Hunter Valley school children are becoming more sun-smart thanks to BHP’s Benefitting My Community program.
14 local schools including those in Singleton, Muswellbrook, Scone and Denman will be home to new sunscreen stands after the Cancer Council NSW was successful in attracting $7,560 through the program.
Mt Arthur Coal General Manager David Boshoff was excited to play a role in protecting local kids when they’re out in the sun.
“The incidence of Melanoma is more than 20% above the state average in the local area. One of the best ways to tackle that problem is to start with the next generation by reminding them about the importance of re-applying sunscreen throughout the day.”
“BHP are committed to safety both on and off the mine site. People are our best resource – whether it’s the children in our schools, or at our operation. We need to invest in them, support their development and put them in the best possible situation to succeed,” David added.
Community Programs Coordinator Glen Parsons from the Cancer Council NSW said the organisation is taking the opportunity during the distribution to local schools to give talks and information about SunSmart habits, like Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide.
“BHP are community supporters of Cancer Council’s Sun Sign schools project. As an organisation that is over 95% community funded, we are very grateful to community supporters like BHP help us deliver our vital prevention services, and in this case, the education of children being sun smart is paramount.” Glen said.