Bowls fundraiser puts spotlight on men’s health

THE Tweed Valley Prostate Cancer Support Group will hold its first-ever fundraiser this Sunday, with a barefoot bowls day at South Tweed Sports Club to raise awareness and support for men living with prostate cancer.

Proceeds from the event will go to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, with the day combining light-hearted competition with a serious message.

Organiser Greg Matfin said the event was about more than raising funds. It was also a way to start important conversations.

“Prostate cancer tends to fly under the radar compared to other cancers, even though over 26,000 Australian men are diagnosed each year,” he said.

“Nearly 4,000 men die from it each year. It is the second most deadly cancer in men, behind lung cancer, but it doesn’t always get the attention it deserves.”

Matfin said the support group has been running monthly meetings at South Tweed Sports Club for the past three years, with the club generously donating meeting space.

Meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of each month.

The new fundraiser is a first for the group and aims to help it expand its reach.

“Anyone can come along on the day. We’ll have a sausage sizzle, raffles, money boards and lucky bowl prizes for those wanting to have a go,” he said.

“The club’s facilities are excellent, so even if you don’t feel like bowling, we’d love to see people come down and show support.”

He encouraged men over 50 to speak to their GP about a PSA blood test, which is a simple way to check for early signs of prostate cancer.

“It is one of those things that can save your life. A simple test, done regularly.”

The fundraiser will take place from 11.30am on Sunday, September 14 at South Tweed Sports Club. Everyone is welcome.