Spirit join fight against gastrointestinal cancers

BENDIGO Spirit’s final home game for the 2025-26 regular season against Perth Lynx took on extra meaning, as the defending WNBL champions partnered with the Pancare Foundation to shine a light on Australian families impacted by upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancers.

Founded in 2011, the foundation is Australia’s leading charity dedicated to supporting people and families impacted by upper GI cancers, including pancreatic, stomach, liver, oesophageal and biliary cancers.

Pancare provides specialised nursing support, counselling, financial assistance and trusted information to help families navigate some of the toughest cancer journeys, while also advocating for better awareness and improved outcomes.

As part of Change the Game last Sunday at Red Energy Arena, Spirit players donned Pancare-branded armbands and socks – a bold visual symbol of unity with the thousands of Australians and families navigating upper GI cancers.

The themed match, won by the Lynx 88-64 was supported by in-stadium and digital activity designed to increase awareness and connect fans with resources provided by Pancare.

Bendigo Spirit general manager, Dan Jackson, said the club was honoured to stand alongside Pancare Foundation to amplify their mission.

“Community matters deeply to us at Bendigo Spirit, which is why we’re proud to support Pancare through Change the Game,” Jackson said.

“Their work provides real hope, care and advocacy for people facing some of the toughest cancer journeys imaginable.

“Wearing Pancare’s game-day merch on court is a powerful reminder of the responsibility we have to use our platform for good, and the Spirit playing group is fully behind this cause.

“It was great to see our fans join us in helping shine a spotlight on the vital services Pancare delivers every day.”

Pancare Foundation chief executive, Doug Hawkins, said his organisation was incredibly grateful to the Spirit for dedicating the game to the tens of thousands of Australians affected by upper GI cancers.

“These cancers are among the toughest, with some of the lowest survival rates, and awareness plays a critical role in ensuring people and families know where to turn for support,” he said.

“Seeing the team take the court wearing Pancare’s game-day socks and armbands sends a powerful message that no one has to face cancer alone, and partnerships like this help us be there for people when they need it most.”

Spirit fans and the wider central Victorian community can help Australian families facing upper GI cancers by donating to the Pancare Foundation.

To learn more or make a donation, visit giving.pancare.org.au