13 January 2025
Thousands of Adelaide locals will don their swimmers or runners for the popular Pink and Blue Swim, Walk or Run at the West Beach Surf Lifesaving Club next month.
On Sunday, 9 February, participants can choose between a 200m, 500m or 1km swim to raise vital funds for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and the St. Andrew’s Hospital Foundation.
Event organiser Paul Rafanelli, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer two years ago, said the event has become a very popular fundraising event in Adelaide since 2013 and is now catering for people of all fitness levels to get involved.
“When I had my proctectomy, I had it done at St. Andrew’s, so our beneficiaries are connected. It’s a really family-orientated event. We’re also encouraging our participants to have a PSA and breast check,” Paul said.
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia and the most frequently diagnosed cancer among Australian men.
In 2025, it is predicted that around 26,000 Australian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer.
“Males don’t tend to talk about their health, so it’s good to use this event to encourage men to talk about it and take action.”
Paul said he was incredibly proud to have raised $130,000 last year when over 1300 people participated.
“The West Beach Surf Lifesaving Club doesn’t get a cent,” Paul added.
“People want to know that their money is going where it should, and hand on heart, every cent goes to where we say it goes.”
Paul said he was grateful for the support of the Premier of South Australia, The Hon. Peter Malinauskas, who attended last year’s event.
“We also receive great support from Channel Nine and PCFA’s Ambassador, Will McDonald, who has also been diagnosed with prostate cancer,” he said.
“Our entry fees are low. We also have our fringe performers donate their time, and we sell out the concert, all of which goes towards our beneficiaries.”
PCFA CEO Anne Savage commended the event for their ongoing commitment to helping locals impacted by prostate cancer.
“Across Adelaide, over 3,100 men are living with prostate cancer, with an additional 250 men newly diagnosed each year,” she said.
“All funds raised enables us to fund new research and continue providing much-needed support services to men and families impact by this disease.
“Together, with the help of community champions like the Pink & Blue team, we can continue to save lives.”
Paul added that the club prides itself on saving lives. “We can save lives in the ocean. Now we can save lives outside the ocean.”
To support the Pink & Blue event visit: https://www.westbeachslsc.com.au/pink-blue
If you need support, reach out to PCFA on 1800 22 00 99.
