‘In Berts Memory’ CHARITY AUCTION

WEDNESDAY 24th MAY at the conclusion of the ‘DAIRY’S FINEST SALE’

For those that didn’t know Robert he didn’t fit any of the criteria you would traditionally associate with a lung cancer diagnosis. He was a fit and active 55-year-old when he was diagnosed in February 2022. He had never smoked or been exposed to any of the known carcinogens that increase the risk of lung cancer. The subtype was ALK Positive which generally affects younger, non-smokers and unfortunately in most cases has already progressed to stage four at diagnoses. This was the case for Robert, with it already having progressed to advanced stage four, having spread to his bones. His only symptoms prior to diagnosis were a persistent dry cough for the month prior, not uncommon for an asthmatic, and some small aches and pains, also not uncommon for an active farmer such as himself.

This type of cancer is caused by a rearrangement of the ALK gene which leads to the cells dividing and multiplying more quickly leading to the spread of cancer. This rearrangement is not something that is passed down through families but rather caused by an exposure to an unknown cause during their life. Far more research is needed to determine what these causes are.

Robert had two passions in his life, his family and his farm. He worked incredibly hard and strived to improve his farm practices and get the best out of his cows. Learning was one of his greatest passions, always wanting to improve by reading, watching and listening to everything he could. He loved to research and spent hours investigating the newest and most productive trends worldwide and then going ahead and implementing them where he felt they fitted into the business. A testament to this is the standing that Brookbora has throughout the dairy industry.

Robert’s family was so important to him. He loved raising both his children, Michelle and Daniel on the family farm with his wife Sandra. He was immensely proud of them both and that Daniel is continuing to grow and expand the business. His four grandchildren lit up his world. He treasured all the times he had with them and took great pleasure in creating a space where they could learn and explore on the farm. They all developed a love for farming and the outdoors from an early age. Losing their Husband, Father and Poppy has left a hole in their hearts that will never be filled and broke Robert’s heart knowing the effect his diagnosis had on his family and all he would miss in the future.

Unfortunately, cancer devastates far more families than it should. Only four weeks prior to Robert’s passing he lost his eldest sister to metastatic cancer, just two short weeks after her diagnosis and has other immediate family members in remission. It is for this reason Robert, along with his family, they believe raising funds for cancer research and support services is so important. They don’t want to see any more families heartbroken by the realities of cancer and losing those they love the most. His family are now working to keep Robert’s legacy alive through raising money for both Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation and Palliative Care services. Community Palliative care were integral in his care and providing support to allow him his wish to stay on his farm until the end. If you can, please donate for him, for those close to you who have suffered from cancer and for those that are yet to be diagnosed, in hope they can be provided with better outcomes.

Those interested in further contributing towards this cause, a group of Robert’s family and friends are participating in Run Melbourne on the 16th of July 2023, across 5.2km, 10km and 21.1km distances. There is no greater time for looking after both your physical and mental health as we all grieve the loss of an incredibly strong and inspiring man. The team is open for anyone that would like to join and will be warmly welcomed. To register visit:

Alternatively, if you would like to donate to the cause visit: