Sir Ian Botham to headline 2025 Healthier Illawarra Men International Men’s Day Lunch
One of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history, Sir Ian Botham OBE, has today been unveiled as the headline guest for the 2025 Healthier Illawarra Men (HIM) International Men’s Day Lunch.
The announcement was made at a special media call this morning at The Shellharbour Club, where HIM launched its annual fundraising campaign aimed at improving men’s health and wellbeing across the region.
Affectionately known as “Beefy,” Botham is one of the most recognisable and charismatic figures in world cricket. A fierce competitor on the field and tireless charity fundraiser off it, Botham’s appearance promises to draw a huge crowd when the lunch takes place at University Hall, University of Wollongong on Friday 14 November 2025.
Sir Ian Botham has raised more than £20 million for health-related charities, including those focused on leukaemia and diabetes, through a series of high-profile charity walks across the UK and Australia.
His tireless fundraising efforts have earned him recognition as one of sport’s most dedicated philanthropists, combining global celebrity with a lifelong commitment to giving back.
The 2025 HIM International Men’s Day Lunch will be held on Friday 14 November, coinciding with World Diabetes Day, a cause close to Botham’s heart.
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,” Mr Sleigh 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 become a landmark event, raising over $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,” Mr Sleigh 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 diverse range of local organisations including The Man Walk, Top Blokes Foundation, Gotcha4Life, Escabags, Lifeline South Coast, and Barstool Brothers.
HIM also launched its Tomorrow Man initiative this year, delivering workshops to sporting clubs and community groups across the region.
Past 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,” said Mr Sleigh.
“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.
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