Tour de Cure fundraisers help Cancer Council Queensland protect Mission Beach kids from sun
Local children’s community clubs are now protected from sun damage, thanks to the efforts of Tour de Cure participants and Cancer Council Queensland.
Cancer Council Queensland won a $10,000 grant to provide free shade structures to not-for-profit schools and clubs in the Mission Beach area, generously donated by the fundraising initiative, Tour de Cure.
Eight sporting clubs accepted free, portable shade structures – one of those being Mission Swimming Club.
President Chris Smith said the club was honoured to have received the structure.
“We have a lot of children at our club and they need to be protected from the sun when they undertake their training,” he said.
“We are so thankful to Cancer Council Queensland for contacting us regarding the shade structure, as the UV levels can be very high up here in Far North Queensland.
“We have used the shade for the kids to sit under while we train and go out to swim meets, but it has also been utilised by members of the public to sit under while they watch.
“It’s been beneficial for our whole community here at the club, so we are very grateful to have received it!”
Cancer Council Queensland CEO Ms Chris McMillan said the organisation was incredibly grateful to Tour de Cure for its support.
“By helping us fund more shade structures in the area, Tour de Cure has helped reduce the overall amount of excess UV exposure locals receive,” Ms McMillan said.
“Whether accidental or intentional, unprotected exposure to UV radiation increases the risk of skin damage and skin cancer later in life.
“Even spending as little as 10-15 minutes in the sun unprotected, when the UV index level is three or above, can significantly damage the skin.
“We’re urging all Queenslanders to reduce their risk of skin cancer by following all five sun protective recommendations.
“Slip on protective clothing, Slop on minimum SPF30 broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen, Slap on a broad-brimmed hat, Seek shade and Slide on sunnies when outdoors.”
For more information about Cancer Council Queensland visit cancerqld.org.au, or call 13 11 20 for information and support.
