Inspired by John Robson’s tale of resilience, hope and the power of clinical trials, the Australian Livestock and Property Agents Association nominated MASC Trials as its charity partner, showing what can happen when regional Australia gets behind a cause they believe in.
Four years after retired Kyneton stock and station agent John Robson was told he may only have months to live, his story continues to inspire hope, action, and life-changing support for melanoma research across regional Australia.
Today, with his latest scans clear and his health steadily improving, John is enjoying precious time with his family and looking firmly toward the future.
“When you hear a prognosis like mine, you don’t think four years ahead,” John says. “Every scan since has brought nerves, but also enormous gratitude. To be here now, with clear results, means everything.”
A story that inspired a community
When John first shared his experience with Melanoma and Skin Cancer (MASC) Trials in 2022 – speaking openly about his diagnosis, treatment and the emotional toll of stepping away from the business he built – he hoped his story might encourage others to get checked. What he didn’t expect was the extraordinary wave of support it would inspire.
In 2024, the Australian Livestock and Property Agents Association (ALPA) chose MASC Trials as its Charity of the Year, acknowledging the profound impact John’s journey had on communities across the livestock and rural industries. Through three major auctioneering events, including the Southern Young Auctioneers Competition in Melbourne where John was honoured to attend, ALPA and its members have now raised more than $140,000, with almost $30,000 donated on the night in Melbourne alone.
At the event, John’s close friend Rob Bolton spoke powerfully about watching John face his diagnosis and treatment, prompting what many described as one of the most emotional and generous nights in the event’s history.
ALPA Chief Executive Peter Baldwin said the response reflected both the admiration for John and the urgency of supporting melanoma research in industries built outdoors.
“There wouldn’t be a person in our industry who hasn’t been touched by skin cancer,” Mr Baldwin says. “John’s courage in sharing his story brought home the reality of what melanoma can do, and our members responded with a passion and generosity that was incredibly moving. Choosing MASC Trials was a no-brainer. This research matters deeply to our people, their families and their future.”
Donate to clinical trials to help patients like John
Funding That Saves Lives
The funds raised by ALPA will support the development and delivery of clinical trials across Australia and New Zealand, helping accelerate new treatments and expand access to trials in regional locations – something that made a critical difference for John, who was able to undergo treatment close to home in Bendigo as part of the CHARLI trial.
MASC Trials Chief Executive Gabrielle Byars expressed her gratitude for ALPA’s commitment and highlighted the importance of partnerships that reach communities with elevated risk.
“People living and working in regional and farming communities are often at higher risk of skin cancer, yet lower rates in screening and early detection,” Ms Byars says. “This support from ALPA empowers us to expand access to trials, raise awareness, and ultimately save lives. John’s story is a powerful example of the difference clinical research can make, and we are deeply grateful to the ALPA community for standing with us.”
She also emphasised that government funding alone does not meet the needs of advanced research or nationwide access.
“Philanthropic support like this allows us to push boundaries. To pursue breakthroughs, build trial capacity in regional areas, and ensure Australians can access world-leading treatments regardless of postcode,” Ms Byars says.
Living for today and what matters most
For John, the strength of community is just as significant as the treatment that saved his life.
“Seeing that room of auctioneers, stock agents and families dig deep was incredibly emotional,” he says. “It reminded me of the best of our industry – mateship, generosity, and the way people show up when it matters.”
He hopes the funds raised will accelerate vital research so that fewer families face the fear and uncertainty he did.
“I’m one of the lucky ones. If sharing my experience has encouraged someone to get checked, or helped raise money that leads to new treatments, then that’s something I’m immensely proud of.”
For now, John is focused on enjoying life playing– in particular, playing with his grandchildren.
“I wake up each day grateful. It might sound simple, but getting to spend more time with my family is the greatest gift of all.”
ALPA has shown what’s possible when communities unite for a cause. Your donation will directly support clinical trials that improve melanoma and skin cancer outcomes, expand access to treatment in rural areas, and help our world-leading researchers study innovative combined cancer therapies.
Most importantly, you’ll be making a difference for patients across regional Australia and beyond. Donate today at: masc.org.au/donate.
