get people involved in the event.

Participants packed their tents, laced up their shoes and invited friends and family to get involved in about 18 hours of walking.

The event was aimed at reducing the impact of cancer in South Australia and to raise funds for cancer research, education, prevention and support.

The event began at 3pm on Saturday with the opening ceremony and the survivors and carer's walk.

Throughout the day teams were invited to enter a member into the Miss Relay quest which included swimwear, evening wear and talent categories.

A member from the Hula Honeys was named Miss Relay 2009.

The atmosphere was amazing with a number of people shaving their heads to raise money for the event on the night.

At 8.30pm candles were lit and placed on the surrounds of the walking track in the moving candlelight ceremony.

The candlelight ceremony was a significant time for attendees who had been touched by the disease to put a message on a bag and light a candle for loved ones.

During the night and early hours of the morning a mini Olympics was held to keep the atmosphere alive.

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At 9am on Sunday morning the relay was declared finished followed by the announcement of award winners.

The Belladonnas were crowned the highest fundraising team of the event raising more than $8000.

Highest overall team points made up of challenges throughout the event went to the Waci Mob.