West Gippsland Healthcare Group is delighted to announce a new partnership with Baw Baw Big Blokes BBQ organisers to provide ongoing care packages for male patients in need.

Baw Baw Big Blokes BBQ is an annual event that aims to reduce prostate cancer-related deaths in West Gippsland through awareness and fundraising for early testing. The organisers approached WGHG last year following a call out for Bloke’s Business Care Package donations for patients who do not have the resources to access basic items for themselves.

WGHG social workers support between five to 10 men aged 16-70 who present to West Gippsland Hospital needing material aid each month. While women’s care packages are available through the Share the Dignity and Betty Basics initiatives, there was no similar service for men in the area.

Community members generously donated dozens of care packages with one Warragul business, Office Choice, donating hundreds of items such as underwear, socks and toiletries to make up more.

Working with WGHG, Baw Baw Big Blokes BBQ organisers supplied $7000 worth of care packages with a pledge to rejuvenate supplies as they are needed. Committee member Luke Patterson and President Andrew Schreyer visited West Gippsland Hospital this week to drop off 100 carry bags to complete the care packages.

Andrews says: “It was a no-brainer that we get behind this. It fit with our goals and who we seek to support.”

WGHG Social Work Manager Tina Brooker Johnston thanked all community members who made donations and Baw Baw Big Blokes BBQ organisers for their ongoing support from here.

Tina says: “This new partnership and having ready access to men’s care packages allows us to do our work. It provides dignity and compassion, and at the end of the day that’s what we all need.”

WGHG and the Baw Baw Big Blokes BBQ committee will continue to work together to assess care package needs.