‘Woodyarrup Blue Two’ generates $2500 for prostate cancer research

The Great Southern farming community has rallied behind the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, fundraising for a second time at Woodyarrup Merino Stud’s ram sale. More than 150 people crammed into the Broomehill farm on October 3 as 250 rams were auctioned, including the Woodyarrup Blue Two selling for $2500 — with every dollar donated to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. This year’s “blue ram” initiative signifies the second consecutive collaboration between the stud and Elders Katanning, led by branch manager Keith Daddow, who is battling prostate cancer. Mr Daddow was diagnosed 12 years ago at the age of 42 and has been a dedicated advocate for raising awareness ever since. “I’ve done a lot of work with PCFA over the years and it’s great to be able to contribute,” he said. “The Woodyarrup have been brilliant supporters of myself and the journey and they’ve offered to put up a ram for the last couple of years. “They’re support for prostate cancer research and awareness in the past is a testament to them.” Mr Daddow said although raising money was great, the promotion of early detection was vitally important. “We raise funds but it’s just as important as raising awareness and it’s so important for men to know they need to get themselves checked,” he said. “Farmers are one of the highest risk groups for prostate cancer and it’s the biggest killer of men in the country. “But if you get checked early, your chance of survival increases drastically and it’s a simple blood test.” Mr Daddow said the lucky winner was carefully selected by the stud principal and surpassed the average price at the sale. “Craig Dewar along with our stud stock guy, Russell McKay select a ram for the sale. “This year was $2500 which was certainly above the average which is great.”