Event raises millionsto support regional men

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month has begun and the It’s A Bloke Thing Foundation has got the fundraising off to a great start, bringing in a record-breaking $3.18 million in just a few hours at its annual luncheon.

The funds will diversify the foundation and establish a nation-first Mobile PSA Blood Testing Service, in partnership with Heart of Australia, taking life-saving prostate cancer screening directly into regional and remote communities.

Every day in Australia, 72 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer and 11 lose their lives – making it the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the country.

Men in regional and remote communities face a 24 per cent higher risk of dying due to late diagnosis.

The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) has also reconfirmed its partnership, pledging to continue a dollar for dollar commitment fund specialist prostate cancer nurses and vital research programs.

It’s a Bloke Thing chair Jack Wagner said the foundation had now raised more than $18 million, which goes directly towards delivering life-saving prostate cancer care, particularly for men in regional and rural communities.

“This is about more than breaking records. It’s about backing our regional men, and now it’s up to every man to back themselves and get tested.

“For years, mums in the bush could rely on the BreastScreen truck pulling into town. Now, finally, dads will have the same opportunity with PSA blood testing on their doorstep.

“I’m incredibly proud of the generosity shown by our business community. To raise over $3.18 million in one afternoon is an extraordinary Father’s Day gift, but the hard work starts now. We need to keep pushing, keep talking and make sure every man takes this seriously.”

Mr Wagner said Prostate Cancer Awareness Month was an opportunity to spark important conversations about health with the men in your life, learn more, and book in a test.

“We want to break the stigma around prostate cancer. This isn’t just an ‘old man’s disease’ – it’s something every man needs to take seriously. Whether it’s your grandfather, father, brother, son, or mate, starting that conversation could save a life.”

Funds raised will also go towards the expansion of the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing Program, run in partnership with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.

Adjunct Associate Professor Steve Callister, national chair of Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, said this outcome was a testament to community generosity and shared vision.

“We are delighted to announce that PCFA has matched all funds raised, broadening our partnership and dedicating critical funds into lifesaving research, awareness, and support that will significantly strengthen our joint efforts to achieve zero deaths in our lifetime.”