West Moreton Health Foundation’s inaugural men’s health month has come to a powerful close, with more than $40,000 raised to support better health outcomes for men across the region.
Across March, the community came together to spark conversations, challenge stigma and take meaningful action for men’s health. From major events to grassroots fundraising and merchandise sales, the month demonstrated what is possible when a community rallies behind a shared cause.
A strong start sparks important conversations
The month launched with a strong start at Club Parkview, where guests heard from Professor Jeff Dunn and West Moreton Health Foundation CEO Scott Young on the state of men’s health in Australia and the role we can all play in improving it.
A clear message carried throughout the morning: conversations matter. Checking in with mates, talking openly about health and encouraging the men in our lives to take action can make a real difference. With around 40 per cent of men’s deaths in Australia considered preventable, and prostate cancer survival rates reaching 99 per cent when detected early, the importance of early action was front of mind.
Community events drive momentum
Momentum continued at The Q through Alfie’s Legends Lunch, delivered in partnership with Rugby League Ipswich. The event brought together an incredible line-up of sporting voices, including keynote speaker Shane Webcke, alongside Allie Brigginshaw, Ben Ikin, Jimmy “The Pumper” Cassidy, Simon Black, Stephen Moore and Tony Brett.
Through powerful storytelling and shared experiences, the event reinforced the importance of speaking up, supporting one another and prioritising men’s health and wellbeing. The generosity in the room was evident, with guests supporting the cause through merchandise, auctions, raffles and donations.
The Men’s Health Luncheon at Club Services Ipswich followed, serving as a powerful reminder that community is stronger together.
Guests heard from Jackson Weir-White, owner and head coach at Asylum MMA and professional fighter, and Michael Katsidis, former world champion boxer, who shared their stories openly and helped break down stigma around men’s health.
The event also featured live music from Tommy Memphis and strong support through raffles and merchandise, contributing to an important milestone as the community continued to build momentum.
The month concluded with the Charity Golf Day at Wolston Park Golf Club run by Club Parkview, bringing supporters together for a day of connection, generosity and shared purpose.
Guests heard from speaker Steve Mallet, whose story added a powerful and personal perspective to the day, while attendees showed their support through participation, donations and fundraising activities across the event.
The strong turnout and community spirit reflected the momentum built throughout the month and the collective commitment to improving men’s health across the region.
Partners making a difference
The success of the month was also driven by the generosity of local partners.
NGU Real Estate Ripley and Surrounds demonstrated a genuine commitment to giving back, pledging ongoing support and contributing to men’s health through their initiative across March.
Local businesses also played a key role at a grassroots level. Ipswich café Hoe Inn Food Bar supported the month by donating a portion of every coffee sold on selected days, with the team at NGU Real Estate Ipswich Central matching those contributions.
These initiatives not only helped raise vital funds but also sparked conversations in everyday settings, reinforcing the importance of community action in improving men’s health.
Stories that matter
Beyond these events and partnerships, it was individual stories that truly defined the month.
West Moreton Health Foundation Cups of Care Café Supervisor, Peta, originally set out to raise $1,000 in memory of her late husband Tony, who passed away in 2023 from metastatic colorectal cancer.
Each year, Peta and her three sons honour Tony by shaving their heads, a tradition they call “We shave because he was brave”. This year, she turned that moment into action for men’s health month.
Driven by her experience, Peta shared a message that resonated with many.
“Tony, like many men, brushed off obvious symptoms and ignored signs. Men need to focus on their health more. After Tony died so quickly, I had many male friends say they were stepping up and getting necessary checks and if that helps one person it matters.”
With the support of the community, Peta not only surpassed her original goal but raised more than $2,300, a powerful reflection of both her commitment and the impact of people coming together behind an important cause.
A community driving change
West Moreton Health Foundation CEO Scott Young said the result highlighted the strength of community support and the importance of continuing the conversation.
“This result reflects the power of our community coming together to take action and support men’s health. By encouraging earlier action and open conversations, we can help drive better health outcomes for men across our region.”
This milestone would not have been possible without the incredible support of our partners, sponsors and community. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who hosted events, donated prizes, purchased merchandise, attended events or helped spread the message.
Local businesses, community groups and individuals also played a critical role. Whether through workplace fundraising, donating proceeds or simply starting conversations, every effort contributed to the success of the month.
Looking ahead
Funds raised will support initiatives that improve men’s health across the West Moreton region, including investment in equipment, research and programs that encourage earlier action and stronger connections to care.
While men’s health month has come to an end, the need for action continues. The Foundation remains committed to working alongside the community to keep these conversations going and to support better health outcomes for men across our region.
To everyone who played a part, thank you. Together, we are building a healthier future for our community.
