17 July 2026
Well-known Tasmanian chef and prostate cancer survivor Paul Foreman is joining Brett Harris and Rick Bennett to bring the state’s first Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch to Hobart.
The three men, who each have lived experience of prostate cancer, are working together to establish the landmark event at the Tasman Room, Wrest Point, on Friday, 30 October 2026.
The lunch will raise vital funds and awareness for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia while encouraging Tasmanian men to understand their risk, speak with their doctors and seek support.
Mr Foreman, a chef, consultant and caterer with more than 30 years’ experience in Tasmania’s hospitality industry, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in late 2023.
His treatment included hormone therapy followed by radiation therapy, an experience that strengthened his determination to encourage other men to take their health seriously.
“It was tough, but it was necessary,” Mr Foreman said.
“So much has been done to raise awareness of this invisible disease, but this is not a time to rest on our laurels.
“We need to keep the conversation going and encourage men to look after themselves.”
Mr Harris has also experienced prostate cancer firsthand and is contributing his time, knowledge and passion to help establish the lunch and reach more men and families across Tasmania.
Together, Mr Foreman and Mr Harris are working alongside Hobart man Mr Bennett, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer at just 47 and underwent a radical prostatectomy in 2019.
Mr Bennett said the event could not happen without all three men working together.
“We wanted to create something that would bring people together, get men talking about prostate cancer and help families impacted by the disease.”
Mr Bennett’s diagnosis connected him with PCFA and a community of men who understood the physical and emotional challenges he was facing.
“Through PCFA, I found genuine support and expert guidance, which made me determined to ensure other men never face prostate cancer alone,” he said.
“Prostate cancer can affect men at a younger age than many people realise, and too many are still putting off going to the doctor or talking about what they are experiencing.”
The inaugural Hobart Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch will feature Winter Olympic gold medallist Steven Bradbury OAM as a keynote speaker and will be hosted by one of Hobart’s best-known radio voices, Triple M presenter Kaz McMullen.
Guests will enjoy shared-table main courses and dessert platters, along with live auctions, raffles and further entertainment.
The Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch movement was established by the late Chris McPherson AM following his own prostate cancer diagnosis. Events held around Australia have since raised more than $6 million for prostate cancer research, awareness and support.
Each year, around 560 Tasmanian men are diagnosed with prostate cancer, and nearly 80 die from the disease.
PCFA CEO Anne Savage said the combined advocacy of Mr Foreman, Mr Harris and Mr Bennett would help bring prostate cancer out into the open.
“Paul, Brett and Rick understand firsthand the impact a prostate cancer diagnosis can have on a man and everyone who loves him,” Ms Savage said.
“By standing together and sharing their experiences, they are creating conversations that could encourage other men to act earlier and connect more families with support.
“Tasmania’s first Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch will be a powerful demonstration of mateship, community and the determination to ensure no man faces prostate cancer alone.”
The three organisers are now calling on businesses, sporting clubs, community groups and individuals across Tasmania to get behind the Hobart lunch and help make it a lasting success.
They are also proud to welcome Spectran Group and Icon Cancer Centre Hobart as major sponsors.
“We want to create something all Tasmanians can be proud of for many years to come, and we encourage everyone to get involved and support the event,” Mr Bennett said.
“Whether people attend, sponsor a table, donate an auction item or help spread the word, they will be helping us reach more men and families.”
For event announcements, ticket information and sponsorship opportunities, follow the Hobart Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch on Facebook and Instagram.
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.
