English Cricketing Legend Sir Ian Botham has raised more than £20 million (roughly $42 million AUD) for health-related charities over the years. Photo: Jarryd Rowley.
English cricket royalty and tireless charity advocate Sir Ian Botham OBE will step up to the crease for men’s health, headlining the 2025 Healthier Illawarra Men (HIM) International Men’s Day Lunch this November.
One of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history, Botham made the announcement via video at The Shellharbour Club where HIM launched its annual fundraising campaign aimed at improving men’s health and wellbeing across the region.
During the video, Botham called on Illawarra men to “bring a mate” and be part of the change at the 14 November lunch.
“It’s a fantastic cause, shining a light on men’s health, mental well-being, supporting blokes doing it tough,” he said.
“I’ve seen firsthand the power of talking, listening and showing up for each other – that’s what this lunch is all about.
“Bring a mate – it can change your life.”
Affectionately known as “Beefy”, Botham’s fierce on-field legacy was shown at the launch, with vision showcasing highlights from his 5200-plus Test runs and 383 Test wickets for England between 1977 and 1992.
He was also the hero of the legendary 1981 Ashes series, often referred to as “Botham’s Ashes”.
However, he’s also been a tireless charity fundraiser off the field.
He’s raised more than £20 million for health-related charities, including for leukaemia and diabetes, through high-profile marathon walks across the UK and Australia.
It’s earned him recognition as one of sport’s most dedicated philanthropists, combining global celebrity with a lifelong commitment to giving back.
This year’s HIM International Men’s Day Lunch will be held on 14 November, coinciding with World Diabetes Day, a cause close to Botham’s heart.
The flyer promoting Botham’s headlining spot at the lunch. Photo: Supplied.
HIM chair Mark Sleigh said securing Botham for this year’s event was a major coup.
“Ian Botham is a sporting icon who transcends the game – he’s not just known for his heroics in the Ashes, but also for the incredible work he’s done to raise millions for charity,” Mark said.
“To have someone of his stature support our cause and help us drive positive change for men’s health in the Illawarra is truly special.”
Since its revival in 2022, the HIM IMD Lunch has raised more than $350,000 for programs that tackle mental health challenges, build emotional resilience, and support victims of domestic and family violence.
“We are proud that every dollar raised by Healthier Illawarra Men is invested in services in the Illawarra region,” he said.
“We are a group of volunteers who donate our time for the benefit of men’s health. No administration or hidden costs are incurred through our fundraising.”
Funds raised have supported a range of organisations including The Man Walk, Top Blokes Foundation, Gotcha4Life, Escabags, Lifeline South Coast, and Barstool Brothers.
HIM also launched Tomorrow Man this year, delivering workshops to sporting clubs and community groups across the region.
During the launch event, Shellharbour Suns president Steve Ashworth spoke about the club’s involvement in the program and the impact it was having at a grassroots level.
Past lunch guests have included UFC champion Alex Volkanovski, shark attack survivor Brett Connellan, and wheelchair athlete and author John Maclean. This year, veteran journalist Bruce Roberts will return as event MC.
“Our goal is to create generational change,” Mark said.
“We want to reshape the way men think about health, mateship and masculinity – and ultimately help save lives.”
Tickets are expected to go on sale in August, with corporate sponsorships now open and expected to fill quickly.
2025 HIM International Men’s Day Lunch will be held at University Hall, University of Wollongong on 14 November from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm.
