Bowlers join to raise money for cancer research

Bowlers on the Peninsula will come together to raise money for cancer research in memory of an Umina Beach bowler for Peninsula Bowls Day 2016 on June 23.

Bowlers from Umina Beach, Everglades and Ettalong men's bowling clubs combined forces in 2011 to hold the first Peninsula Bowls Day to raise funds for prostate, urological and other related cancer research.

Event organiser Mr Ian Jarratt from the Umina Beach men's club said the fundraising had always been held in memory of the late Mr Ron Pursehouse, a former member of the Umina Beach club who had prostate cancer.

"It has always been a cause very close to our hearts as we do it in honour of Ron every year and prostate cancer is something that can affect us all," Mr Jarratt said.

Since the three clubs combined to run the annual charity days, more than $55,000 has been raised.

"Every year it gets bigger and better and with other clubs coming on board we can help purchase more vital equipment to benefit us and the rest of the community," Mr Jarratt added.

A uretero-renoscope and Danflow 1000 wired thermal printer uroflow system, valued at over $16,500 were the latest bits of equipment purchased by the Central Coast Local Health District through funds raised through Peninsula Bowls Day.

Urologist Dr Rupert Ouyang said the renoscope and Danflow would be invaluable additions in the fight against cancer, and explained how the equipment work.

Dr Ouyang said the renoscope provided a visual inspection of the interior of the ureters and kidney for purposes such as biopsy and the removal of kidney stones.

Dr Ouyang also said the renoscope would help diagnose and treat patients with uretic cancer and help identify obstructions that have occurred from prostate cancer.

According to Dr Ouyang, the Danflow would be crucial in gauging a patient's need for prostate surgery.

Media release, 2 Jun 2016

Casey Virgin, Central Coast Local Health District