Former video producer from Noosa, Jo Yates, has united with three brave ovarian cancer survivors to deliver a potentially life-saving message; trust your intuition and don’t dismiss symptoms.
Jo, 45, Christine, 43, and Mary and Victoria both 63 are at the forefront of a powerful campaign dedicated to raising awareness of Australia’s most lethal female cancer.
Australian fashion retailer Black Pepper and Ovarian Cancer Australia are bringing attention to a new campaign featuring four inspiring women. These women will appear on posters and signage across 80 stores nationwide, as well as Black Pepper’s website and social media channels, throughout Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month this February.
The women are modelling Black Pepper clothing including a specially designed scarf and blouse with a portion of sales going to Ovarian Cancer Australia. The campaign aims to raise $100,000 in funds to support women with ovarian cancer.
For Jo, the diagnosis was a devastating shock.
Initially attributing symptoms like frequent urination and fullness after eating to diet changes, she never suspected ovarian cancer.
It wasn’t until a pap smear led to further testing that Jo discovered tumours on both ovaries.
“Ovarian cancer symptoms are so innocuous a lot of GPs will even dismiss it as something else and might not test for it,” Ms Yates said.
“I just had a few strange cells so luckily my doctor sent me for further testing and an ultrasound.”
After a full hysterectomy, early menopause, and chemotherapy, Jo is now determined to help other women recognise the warning signs before it’s too late.
Ovarian cancer remains Australia’s most lethal female cancer with a 49 per cent five-year survival rate. With five women diagnosed and three women dying from the disease every day, there is currently no early detection test.
If diagnosed in its early stages, the five-year survival rate can be as high as 90 per cent hence the importance of sharing women’s stories to raise awareness.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Black Pepper’s partnership with Ovarian Cancer Australia.
Over the past decade, Black Pepper has raised more than $850,000 to support specialist nurses who stand beside patients through every step of diagnosis, treatment, recovery and beyond.
The 2025 campaign celebrates this milestone with 10 Stories for 10 Years, highlighting deeply personal accounts from survivors and the people that support them including family members, nurses, psychologists, and advocates. These stories are a testament to the strength and resilience of a community united in the fight against ovarian cancer.
“We’re proud of our 10-year partnership with Ovarian Cancer Australia and for helping them to support these inspiring women in their battle against this devastating disease,” Black Pepper marketing manager, Jacquie McIntosh said.
“Early diagnosis saves lives, so hopefully our awareness campaign will encourage women to trust their inner voice and not dismiss persistent symptoms, no matter how mild.”
Shoppers can make a difference by supporting Ovarian Cancer Australia through Black Pepper. Purchase the limited-edition OCA Scarf ($29.99) or the elegant Elisha Blouse ($99.99), with a portion of sales going directly to the cause. Additionally, 100 per cent of proceeds from OCA pens and ribbons will be donated. Visit any Black Pepper store or shop online at blackpepper.com.au to show your support today.
