01 July 2025

The Metal Roofing and Cladding Association of Australia (MRCAA) has teamed up for Dry July to help raise funds for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA), after one of the association’s committee members was diagnosed with the disease

MRCAA committee member Craig Watts, 59, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in August 2024.

“The diagnosis was a complete shock,” Mr Watts said. “I had no symptoms, and I thought I was fine. But one test led to another, and suddenly I was being told I had prostate cancer that had spread.

“It knocked the wind out of me. But thanks to incredible doctors and PCFA’s support programs, as well as access to a specialist nurse, I found hope again.

“I’ve responded well to treatment, my PSA is down from 89 to 3.9, and I’m back to living a fuller life. That support helped me believe I’m not going anywhere anytime soon.”

This year, the MRCAA is proudly backing Mr Watts, with a goal of raising $5,000 for PCFA’s Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing Program.

Mark Cain, executive director of MRCAA, said that supporting PCFA was about more than just raising funds.

“We’re getting involved to help save lives and stand with those in the metal roofing and cladding industry who have been impacted by this disease,” Mr Cain said.

“This industry is built on strength and resilience, and so are the men fighting this disease. We’re proud to lend our support to Craig and join him in going dry for a good cause.”

Across Australia, more than 26,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year.

Mr Watts said he was thrilled to see the MRCAA step up to show its support.

“It’s really great to see them support a cause that affects so many brothers, sons and fathers across the country,” he said.

PCFA CEO Anne Savage commended MRCAA on its commitment to the cause.

“Currently, there is only one specialist nurse for every 239 newly diagnosed patients nationwide – but with the support of Dry July, we can change that,” Ms Savage said.

“You may think that giving up alcohol won’t make a difference – but for the next man diagnosed with prostate cancer, it will mean the world.

“It will mean that they have access to a specialist nurse when the going gets tough, and access to resources and support every step of the way.

“Our nurses play a critical role in ensuring that men do not suffer their disease in silence.”

Australians can join the challenge or donate via www.dryjuly.com/pcfa.

For more information about prostate cancer or support groups, visit www.prostate.org.au or phone 1800 22 00 99 to speak to a specialist nurse.