Garden Party Prompts Green Thumb Sun Safety Message

October 6th, 2010 - Media Statement

As it prepares to host a fundraiser set in one of Perth's most enchanting gardens, WA's only dedicated melanoma research centre is urging those with green thumbs to think sun safe over spring and summer.

The Scott Kirkbride Melanoma Research Centre's (SKMRC) scientific director Professor Peter Leedman said the Garden Party to raise money for the Centre provided an ideal time to remind people to cover up while gardening.

"Australian statistics reveal that almost 14 percent of adults are sunburnt on summer weekends and for many people*, it happens while they're doing outside chores or hobbies like gardening," he said.

"Of course for people like landscape gardeners, the risk is higher, but with melanoma rates on the rise, it's critical that even home gardeners cover up and use sunscreen while working in the sun."

Professor Leedman said other outdoor activities such as simply enjoying a barbecue with friends could also pose a risk.

"Most of us have been surprised at one time or another to realise we've got too much sun while doing everyday things like driving, shopping outdoors or sightseeing and so building sun safety into common activities is critical," he said.

The SKMRC Garden Party at the Dalkeith home of Tania and Peter Young will raise funds for its important research.

The event happens in the afternoon of Friday October 29 and tickets are $50.

There are limited tickets available so please book online or call (08) 9224 0333 to secure yours.

Part of the Nedlands-based Western Australian Institute for Medical Research (WAIMR), the SKMRC was established in 2005 in memory of Scott Kirkbride who lost his battle with melanoma at the age of 27.

* www.cancer.org.au/cancersmartlifestyle/SunSmart/Whatputsyouatrisk.htm

For more information please contact:
Carolyn Monaghan
Communications Manager
Mobile: 0448 021 932 (media enquiries only)
Office: (08) 9224 0377
Email: carolyn.monaghan@waimr.uwa.edu.au