Princess Mary launches new SunSmart campaign

30 November 2011

Premier Ted Baillieu has joined Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Mary of Denmark at Parliament House to launch a new campaign urging Victorians to guard against the dangerous effects of excessive sun exposure.

The government will provide SunSmart with $1.043 million to support the implementation of the new campaign this summer.

"This campaign will send a clear message to Victorians that excessive exposure to the sun can be dangerous, unhealthy and potentially life-threatening," Mr Baillieu said.

New research released by the Cancer Council of Victoria reveals that Victorian teens are in denial about their risk of skin cancer and are not using adequate sun protection despite the high incidence of melanoma in young people.

Based on this research, the SunSmart Wes Bonny Testimonial – featuring the story of 26 year old Wes Bonny who died from melanoma in 2010 – will air across Victoria this summer as part of the continuation of the successful Dark Side of Tanning campaign.

Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Mary of Denmark is Ambassador of the Danish Cancer Society's Sun Safe Campaign. Earlier this year, the Crown Princess was also Patron of the first International Conference on UV and Skin Cancer Prevention in Denmark, co-sponsored by the Cancer Council Victoria.

“There is no such thing as a safe tan, and with more than 300 Victorians dying from skin cancer each year, sitting in the shade, covering up with a hat, sunglasses and long-sleeved shirt and applying sunscreen is not only sensible, but can be a life-saver," Mr Baillieu said.

For more information

To find out more visit www.sunsmart.com.au