Members aim to raise $150,000 for an early detection prostate cancer machine for Orange Health Service.

The cause hits close to home for club member Steve Brackenridge.

Mr Brackenridge, who previously had the condition, said club members had spoken to men who were reluctant to seek an examination.

“We found a lot of older men are reluctant because it’s still deemed as old man’s disease,” he said.

“It’s not really, there are people getting it in their 30s and 40s.

"You’re talking about life here, [a prostate examination] is not the worst thing that can happen.”

An early detection machine is currently available in Orange for patients in the private health system.

Mr Brackenridge said the machine was expected to be a giant step forward for public health patients.

“This is a less invasive way, if they’re not sure they can get a test,” he said.

“The physical examination seems to deter men.”

Club members got the ball rolling last week, and raised $300 with a game of lawn bowls.

Mr Brackenridge said the fundraiser was one of the first for the club’s latest project.

“We wanted to have [a fundraiser] to gauge the reaction,” Mr Brackenridge said.

“We want to have more in the coming months.”

Mr Brackenridge said club members welcomed any support from the community.

“It’s a big project for a medium-sized Lions club,” he said.

“Any support we can get would be appreciated.”

The Orange Canobolas Lions Club meets at Kelly’s Rugby Hotel at 6.30pm on the first and third Tuesday of every month.

Club members will plan future fundraising activities at the meetings and members of the public are invited to attend and contribute their ideas.

For more information about the club or its fundraising project, visit orangecanobolas.nsw.lions.org.au or call the Orange Canobolas Lions Club on 6362 4403.