Three dedicated volunteers from Australia have been recognized for their significant contributions to men’s health, particularly in the fight against prostate cancer. The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) awarded the prestigious annual Max Gardner Award for Distinguished Service to Don Lockley, Allan Cunningham, and Michael Bird for their tireless efforts in supporting men and families impacted by the disease.
Honorees and Their Impact
Don Lockley, aged 92, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2004 and successfully underwent radiation therapy. In 2009, he co-founded Proshelp, the Katherine Prostate Cancer Support Group, which he led until 2013. After relocating to Darwin, Lockley continued his advocacy efforts by leading the Prosper Darwin Prostate Cancer Support Group until 2022. His initiatives included launching a monthly newsletter to keep members informed and coordinating activities to raise awareness in the community. Lockley has also served as a Patient Advocate on the committee of the Prostate Cancer Outcomes Registry NT (PCOR-NT) and has been involved with the Central Australian Cancer Council.
Allan Cunningham co-founded the Latrobe Valley Prostate Support Group in 2010, motivated by the diagnoses of several friends. His leadership of fundraising efforts, including the Latrobe Valley Biggest Ever Blokes’ Lunch, has raised over $600,000 for prostate cancer awareness and support. Cunningham has engaged sponsors and secured prominent guest speakers for events, enhancing the group’s visibility. His advocacy has also sparked research into reducing prostate cancer mortality rates in the region, leading to investigations by Dr. Mahesh Iddawela into blood markers for aggressive treatments.
Michael Bird was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2006 and has been a proactive member of the Ballarat Prostate Cancer Support Group since 2011. As a communications officer, he has dedicated himself to producing the group’s monthly newsletter, ensuring that over 100 members stay informed on relevant developments. Bird’s involvement extends to various representative committees for PCFA, showcasing his ongoing commitment to the prostate cancer cause.
Recognition from PCFA Leadership
PCFA Chairman, Adjunct Associate Professor Steve Callister AM, expressed gratitude for the contributions of the awardees. “My congratulations to Don, Allan, and Michael for their awards. They are truly remarkable figures in the Australian prostate cancer community, dedicating many hundreds of hours of service to other men and families impacted by the disease,” Callister stated. He emphasized the importance of such voluntary service in ensuring that individuals facing prostate cancer do not have to navigate their journey alone.
PCFA CEO Anne Savage also praised the award recipients, highlighting their roles as champions of prostate cancer awareness. “Over many years, they have served as champions of prostate cancer awareness within their communities, ensuring that men and their partners do not have to walk the journey of prostate cancer alone,” she remarked. Savage expressed her appreciation for their exceptional impact on the lives of Australians affected by prostate cancer, improving survivorship outcomes for all.
The efforts of these three individuals reflect a broader grassroots movement dedicated to enhancing support and awareness for prostate cancer, benefiting countless men and families across Australia. Their enduring commitment serves as an inspiring model for community involvement in health advocacy.
