Our People
30 July, 2025
Putting down the beer for cancer
DRY July is coming to an end, with over $4 million raised so far to support people affected by cancer.
Since the campaign began in 2008, more than 377,000 Australians have taken up the challenge, going alcohol-free for the month of July.
Funds raised have gone toward vital services across 40 cancer organisations, including wellness programs, specialist nurses, transport, accommodation, and therapy during treatment.
“We started Dry July as a personal challenge between a few mates and never imagined it would grow into something that has impacted the lives of so many,” said Dry July Co-Founder Brett Macdonald.
“Every Australian knows someone affected by cancer, and while the physical impact is often visible, the emotional toll can be just as heavy and far less recognised. The funds raised through Dry July go towards support services that can make all the difference during such a difficult time.”
Among those stepping up is Avoca’s own Daniel Cook, now in his seventh year of going dry for the cause.
“I didn’t realise until Dry July contacted me and I said, ‘Who’s counting?’” he said, joking that his sobriety is a little more cut and paste.
“I said to my young fella, couple more years I could say I haven’t drunk for a year. The main reason is raising funds for the Cancer Council and having a family member affected by cancer, I’ve had a few.”
Daniel says the personal challenge keeps him motivated.
“I like the personal challenge and just giving your body a bit of a break from the grog,” he said.
As a concreter, Daniel said the Friday beers were a regular ritual, but Dry July gave him a reason to pause.
“Being an Aussie, working with concrete, at the end of the week you get a bit thirsty. But it’s good to just have a break, I think. It’s for a great cause. I don’t mind raising funds, cutting back a little to help out everybody,” he said.
Daniel sets a fundraising goal of $500 each year.
“Last couple years have been a little bit quiet, but the price of living and everything, it’s really hard, times are tough, not everyone’s got the dollars to donate. But I still do it whether I reach my goal or not. Every little bit helps,” he said.
Over the past five years, Daniel has raised well over $1,000 for the Cancer Council and admits there have been other benefits too, including financial.
“If you’re not buying a box a week every week, you’re instantly saving $200 for the month. It’s pretty easy.”
Daniel isn’t afraid to make it a team effort, every year encouraging others to get involved.
“Every year I ask everyone to join me and I get a lot of no’s, but every year I can manage to bring someone with me. This year I’ve got my son,” he said.
The whole family has rallied behind him.
“Everybody has had something to do with cancer. I think it’s something we really need to raise funds for or donate to awareness,” he said.
Even after July, Daniel admits it’s become easier to stay dry.
“The first couple years I’m like, ‘Oh geez I’m pretty thirsty,’ and head down to the pub, but the last few years I’ve been rolling with it and you’re just feeling good and keep rolling with that for a bit.”
These days, Friday drinks have been swapped for quiet family nights.
“I’ve been drinking a lot more water,” he said.
“Usually I’d be out in the shed with my young fellas, having a beer, but I’ve just found myself inside with the heater on and just watching a movie. It’s been great, it’s better-quality time. It’s good to be inside and spending time with my partner and my young daughter. It’s a different kind of bonding.”
You can support Daniel’s Dry July journey at www.dryjuly.com/users/daniel-cook-2
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