REDLANDS not-for- profit organisations and schools can apply to keep kids sun safe, with applications for the 2017 SunSmart Shade Creation Initiative now open.
Capalaba MP Don Brown said a partnership between Cancer Council Queensland and the Queensland government, enabled not-for-profit organisations catering for children to 18 years to apply for up to 50 per cent matched funding for a portable or permanent shade structure.
“The Palaszczuk Government has provided $870,000 of funding over three years to support schools, junior sporting and community clubs, and childcare centres, to adopt sun safe policies and practices,’’ he said.
“Exposure to ultraviolet radiation in childhood increases the risk of skin cancer later in life, so it’s vital that young Queenslanders are taught SunSmart habits from a young age.”
Queensland has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, with almost half of all childhood melanoma cases in Australia diagnosed in Queensland over the past decade.
“More than 3600 Queenslanders are diagnosed with melanoma each year, and it is estimated that over 350,000 non-melanoma skin cancers are treated,” Mr Brown said.
“That’s why all Queenslanders should use the five sun safety tips – slip on protective clothing, slop on SPF30 or higher broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen, slap on a broad-brimmed hat, seek shade and slide on a pair of sunnies when out and about.”
Cancer Council spokesperson Katie Clift said eligible schools, sporting clubs, childcare centres and community groups should apply.
“It’s vital that we do what we can to protect our younger generation from the damaging effects of too much sun to help prevent them from developing health issues in the future, and this funding will go some way towards that cause,’’ she said.
In 2016, 109 Queensland schools, sporting and community clubs and childcare centres had shade structures built.
Applications close on March 10. To apply complete the online application form on the Cancer Council website.