12 February 2026

For nearly two decades, Robert McCulloch has been a steady presence for men facing prostate cancer in Bundaberg.

Now 81, Rob was diagnosed 19 years ago at the age of 62. At the time, he knew very little about prostate cancer.

“It all started with a member of our vintage vehicle club,” Rob recalls. “He told me he had to go and have his prostate out. I didn’t know anything about it. Twelve months later, another member had it. Twelve months later, I had it.”

Rob travelled to Brisbane, where surgery was recommended. His prostate was removed using the traditional surgical method, and thankfully, the cancer was fully contained.

“The cancer was totally contained in the prostate,” he says. “That was a real plus.”

Since then, Rob has continued with yearly PSA tests and has remained cancer-free.

Finding support and stepping up

Not long after his surgery, Rob came across a prostate cancer support group stall at a local community event in Bundaberg. Curious and keen to learn more, he joined.

“I knew nothing about prostate cancer,” he says. “The meetings certainly did help. They were very supportive. Lots of information is going around. And you can talk to someone who has had exactly what you’ve had.”

After 12 months as a member, Rob stepped into a leadership role. Next week marks 17 years as convenor.

“It’s just been a big family,” he says.

Rob describes a simple but effective model. While he chaired meetings, others took on key roles.

A meet-and-greeter welcomed new attendees at the door. Someone would make tea. Others would sit with newly diagnosed men, settle them in and introduce them around.

“You get them talking. That’s the hardest thing,” Rob says. “You can’t advise them what treatment to have. That’s their choice. But you can tell them what you’ve been through and just be there.”

Beyond the meetings

Communication never stopped at monthly gatherings.

“The emails and phone calls are endless,” Rob laughs. “If someone’s got a problem, we’re there. If someone’s got too many mangoes, we’re there. It’s just like a big family.”

The group also established a separate ladies’ gathering, offering partners and carers a chance to connect socially.

“The girls don’t talk about prostate cancer,” Rob explains. “They just meet for a couple of hours, have a cup of tea and a chat.”

Rob has also taken awareness beyond Bundaberg, speaking in country areas and farming communities across the North Burnett and Gayndah regions.

“You can get them talking,” he says. “That’s the key.”

Encouraging the next generation

Rob has always encouraged men to get tested. Both of his sons have regular PSA checks, and his eldest son, a trucking manager, actively promotes prostate cancer awareness and mental health support among his drivers.

“I encourage everybody to get checked,” Rob says. “You’ve got to.”

As he prepares to step back from the convenor role, with his wife continuing as treasurer, Rob will remain involved, supporting the next leader from the background.

“It’s been an absolute pleasure running the group,” he says.

For 17 years, Rob has been a steady shoulder for others. And while he may no longer be leading from the front, his legacy of support continues.