By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
THERE was a sea of wide-brimmed hats at the unveiling of a new shade at Saint Francis Xavier College’s Berwick Campus last week.
Students presented a short performance to highlight the importance of sun safety before the shade was officially opened by Casey Mayor Mick Morland on Friday 17 April.
Funding for the shade was provided through a grant from the Cancer Council and Eftpos.
Schools were eligible for up to $25,000 worth of funding.
College principal Vincent Feeney said that the shades would contribute to a safer outdoor environment and make students more conscious of the risks of ultraviolet radiation.
“St Francis Xavier College is dedicated to providing a shade-friendly outdoor environment as we know that students require little encouragement to seek shade when it’s provided,” Mr Feeney said.
Also present at the launch, SunSmart’s Youth and Advocacy co-ordinator Jane Hill said that the shade will encourage students to make safer choices.
“Melanoma is the most common cancer in Australians aged 12 to 24 years, with more than double the number of cases than any other kind of cancer,” Ms Hill said.
“Without access to proper shade during school hours, when UV levels peak, our young people are at risk of developing skin cancer.”
The grant program was funded by a $1 million donation from Eftpos as part of its Giveback program.
One in eight Australian secondary schools applied.
