Up early to fight cancer

Samuel Johnson will be appearing at the Casey Cardinia Business Breakfast in September. Picture: CARDINIA SHIRE COUNCIL.

By Mitchell Clarke

Actor, dancer and cancer crusader Samuel Johnson is set to be up bright and early when he fronts the Casey Cardinia Business Breakfast next month, providing an insight about the inspiring work he does for cancer research.

Known for his portrayal of Ian Meldrum in ‘Molly’ and his appearances in The Secret Life of Us and Rush, it was announced the revered actor and one-time reality TV show winner would be the guest speaker at the final instalment of the Business Breakfast series.

More recently, Samuel’s better recognised for his charitable work as the co-founder of Love Your Sister with his beloved sister Connie Johnson after her terminal diagnosis with breast cancer.

Love Your Sister is an organisation with a following of over a million everyday Australians who are fiercely committed to “kick(ing) cancer in the face-hole”.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Graeme Moore said the last business breakfast for the year is sure to be entertaining, inspiring and beneficial to local business people from across the Casey Cardinia Region.

“We’re really excited to be welcoming Samuel Johnson to speak about the ‘Love Your Sister’ campaign and share his own insights into the fight against cancer and raising breast awareness in young women across the country,” Cr Moore said.

“I think it will be inspiring to hear how loving his sister (Connie Johnson), and perhaps a little friendly competition, led Samuel to uni-cycling around Australia and retiring from acting to further a cause about which he is very passionate.”

This isn’t the first time Samuel has partnered with a local business. In April, Samuel visited Pakenham where he was gifted a purpose built motor home from Avan Caravans for his journey around Australia.

Speaking to the Gazette earlier this year, Samuel said his sister would be “understandably proud” of the awareness their charity has raised.

“If you ask me, cancer is the true terrorist, it is wiping out our families left, right and centre,” he said.

“I’m sick of it taking out our families. It’s unacceptable as far as I’m concerned.”

As one of the fastest growing regions in Australia, the Casey Cardinia region represents a new frontier for business growth and opportunities.

“They’re a brilliant way to maintain and expand your professional networks, learn from some exciting guest speakers, and enjoy a hearty breakfast before work,” Cr Mayor added.

The event will be held on Wednesday 25 September from 6.45-9am at Cardinia Cultural Centre.

To purchase tickets, visit https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=439276&.