Dry July

Lore & Background

Dry July was started in 2008 by Phil Grove, Brett Macdonald and Kenny McGilvary, who pledged to give up alcohol for a month to raise money for their local hospital. After the challenge was promoted by 702 ABC Sydney's Adam Spencer, over 1,000 people signed up, raising over $250,000. In 2009, the campaign supported six cancer services, with 4,000 participants raising over $1.3 million. By 2010, 9,000 people raised $2.4 million for ten cancer services across all Australian states and territories. In 2011, participation grew to over 11,500, raising over $2.8 million for 13 cancer services.

Reader's Guide

Dry July expanded internationally in 2012, launching in New Zealand with over 2,000 participants raising NZD$550,000. That same year, the Australian campaign added seven cancer services and raised over $3.7 million from more than 15,000 participants. In 2013, Australian participation exceeded 18,000, raising $4.3 million for 31 beneficiaries, while New Zealand's second year saw over 4,000 participants raise over $765,000 for three hospitals. The campaign introduced 'Golden Tickets' costing a minimum of $25, allowing participants a single night off from abstaining. Starting in 2014, the Foundation offered a grant program for cancer support organizations in Western Australia, expanded in 2015 to other Australian states and New Zealand. By 2015, Dry July had 21,400 participants raising $4.1 million for 42 cancer support organizations in Australia. The Foundation notes that individuals with alcohol dependency should consult a health professional before participating, as complete abstinence may lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Did You Know?

• Dry July was founded in 2008 by Phil Grove, Brett Macdonald and Kenny McGilvary.
• As of 2024, the Dry July Foundation claims to have raised more than $90 million for people affected by cancer.
• The campaign offers 'Golden Tickets' costing a minimum of $25 for a participant to have one night off from abstaining.
• Dry July expanded to New Zealand in 2012.