Ms TIERNEY (Minister for Training and Skills) (13:06:39) — I rise to congratulate my constituents for the work they do in fundraising for excellent causes. Last week I was very pleased to take part in the Pink Ribbon Breakfast organised by the Bellarine Women’s Network in support of research into breast cancer.
This very well attended event in Portarlington was also a great opportunity to hear about the work of Look Good Feel Better, a free program dedicated to helping patients manage the appearance-related side effects caused by cancer treatment, including chemotherapy and radiation. Look Good Feel Better is based on the knowledge that a boost to self-esteem and confidence is a great help in enduring treatment. Women, men and teens who have cancer can participate in practical workshops covering skincare, sunscreen and sun protection, make-up and head wear demonstrations.
The Geelong program is based at two hospitals: the Andrew Love Cancer Centre and the St John of God Geelong Hospital. It has been running for 24 years. This year alone the Look Good Feel Better team will be involved in 17 workshops, so with about 20 people in each workshop that is nearly 300 people a year who will benefit. The Geelong team are very longstanding volunteers who have been trained and certified as cosmetics, beauty and hairdressing professionals, working with Look Good Feel Better for years.
The hospitals’ breast care nurses are a vital element for breast care patients in particular, and they encourage patients and refer them to the program. Look Good Feel Better is supported by partnerships with local retailers who donate products plus a portion of their sales proceeds. I congratulate all for their dedication and their generosity. This truly has been a fantastic effort, and I look forward to further work in this area.