BLUE SEPTEMBER NEWS

Blue September kicks off

Last Updated: Wednesday 15th of September 2010 at 12:08:58 PM

Blue September kicked off today, turning the town and faces everywhere blue to encourage Australians to ‘face up to men’s cancers’.

Amongst those going blue to mark the start of Blue September today are Rodger Corser, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Melbourne’s Parliament House and George Calombaris’ Press Club Restaurant, which will host the official Blue September Launch this evening.

The day began with a radio interview featuring television star and Blue September Ambassador Rodger Corser. Appearing on Triple M’s ‘Hot Breakfast’ with Eddie Mcguire, Rodger spoke about his involvement with the campaign.

“The statistics are that one in three male cancers are preventable - it’s shocking. I think the girls take the lead on looking after themselves and it’s time the blokes caught up,” said Rodger. He is also attending the official launch of Blue September tonight, taking place at George Calombaris’ exclusive Press Club Restaurant.

Highlights of the official launch will include a special blue carpet, a guest musical presentation and one-off ‘Money can’t buy experiences’ auction. Mark Holden, who recently survived his own case of thyroid cancer, will host the evening for over 150 specially invited and celebrity guests.

“Blue September is all about raising awareness, getting the word out about men’s cancers, and raising money for cancer research. If we can encourage men to be conscious about their cancer risk then I couldn’t be happier,” said Holden.

Other special guests confirmed include Rodger Corser, John Aloisi, the Nova radio team Ryan, Monty and Wippa, Neighbours cast members, Melbourne Victory players and celebrity chef George Calombaris, who is creating a special canapé menu for the event.

Finally, in a day packed full of Blue September events, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, joined by other prominent national and international landmarks, will be bathed in blue light to help raise awareness for the campaign. Other buildings turning blue include Melbourne’s Parliament House, Brisbane’s Treasury Casino, New Zealand’s Sky Tower, the iconic Capital Records Building and Paramount Studio’s Melrose Gate and Water Tower.

Blue September is a national campaign encouraging men to make smart lifestyle decisions to reduce the risk of cancer, as well as raising funds for cancer research. During the month of September, people will be encouraged to paint their faces blue and donate money to support the cause, in line with the campaign’s line ‘Men facing up to cancer’.

Blue September is proudly supporting the Australian Cancer Research Foundation and Bowel Cancer Australia.