Two young Narara brothers are taking their fundraising efforts off-road in an effort to drive forward support for prostate cancer research and support services across the Central Coast.
Logan (21) and Ronan Grattan (19) will hold their second annual 4X4 fundraiser on Saturday March 18 from 10am to 3pm at Watagans National Park to raise funds for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.
The brothers are hosting the event in honour of their own uncle, Mike Berton, who passed away from advanced prostate cancer at just 53 years old.
Local 4X4 enthusiasts are invited to join them for a day of driving, food and fun in support of the cause.
"This is the second year we are holding the event - it's an amazing way to honour Uncle Mike's memory and to make a difference for an important cause," Logan said.
"Uncle Mike loved the outdoors, and his presence was very much felt throughout the day last year - and we know it'll be the same again this year.
"As part of the event, we are also trying to get the conversation started about prostate cancer, to encourage men to get educated, get checked and hopefully send some strong messages through our community.
"If we could save just one family from going through what we have been through, as well as trying to raise some well needed money for PCFA, then it is worth it."
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with one in five men diagnosed in their lifetime.
Across the Central Coast alone over 3,400 men are living with prostate cancer, with an additional 300 men newly diagnosed each year.
Ronan said that being part of a community of people willing to help out when times get tough inspired them to fundraise.
"Through 4X4 we've found a community of people who would never drive pass someone that needed a hand without stopping to help - and this is what this fundraiser is all about, helping out where we can," Ronan said.
"We couldn't have done this without the help and support of our Aunty Jen, Mike's wife, who continues to support the event."
Logan and Ronan encouraged locals to show their support for the cause by donating at https://fundraise.pcfa.org.au/fundraiser/jenberton/4x4-prostate-cancer-awareness-fundraiser-2023.
Drivers are asked to meet at Olney Headquarters at Watagans National Park at 10am.
PCFA CEO Anne Savage commended Logan and Ronan for their commitment to helping locals impacted by prostate cancer.
"Logan and Ronan are an inspiration to us all, and we are tremendously grateful to have them helping us fund new research, specialist nurses, and awareness activities that benefit men and families in the local area," Ms Savage said.
"Every 22 minutes one of our fathers or sons will hear the news that he has prostate cancer. Alarmingly, it remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in local men.
"We know that many local families are facing prostate cancer and will need our care and support.
"Together, with the help of community champions like Logan and Ronan, we can make this happen and ensure all men are supported."
For prostate cancer information and support, call PCFA on 1800 22 00 99.
