By Molly Magennis
Community Shade grants are set to help more of the Williamstown community stay safe in the sun this summer.
The sixth round of these grants released by the Andrews government will mean shade can be installed in public areas such as sports clubs, parks and playgrounds.
Williamstown MP Melissa Horne has announced that five community organisations will share in over $1.3 million of funding from the latest round of the Community Shade Grants program.
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.
Ms Horne said that these grants mean that the Williamstown community can enjoy a healthy outdoor lifestyle while still having fun in the sun.
“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,” she said.
“Our grants programs have helped hundreds of schools and community groups provide the protection Victorians need to prevent cancer and stay SunSmart.”
In 2019, melanoma was the fifth most common cancer in Victoria with 2,841 new cases and 270 deaths.
Good quality shade can reduce overall exposure to UV radiation by up to 75 per cent, and also offers the best protection against harmful UV radiation when other protective measures such as clothing, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are also used.
