For over 35 years, the Hunter Melanoma Foundation has been dedicated to reducing melanoma mortality rates through community education, patient support, local research and life-saving awareness initiatives.
Our mission is to defeat melanoma—a preventable and curable disease if caught early. With consistently high diagnosis rates in our region, we’re driven to act. It’s a lofty mission but one of hope that keeps us focussed and motivated.
We rely on the support of our community to continue our work. There are many ways you can get involved—whether you donate, become a member, or volunteer at our events, every contribution helps us raise awareness, fund vital programs, and make a real impact.
Become a MelanChamp today and help us work toward a melanoma-free Hunter.
Our biggest fundraising event of the year did not disappoint. The HMF Annual Race Day returned to Newcastle Racecourse for a day of fashion, fillies, frocks and fun, and together, we raised an incredible $50,000 to support our fight to defeat melanoma.
Guests enjoyed race day entry, a two-course meal, a cheese platter, a five-hour drink package of wine, beer and soft drink, a race day book, and entry into the lucky door prize. The crowd brought their A-game to the dress code, too, with prizes awarded for best dressed gentleman, best dressed lady, and best fascinator — the competition was fierce and the outfits were spectacular.
There’s nothing quite like watching the Hunter community come together, frocked up and full of generosity, all for a cause that matters. Every ticket, every bid, and every donation goes directly towards melanoma education, prevention, early detection, and support for patients and their families.
To everyone who joined us, dressed up, dug deep, and made the day what it was, thank you. We couldn’t do this without you. Together, we’re getting closer to a Hunter free of melanoma.
The 2027 HMF Race Day will be on Saturday 22nd May.
We look forward to seeing you there!
With your help, over the past 35+ years, we’ve been working to defeat melanoma—and we know the work we’re doing is making a real difference. But there’s still much more to do.
In the Hunter New England Local Health District, melanoma is now the second most diagnosed cancer (Cancer Institute NSW, February 2024), underscoring the urgent need for continued awareness, early detection, and prevention.
Nationally, melanoma remains the most common cancer among Australians aged 20 to 39. Your donation and ongoing support allow us to continue this life-saving work—funding education programs, supporting patients, and advancing research to reduce the impact of melanoma in our community.