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The It’s A Bloke Thing Foundation is a leading initiative dedicated to prostate cancer nursing programs, education,
and research funding. We’re committed to driving real change and saving lives.
HISTORY OF THE EVENT
The idea for the It’s a Bloke Thing Prostate Cancer Luncheon began over a glass of wine and a frank conversation between friends. In 2010, two mates discovered they shared an unexpected and deeply personal connection having both recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer. What struck them most wasn’t just the diagnosis, but the silence that had preceded it. Why hadn’t men’s health, particularly prostate health, ever been a topic of conversation in their circles?
That night, they made a commitment: to change the narrative and make it easier for men to talk about their health. From that simple conversation, the concept of a fundraising luncheon was born. A social event with a serious purpose, where awareness could be raised, stories could be shared, and lives could be changed.
The inaugural It’s a Bloke Thing Prostate Cancer Luncheon was held in Toowoomba in 2011. Since then, it has grown into one of Australia’s largest daytime fundraising events, proudly supporting men’s health research and initiatives, including the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.
Now known as the Wagners It’s a Bloke Thing Luncheon, the event has raised more than $13.5 million to date. Beyond the remarkable fundraising success, the true impact lies in its mission, to break down barriers and encourage open conversations about men’s health between mates, families, and communities. Because awareness saves lives.
A MESSAGE FROM OUR 2025 CHAIRS
As we celebrate 15 years of the ‘It’s a Bloke Thing Foundation,’ we are deeply moved by the countless stories of hope, resilience, and courage shared by those impacted by prostate cancer. These stories remind us why we do what we do and reinforce the importance of delivering world-leading cancer nursing services that support individuals and their families through their toughest times.
This year is particularly special for us as we step into the role of Co-Chairs together. For me, it’s about honouring my father’s journey with prostate cancer and continuing the work started by my parents, John and Liz Wagner, as co-founders of this foundation. For Emma, it’s a deeply personal mission shaped by the loss tragic loss of her mother to bowel cancer at an early age.
Our goal remains clear. We need to raise awareness, expand our support services, and reach more men and families across Australia. With your generosity, we can continue to provide life changing care and drive conversations that save lives.
This foundation is more than just an event, it’s a community. A community with a shared purpose to create a future where prostate cancer is no longer a silent killer. Together, let’s build on this legacy, support cutting-edge research and ensure every man has the support and resources they need to face this challenge head on.
Thank you for standing with us in this fight. Together, we can make a difference.
Yours sincerely,
Jack and Emma Wagner
Co-Chairs, It’s A Bloke Thing Foundation
OUR COMMITTEE
The success of the It’s a Bloke Thing Foundation would not be possible without the support of local businesses and people who care about their community.
Jack Wagner - Chair
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Emma Wagner - CO-CHAIR
DAN DWAN
Katie Dwan
tim O'NeilL
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MARCUS BARNARD
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BRAD FITZGIBBONS
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MICK DWANE
GENERAL MANAGER
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RUTH LOGAN
RoadShow Educator
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Carly o'Neill
Cherie Romero
Gus romero
A vital part of our fundraising efforts goes directly toward increasing awareness and education around prostate health, particularly in rural and regional communities. Men living in these areas face a 24% higher risk of dying from prostate cancer.
The It’s a Bloke Thing Foundation is proud to have supported the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) for many years, helping fund vital research programs and initiatives that make a real difference in the lives of Australian men.
Through our proud partnership with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, It’s a Bloke Thing has helped fund the placement of specialist Prostate Cancer Nurses in Toowoomba/Darling Downs, Darwin, and the Gold Coast.
