Sunsmart Shade

Thank you to the team at Paul Evans Welding for erecting our new Sunsmart Shade.  The is the quad area at the school compliments the new building and provides some much-needed shade for our students. 

The shade was funded by the Shade Grants Program.  The Victorian Government will continue its investment and deliver on the election commitment to provide $15.1 million towards the prevention and early detection of skin cancer, including $10 million to the Shade Grants Program over 2019 to 2023.

The Shade Grants Program (the Program) is administered by the Department of Health and Human Services.

The aim of the Program is to reduce Victorians' exposure to UV radiation by increasing shade in public places across the state and by promoting uptake of sun protective practices.

Skin cancer prevention

Skin cancer is a significant health and economic burden in Victoria. Skin cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer yet remains highly prevalent, with two in three Australians diagnosed by the age of 70. 

The majority of skin cancers in Australia are caused by exposure to UV radiation in sunlight. Outdoor activity increases a person's risk of over-exposure to UV radiation. 

The provision of well-planned and designed shade as a sun protection measure can reduce overall exposure to UV radiation. Shade used in combination with other sun protection measures, including protective clothing, broad brimmed hats, sunglasses and SPF 30+ or higher sunscreen provide the best protection from harmful UV radiation exposure when spending time outdoors.

Students at Rochester Secondary College are required to wear hats in term one and term four.