Jo and Mon prove girl power makes a difference in cancer fight

97.3FM and 4KQ Breakfast radio newsreaders Monique Dews and Jo Hayes are calling on Queenslanders to show their support for women affected by cancer by hosting a Girls’ Night In.

The radio presenters have teamed up with Cancer Council Queensland as ambassadors for the anticipated Girls’ Night In campaign, encouraging Queenslanders to get the girls together in October to host an event and raise funds the cause.

In Queensland one in six women will be diagnosed with a breast or gynaecological cancer in their lifetime – more than 4200 each year.

97.3FM newsreader Monique Dews said hosting a Girls’ Night In was an easy and fun way to make a tangible difference in the lives of people affected by a women’s cancer.

“The beauty of Girls’ Night In is that you can get the girls together – anywhere, anytime – to raise funds and awareness for such a crucial cause,” Monique said.

“12 women diagnosed with a breast or gynaecological cancer every day in Queensland is 12 too many – these women could be our mums, sisters, aunties, grandmothers or close friends.

“We’re calling on all Queenslanders to get involved with Girls’ Night In – get your girlfriends today, register to host an event and spend a night in for a good cause.”

4KQ Newsreader Jo Hayes joined Monique in calling for girls to unite to make a difference.

“Girls’ Night In events can be as big or small as you would like – why not try clothes swaps, games nights or baking nights which is a personal favourite of mine,” Jo said.

“Simply donate the funds you would have spent on a night out to Cancer Council, and know that every dollar gives hope to women affected.”

All funds raised through Girls’ Night In are invested in vital cancer research, patient support services and prevention programs for women affected by breast and gynaecological cancers.

Around 3300 Queensland women are diagnosed with breast cancer annually, and about 1000 are diagnosed with an ovarian, cervical, vaginal, vulva or uterine cancer.

Cancer Council Queensland CEO Ms Chris McMillan said women could host an event anytime throughout October.

“Girls’ Night In has become a highlight on the calendar for many women each year, with more than 1200 events set to be held next month across the state,” Ms McMillan said.

“We’re proud to have Jo and Mon on board as ambassadors in 2017, encouraging others to join them in showing support for the women in our lives touched by this disease.

“Girls’ Night In is also a great reminder for women to think about their health, and ways they can reduce their cancer risk and detect cancer early.

“We know that if cancer is found and treated early, there is an increased chance of surviving the disease – however, only half of all eligible Queensland women participate in recommended breast and cervical screening.

“Girls’ Night In provides a great opportunity to talk about health with your friends, encourage each other to get screened, share healthy living tips, or be a listening ear to those in need.”

Register your Girls’ Night In event for a free host kit and find more information at girlsnightin.com.au.

More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available at cancerqld.org.au or 13 11 20.


For more information or interviews, please contact:
Laura McKoy,
Media Manager,
Cancer Council Queensland
Phone: (07) 3634 5345
Mobile: 0409 001 171