Cancer Council has applauded Fraser Coast Regional Council for unanimously voting to extend smoke-free spaces in Maryborough and Hervey Bay, improving the region’s liveability.
In 2018 Council will amend its local laws to introduce smoke free precincts at Freedom Park, Hervey Bay Aquatic Centre, Community Centre & Cultural Centre in Hervey Bay.
Maryborough’s Queens Park, Brolga Theatre, Brendan Hansen Park, Urangan Pier and Pier Park, Anzac Park will also become smoke free precincts under the new local laws.
Cancer Council Queensland CEO Ms Chris McMillan congratulated the council for leading the way in tobacco control in Queensland.
“Fraser Coast Regional Council’s unanimous decision is an example for local governments across Queensland – we hope to see other councils follow,” Ms McMillan said.
“More smoke free spaces across Hervey Bay and Maryborough will protect the community and tourists from the dangers of second-hand smoke.
“Smoke-free communities are healthier communities where Queenslanders can live, work, and play.
“We know that community support for smoke-free spaces is higher now than at any time in history.
“Unequivocal evidence shows smoke-free spaces encourage smokers to quit and prevent our next generation from taking up the lethal habit.
“Queenslanders are more aware than ever before that smoking kills and want greater action to protect our community against tobacco-related illness and disease.
“Smoke-free spaces save lives and prevent harm, and we applaud Fraser Coast Regional Council for protecting their community.”
About 12 per cent of Queensland adults smoke daily – down from 14 per cent in 2014 – and the majority of smokers want to quit.
Statewide smoke-free laws introduced in Queensland on September 1 are the toughest of any jurisdiction in the world.
Smoking is banned at public transport waiting points, pedestrian malls, aged care facilities and national parks – with powers given to local government to ban smoking in any public space not covered by a statewide smoking ban.
“The evidence is undeniable – second-hand smoke kills – at least one Queenslander dies every week from exposure to smoke drift, without ever having smoked a cigarette in their life,” Ms McMillan said.
Around 3700 Queenslanders die from a tobacco-related disease each year. At least one death every week is caused by second-hand smoke exposure.
Smokers can obtain free information, practical assistance and support from Quitline, 13 QUIT (13 7848).
More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available at www.cancerqld.org.au or Cancer Council’s 13 11 20.
For more information or interviews, please contact:
Executive Manager,
Media and Spokesperson,
Cancer Council Queensland
Phone: (07) 3634 5372
Mobile: 0409 001 171