INDUSTRY FEATURE Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch
Tasmania’s hospitality industry has always been built on community, generosity and looking after people. This October, those values will take centre stage when the inaugural Hobart Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch brings together businesses, industry leaders and the wider community to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer. The event follows the outstanding success of Victoria’s Biggest Ever Blokes Lunch events, which have helped raise millions of dollars for prostate cancer research, awareness and support since 2009. Now, three Tasmanian mates are determined to create the state’s own signature fundraising event. The event is being spearheaded by Brett Harris, Rick Bennett and well-known chef Paul Foreman, who all share a deeply personal connection to prostate cancer. Together, they are committed to raising vital funds for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) while encouraging more men to have potentially life-saving conversations about their health. For Paul Foreman, the cause is particularly close to home. A respected chef, hospitality consultant, educator and caterer with more than 30 years’ experience in Tasmania’s hospitality industry,
Paul was diagnosed with prostate cancer in late 2023. Following hormone therapy and radiation treatment, he made a commitment to use his profile and industry connections to help ensure other men get tested. “So much has been done to raise awareness of this invisible disease, but this is not a time to rest on our laurels,” Paul says. “We need to keep the conversation going and encourage men to look after themselves.” His passion has been instrumental in rallying the hospitality community behind the event. Paul has helped secure an impressive line-up of food and beverage partners, demonstrating the generosity for which Tasmania’s hospitality sector is renowned. Support has already been pledged by Asahi Beverages, Three Cuts Gin, Huon Aquaculture, Banjo’s Bakery, Ziggy’s Smallgoods, Derwent Estate Winery and Salamanca Fresh, while South Property will conduct the charity auction and Ladbrokes will provide entertainment with its popular Phantom Race.
The event will be held in the Tasman Room at
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review August/September Edition
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