Local bowling clubs raise funds for cancer services

Bowlers from Umina Beach, Ettalong and Everglades men's bowling clubs are joining forces for the annual Peninsula Bowls Days, to raise funds for Central Coast Local Health District Cancer Services.

The annual event has raised more than $78,000 towards the treatment and care of prostate, urological and other related cancers since 2011.

Funds raised from last year's event went towards the purchase of a mobile video cystoscopy unit for Gosford Hospital, valued at $23,000.

Last year, Gwandalan Men's Bowling Club also got on board and donated $10,000.

Divisional director of anaesthesia, surgery and intensive care, Ms Karen Schofield, has welcomed the continuing commitment to the Health District.

"The mobile video cystoscope assists with the assessment of patients without the need to bring them to operating theatre," Ms Schofield said.

"Previously we needed to transport multiple pieces of delicate theatre equipment to clinics and emergency departments to assess patients ... the mobile unit has reduced all of that.

"It has helped improve efficiency in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with possible urology cancers."

The annual event has also previously raised money for the purchase of a scope which provides a visual inspection of the interior of the ureters and kidney for purposes such as biopsy, the removal or crushing of kidney stones and other diagnostic procedures.

Event organiser Mr Ian Jarratt from Umina Beach Men's Bowling Club, said their fundraiser had always been held in memory of the late Ron Pursehouse, a former member who had prostate cancer.

"It has always been a cause very close to our hearts as we do it in honour of Ron every year and prostate cancer is something that can affect us all," Mr Jarratt said.

"Other clubs coming on board means we can help purchase more equipment to benefit the local community.

"It's very rewarding to be able to combine our love of bowling with such a great cause.

"This year we are looking forward to auctioning off a few items including a signed jersey from former Wallabies player Eric Tweedale who happens to be a member of the Umina club.

"We would like to thank everyone involved in the event and can't wait for another successful event this year."

The Umina Beach Men's Bowling Club will hold their event on June 22 at Umina Beach Bowling Club.

For more information contact Ian Jarratt at Umina Beach Bowling Club on 4343 9940.

Everglades and Ettalong Beach will hold their event on June 17 and July 6 respectively.

Please contact the clubs directly for more details.

SOURCE:

Media release, 8 Jun 2017

Clare Graham, Central Coast Local Health District