THE ORIGIN OF THE BAW BAW BIG BLOKES

The inception of the annual 'Baw Baw's Biggest Ever Blokes BBQ' occurred in 2012, inspired by West Gippsland residents attending the Shepparton and Bairnsdale's corresponding events. Chris McPherson AM of Shepparton, diagnosed with Prostate Cancer, initiated the idea, holding the first BBQ event in 2009. His extensive network aided other rural centres across Victoria, Tasmania, and southern New South Wales in hosting similar events, resulting in nearly $3 million raised for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia by the time of his passing. Chris was recognised with a PCFA Award for his significant contributions.

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Baw Baw Big Blokes Inc., founded by eight committee members, headed by former President Michael Grogan, pursued full charity accreditation instead of traditional routes. This approach aimed to engage the local community, directing raised funds toward the betterment of Baw Baw residents. As a result, Baw Baw Big Blokes became the first organisation to achieve full Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) Status with the Australian Taxation Office. Through its annual charity event, 'Baw Baw's Biggest Ever Blokes BBQ,' the Committee seeks to heighten Prostate Cancer awareness and raise much needed funds to encourage early testing and reduce prostate cancer-related deaths in the West Gippsland region. Raised funds are distributed both locally to support the West Gippsland community and nationally to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.