21 March 2024
Three Australian volunteers who have dedicated years of their lives to supporting Australian men and families impacted by prostate cancer have been awarded Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s (PCFA) prestigious annual Max Gardner Award for Distinguished Service.
Don Lockley
Prosper-Darwin Prostate Cancer Support Group
92-year-old Don Lockley was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2004 and underwent successful radiation therapy. He co-founded Proshelp — the Katherine Prostate Cancer Support Group in 2009, which he led until 2013, before relocating to Darwin and taking on leadership of the Prosper Darwin Prostate Cancer Support group until 2022.
Allan Cunningham
Latrobe Valley Prostate Cancer Support Group
Allan Cunningham co-founded the Latrobe Valley Prostate Support Group in 2010, after several of his friends were diagnosed with the disease. Since then, he has gone on to champion one of the region’s largest fundraisers for men with prostate cancer, the Latrobe Valley Biggest Ever Blokes’ Lunch.
Michael Bird
Ballarat Prostate Cancer Support Group
Michael was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2006 and underwent successful treatment with radiation followed by high dose brachytherapy. He joined the Ballarat Prostate Cancer Support Group in 2011 and has dedicated hundreds of hours to supporting men and families in the local community.
PCFA’s Chairman, Adjunct Associate Professor Steve Callister AM, congratulated the winners.
“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 and raising awareness to help us defeat it,” he said.
“I thank them for their voluntary service and contribution. Their tireless advocacy has changed many lives for the better.
“Our work is only made possible by the support of outstanding individuals like Don, Allan and Michael, who give of their own time to ensure men and their families do not have to walk alone when prostate cancer strikes.”
PCFA CEO, Anne Savage, said each of the awardees was an inspiration to men and families impacted by the disease.
“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.
“They have played a vital role in providing men and their families with information, comfort, and support, calling on their own personal experiences to make a difference in the lives of others.
“I speak for all those in our community when I convey my abiding gratitude to these gentlemen for the exceptional difference they have made to so many Australians impacted by prostate cancer, improving survivorship outcomes for all.
“We’re honoured to be a part of a grassroots network of exceptional Australians impacted by prostate cancer who are dedicated to improving survivorship outcomes for all others.”
About the recipients:
Don Lockley – Prosper-Darwin PCSG
Don Lockley was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2004 and underwent successful radiation therapy. He co-founded Proshelp — the Katherine Prostate Cancer Support Group in 2009, which he led until 2013, before relocating to Darwin and taking on leadership of the Prosper Darwin Prostate Cancer Support group until 2022.
Don initiated the Prosper monthly newsletter, keeping members updated on the group’s activities and has coordinated numerous activations around Darwin and Katherine, raising much needed awareness within the community. He has been a Patient Advocate on the committee of Prostate Cancer Outcomes Registry NT (PCOR-NT) and served to the Central Australian Cancer Council (SA/NT/Cancer Council). Don’s advocacy extends beyond media appearances, speaking engagements and volunteering within the community, reflecting his enduring commitment to prostate cancer awareness and support.
Allan Cunningham – Latrobe Valley PCSG
Allan Cunningham co-founded the Latrobe Valley Prostate Support Group in 2010. He leads several fundraising efforts, notable the Biggest Ever Blokes’ Lunch in Latrobe Valley which has raised over $600,000. As group convener since 2012, Allan engages sponsors, and has secured high profile guest speakers like Merv Hughes and Mick Malthouse.
Notably, Allan's advocacy catalysed research into reducing prostate cancer mortality rates in Latrobe Valley. His efforts led to Dr Mahesh Iddawela investigating blood markers for aggressive prostate cancer treatments. Allan's tireless dedication and community impact highlight his invaluable role in prostate cancer support and research.
Michael Bird – Ballarat PCSG
Michael was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2006 and underwent successful treatment with radiation followed by high dose brachytherapy. He became an integral member of the Ballarat Prostate Cancer Support Group in 2011, serving as a communications officer and facilitator. For over 14 years, Michael has diligently produced the Ballarat Prostate Cancer Support Group’s monthly newsletter ensuring the 100+ members are informed of prostate cancer developments.
Over the years Michael has served on various representative committees and groups for PCFA, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the cause. Michael's dedication to prostate cancer support and awareness is exemplified through his multifaceted contributions to the community.
To find out more, go to www.pcfa.org.au. For support, phone PCFA on 1800 22 00 99.
ENDS
To arrange interviews with the Max Gardner Recipients, please contact 1800 22 00 99.
