18 June 2024
In 2012, the Bastone Family lost its figurehead when their dear nonno, father, and friend, Mario Bastone, passed away from prostate cancer at the age of 84. Today, his memory lives on, thanks to the determination of his son Don, who has now raised more than $226,000 towards the defeat of prostate cancer.
“Dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer in his early sixties,” Don recalls, “And thankfully, the first time around, it went into remission.
“Unfortunately, it returned when he was in his early 80s, and over those last few years he was in and out of hospital in a lot of pain.
“Watching what he went through, I knew I wanted to do something about it. I just couldn’t believe how little people knew about prostate cancer and I couldn’t stand by and do nothing.
“After he passed, I paid more attention to the advances in treatments, determined to make sure other men would get a better chance to fight the disease.”
Don soon founded the Dine and Dance for a Cure, in a bid to raise both awareness and funds.
Since then, the two-yearly event has significantly grown in popularity and impact, establishing itself as a major contributor in the fight against prostate cancer.
In 2024 alone, more than 300 guests attended, raising $76,000 in one night.
“It all started with the idea to get a few friends together and raise money for research,” Don says.
“I’d been to a few dinner and dance events over the years and felt it would be the best way to get behind the cause and have fun at the same time.
“The first Dine and Dance for a Cure event was held in 2013, and that event helped us to secure a major sponsor.
“I still carry the learnings from the very first event, which had about 200 people. I had to quickly figure out how to secure prizes and sponsors – all the stuff that happens in the background that people don’t see.
“I am very proud of how the event has evolved over the years. In our first year we raised about $23,000, which was a lot at the time, but pales in comparison to the $76,000 raised this year.
“It gets bigger and better each time, and that has always been my goal.
“This year we even had a champagne lady and the guests loved it. The venue went all out as well, taking care of the little details that really help to impress people and ensure everyone has a great night.
“Knowing how strongly the community support the event is important to me, with a growing number of corporate tables and groups who come back to each and every event to back it.
“After the success of this year I’m already working on plans for 2026 and hope to have even stronger support from the team at PCFA.
“In between now and then, I’ll continue to honour my dad’s legacy by spending time with family and friends and cherishing every moment.”
Don and his wife Beatrice have been married for 46 years.
When asked the secret to a long and happy marriage, Don says don’t be afraid to compromise, have respect for your partner and do things together.
To contact Don, email dbastone@bigpond.net.au.
To find out more or to access support, reach out to PCFA via 1800 22 00 99 or visit www.prostate.org.au.
Top to bottom, left to right:
Don's Dad in front of Harbour Bridge circa 1956, Don's dad Mario on arrival from Italy working in Qld on the sugar cane farms circa 1954, Don and his dad circa 1960, Don's Dad and Mum Carolina, Don with his family at the 2019 Dine & Dance fundraiser, Don and his wife Beatrice at the Prostate presentation Government House Nov 2017, Don and his sister Linda at this year's fundraiser, Don with the iconic champagne lady, Don's key sponsors and supporters for 2024.
