Go Blue to help a mate through

Whangaparāoa Golf Club is upgrading its regular meat haggle on Thursday, September 25, to support Blue September, the annual campaign raising awareness of men’s cancers.

Entry fees on the day will include a donation, with the club also adding its own contribution. Organisers are calling on local businesses to help with prizes or donations, which will be added to the prize pool. Supporters will be acknowledged as part of the campaign.

Blue September began in the early 2010s as a joint initiative between Australia and New Zealand. What started with wristbands and posters has grown into a nationwide movement backed by community events.

The campaign focuses particularly on prostate cancer, the most commonly diagnosed cancer among New Zealand men. According to the Men’s Health Week website, around 4000 men are diagnosed each year and about one in ten will develop the disease in their lifetime.

Blue September not only raises awareness of rising prostate cancer rates, but also encourages men, especially those aged 60 and over, to get tested and to make their health a priority.

Supporters are urged to “go blue” by wearing ribbons or wristbands, sometimes marked with the name of a loved one, or by hosting themed events such as dinners, trivia nights and bake sales.

The golf club hopes its upgraded haggle will give members and guests an enjoyable competition while helping to raise money for a vital cause.

Information email: manager@wgcgolf.net visit www.blueseptember.org.nz to get involved.