Since 2014, a community-driven men’s health initiative led by Lifestyle Communities resident Gavan Pritchett has supported more than 1200 men and raised over $250,000 for local health services — all staying within the district.
Twelve years ago, Mr Pritchett noticed a glaring gap in local support, particularly for men battling prostate cancer.
“When we started, there was nothing happening locally for men’s health,” Mr Pritchett said.
“To see what it’s become now — it really does your heart good.”
Last Thursday marked an emotional milestone, with Mr Pritchett handing over the final cheque of $38,939 to GV Health’s Peter Copulos Cancer and Wellness Centre, concluding 11 years of fundraising through the much-loved annual ‘Shave Days’.
Every dollar raised was donated directly, funding patient transport, research and — most significantly — the introduction of two specialist prostate cancer nurses.
Specialist nurse Sonia Strachan, who has worked alongside patients for a decade, said the impact was felt well beyond hospital walls.
“Some scans aren’t Medicare funded, so we’re able to step in,” she said.
“These families are under enormous pressure — emotionally, physically and financially — and this support makes a real difference.”
Lifestyle Communities Foundation matched donations from the fundraiser, doubling the impact.
The foundation agreed to this following the death of a Lifestyle Communities director from cancer.
“The lovely thing is knowing it’s all helping our local men. It’s staying right here,” Mr Pritchett said.
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