Tuesday, 6 October 2026
Thank you for Supporting Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
As Prostate Cancer Awareness Month wraps up, we want to extend a sincere thank you to every Shedder who took part in this important initiative throughout September. Across Victoria, Men’s Sheds and Prostate Cancer Support Groups stepped up in a big way — showing the power of our partnership and community in raising awareness and supporting men’s health.
From hosting information events and lighting up local landmarks in blue, to getting involved in The Long Run, the commitment and care shown by our Sheds has been inspiring.
One standout effort came from the Clifton Springs Men’s Shed, who set up weekly information tables outside Coles and Woolworths. Every Friday morning, they spoke with members of the public, handed out hundreds of information booklets, and encouraged men to take early detection seriously.
Their motto:
“If we only save one person’s life, it will be all worthwhile.”
That message really captures what Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is all about — real impact, one conversation at a time.
Another highlight was the event at Monash Men’s Shed, where a full house came along for a delicious lunch and to hear from PCFA’s Community Engagement Manager, Linley Watson. These kinds of grassroots efforts are helping break down stigma and encouraging more men to take action early.
Looking After Mental Health After a Diagnosis
As many Shedders know, a prostate cancer diagnosis affects more than just your physical health. It can stir up a mix of emotions — fear, sadness, anxiety, confusion — not only for the person diagnosed, but also for partners, families and mates.
These feelings are natural, and they may come and go as treatment and recovery progress. There’s no “right” way to cope, but there is support out there — and you don’t have to face it alone.
Here are a few ways to take care of your mental health:
🔹 Talk to someone
Connecting with friends, family or other trusted people can help lighten the emotional load. PCFA also offers MatesCONNECT — a free phone service where men can speak one-on-one with someone who’s been through prostate cancer.
🔹 Join a support group
PCFA’s Support Groups provide a safe place to share experiences and feel understood. As Shedder know, peer support can make a world of difference.
🔹 Reach out for professional help
If stress or worry is starting to affect your daily life, it might be time to talk to a GP or mental health professional. PCFA’s free counselling service is available to help men and their partners navigate the emotional side of prostate cancer.
🔹 Stay active
Keeping up with exercise, even gentle walking or stretching, can improve mood, reduce stress, and support your overall health during treatment and recovery.
You’re Not Alone
Whether it’s by handing out flyers at the supermarket or sharing your story over a cuppa, your contribution matters. Let’s keep the conversations going — about prostate health, about mental wellbeing, and about looking after our mates.
If you need support, call PCFA’s Telenursing service on 1800 22 00 99 or visit prostate.org.au.
