Cancer Council is encouraging Queenslanders to celebrate health and happiness this Ekka holiday, recommending families plan ahead for a great day out.
More than 400,000 Queenslanders are expected to pass through the gates during the 10 days of the State’s 138th Ekka.
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift urged showgoers to look after their health.
“The Ekka is renowned for Dagwood Dogs and chocolate frogs, not to mention many other carnival favourites seasoned with significant amounts of salt, sugar, and saturated fat,” Ms Clift said.
“We recommend planning ahead to avoid impulse snacking – sample Queensland’s finest fresh fruit and veg produce instead of overindulging in candy lane.
“And go SunSmart – slip, slop, slap, seek, slide and ride! Remember to pack SPF 30 or above sunscreen for reapplication during the day.
“When it comes to buying showbags for the kids – opt for play-based bags that encourage physical activity, instead of those filled with lollies and chocolate.
“With hectares of exhibitions and attractions, events such as the Ekka provide a great opportunity to enjoy some extra physical activity.
“It’s also important to pack plenty of water to avoid the trap of sugar-sweetened beverages,” she said.
For the first time in its 138 year history, Queensland’s largest event will also go smoke free, a Queensland-first initiative to protect show-goers from the dangers of second-hand smoke.
For the full 10 days of the Ekka, the entire showground will be a fresh air zone, promoting Quit initiatives with support from the Queensland Government.
“We are proud to say that this year Queenslanders can fully enjoy the fanfare without being exposed to a single puff of passive smoke,” Ms Clift said.
“Exposure to passive smoke raises a person’s risk of heart disease, lung cancer and respiratory conditions, and can cause asthma, SIDS and allergic respiratory diseases in children.
“We know that the majority of Queenslanders support smoke free spaces, and expect they will warmly welcome this Queensland Government and RNA initiative this year.”
Cancer Council hopes other shows and exhibitions will follow in the Ekka’s footsteps, creating smoke free events across the State to protect show-goers.
Smokers can obtain free information, practical assistance and support from Quitline, 13 QUIT (13 7848).
More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available via 13 11 20 or www.cancerqld.org.au.
For more information or interviews, please contact:
Katie Clift, Executive Manager, Media and Spokesperson, Cancer Council Queensland
Ph: (07) 3634 5372 or 0409 001 171