Welcome to all men living with a diagnosis of prostate cancer and their partners. We meet informally once a month (third Thursday) to share our stories and support each other.
The Broken Hill Prostate Cancer Support Group is meeting at our usual spot at Uniting Care on Thursday the 15th of October at 5PM.
This months meeting coincides with The Big Aussie Day of Action which is why I cannot make it. Thank you to Rodney who will be on the BBQ and Craig who will be lending a hand. Please come along to support each other and catch up on each others news.
News
Day of Action
Our local health service will of course continue to support men diagnosed with Prostate Cancer regardless of these political machinations.
I will be attending a Day of Action on Thursday to advocate for the PCFA and the men and their families from the Far West. If you would like to send a supportive message the PCFA would be grateful -> Big Aussie Barbie and Day of Action.
2026 Prostate Guideline Update
The new guidelines mean doctors will offer testing to more men, including those under 50 and over 70, and digital rectal examinations are no longer recommended during routine screening by GPs.
Professor Jeff Dunn AO, Chair of the Guideline Steering Committee, said the ambition was to ensure every Australian man has access to the best available evidence, giving him the greatest possible opportunity to detect clinically significant prostate cancer early, receive timely treatment where required, and ultimately reduce his risk of dying from the disease.
Sounds good to me — tell your mates to talk to their GP about it.
Add your email to receive meeting reminders and other news (managed by Ruben - one email a month, nothing wildly exciting).
Story so far...
Our Christmas meetings at the Demo Club have been a great way to bring everyone together — it’s always a pleasure to catch up, share stories, and welcome familiar and new faces alike. Thank you to everyone who continues to make these gatherings what they are.
Throughout the year, our meetings have reflected the rhythm of life out here — from sausage sizzles in the warmer months to Rodney’s much-appreciated chicken soup in the middle of winter. Whether it’s the heat, the cold, or the wind in between, the group continues to show up and support one another.
Not every meeting goes to plan — like getting locked out of the Uniting with fish and chips in May and the wild rainstorm during our February '25 catch-up — but even then, we still managed a strong turnout and a good night. It’s a testament to the strength of this community.
Guest speakers
- Brendan Cullen - Told us his incredible story of battling depression and emerging a changed man on the other side of English Channel. He has since written a book about his adventure.
- Dr Karl Braslis (Urologist) — generously gave his time after a long week of clinics and surgery to answer thoughtful questions from the group.
- Darren Davey (Physiotherapist) — shared practical insights on exercise, pelvic floor health, and recovery.
- James Georgiou (Consultant Pharmacist) — provided valuable guidance on medications, side effects, and managing treatment.
We’re grateful to all our guest speakers for sharing their expertise in such an accessible and supportive way.
Above all, this group continues to be about connection, shared experience, and supporting each other through the challenges that come with prostate cancer. That’s the story so far — and it’s still being written.
Contact Ruben with any questions or if you would like to be put in touch with any of our specialists/presenters.
About
For Men Living with Prostate Cancer.
This group has been established with the aim to improve the lives of men living with prostate cancer and their loved ones. We had our first meeting in February 2021 and have established a small friendly group. We are here to support and educate each other.
We are very grateful to Uniting Care for providing us with an excellent venue to meet. There is a kitchen for tea and coffee, a barbeque for the summer and all the usual amenities. Please help out by leaving the place as tidy as we find it.
Contact
The group is facilitated by both Kate Butler and Ruben Hillier.
- Kate is the Accredited Exercise Physiologist from Uniting Home and Community Care Far West.
Kate can be contacted via Uniting Far West on 08 8084 4600
- Ruben Hillier is the Far West Local Health District Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse.
Ruben can be contacted on 08 8080 2272.
NOTE: Ruben works Mondays to Wednesdays so leave a message and he will get back to you as soon as he is back on deck.
Group Agreement
During our first meeting we drafted a group agreement. We are always open to improving it or amending it. This is what we came up with:
- Support
One person to talk at a time.
Talkative people to be mindful of allowing quieter people a chance to speak.
Whether we agree or not, we respect each other's opinions. - Confidentiality
We do not share each other's stories outside of the group.
Members have the right to silence. - Information
We share our stories to help one another and ourselves.
We welcome presenters who are kind enough to share their knowledge with us. - Open
We welcome new members.
We want everyone to be able to contribute.
Join Us
An informal group for men living with prostate cancer. Come along and meet others who have a similar experience. Partners welcome.
- When: The 3rd Thursday of every month (except January and normally a week earlier in December), 5pm-6.30 pm
- Where: Uniting Far West, 265 Oxide St, Broken Hill (Opposite the Mulga Hotel)
Usually we meet here, but occasionally we meet elsewhere for special occasions or visiting speakers - if in doubt, check with Ruben. - Parking: Street parking is available on Oxide St and surrounding streets. There's also off-street parking at the venue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at meetings?
We meet informally to share experiences, support each other, and learn from guest speakers when available. There's usually tea, coffee, and a BBQ. Meetings run 5pm-6:30pm and follow our Group Agreement. Everyone contributes what they're comfortable with - there's no pressure to share if you'd rather listen.
Do I need to RSVP?
No RSVP needed - just turn up! However, if you'd like a reminder about upcoming meetings (with a little bonus news and info), you can add your email to our list. We send one email per month with meeting details.
Can I bring a friend or family member?
Absolutely. Partners are welcome, and if you'd like to bring another family member or friend for support, that's fine too. Just let us know when you arrive so we can make everyone feel welcome.
I'm newly diagnosed and feeling overwhelmed. Is this group for me?
Yes. Whether you're newly diagnosed or years into your journey, this group is here for you. Many of our members have been where you are now, and there's real value in hearing from people who understand what you're going through. Come along - even if you just want to listen the first time.
Handy Links
- Prostate Awareness and Lifelong Support (PALS) , a group for younger blokes with a diagnosis. Guys that live outside the city are are more than welcome to join and be part of the group remotely.
- The Nepean/Blue Mountains Prostate Cancer Support Group publishes the "Below the Belt" newsletter. We could do something similar here in Broken Hill, let me know if you are keen to contribute.
- PCFA Online Community - Online forum to connect with others affected by prostate cancer. Ask questions, share experiences, and seek advice from people who understand. Register to participate.
- PCFA Prostate News - Newsletter from the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia with research updates, treatment info, and support resources.
- The Prostate Zone - Practical advice on PSA tests, treatment decisions, incontinence, sex life, and penile rehab. No beating around the bush, just honest talk and helpful videos.
- A Touchy Subject - Educational hub for sex and intimacy after prostate cancer. Practical, bite-sized info on managing physical changes, products that work, and rebuilding your sex life. You're in the driver's seat.
- The Penis Project Podcast - Podcast featuring real men talking about prostate cancer, sexual health, and other private health issues. Interviews with health professionals and researchers. Your virtual men's health support group.
- BINS4Blokes - Campaign to get disposal bins for incontinence products in male public toilets across Australia. Because blokes deserve the same access as everyone else.
- Staydry - Australian-made waterproof bedding and reusable incontinence products. Comfortable, washable, and NDIS-eligible. Better for your wallet and the environment than disposables.
- Darren Davey - Physiotherapist
- James Georgiou - Pharmacist
- Dr Karl Braslis - Urologist