19 March 2026

Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) is proud to be named the official charity partner for this year’s Australian Sheep and Wool Show in July, shining a spotlight on the impact prostate cancer has on men and families across Australia.

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, and men living in regional areas have approximately a 24% higher chance of dying from prostate cancer than their urban counterparts.

Sue Opie, CEO of the Australian Sheep Breeders Association, said the partnership began from a suggestion from a farmer writing to the show’s Fleece Committee asking that PCFA be considered as the event’s charity partner.

“Given the close ties between agriculture and the men most affected by prostate cancer, the committee agreed the cause was a natural fit for the show,” Sue said.

Sue said prostate cancer is something that touches many farming families.

“One organiser shared that her own husband is currently living with prostate cancer, reinforcing the importance of raising awareness and supporting organisations working to improve outcomes for men and their families,” Sue added.

The Australian Sheep and Wool Show dates back to 1879, and for more than a century, the event was held at the Melbourne Showgrounds, becoming a major gathering for the sheep and wool industry.

Today, it is widely recognised as the world's largest sheep and wool show, attracting breeders, wool producers, industry leaders, and thousands of visitors from across Australia and overseas each year.

This year, unique fleeces will appear throughout the showgrounds and will not only celebrate the quality and heritage of Australian wool but also provide an opportunity for people to learn more about prostate cancer, which takes the lives of nearly 4000 men each year.

“The show brings together thousands of farmers, families and industry participants from across the country and the world. It’s the perfect opportunity to deliver an important and lifesaving message: get checked for prostate cancer.”

PCFA’s Community Engagement Manager for the Southern Regions, Linley Watson, said the partnership was a great chance to start conversations about the nation’s most commonly diagnosed cancer.

“Prostate cancer affects men and their families in every part of Australia, including many in rural and regional communities.

“Events like the Australian Sheep and Wool Show bring together thousands of farmers, creating an important opportunity to start conversations about prostate cancer and the importance of getting checked.

Each day, around 79 Australian men are diagnosed with prostate cancer.

“By working together with communities like those represented at the Sheep and Wool Show, we can help ensure more men know their risk, speak to their doctor, and seek help earlier,” Linley added.

To learn more about the Australian Sheep and Wool Show that takes place in Bendigo from 17-19 July, please visit: sheepshow.com.

For more information about prostate cancer, or to find a support group, visit www.prostate.org.au or phone 1800 22 00 99 to speak with a Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse.

From left to right: Sue Opie, Margot Falconer, Tim Steere, Candace Cordy and Nicole Davies.