Toowoomba’s ‘It’s a Bloke Thing’ nominated for a Queensland Philanthropy Award

The gala event has cemented its place as one of our city’s premier events, attracting big names and big dollars all in the service of men’s health.

It’s a Bloke Thing has been named a finalist for the Queensland Philanthropy Awards.

The signature Toowoomba event is held annually at Wellcamp Airport and has developed a reputation for securing top-flight guest speakers.

So much so that it typically sells out before the speakers are announced.

All money raised through the event is spent on prostate cancer research.

The Queensland Philanthropy Awards are the highlight of Queensland’s annual Philanthropy Week celebrations from June 3-7, which honours community members and organisations who make outstanding philanthropic contributions, raise awareness of philanthropy throughout the state and encourage support for charities, community organisations and worthy causes.

Dave Hughes on stage at It's A Bloke Thing 2023 at Wellcamp Airport, Friday, August 18, 2023. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Queensland Gives chief executive Tara Castle said she was thrilled to see It’s a Bloke Thing nominated in the ‘Foundation’ category.

“Our state is home to thousands of inspirational people working as volunteers, carers and in charitable organisations who generously give their time and love to help others, and it’s terrific to be able to recognise the incredible philanthropic work being done in regional areas,” she said.

“Toowoomba particularly stands out as a community that rallies around a good cause, and It’s a Bloke Thing has taken on a life of its own as a pre-eminent charity fundraising event.”

It's a Bloke Thing 2022 MC Geoff McDonald at Wellcamp Airport. Picture: Kevin Farmer

The event has raised more than $13.5m over its lifetime and was launched with the aim of encouraging men to talk about their health with their partners, families and friends.

In 2023 it hosted comedian Dave Hughes and singer Shannon Noll.

Its nomination comes off the back of another win for an iconic Toowoomba institution in 2023 when Wippells Autos took out the Queensland SME Philanthropist of the Year title.

Ms Castle said the annual Queensland Philanthropy Awards aimed to inspire and celebrate business and individuals “doing good”.

“Amazing work is being done by individuals, businesses, charities and foundations, which proves that philanthropy isn’t just about giving big lump sums of cash to a cause. It’s about volunteering, giving time and love, and lending support to those in need in whatever form you can.

“These awards recognise and help shine a light on the amazing work being done by this year’s nominees, and we hope they will help inspire even more Queenslanders to join the cause and think about how they can support the wider community.”

Winners will be announced at a gala lunch at Brisbane City Hall on Friday, June 7.