Local Legacy: 11 Years of Men's Health Fundraising Success

ELEVEN years of fundraising efforts led by Lifestyle Community resident Gavan Pritchard was recognised on Thursday, January 11, with a special, final cheque hand over to GV Health’s specialist prostate cancer nurse, Sonia Stratchan. The story behind a total of $216K worth in community raised donations begins with the decision of Gavan Pritchard, alongside his wife Pauline, to organise an independent fundraiser. After plans to begin a ‘Movember’ fundraiser fell through, Mr Pritchard decided to organise a fundraiser himself, with a focus on the field of prostate cancer which he felt was under recognised. “We’ll donate money directly to here, and there’s no administration fees, and nothing comes out. The money all comes here and stays in the district,” said Mr Pritchard, recalling his decision. Over 11 years of fundraising on ‘Shave Days’, all money raised went directly to the Peter Copulos Cancer Centre of GV Health, funding money for the costs of transport for prostate cancer patients, as well as research, and significantly, funding the introduction of two specialist prostate cancer nurses – Sonia Strachan and Nicole Lewis. On Thursday, Ms Strachan, who has worked as a specialist for 10 of the 11 years, accepted a check for $38,939 on behalf of the Peter Copulos Cancer Centre. This money was donated by Lifestyle Communities Foundation, who have also matched the fundraiser’s donations every year, Ms Strachan commenting that the team had, “convinced them to match every dollar they were making, which was incredible.” These efforts are proudly recognised as one for the Greater Shepparton community by Mr Pritchard, who said, “the lovely thing is that all of this money is supporting our local men. It’s all staying local.” Gavan and Pauline are now retiring their long-running work and are searching for someone to take up the mantle of organising the Shave Day fundraising as well as the annual auction held at the Lifestyle Community, which auctions off items donated by local businesses. The event was attended by numerous members of GV Health and Lifestyle community where Mr Pritchard stood proudly side by side with Mrs Pritchard, nurses Ms Lewis and Ms Strachan and his partner in fundraising, Neil Siddal.