Ballina Shire’s cancer intiative applauded
Ballina Shire Council has announced a new partnership with The Cancer Council NSW which aims to reduce the impact of cancer on local residents.
“Congratulations to Ballina Shire Council for taking this proactive step to help make its community cancer smart,” said Diana Fisher of The Cancer Council’s Far North Coast regional office.
The Cancer Council Community Partnerships program uses council outlets, networks and venues to get cancer prevention and support programs through to people and organisations in local communities.
“For a small amount of effort and time and almost no out-of-pocket expense, councils can reap big health benefits for their community,” said Diana.
Mayor Phillip Silver said the council welcomed the partnership and its potential to improve the health and wellbeing of Ballina Shire residents.
“I and the other councillors believe that by working in this partnership we can lower the impact of cancer in Ballina Shire Council,” he said.
“One in three people will get cancer in their lifetime so it’s important we’re proactive about preventing cancer and helping cancer patients in our own community.
“We’ve already been working with The Cancer Council closely over several years on initiatives such as Relay For Life.”
The Community Partnerships program in Ballina Shire will include vital sun safety advice to childcare centres and workplaces, and skin cancer awareness programs for older citizens.
“I would like to congratulate The Cancer Council NSW on their initiative and also commend my fellow councillors for their enthusiasm and proactivity,” Cr Silver said.
Local cancer survivor Kerrie Ann Gray said: “I am proud that our Ballina Shire Council is taking part in this important health initiative.
“I am sure that it will help save lives and ease a lot of worried people’s minds in the future.”
Around 1700 people each year are diagnosed with cancer in the Northern Rivers.
A support group was started in Ballina with the assistance of The Cancer Council.
The Cancer Council has had 298 calls made to the Helpline, with 20 people using the call back service for a follow-up call.
Telephone support groups have been attended 34 times and peer support has been given to nine people being treated for cancer.
