Breast Cancer Trial Awareness to Take Centre Stage at NRLW Magic Round in Newcastle

newy.com.au – Breast Cancer Trials has partnered with the Minns Labor Government to launch a campaign raising awareness of breast cancer clinical trials, timed to coincide with the inaugural NRLW Magic Round in Newcastle next month.

The campaign, supported by a $50,000 NSW Government grant, will feature during the high profile women’s rugby league event at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday 2 August, when more than 60,000 fans are expected to attend. Breast Cancer Trials will serve as the official charity partner for the first day of the round.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said the initiative is part of the government’s broader commitment to cancer prevention and research. “Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in NSW, with more than 1,000 women expected to lose their life to the disease this year,” he said. “I’m pleased this campaign is helping to raise awareness about the essential role research and clinical trials play in building a healthier future for people in NSW.”

The “Tackle Breast Cancer” campaign will be visible across Newcastle through advertisements at transport hubs, on buses, trams, and at the airport. It will also extend across print, radio, television, and social media, with an onsite presence during the match to provide information and resources.

Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women, with more than 21,000 cases projected nationwide in 2025, including 6,500 in New South Wales. In the Hunter region alone, there were 2,650 recorded diagnoses between 2017 and 2021. Regular breast screening remains the most effective method for early detection, with a 98 per cent treatment success rate if identified early.

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said the campaign is an important opportunity to use a major sporting event to educate the public on a critical health issue. “It is critical we seize this opportunity to also raise awareness and provide education around important health issues, such as breast cancer, that will affect thousands of women each year,” she said.

Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp praised the partnership, calling it “a great opportunity to use the inaugural NRLW Magic Round to spread awareness of breast cancer across the nation.”

Karen Price, CEO of Breast Cancer Trials, said the campaign is designed to inform the public about the role of clinical trials in improving outcomes. “We want to empower people diagnosed with breast cancer to engage in conversations about their treatment options, including exploring if there is a trial that may be available to them,” she said.

The Cancer Institute NSW is investing $68.9 million this financial year to support breast screening services at more than 200 clinics and mobile vans across the state. Women can book a breast screen by calling 13 20 50 or visiting BreastScreen NSW online.