The Cobden community has been awarded just under $55,000 by the Andrews Labor Government to provide much needed protection from harmful UV rays by increasing the provision of shade in the community.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney today announced the recipients of grants from the first round of the Andrews Labor Government’s Community Shade Grants Program.
Two organisations in Cobden were successful in their applications for shade grants including the Cobden Recreation Reserve Committee of Management which will receive $24,585 and the South West Kart Club Inc which will receive $29,556 in funding.
These funds will be used to build new shade structures, at these sites.
Australia has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world and in 2014 melanoma was the fifth most common cancer in Victoria. It’s estimated that 40,000 new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in Victoria every year.
Shade is a simple and effective way to protect ourselves from the sun and by doing so reduces the likelihood of deadly skin cancer.
The Andrews Labor Government has committed $15 million for skin cancer prevention initiatives, including $5 million for SunSmart education campaigns and $10 million in grants for shade in public places.
Other organisations in the Corangamite Shire that will receive a grant from the first round of the Community Shade Grants Program are:
- South Beach Committee of Management which will receive
$8,100 to construct a new shaded area at Lake Bullen Merri-South Beach - Lismore Preschool which will recieve $2,885 to repair
its current shade - Terang Athletic Club which will receive $660 for hats
and sunscreen
Priority for grants has been given to rural and regional areas with high rates of skin cancer and mortality and areas of socioeconomic disadvantage.
At least one grant was awarded in each of the 79 Local Government Areas.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP:
“We all love spending time outdoors but it is important we are adequately protected
from the sun, especially between September and April when UV levels are high.”
“Skin cancer is a major health issue for Victorians, yet it’s mostly preventable.
That’s why the people of Corangamite Shire need to be sun smart.”
“These grants will provide our community with more shaded areas so everyone can enjoy
their time outdoors safely.”