12 October 2022

Throughout September, Prostate Cancer Support Groups across the country took up the challenge to raise funds and awareness for Prostate Cancer Awareness Month to make a difference.

With prostate cancer now the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia – and 1 in 5 men diagnosed in their lifetime – groups held awareness events, barbecues, race days, luncheons and more.

The Limestone Coast Prostate Cancer Support Group lead by example, turning Mount Gambier blue throughout the month to help make prostate cancer history.

This included a charity luncheon at Mount Gambier’s Glenburnie Racecourse, hosted by the racing club, and a Big Aussie Barbie hosted by Barker MP Tony Pasin.

Richard Harry, member of the Limestone Coast PCSG said driving local awareness and fundraising was important to their members.

The lunch, which was originally set to be hosted in 2020 but was postponed due to the pandemic, had over 100 people attend for a day of fundraising and camaraderie.

“This event has been three years in the making but it was well worth the wait. It was a delight to finally be back together after covid,” Mr Harry said.

“A jovial atmosphere contributed to a fantastic event and raised much needed funds for prostate cancer research.

“Thank you to all the sponsors who have gone over and above to support these causes and everyone who attended.”

Big ticket items included a Hereford steer donated by John “Slogger” Richardson and Jenny Richardson from Shiloh Farms which raised $4300 and a set of tyres from Bucik Tyrepower fetching $1550.

Following on from the race day, members from the Limestone Coast Prostate Cancer Support group joined Barker MP Tony Pasin at his annual Big Aussie Barbie at his Mount Gambier CBD office, something he has done since 2015 to raise awareness and funds of prostate cancer.

Dozens of people stopped by the barbecue for a bite to eat and chatted with volunteers from local support group to learn more about prostate cancer.

“Mr Pasin has been a long-time supporter of prostate cancer awareness and support in the region, and we have always been grateful for his efforts in highlighting a disease that hits many men on the Limestone Coast every year,” Mr Harry added.

Combined funds raised at the two events amounted to in excess of $8,500 for the cause.

Thank you to all the Support Groups that took action during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month!