Muldoon brothers honour their mum through Frocktober – Raising awareness for ovarian cancer

Brothers Honour Their Mum Through Frocktober

When Peter and Julian Muldoon lost their mother to ovarian cancer in June 2024, their world changed forever. In just nine months, from diagnosis to her passing, they faced a heartbreaking journey—one that serves to highlight the urgent need for more research, better treatments, and the elusive early detection test that could save countless lives.

Now, one year on, the brothers are determined to turn their loss and grief into purpose. In June 2025, they trekked the iconic Larapinta Trail with the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF), raising over $10,000 for research. But for them, that was just the beginning. This October, they’re taking part in Frocktober, a nationwide initiative raising awareness and funds for ovarian cancer research—this time, in joyful celebration of their mum’s memory.

Frocking up for their mum

Julian explains why Frocktober means so much: “For me, Frocktober is about honouring our mum and supporting ovarian cancer research. It’s been such a heavy time since losing her, but wearing something fun and colourful sparks conversations and brings opportunities to remember in a positive way.”

For Peter, it’s also about connection:“I’ll be frocking up by adding colour and sparkle to my usual tradie gear, and I’m really excited to be hosting a Frock Day at my daughter’s school. Getting kids, parents, and teachers involved in dressing up and fundraising together is exactly the kind of positive energy Mum loved.”

This is the essence of Frocktober – standing up and speaking up for ovarian cancer can be empowering, uplifting, and fun.

Why more research Is critical

The Muldoons’ story also highlights a confronting truth: ovarian cancer is one of the most underfunded and deadly cancers affecting women. Ovarian cancer remains without an early detection test. Tragically, most women are diagnosed at an advanced stage, when outcomes are far poorer.

“Our mum survived breast cancer years earlier thanks to effective treatment,” Julian shares. “So when she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, we hoped the outcome would be similar. But there was just one chemotherapy option, and it didn’t work. She was gone within nine months. That’s why more research is everything—for better detection, better treatments, and better outcomes for families like ours.”

Frockerfellas

This October, Peter and Julian are inviting as many people as possible—including men—to step up, frock up, and stand together for ovarian cancer research.

“Ovarian cancer doesn’t just affect women,” Peter says. “It affects whole families, whole communities. The more people who know the symptoms, talk about it, and spread the message, the better chance we all have to protect the women we love.”

From hosting a Frock Day at work or school, to simply donning something colourful or sparkly for a cause, there are countless ways to take part. Every conversation sparked, every donation raised, and every person inspired can help drive change.

This Frocktober, the Muldoon brothers are honouring their mum’s memory in a powerful way— frocking up for a future where fewer families have to face the same devastating loss.