Every month we recognise our incredible community of fundraisers who continue to amaze us with their passion and creativity. From comedy nights and golf days to marathons, music gigs, Facebook fundraisers and more – they’ve all found your own unique way to make a difference. From pounding the pavement to hitting a punchline, every effort helps us get closer to zero deaths from melanoma – and we couldn’t do it without them.

Screw Cancer: Community Talent Shines for a Cause

What started as a modest goal to raise $5,000 turned into a sold-out night of entertainment and generosity. Organised by the incredible Emma Vidler, Screw Cancer – aka Guyra’s Got Talent – brought together 200 locals and raised an amazing $18,000. Inspired by her dad’s cancer journey, Emma poured her heart into creating an unforgettable event featuring local performances, raffles and auctions – all to support cancer research. We’re grateful to receive half of the funds raised, with the remaining proceeds going to the Cancer Council. A huge thank you to Emma for her passion and commitment, and to the entire Guyra community for turning a night of fun into something truly meaningful. Together, we’re making a difference – one event at a time.

A Night of  Laughs to Give Back

Melanoma survivor Nicole Cikarela hosted a feelgood Comedy Night Fundraiser in Perth.
It was a night filled with laughter and 50% of all ticket sales supported Melanoma Institute Australia’s life-saving research!
The evening was hosted by Luke Joseph Ryan, and the comedian line-up included Luke Heggie, Nick Cody, Sez and Chris Ryan.
“As a survivor of metastatic melanoma, I now understand the enormous impact that Australia’s harmful UV rays can have. I’m keen to raise funds for more research and prevention, in order to support the objective of zero deaths from melanoma, in my lifetime!”

Muirfield Golf Club Swings into Action for Melanoma Research

A huge thank you to the wonderful team at Muirfield Golf Club, who once again hosted their annual charity golf day in May, raising an incredible $8,000 for Melanoma Institute Australia. As long-time supporters, Muirfield Golf Club and its generous members have now contributed an outstanding $25,000 over the years – helping us fund critical research, education and support services in our mission towards zero deaths from melanoma. We’re so grateful for their continued commitment and community spirit. Every swing truly makes a difference!

Rocking for a Reason

Huge thanks to Close Quarters for turning up the volume at Tracks at The Epping Hotel in May — and for doing it all in support of Melanoma Institute Australia. This wasn’t just any free gig; it was a night full of energy, anthems, and purpose. With band member John having had four melanomas removed, this cause hits close to home. His experience inspired the band to give back, and we’re so grateful they chose to support us. The gig raised an incredible $5,750 to help us continue our mission towards zero deaths from melanoma. Legends on stage and off — thank you for the music, the generosity, and the heart behind it all!

In Honour of Mike Brennan

We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Coledale Oysters Swim Club, who recently donated $1,000 to Melanoma Institute Australia in memory of their much-loved member, Mike Brennan. Mike was a cherished part of the club for 14 seasons, serving as Treasurer for six years and earning accolades including Clubman of the Year, Sportsman of the Year (twice), and seven medals at the South Coast Winter Championships – including gold in the over 70s race in 2016. He still holds the club record for the fastest swim in the over 75s. A beloved figure in the South Coast swim community, Mike’s memory lives on through his incredible contributions in and out of the pool. We are so grateful to the Coledale Oysters for honouring him in this meaningful way.

Running for a Reason (and a Cure)

A huge thank you to our amazing team of 20 fundraisers who laced up for this year’s HBF Run for a Reason in Perth, raising a phenomenal $25,000 for Melanoma Institute Australia! This event isn’t just about crossing the finish line – it’s about the people, the stories, and the reasons that inspire each step. Many of our fundraisers ran in memory of loved ones, in support of someone currently fighting melanoma, or simply to help create a future free from this disease. Your selfless & dedicated efforts do not go unnoticed. We’re so grateful to everyone who chose to support MIA. Every dollar raised brings us closer to our goal of zero deaths from melanoma – and every stride taken in this event was one in the right direction.

Going the Distance in Sydney

A big shoutout to Charles Pickett and Brett Marshall, who took on the Sydney Half Marathon and went the extra mile by fundraising for Melanoma Institute Australia. Between them, they raised vital funds to support our research, education and clinical care programs – and we’re incredibly grateful for their efforts. Whether running in support of a loved one or simply to make a difference, every step counts, and every dollar raised helps us get closer to a cure for melanoma. Thank you, Charles and Brett, for making your run count in such a meaningful way!

Sun, Sweat and Support in Noosa

A huge thank you to our wonderful supporters who took part in the ASICS Runaway Noosa Marathon, turning their kilometres into a powerful show of support for Melanoma Institute Australia. A special shout out to John Quiggin, who not only took on the challenge but also raised over $2,000 to support our mission. We’re so grateful for his incredible effort and generosity. To everyone who ran, fundraised, or cheered from the sidelines – thank you.

Facebook Fundraisers: A Simple Way to Make a Big Impact

We’re so grateful to everyone who chooses to support Melanoma Institute Australia by setting up a Facebook fundraiser – whether it’s for a birthday, in honour of a loved one, or just because. Every dollar raised helps us move closer to zero deaths from melanoma, and we’re continually inspired by the generosity and heart behind each campaign.

Thank you for turning your special moments into something truly meaningful. Below is a list of our amazing supporters in May:

  • Justin Kenardy
  • Anne Jeanes
  • David Frost
  • Lisa Young
  • Tina Warnett
  • Kim & Harley O’Brien
  • Susie Burns
  • Natasha Gardiner

In Memory Pages

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have honoured the memory of their loved ones by setting up a dedicated fundraising page in their honour.

Your compassion and support have not only honoured the legacies of those dear to you but have also contributed significantly to our mission.

In this period, we honour those who have sadly lost their battle with melanoma: John William Pfitzner, Chris Greasley, Walter Jackson and Pam. 

If you would like to organise a community fundraiser to support Melanoma Institute Australia, we’d love to hear from you. Please see our website, using link below, or email Peta on fundraise@melanoma.org.au