STRIP OFF IN SUPPORT OF MEN’S HEALTH
MORE than 250 people will make their way to a Gold Coast hot spot and strip down to just their ”tight and colourfuls” in a bid to raise awareness for men’s health.
The annual Gold Coast Budgie Run founded by mates Matty Palmer, Anthony Bartolo and Ali Day will take place at North Burleigh Hill on Saturday from 6.30am.
The event which began four years ago was created to spread awareness for men’s health charity Movember.
This year, the group hopes to raise $10,000 for the organisation, which works in the areas of men’s mental health, suicide prevention and prostate and testicular cancer awareness.
Mr Palmer said those attending the event would “band together to shine light on men’s health as a whole”.
“I probably hold back some of my genuine feelings and struggles around older generations due to a lack of empathy or understanding,” he said.
“It’s up to the youth and people like us to keep growing the education and awareness.”
Mr Palmer said everyone was welcome to attend and participate in the event, whatever their level of running experience.
“It’s all about being vulnerable, stripping down and being outside of your comfort zone with other people,” he said.
“Running up the hill half naked is definitely a test of one’s character, but it really highlights the power of people and how they can help you get through tough moments.”
Mr Palmer said it was crucial for organisations like Movember to be recognised by the community.
“Son’s brothers, fathers and men all over the community are a part of some glaring statistics which we really need to try and improve.”