Independent Member for Alfred Cove, Dr Janet Woollard MLA, is helping local mothers raise funds for shade sails at playgrounds within the Electorate. The fundraising effort will be launched at the Jacaranda Festival in Applecross Village on Saturday, 28 November 2009.

"I continue to be approached by constituents who are disappointed by the lack of shade over local playgrounds," said Dr Woollard.

"I appreciate that costs and management issues have prevented the City of Melville from installing shade sails at all local playgrounds, but it does not change the fact that Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world.

"The Cancer Council of WA advised that the sun exposure children receive while they are young increases their risk of developing skin cancer as adults.

"In addition to children wearing hats and sunscreen, adequate shading at playgrounds with shade sails may prevent skin cancer later in life."

Dr Woollard said she will team up with concerned mothers who are keen to "do something about the problem" and embark on raising funds for the shade sails.

"It costs between $15,000 and $25,000 to set up shade sails at each playground, so we are aiming to raise enough to start off with one playground first," said Dr Woollard.

"We are planning art and craft activities and a magic show for children, and serving tea and coffee to the community. In exchange, we hope the community will make a gold coin donation towards the cause."

Dr Woollard said these activities will be organised outside her Electorate Office between 11 am and 1 pm at the Jacaranda Festival on 28 November.

"I hope the local community will come forward during the Jacaranda Festival to contribute towards ensuring our children’s wellbeing."