The showers held off Tuncurry’s John Wright Park for the activities at the Family Fun Day held to raise awareness and funds for the second annual Prostate Cancer Foundation Support Groups in Forster and the Manning.

Joining the day were popular local musician Matt Zarb, Australia’s Marching Koalas, Taree’s PCYC Gymaroos, the Great Lakes Pipe Band, Prime7 Possum who was a big hit with the littlies, and 2RE’s breakfast host Anthony Zanos who was the MC for the day.

Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead, whose idea led to the day being held, was delighted at the turnout of people who came to listen and watch the entertainment and to hear from local medical specialists, urologist Dr Ben Kwok and oncologist Dr Ted Livshin.

Mr Bromhead said the colour, music and skills sown by the entertainers drew the crowds in to learn more about prostate cancer which is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men.

“Everyone who participated were volunteers who had willingly given their time and talent to make the day such a great event,” Mr Bromhead said.

“Amongst so many contributors to the day, the seven local Men’s Sheds provided colour and talent in displaying the items they made and the auction of their projects raised in excess of $1,200.

“The day was about two important things: raising awareness with men about the need to have regular checks of their prostates; and to raise funds for the Prostate Cancer Foundation and the Support Groups in our region.

“A disturbing fact mentioned by the doctors is that in Australia more men die from prostate cancer, than women die from breast cancer.

“I want to thank the two doctors who gave their time and answered questions about the importance of men seeking regular prostate checks.

“I am delighted to say that more than $7,000 was raised on the day and this money will go to the Foundation and its Support Groups to assist their development activities.”

“I also thank the hundreds of people who came along and applauded the singers, bands, entertainers and gymnasts.

“Whenever there is a worthy cause like this, people in the Great Lakes and Manning recognise and get behind the effort involved,” Mr Bromhead said.

In a wonderful display of empathy and support for prostate cancer, the original first prize raffle winner donated the prize of tickets to the 2015 V8 Supercar Sydney 500 worth $8,000 to Forster Marine Rescue.

Unit Commander Mike Thomas was extremely grateful for the generous gesture and said Forster Marine Rescue will raffle the prize to raise funds for more equipment.