Tradies 'pink up' for breast cancer battle

Tradies across the nation are again being asked to 'pink up' in support of the more than 20,000 Australians expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year.

Carpenters, electricians, bricklayers, plumbers and other trades people make up almost a third of the national workforce and have become a major plank in raising funds for the cause.

With 55 people diagnosed each day, breast cancer makes up 14 per cent of all new Australian cancer cases and an estimated 6.3 per cent of cancer deaths.

After its #BCNAPinkTradie campaign took off last year, Breast Cancer Network Australia is calling on chippies, sparkies, brickies, plumbers and roofers to get involved this August and September.

They can pitch in by hosting small fundraisers and engaging in conversations with workmates about how to raise awareness, Pink Tradie ambassador Matt Cutuli said.

The apprentice boilermaker from small-town Mourilyan in far north Queensland lost his nanna to breast cancer in 2018.

Lorraine was a passionate advocate for BCNA and supported numerous patients in her community as they underwent treatment. Mr Cutuli grew up next door to his grandparents and visited her every day.

"She was a massive inspiration to everyone that met her and especially to me in the respect she had for everyone she met," he said.

"I am doing this in her honour because although I will never be able to fill her boots, I know she would be proud of me".

Mr Cutuli wants fellow tradies across Australia to join him by organising a pink morning tea or BBQ at work, a golf day, a trivia night or even a head shave, in a COVID-safe manner.

Pink Tradie socks, beanies and other merchandise are being sold and social media photos featuring someone in BCNA merchandise and using the hashtag #BCNApinktradie until September 31 will go into a draw to win one of three $500 gift cards from campaign supporters Middy's Electrical.

This year's campaign highlights the financial implications for people diagnosed with breast cancer.

The cost of scans, tests and treatment, along with potentially needing to stop work or take time off causes major stress for individuals and families.

BCNA provides information about work and breast cancer for everyone impacted, and refers sufferers to services providing aid and advice about workplace rights.