19 February 2026

Colin William Cook will celebrate his 100th birthday on Friday, 20 February 2026, reaching a milestone few Australians achieve.

As families gather to mark the occasion, Colin is using his century of life to deliver a simple but powerful message to other men: do not neglect your health.

Diagnosed with prostate cancer in the 1970s, Colin’s experience dates back to a very different era of testing and treatment. PSA testing was not as routine as it is today, and awareness around prostate cancer was far lower. After regular visits to his doctor, he was referred to a urologist and underwent surgery.

“Soon after, I had a prostatectomy, which wasn’t serious. Everything was fine. “Later on, I started having a bit of trouble, so we had another small operation to fix it. 

In the decades that followed, he committed to ongoing monitoring, including annual PSA blood tests and full health checks. At one stage, his PSA level rose to around seven, but with careful follow-up and medical supervision, it remained stable.

“I now commit to ongoing monitoring, including annual PSA blood tests and full health checks

“Whatever my PSA stayed around, we didn’t sort of worry. Everything went okay, and we just went on.”

Colin continued working well into his 90s, often alongside his sons in the family business. Staying active and engaged was important to him.

“Work helped take my mind off it. I worked up until I was 92!"

Now living in a retirement village, Colin remains interested in the world around him and deeply appreciative of his family’s support.

“I’ve got good sons that look after me, and their wives - and my wife - otherwise, I wouldn’t be here."

He credits simple habits with his longevity: good food, routine, and strong family support.

“You’ve got to eat good food. Keep your meals regular.”

But above all, his message to Australian men is clear.

In 2025 alone, 28,868 Australian men were diagnosed with prostate cancer. For Colin, that statistic makes early detection non-negotiable.

“Don’t let your health go unchecked for more than 12 months. That’s essential.

“Have the whole lot. Just get checked.”

Please wish him a happy birthday by donating to his fundraiser: https://fundraise.pcfa.org.au/fundraisers/colincook