As part of its Regional Skin Health & Early Detection Program, the Australian Melanoma Research Foundation partnered with the Southern Mallee Football and Netball Club in August 2025 to provide free skin spot checks and melanoma awareness education during the Southern Mallee Suns versus Imperials Football and Netball Round in Lameroo, South Australia.
The initiative was developed with the support of AMRF Ambassador Glenda Thomson, who is passionate about promoting skin health awareness and encouraging early detection, particularly among people who spend significant time participating in outdoor activities.
Throughout the day, qualified skin cancer nurses provided free skin spot checks to players, families, volunteers and spectators attending the event. In just five hours, 54 free skin checks were completed. Following assessment, nine individuals were referred for further medical investigation, including seven suspected non-melanoma skin cancers and two suspected melanomas requiring treatment.
These outcomes highlight the importance of improving access to early detection services in regional communities, where specialist skin cancer services can often be difficult to access. Early identification and referral can significantly improve treatment outcomes and, in some cases, save lives.
The event also generated valuable community awareness, reaching large football and netball crowds with important messages about melanoma prevention, sun safety and the importance of regular skin checks. Local media coverage further extended the reach of these messages across the broader Southern Mallee region.
In addition to providing free skin checks, the event raised awareness and support for AMRF’s work in melanoma research, education and early detection. By removing cost barriers and bringing services directly to the community, the program helped ensure more Australians could access potentially life-saving skin assessments close to home.
AMRF extends its sincere thanks to the Southern Mallee Football and Netball Club, Glenda Thomson, Harriet, Tamara and all volunteers and supporters who helped make the event a success.