Woori Yallock Cricket Club has been successful in a State Government grants program providing more shaded areas at the club to improve sun protection.
Member for Monbulk James Merlino MP today announced the $1.3 million of funding part of the sixth round of Community Shade grants.
“We know how much Australians love the outdoors. These grants mean that the community can still enjoy a healthy outdoor lifestyle while having the necessary shade to protect them from the sun,” he said.
The Shade Grants Program is part of the Labor Government’s skin cancer prevention election commitment to provide $15.1 million over four years in skin cancer prevention initiatives.
The program provides grants to build new shade structures, repair existing structures, or create natural shade by planting trees. Funding is also provided to purchase sun protective items including hats and sunscreen.
Good quality shade can reduce overall exposure to UV radiation by up to 75 per cent, and offers the best protection against harmful UV radiation when used in combination with other sun protective measures such as clothing, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.
“Skin cancer is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer in Australia. That’s why this program is so important to ensure Victorian communities are protected from harmful UV rays which could contribute to skin cancer.”
Through this program the Government is supporting the Yarra Ranges to keep active and enjoy the outdoors, while also helping them to be sun smart and prevent skin cancer.
In 2019, melanoma was the fifth most common cancer in Victoria with 2,841 new cases and sadly 270 deaths. The five-year survival rate for Victorians diagnosed with melanoma was 92 per cent in 2014-2018, compared to 69 percent for all cancers.
