The Victorian Government made a special visit to Visy Park today to support the Pratt Foundation and the Carlton Football Club for the launch of the Richard Pratt Fellowships in Prostate Cancer - an initiative which funds and facilitates research into prostate cancer treatment.
Health Minister, the Hon. David Davis said the Richard Pratt Fellowships in Prostate Cancer Research will fund groundbreaking studies into prostate cancer.
“As more than 750 men die each year from prostate cancer in Victoria, the Baillieu Government recognises the importance of the fellowship program,” Mr Davis said.
“That is why we are proud to support the Richard Pratt Fellowships in Prostate Cancer Research with $300,000 through the Victorian Cancer Agency.
“This exciting initiative is the first time the Government has joined forces with a philanthropic organisation such as the Pratt Foundation to support cancer research.”
Carlton midfielder, Bryce Gibbs found time in the lead up to this Saturday’s blockbuster against Collingwood at the MCG to support the initiative.
“As footballers we are used to following game plans and instructions every day, but men over the age of 50 need to follow a different game plan,” Bryce said.
“They need to speak to their GP about prostate cancer, it sounds simple, but if you are an Aussie male over 50 it might just save your life.”
The Fellowship will be awarded to an individual conducting translational research into prostate cancer, enabling better treatment options for some of the 20,000 men diagnosed with prostate cancer in Australia each year.
Since 2009, the Blues and the Pies have battled it out for the Richard Pratt Cup to raise awareness of the incidences of prostate cancer in Aussie men.
On Saturday look out for 15,000 blue ponchos at the MCG, which will be handed out to supporters to signify the impact of the disease. Fifty fans will also form a guard of honour on field pre-game, alongside Carlton great David Parkin, to honour the late Richard Pratt.
All money raised through the Richard Pratt Cup will go to the Richard Pratt Fellowships in Prostate Cancer. Contributions can be made by attending the match or donating through Carlton’s online shop at www.carltonfc.com.auRPC
