The barefoot bowls charity fundraiser – Bowls 4 Balls – will run for 24 hours, starting at 2pm on January 25 – and will tie in with the club’s Australia Day celebrations.

This inaugural event helps to raise the profile of men’s cancer in the community and opens the lines of communication surrounding men’s health issues.

“We at the Cancer Council are so excited for this fun event,” said Katie Mead, NSW Cancer Council Community Relations Coordinator.

“We’ve been literally bowled over by the support that the Port Macquarie community has shown for our cause in the last year and we have no doubt ‘Bowls 4 Balls’ will be another successful event.”

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australia and the third most common cause of cancer death. The risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer by age of 85 is 1 in 5 men.

Prostate cancer along with lung, melanoma and colon are amongst the top 5 cancer affecting men on the Mid North Coast.

Katy-Lee Waldron, Marketing Manager at Port City Bowling Club, said that men’s health is a major focus for the club, especially after their outstanding Movember fundraiser efforts in 2016.

“This event is all about raising awareness for men’s cancer. We have filled the time table so far, which has forced us to open up a third rink which is great,” she said.

“We have had heaps of support with more than 72 people already registered, which equates to $1600 in donations already.

“We have lots of different fundraisers like pick the score, raffles and lucky door prizes throughout the event. People can also donate on the website.”

This is the first time the event will be held, and was adapted from the balls for balls event that the Cancer Council started.

“Geoff Jones will be playing inside the club for Australia Day as well as Aussie Day specials in the restaurant, and a barbecue,” she said. “The bowlers will have an Australia Day event as well as the bowls for balls, so it is all tying in together. We are encouraging anyone who attends to dress up.”