Volunteer Voice December 2014 by Cancer Council

VolunteerVoice For and about volunteers with Cancer Council NSW

Summer Edition December 2014

A single cure for cancer? By Associate Professor Freddy Sitas

Rumour has it there is a single cure for cancer locked away from those who need it. This is one of the most common cancer myths people search for. But, how can this be? Cancer is not one, but hundreds of diseases, each type different from the other, and each causes a whole set of different problems, which must be treated accordingly.

There may be no magic pill for all cancers, but prevention, detection and treatment for most cancer types is evolving, improving and saving thousands of Australians each year. But, it’s important to know that we are making progress on cancer. More people are surviving the disease than ever before, treatments are getting better, and we are now far better set up to support cancer patients and their loved ones. Today, we have almost 30 per cent less cancer deaths in Australia than in the late 80s – this translates to 61,000 cancer deaths being avoided over these 20 years, 61,000 less families having heard the devastating news that a loved one had been lost to cancer. What is important to know is that this has been due to a huge amount of research here in Australia and globally with many of Cancer Council’s partners. It’s also due to breakthroughs in new treatments and beefed-up prevention program commitments. After all, the adage that ‘prevention is better than cure’ still rings true. The late 1980s was a pivotal point in the cancer fight, when Australia introduced national screening programs, national prevention awareness campaigns and, in 1996, finally recognised cancer as a national health priority – investing in research, treatment, information and support. Educating our nation about cancer prevention has been a huge game-changer. People now know the risks of smoking, drinking alcohol, lying in the sun, and eating fatty and unhealthy junk food. Armed with this knowledge people can now make informed choices and cut their cancer and other disease risks significantly.

Australia’s key game-changers over the last few decades also include the introduction of national screening and vaccination programs. However, a plethora of confusing messages about the cancer burden leaves the impression that interventions are not working. The Cancer Council Research Report of June 2013 cancercouncil.com.au/79378/research/researchnews/research-report-newsletter-issue-22june-2013/, however, clearly highlights the huge amount of progress made, with about 8,000 Australians alive this year who would otherwise have been dead from cancer 20 years ago, a reduction of 30 percent. The time period reviewed in this study featured widespread implementation of many cancer programs. The full success of many of the interventions is still to be seen. Australia has come a long way, but we can’t rest on our laurels. That is why our new aspirational goal is to reduce deaths from cancer by 50 percent over the next 20 years (see Cancer Council’s Strategic Intent 2014-2018 at cancercouncil.com.au/strategicintent-2014-2018). As world leaders in many areas of cancer research and interventions, we at Cancer Council need to continue with this. We also need to keep up our successful global collaborations to discover more preventative measures, earlier detection methods, and improved treatments to reduce the See the cancer burden in Australia inside middle and further afield. pages of this Visit cancercouncil.com. edition for au/48957/research/ the pull-out research-news/ section research-reportReduce your newsletter/researchcancer risk. newsletters/ to read more of our Research Reports.

cancercouncil.com.au | Volunteer Hotline: (02) 9334 1813

VolunteerVoice | December2014

Update

from CEO, Jim L’Estrange

As we near the end of 2014, I’d like to take the opportunity to review some of the year’s highlights, share some of our plans for 2015 and of course, thank you for the tremendous effort you put in this year. 2014 has been a really busy year with some great successes to celebrate, including our I Touch Myself campaign, which raised awareness about breast cancer, and many very successful events including Relay For Life, Daffodil Day, Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea and Pink Ribbon Days, all held in communities across NSW. Our volunteers and supporters were critical in making these events a great success, so thank you to everyone who was involved. Our volunteers also helped us deliver our prevention programs such as our Eat It To Beat It nutrition program and our SunSmart Program. I would also like to celebrate our information and support services, which continued providing the latest information and practical and emotional support to people affected by cancer, including our Cancer Council Information Centres and Pro Bono Programs which are so successful thanks to your work. In 2015, we hope to continue working with and for the community, delivering programs and services across NSW.

Our new Strategic Intent 2014-2018 (cancercouncil.com.au/strategicintent-2014-2018) that I shared with you in the last issue of Volunteer Voice will help us prioritise our work over the coming year and focus on our mission: “To lead, empower and mobilise the community to beat cancer”. A key focus in the coming months will be our Saving Life 2015 campaign (see page 6), with our network of supporters and volunteers running local activities across NSW and making sure that MPs and candidates know what they can do to help beat cancer in the lead up to the NSW State Election. As we head into the festive season, I want to thank you all for your energy, for your commitment and for the skills and drive that you bring to Cancer Council NSW. I am really proud of the work you do with us and I want you to be proud of the work you do for us. I wish you all a safe and happy holiday season and I look forward to working with you again in 2015. Go to cancercouncil.com.au/volunteer-thank-you to watch Jim’s Volunteer Thank You video.

Living fortitude When someone has fortitude it means that they have emotional power or reserves and the ability to withstand adversity. People who have fortitude are described in an admiring way for their courage, and this word comes from the Latin word meaning “strength”. Daffodil Day 2014 saw many volunteers who have been through their own cancer journeys showing they care for others and displaying such fortitude. One, Sandy Ostini (pictured above), a long-time supporter and volunteer of Cancer Council says, “Cancer takes the lives of too many people we love, touching one in two men and one in three women by the age of 85. Daffodil Day provides us all with the opportunity to show we care about

those battling this disease. It also honours those who have passed and gives strength and optimism to us all. “For well over a decade I have participated in Daffodil Day as a volunteer fundraising for Cancer Council NSW. Daffodil Day is my favourite event, and I thoroughly enjoy engaging with the community. Daffodil Day is a bright and happy day filled with hope. Every piece of yellow merchandise sold brings Cancer Council a step closer to beating cancer, and helps continue research, support and prevention programs. “Daffodil Day helps grow hope for better treatments and more survivors. “After my own breast cancer diagnosis in 2011 I became more significantly aware of the importance of these services, and was grateful for the beneficial support provided by Cancer Council NSW. I will continue to raise these muchneeded funds to help lessen the burden of this disease and support others on their cancer journey. I want to keep hope alive for everyone!”

Editor: Michael McGennan. Please feel free to forward your feedback and contributions to volunteervoice@nswcc.org.au 2

VolunteerVoice | December2014

Advice initiative Hunter Central Coast Aboriginal community partnerships volunteers and staff of Cancer Council NSW attended the Awabakal Newcastle Aboriginal Co-operative’s Casino Royale Ball on 21 June 2014 in support of their fundraising efforts, and to further develop relationships with the local Aboriginal community. The money raised at this event will be used to purchase much-needed medical equipment and for the refurbishing of the Awabakal Aboriginal Medical Service. Volunteers Joy Reid, Pania Tahu, and Michelle Cutmore also volunteer for the Maitland and Newcastle-Lake Macquarie Relay

For Life event and the Hunter Aboriginal Advisory Group (AAG). As one of the first initiatives of the AAG, Cancer Council NSW has agreed to work in partnership with Awabakal Aboriginal Medical Service on the Deadly Dolphins Program. This program aims to encourage Aboriginal parents to take their children along for health checks. As an incentive, the children receive swimming lessons for free in term three this year, with the Deadly Dolphins Program supplying co-branded rash-vests for the children involved, sponsored by Cancer Council NSW. Other opportunities set forth by these programs and Cancer Council will

Saving Life 2015 On the last weekend in July, seventy advocates from across NSW met for two days in Sydney to plan how to influence the next NSW government to introduce policy that could reduce the number of people who ever have to hear the words “you have cancer”. They will be calling on the next State Government to increase palliative care services, ensure co-ordinated cancer care, increase the Aboriginal workforce in cancer services, abolish co-payments for chemotherapy drugs, and introduce targeted tobacco retail reforms. Aboriginal people have higher cancer incidence and mortality rates, and significantly lower rates of survival,

Aboriginal advocate Robert Salt addresses attendees.

Left to right: Aboriginal Advisory Group participants, Barbara Gaudry, June Reid, their student intern and Pania Tahu.

engage parents in health lifestyle and cancer screen messages while their children attend their swimming lessons. They are also provided with information about our supportive care services.

compared to non-Aboriginal people. They are less like to initiate or complete cancer treatment. That is why Cancer Council has included an Aboriginal issue in its Saving Life 2015 campaign agenda. The government knows that strengthening the Aboriginal health workforce is critical if we are to Close The Gap in health outcomes between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people. To find out more and become part of Saving Life 2015, visit cancercouncil.com.au/savinglife and Like our Facebook page facebook.com/canactnsw. You can also visit http://vimeo.com/104270891 to watch the video.

L-R: Sinilia Radivojevic, Norma Parsons, Trixie Watts, Robin Payne, Cherie Piening.

Jo Hilder and Uncle Chikka, who did Welcome to Country.

Artwork by Georgina Altona (Kamilaroi People).

VolunteerVoice | December2014

Desk Notes

from Volunteer Unit Manager, Toby Dawson

It’s with great excitement that I now get to be a part of the Volunteer Voice experience from the other side of the printery. Like you, I’ve sat and read each edition of Volunteer Voice with interest – flicking through it and reading during my lunch break at work, or on the weekend in my favourite spot in the backyard. Recently, whilst assisting with some interviews, I was asked to explain the purpose of my role. Quite simply I said, “to improve the volunteering experience at Cancer Council NSW.” When I first started as a Regional Programs Coordinator, delivering the organisation’s health programs to the communities of Far South Coast NSW, I was grateful that each night I could put my head on the pillow knowing I had, in one way or another, helped ease the stresses of someone’s cancer journey, or helped prevent a future cancer diagnosis. Working in the community, I was living and breathing the vision, knowing full well that together we will beat cancer.

Whilst I know we will, the key word to me has always been together. ‘Together’ encapsulates the collective effort of our entire community that gives me confidence that we will see cancer beaten. This is a collective effort of our volunteer workforce that I’ve experienced every day since joining Cancer Council – be it in our patient support services, cancer prevention programs, advocacy campaigns, leadership groups, or the powerhouse administrative teams that keep us operating. It is the contribution of each and every volunteer that makes all of our work a reality. I now have the opportunity to enrich that experience for volunteers and staff alike, ensuring that we are working together in the most effective and impacting way possible. Because once we are at our most effective and impactful, we will only then truly appreciate the truth behind the vision that together we will beat cancer.

‘Together’ encapsulates the collective effort of our entire community that gives me confidence that we will see cancer beaten. Toby Dawson

Internship includes life snippets My name is Jessica Xiao. During my penultimate year at university, I had decided to join the flock of internshiphunting university students and start the long search for something that would complement my Bachelor’s Degree in International and Global Studies. While an ‘events and community fundraising’ internship at Cancer Council was the opposite to what I should have been looking at, I didn’t hesitate when I applied because I had always enjoyed event management. However, I never imagined that I would end up in such a wonderful work environment. I had believed that I would be volunteering in an office environment that you see in movies, one where everyone was far from interesting and was purely absorbed by work. Since day one there has never been a boring day in the office, and over time I’ve developed great relationships with all the team members. Our work breaks are filled 4

with funny stories, travel tips and weird facts which need to be cross-checked with Google. At the same time, I’ve been given weekly snippets of life after university in full time employment, and gained skills that lecturers and readers couldn’t provide. I’ve also had the pleasure of watching the life cycle of many community fundraising events, from the day the event appears on the computer screen, waiting for an approval, to the day when the host has banked their funds and you hear about the wonderful time they had holding the event. I remember that during my interview I had been a bit hesitant when Crystal asked how long I planned to stay. In all honesty, I was thinking a few months, maybe a month extra to make up for the time I’d be spending in South East Asia backpacking. It has now been almost a year since I first started, and I’m still as keen as I was on day one.

At Bayon Temple in Angkor Wat, Cambodia, Jessica face to face with the local version of the “leaning tower of Pisa” photo opportunity.

Finished treatment? We’re not finished helping. After treatment can be a confronting and challenging time. Many cancer survivors feel as though others don’t understand what they have gone through. Despite the expectations of family and friends to just ‘get back to normal’, finishing treatment can bring new challenges.

The Living Well After Cancer program is a FREE program, held across NSW, and open to all cancer survivors, their carers, family, and friends who are seeking practical information, discussion and ideas about how to adjust to the changes, challenges and opportunities you may face after completing treatment. Come to a program to connect with other survivors and have the opportunity to share tips, ideas and activities.

To register your interest call 1300 200 558 or email livingwellaftercancer@nswcc.org.au For more information visit cancercouncil.com.au and search Living Well After Cancer.

VolunteerVoice | December2014 We know that government policies don’t always reflect best-practice cancer prevention and access to care. Organising and mobilising our community is an effective way to influence government action. Change starts locally – wherever community leaders step up, bring others along and work together. With the next state election less than half a year away, we’re gearing up our campaign to make sure the next Government knows what it can do to help beat cancer. Want to be part of the campaign? Visit http://canact.com.au/savinglife2015/ to join.

What the campaign will involve Vision for Change A written agenda listing five of the most important things the next State Government could do to help beat cancer. What needs to change? • Tobacco Retail Reform. Our retailer audit found that there are about five times as many tobacco retailers in NSW as there are pharmacies. • Increased Aboriginal Workforce in Cancer Services. Aboriginal people are 60 per cent more likely to die from cancer. But it doesn’t have to be this way. • No Chemotherapy Co-payments. Some cancer patients pay up to $180 in co-payments for their initial chemotherapy treatment, and may even be charged more down the track if their treatment changes. • Coordinated Cancer Care. Coordinating appointments and keeping up with complex information can be confusing and distressing for cancer patients and their families. • More Palliative Care Services. We know that around 70 per cent of Australians say they want to die at home, but only 16 per cent are able to do so. People in regional and rural areas are particularly disadvantaged. Every year in NSW more than 37,000 people are diagnosed with cancer and 13,000 lose their lives to the disease. In our state, every town, every community, and every family will be touched by cancer in some way. That needs to change. So we are calling on the next State Government to use their power to help beat cancer. And we need your help to start the change. 6

Planning for Change On 25 and 26 July 2014, 90 people from across NSW came together for our planning event in Sydney. The participants were people who had committed to leading the Saving Life 2015 campaign in their local area. At Planning for Change they learnt more about the issues laid out in our Vision for Change document and planned how to campaign on these issues in their local communities. Organising and Acting for Change From July 2014 onwards, we’ve supported each local leader to run a local campaign launch and two other community based activities. These activities have been designed to suit different communities, but all will help build and demonstrate community support for the issues, and reach local MPs and candidates. We’re working with local leaders to determine what works best in their area. Local activities and events have run from September 2014, and will continue until just after the election in March 2015. Saving Life 2015 is all about ‘taking it local.’ If we are active in communities across NSW we can have an impact on the next Government’s policy agenda and the attitudes of the next Parliament. Let’s make NSW a place that prevents cancer where possible, and makes sure cancer patients get the treatment and support they need. Visit cancercouncil.com.au/savinglife for more information.

An extract from Research Highlights 2013-2014

WHAT REALLY CAUSES CANCER?

Lead researcher: Associate Professor Freddy Sitas, Cancer Council NSW

Investigators: Professor Dianne O’Connell, Professor Emily Banks, Professor Michael Barton and Associate Professor Karen Canfell Research Team: Dr Visalini Nair-Shalliker, Ms Usha Salagame, Mr Michael Revius, Ms Jennifer Rodger, Ms Christina Christou and Ms Anne-Louise Wells

We don’t understand all the causes of cancer, especially lifestyle risks.

This huge resource with information on more than 10,000 Australians is unlocking answers that will help to beat cancer.

Data collected by Cancer Council NSW is allowing new research to untangle the complex relationships between cancer and lifestyle factors, including alcohol, tobacco, physical activity, infections, hormones, sun exposure and sleep patterns. Although much is known about risks for cancer, these differ significantly from place to place. The Cancer, Lifestyle and Evaluation of Risk (CLEAR) Study is shedding light on these risks. CLEAR has information on more than 10,000 Australians and their lifestyles, and is now available for use by cancer researchers across the world. THE NEED

HIGHLIGHTS

IMPACT

Cancer is a complicated disease. Generally, there is not one single cause of cancer but many different factors that interact and increase risk. Yet we still don’t understand how many of these causes interact, nor which cancers they affect. For example, we know that smoking increases the risk of lung cancer, but there is also evidence that it affects more than a dozen other cancers, including liver, pancreatic, stomach and bowel cancers. Through the CLEAR Study, Cancer Council NSW has surveyed more than 10,000 people, including 8,000 with cancer, providing an information archive that will allow us to continue to uncover more about the causes of cancer.

The CLEAR Study collects data on physical activity, alcohol consumption, smoking, migration, reproductive history, shift work, cancer screening and dietary patterns.

The causes of cancer are complex and there is still much to be learned. Studies based on CLEAR data will improve our understanding, inform policy, underlie better public health decisions, and allow people to make choices that will reduce their risk of cancer. The CLEAR Study comprises a world-class collection of information on cancer risk factors, which is now available to researchers across the globe. Studies using this resource may eventually lead to the prevention of many deaths from cancer.

One study using CLEAR data has shown that many cancer patients have the mistaken belief that stress increases the risk of cancer. Three studies on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which is a known risk for breast cancer, are underway, including a study led by researchers from the University of Oxford. Current studies include work on how alcohol interacts with smoking and obesity; how irregular sleep patterns influence cancer risk; whether obesity affects men and women differently; and new biomarkers for prostate cancer.

More from Cancer Council’s fascinating and informative Research Highlights 2013-14 publication can be read here: cancercouncil.com.au/researchhighlights-annual-report-2013-14 Research Highlights 2013/14 13

VolunteerVoice | December2014

Thank you Your legacy can support our work Leaving a bequest in your will can mean a world of difference as we work for a future free of cancer. Get in touch with the friendly team at Cancer Council NSW to talk about your bequest by phone (02) 9334 1479 or email bequests@nswcc.org.au.

“If you have left a gift in your will to Cancer Council NSW, please do let me know. Getting in touch will help our team to plan research investment for a future where we are stronger than cancer.”

Anica’s grandsons and her daughter, Gordana, holding Anica’s photograph.

Associate Professor Freddy Sitas, Cancer Research Division.

my sisters in tow, to find a safe and peaceful place to raise a family. I was only nine at the time, but remember Mum settling in quickly and falling in love with her new home. She was a trained teacher, and began to volunteer at the local school. I remember walking down the street and having kids run up to her, calling her Aunty Anica. As much as she loved her community, she was loved by them as well.

Anica’s story

In 2001, mum was diagnosed with breast cancer.

My mum, Anica, was a loving and devoted parent, community volunteer and grandma. Mum’s bequest is helping Cancer Council support thousands of women just like her.

I remember how hard it was for mum when the doctors told her she would need a mastectomy of her right breast. It wasn’t just about her appearance, for her it was a connection to motherhood as well.

Mum and Dad migrated from Macedonia to Australia with me and

The support that mum, and our whole family received during that time and

as told by her daughter Gordana

afterward was incredible. The fact that a migrant family who were facing the challenges of life in a new country could still be given the best of care blew us away. If it weren’t for the support in place our story would have been so different. Mum recovered and lived out her life cancer free. When she decided to leave a financial gift to Cancer Council in her will, our whole family agreed. It was her chance to give back to a community that had given her a new chance at life. I want to encourage you, just like mum did, to talk to Cancer Council about leaving a gift in your will and living on in the fight against cancer. Read more here: cancercouncil. com.au/get-involved/ways-todonate/leave-a-gift-in-your-will/

Recognise On Friday 25 July, in front of nearly 100 advocates, Cancer Council NSW CEO Jim L’Estrange, along with Lachlan McDaniel, Project Officer Community Awareness for the Recognise Campaign, signed a Non-Government Organisation charter to support the campaign to fix the historical exclusion of Aboriginal and

Torres Strait Islander peoples from Australia’s Constitution. We also need to remove discrimination from the text – like the section of our Constitution that says people can be banned from voting based on race. Visit recognise.org.au for more information.

Reduce your cancer risk Healthy lifestyle tips that really do make a difference

Body weight

It is important to maintain a healthy body weight by enjoying regular physical activity and eating according to your energy needs. Making fruit, vegetables, legumes, cereals and reduced-fat dairy foods a big part of your daily diet will help as well. Of course, losing excess weight isn’t easy – and most popular weight loss diets don’t work for the long term. It’s better to make small, achievable changes to your diet and physical activity habits. You’ll find this more rewarding, less restrictive, and easier to keep up for life.

Did you know that at least a third of all cancers can be prevented by a healthy lifestyle? Here’s how you can increase the chances of a cancerfree future for you and your family. If you think avoiding cancer is beyond your control, think again. There’s now overwhelming evidence that many of your daily lifestyle choices can make a big difference to your cancer risk. In fact, there are eight areas where your choices can help stop cancer catching up with you.

Lots of people think exercise means pain and effort, but it doesn’t have to be that way.

Physical activity

To maintain a healthy body weight you need only aim for about 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most, if not all days of the week. It could be just a brisk evening walk with a friend. Moderate physical activity is any exercise where you can still hold a conversation. You don’t even have to do it all at once – you can spread it throughout the day while you build up your fitness (e.g. three 10 minute walks).

So start by serving yourself smaller portions, then try to cut back on alcohol as well as foods and drinks which are high in sugars, salt or fats. At the same time, start doing more physical activity.

Active thinking Being active, like healthy eating, requires a little daily planning – and needs to be kept up for life. As a reward you’ll have more energy and feel great! • Take a daily stroll at lunchtime. • Convert a daily driving errand into a walk. • Look for active fun – bike riding, ball games, or team sports. • Try a dance class or a class at the gym.

Control your weight to reduce your risk of cancers of the bowel, kidney, pancreas, oesophagus and endometrium (lining of the womb), as well as postmenopausal breast cancer.

Stay physically active to reduce your risk of bowel, endometrial (lining of the womb) and breast cancers (after menopause).

Fruit & veg

While there’s no one food that will prevent cancer, eating a range of fruit and vegetables is a great way to protect yourself from cancer of the mouth, throat, oesophagus, stomach and bowel. Vegetables and fruit are essential for a healthy balanced diet. They can help you to maintain a healthy body weight and are a great source of fibre, vitamins and minerals. They also contain natural protective substances, such as antioxidants, that can destroy cancer-causing agents called carcinogens. Aim to eat at least five serves of vegetables and two serves of fruit each day. A serve of vegetables includes ½ cup of cooked vegetables or 1 cup of salad vegetables. A serve of fruit includes 1 medium piece of fruit (such as an apple), 2 small pieces of fruit (such as apricots), or 1 cup of chopped fruit.

Lean meat, poultry & fish

Lean red meat is an important source of iron, zinc, Vitamin B12 and protein. However diets high in red meat (especially processed meat) are associated with a moderate increase in bowel cancer risk. A sensible balance is to eat a moderate amount of lean red meat, for example a small 65g serve each day or two serves (130g) 3-4 times per week. Cancer Council recommends including poultry, fish and plenty of plant-based foods in your diet such as fruit, vegetables, legumes and wholegrain cereals. It is important to choose lean cuts of meat and chicken and avoid burnt or charred meat. Consumption of processed meats like sausages, frankfurts, bacon and ham which are high in fat, salt and nitrates should be limited as these products are linked to increased bowel cancer risk.

Whole grains & fibre

Aim for at least 5 serves of vegetables and 2 serves of fruit each day.

Fortunately, there is a wide and delicious range of foods that provide dietary fibre, including: wholegrains; wholemeal breads and flour; wholegrain cereals; brown rice; wholemeal pasta; fruit; vegetables; seeds; nuts; and legumes (peas, beans and lentils). It is recommended that women eat 25g of dietary fibre per day and men eat 30g of dietary fibre per day. That means you should eat at least four serves of wholegrain or wholemeal foods daily (or make sure at least two-thirds of your daily serves of breads and cereals are wholegrain or wholemeal varieties). A serve includes 1 slice of bread, 1/2 cup brown rice, wholemeal pasta or noodles, or 1/2 - 2/3 cup breakfast cereal.

Include dietary fibre to help lower your risk of developing bowel cancer.

Did you know that tobacco smoking is the lea If you’re a smoker, stopping smoking is the b

Quitting smoking will greatly reduce your risk of cancer, heart disease, stroke, emphysema, and other harms. The sooner you stop the better, but quitting at any age will still bring you health benefits. Some people stop smoking suddenly, while others cut down to quit. If you are cutting down, remember that the true health benefits of quitting will not be realised until you stop completely, so aim to stop completely by a specific date.

Tips to help you quit • Most smokers quit smoking unassisted, but there are also products and services available to help you quit smoking. • Whatever method you use be clear about your reasons for quitting and commit to making a serious quit attempt. A serious quit attempt is where you believe you will never smoke again. Try to think of yourself as taking a huge positive step in becoming a non-smoker, rather than as a smoker who is missing out.

Think before you drink. Even drinking small amounts of alcohol increases the risk of cancer – the more you drink, the greater the risk.

Drinking alcohol increases your risk of developing cancers of the mouth, throat, oesophagus, bowel and breast. Oral cancers are six times more common in alcohol drinkers than in non-drinkers. Alcoholic drinks can also contribute to weight gain.

How much should you drink? To reduce your risk of cancer, Cancer Council recommends that you limit your consumption of alcohol or, better still, avoid alcohol altogether. If you choose to drink alcohol, you should: • Have no more than 2 standard drinks a day. • Avoid binge drinking (no more than 4 standard drinks in one session). • Have one or two alcohol-free days per week.

Sensible drinking

Standard Drink Guide Beer 1.1 285mL Full Strength 4.8% Alc. Vol

1.6 425mL Full Strength 4.8% Alc. Vol

1.4 375mL Full Strength 4.8% Alc. Vol

Wine 1.6 150mL Average Restaurant Serving of Red Wine 13.5% Alc. Vol

1.4 150mL Average Restaurant Serving of White Wine 11.5% Alc. Vol

1.4 150mL Average Restaurant Serving of Sparkling Wine 12% Alc. Vol

1.2 330mL Full Strength Ready-to-Drink 5% Alc. Vol

1.5 375mL Full Strength Pre-mix Spirits 5% Alc. Vol

Spirits 1 30mL High Strength Spirit Nip 40% Alc. Vol

ading cause of preventable death and disease in Australia? best thing you can do to improve your health.

• Take sensible steps to avoid temptation, especially in the early days. Avoid smoky places and hanging out with smokers, reduce alcohol, coffee and cola drinking. • Give yourself rewards for quitting – for example spending the money you save on things that you enjoy. Or get others to reward you! • Moderate exercise, such as walking, can reduce cravings. • If your partner smokes it can be a big help if they can also try to quit, or at least smoke outside. Make your home smoke free, including for visitors. • Get support from your family and friends to quit, or sign up for online support such as the My Quit Buddy phone app, Quit Coach, or icanquit.com.au • Professional support and guidance is also available to help you quit smoking. Call Quitline (137 848, 13 QUIT), get advice from a health professional, or join a quit smoking group. • Using subsidised prescription medications that your doctor can prescribe, or over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapy (e.g. patches) can help reduce nicotine withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

No smoking • You may experience bad moods for up to about a month as you go through nicotine withdrawal – but remember that ex-smokers report being happier and less stressed after quitting. • Never “just have one” cigarette after stopping – it’s a fast track to becoming a full-time smoker again. Don’t smoke other tobacco products either, such as cigars. • If you are like most people you may need more than one quit attempt to quit. Stay committed to trying again when you are ready and don’t give up on giving up.

Skin sense

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or solariums and tanning equipment is the cause of almost all melanomas and other skin cancers. Find each day’s SunSmart UV Alert for your local area in the Weather section of your newspaper, or online at cancercouncil.org.au/sunsmart

Australia has among the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Two in three Australians will develop some form of skin cancer in their lifetime. In 2011, more than 2,000 Australians died from skin cancer.

Avoid skin cancer The good news is that most skin cancers can be cured if diagnosed and treated early enough. However most skin cancers can be prevented altogether if you just follow a few simple steps. 1. Get to know your skin. Be alert to any new or changing moles, freckles and spots. 2. If you notice anything new or different, get medical advice as soon as possible. Delaying treatment increases the chances of more invasive treatment, including extensive surgery and permanent scarring. Melanoma is an especially dangerous form of skin cancer that can invade other parts of your body and become fatal if it’s not treated early. 3. Protect your skin. It’s never too late (or too early) to start protecting your skin from UV radiation and the risk of cancer with these five steps: • Slip on clothing that covers your arms and legs.

• Slop on SPF30+ (or higher) broad spectrum water resistant sunscreen. • Slap on a broad-brimmed, bucket or legionnaire hat. • Seek out shade whenever you can. • Slide on wrap-around sunglasses that meet Australian standard AS/NZS 1067:2003 and have an eye protection factor of (EPF) of 10. 4. Know the risk. UV levels are high in most parts of NSW for most of the year. So check the daily SunSmart UV Alert and always protect your skin when UV levels are 3 or above.

Vitamin D Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones and muscles. The body makes vitamin D when your skin is exposed to UV radiation. We can’t say exactly how much time any one person needs to spend in the sun because getting enough vitamin D without increasing your risk of skin cancer depends on a few different factors including time of year, time of day and the colour of your skin. In NSW, most of us should get enough vitamin D by exposing about 15% of the body (hands and arms or lower legs) to sunlight on most days of the week for the following time periods.

• October to March** 10 minutes in mid-morning or mid-afternoon. • April, May, August and September** 15 minutes in mid-morning or mid-afternoon. • June and July** Southern NSW (e.g. Sydney, Batemans Bay, Wagga Wagga): 30-40 minutes in the middle of the day. Northern and far western NSW (e.g. Cape Byron, Armidale, Cobar): 20-25 minutes in mid-morning or mid-afternoon. ** Care must be taken by people with very fair skin and/or at high risk of skin cancer. Visit cancercouncil.com.au/ vitamindbreak for more information. *Cancer Council does not operate, endorse or recommend skin clinics and cannot recommend any particular doctors.

VolunteerVoice | December2014

Metro Sydney

Denise celebrates 15 years with Cancer Council NSW

Tune in to Sun Sound this summer

It is not at all surprising that Denise Bockett (pictured right) received the Volunteer of the Year Award for the Southern Sydney area in 2011. Denise has been volunteering with Cancer Council NSW for 15 years and continues to volunteer with us in a number of key ways, primarily at the Cancer Council Information Centre at St George Hospital, where she provides information and support to people affected by cancer as well as the health professionals at the Hospital.

Two in three Australians will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, and sun exposure during youth is a major contributor. Most young people are aware they should protect their skin from the sun. However, research shows they often forget.

She is also one of five trained volunteers who provide a meal service to patients on the oncology ward, working towards increasing their calorie intake, as well as providing a similar service for patients in the chemo clinic. Denise also volunteers as a Publications Volunteer, regularly updating and restocking publications for Cancer Council’s information display stands in Sutherland Shire. In addition to these two roles, Denise has also been a Site Leader for Daffodil Day and Pink Ribbon Day at Sutherland Shire stalls, and as an Office Volunteer, phoning key stakeholders and updating contact information. Nothing has ever been too much for Denise! The Metropolitan Sydney Region are privileged to have her as part of their team, and are truly thankful for all Denise’s time and energy that she has devoted in each of her multiple volunteering roles…and are touched by her humble and gracious approach to all she does for the community.

Sun Sound is a friendly sun smart reminder when it’s most needed. The catchy five second jingle is designed to be played at regular intervals on loud speakers at beaches, pools and sports grounds. Sun Sound was produced by renowned Australian musician Ben Lee. Sun Sound’s launch in summer 2009 attracted widespread national and international media coverage. This summer our Sun Sound volunteers will be out and about making sure 18 Metro beach and pool sites have all the gear they need to make this year’s campaign a successful one.

Sun Sound is a friendly sun smart reminder when it’s most needed.

Volunteer Profile Stephanie Salmon (pictured right) is an events and fundraising volunteer with the Metro Sydney team. Working on Relay For Life events, she is a valuable team member who assists in coordinating logistics, and also reaching out to community members to promote Relay. Stephanie recently moved to Australia and was looking for a

They will also be our eyes and ears, ensuring that the Sun Sound is being played at regular intervals across all these sites throughout summer. This summer, Cancer Council NSW is proudly partnering with Beach Radio to promote and broadcast the Sun Sound across Bondi Beach FM, Manly Beach FM, Cronulla Beach FM, Coogee Beach FM, Newcastle Beach FM and Maroubra Beach FM. We’re thrilled that Beach Radio will be playing the Sun Sound to remind radio-listening beachgoers to use sun protection when they are enjoying their summer break. So remember, when you Hear Sun Sound, Be Sun Sound. Visit beachradio.com.au for more information.

way to get involved in her new community and meet likeminded people. Like most people, she and her family have been affected by cancer, and she is pleased to be part of an organisation that does so much to support cancer patients and their families. Visit cancercouncil.com.au/ get-involved/volunteer/volunteervoice/ to see Stephanie’s full profile.

VolunteerVoice | December2014

Greater Western Sydney

Planning for change An amazing time was had by Community Program Coordinators (CPCs) and advocates on Friday 26 and Saturday 27 July. It’s impossible to believe there would be a person in the room who was not motivated, moved or inspired during the Planning for Change event to launch the Saving Life 2015 election strategy. The Greater Western Sydney (GWS) region was heavily involved and was pleased to have a large contingent of advocates ready to take this campaign to the streets! Although it is difficult to cover all our 26 electorates, GWS has ten terrific advocates on board. Our GWS Saving Life 2015 advocates are: Sinilia Radivojevic and Samantha Rosenfels, Fairfield; Wendy Watson, Epping; James Butler, Baulkham Hills; Nicole Winram, Riverstone; Ellen Hegarty and Brenda Harrold, Londonderry; Chris Hall, Penrith; David Wilkinson, Blue Mountains; and Kathie Collins, Blacktown.

Event attendees planning for change.

Riverstone advocate Nicole Winram recounted a personal and touching story about how her son shared with her details about his dad’s illness told to him by the palliative care team at Westmead Hospital. Also, Penrith CPC Rod Titovs co-facilitated a session on relational meetings with Anita Tang, Cancer Council’s Policy and Advocacy Manager, and showed us all how well

to do one with Liz Hing. GWS CPCs and advocates have started planning their first events and there is real excitement in the region about this campaign, with the Spring Relays of Fairfield and Blacktown already starting to plan their actions. The Greater Western Sydney region congratulates the Policy and Advocacy team on a job well done on organising a terrific event!

Charity dinner builds awareness Aaron’s Wish, an annual Do It For Cancer Black Tie Dinner for Brain Cancer, has raised a whopping $44,370 so far in its second year! Hosted by Kim and Michael Iori, parents of Aaron Iori, who passed away early last year of brain cancer leaving behind a young family, the event builds awareness of brain cancer and what people can do to help fund research for a cure in the local community. L-R: Kim Iori, Associate Professor Dr Geraldine O’Neill, and Michael Iori.

Highlights of the fundraiser included a specially designed dinner cooked by

Celebrity Chef Darren Simpson, and desserts kindly donated by Adriano Zumbo. All the produce for the dinner was donated by Meat and Livestock Australia and various local suppliers, along with the Best Parts of the Best Cow key fundraiser prize, prime cuts of wagyu beef valued at $3,000. Special guests on the night included Associate Professor Geraldine O’Neill, and Associate Professor Brian Owler, President of the Australian Medical Association.

VolunteerVoice | December2014

Hunter Central Coast

Shirley Shuttle journey continues

Barbara Galvin and ‘appreciation’ for Shirley Shuttle.

Barbara Galvin was inspired to create Shirley Shuttle in 2006 after her mother died from cancer. Motivated by her mother’s concern for patients who didn’t have appropriate transportation to and from treatment sessions, and with some help from Cancer Council, the government and the community, Shirley Shuttle was born. The shuttle works just as Barbara intended it to – as a patient transport service to and from hospital visits. There are now four vehicles operating across the Central

Coast. The fourth joined the fleet at the end of April, six years after the first was launched. These four shuttles have amassed the following remarkable statistics – transporting 1,185 individual clients on 10,690 journeys totalling more than 186,352 kilometres over the six years of operation. This wonderful asset to cancer patients, hospitals and Cancer Council is something that everyone involved hopes to continue working on for many years to come. It has been made possible only through the continuing hard work of Barbara. All efforts to keep this project running are highly appreciated, and still required as funds for these operations start to dwindle. As a volunteer, Barbara’s commitment to Cancer Council and the Shirley Shuttle initiative is just one example of the power of volunteering and the changes that it can bring to someone suffering cancer and their family.

Barbara’s commitment to Cancer Council and the Shirley Shuttle initiative is just one example of the power of volunteering and the changes that it can bring to someone suffering cancer and their family.

Youth lead the way Brisbane Water Secondary College student Amira Khedr was one of 29 young people completing the Gosford RSL Max Potential youth leadership program. As part of this program students needed to deliver a final project that made a difference in their local communities. Amira decided she would like to raise awareness of cancer and Cancer Council NSW’s programs and services. In 2012 her mum was diagnosed with a stage five melanoma carcinoma, from which she made a full recovery after treatment and surgery.

Council’s 13 11 20 information number Following the completion of projects all the students who had participated in the Max Potential program also showcased their work as part of an expo. Pictured below: Amira, in white shirt, with Year Six students at Ettalong Public School.

The experience made Amira keenly aware of the importance of cancer prevention by taking precautions in the sun. Amira approached our Erina office to seek support in developing an appropriate project, and it was decided that a refined Community Speaker presentation would be the best option. Amira’s project included a short presentation and various activities for Ettalong Public School students to participate in, such as ‘past experience reflection’, ‘understanding words associated with cancer’, ‘unscramble the words’ activity, and a competition to design a poster for Cancer

VolunteerVoice | December2014

Northern NSW

Off to a flying start

Information Centres welcome new volunteers Cancer Council NSW helps connect cancer patients, their carers and their families with information and support services through its Information Centres (CCICs), based within hospitals and treatment centres around NSW. The Centres are for anyone who has questions about cancer. There are also a number of resources available, which are provided to visitors by friendly volunteers.

Left to right: Warren Taylor, Imogen Rabone, Community Programs Coordinator at Coffs Harbour, and Keith Anderson.

The Saving Life 2015 campaign is off to a great start in the Northern Region, with advocates in the Lower Mid North Coast meetings with local MPs to officially hand them the Vision for Change document. They have also worked on setting up stalls at local events where they encourage community members to get behind the campaign by having their photograph taken in one of the custom made Saving Life 2015 frames. The local paper has picked up the campaign, explaining the Vision and introducing local advocates, Warren Taylor and Keith Anderson. Change has also started in the Far North Coast with five fantastic advocates launching into action following the Planning for Change conference. On the Far North Coast and Northern Rivers team we are fortunate to have Art Beavis, Nerida Dean and Val Quinn, who all do amazing work for Cancer Council, as well as Teena Binge and Dena Moore, who both work in the Aboriginal Health sector. Nerida managed to take photos with Lismore and Tweed MPs who both committed to attending local Daffodil Day events, and meeting with our Advocates to discuss Vision for Change.

New volunteers are being trained up in Tamworth to run the ‘mini’ CCIC at the new oncology centre at Armidale Hospital. The CCIC took on six new volunteers who participated in a two-day training, with others on standby for the next scheduled training. This is a great achievement for Cancer Council NSW and the Armidale Oncology department, led by clinical nurse consultant, Pam Pateman. The Armidale and New England cancer community will all benefit from the assistance provided by our wonderful new volunteers. The Far North Coast also welcomed new volunteers (pictured below) to its Cancer Council Information Centre team at Lismore. With the new additions to the team, the St Vincent’s CCIC can now remain open for longer hours, and shifts can be provided that were unable to be filled previously, much to the delight of hospital staff and locals alike.

Volunteer awarded for her service It’s fantastic when volunteers can be awarded for their hard work and contribution to the community, so the Tamworth office in the Northern Region was thrilled when one of our volunteers, Narelle Langfield, was bestowed with a Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow Award. Narelle was awarded for her service to the many charities and service groups she is involved with and dedicated

to. For Cancer Council NSW Narelle is a Living Well After Cancer facilitator, a Community Speaker, a past Relay For Life committee member, a passionate advocate, and never shies away from a media opportunity when asked. Congratulations, Narelle!

VolunteerVoice | December2014

Southern NSW

Sharing the daffodil love It was all systems Yellow for the Southern Region on Daffodil Day – from the beaches on the coast to the small country towns out in the west, over 300 volunteers across 80 sites were out and about in force sharing the daffodil love. Volunteers from many facets of the organisation, including General and Practical Support (GAPS) and Advocacy, spearheaded the day with Member of Parliament Liaisons and their respective members promoting Saving Life 2015. It was wonderful for the community to see the synergy

between specific Cancer Council programs and one of our most iconic fundraising events. As a sign that Spring was near, fresh daffodils were the drawcard of the day, with more than 6,000 bunches sold. By early September, the Southern Region had topped over $130,000 in fundraising with more still to bank. A massive “thank you” to our team leaders and volunteers for the best ever Daffodil Day in the Southern Region!

VolunteerVoice | December2014

Western NSW

Small town, BIG hearts

Random acts of kindness

For the second year running Narromine in western NSW hosted a Daffodil Day stand, run by Community Programs Coordinator and team leader Camilla Barlow, with volunteers and buddies Jacqui McCutcheon and Lauren Crawford. Camilla is originally from Narromine, so her Mum and Dad helped out on the day, too.

Local residents were kept on the lookout the week leading up to Daffodil Day, with the Wagga Cancer Council Office and local breakfast radio host and Daffodil Day ambassador Pip Enscoe participating in a number of Random Acts of Kindness to help raise awareness for the event and show support to those in need.

It was definitely the place to be with lots of locals stopping by for a quick gossip and to also support Cancer Council!

“Daffodil Day is an incredibly iconic Cancer Council fund-raising event, and I am proud to be the face of the event this year in the Riverina,” Pip said.

Narromine is very much a strong farming community, so the Farmer Dougal Bear was a big hit with the locals. The stall was a huge success and raised well over $2,000 on the day, proving once again that small communities often compensate for size with generosity and spirit. Pictured above, left to right: Jacqui McCutcheon, Camilla Barlow and Lauren Crawford.

Pip and Dougal Bear paid a surprise visit to the children’s ward at the Wagga Base Hospital where they brightened the children’s day and met with their families. Pictured above, left to right: Grace Dunn (3 years old), Dougal Bear and Pip Enscoe.

The spirit of individuals Daffodil Day 2014 saw many volunteers who have been through their own cancer journeys showing they care for others and displaying the virtue fortitude. The spirit of individuals within our community who work together with Cancer Council NSW to help beat cancer is astonishing. Not only have they survived or are currently going through treatment, they work towards improving cancer outcomes and preventing cancer. Cancer Council is fortunate to work with such wonderful community members. A huge “thank you” to all involved! Robert Burr, Cancer Council’s regional Orange Advocate, took the opportunity to invite local MP Andrew Gee to be part of Daffodil Day by giving Andrew a Daffodil Day pin. Wearing the Daffodil Day pin provides an easy, visible way to show that one cares about cancer. Andrew embraced the opportunity to meet with community members, and spoke to local media about issues faced by cancer patients and the importance of funds raised from Daffodil Day.

Robert (pictured below with Daffodil Day volunteers) also attended Daffodil Day stalls in Bathurst, promoting our current pre-election campaign, Saving Life 2015. Saving Life 2015 is all about ‘taking it local.’ If we are active in communities across NSW we can have an impact on the next government’s policy agenda and the attitudes of the next Parliament. Robert handed out flyers to community members with the aim of getting more local support behind us to make NSW a place that prevents cancer where possible, and to make sure cancer patients get the treatment and support they need.

VolunteerVoice | December2014

Recipe Corner

Book Review

Grilled chicken and noodle lettuce wraps Serves: 4 Preparation time: 25 minutes Cooking time: 10 minutes Ingredients 2 cloves garlic, peeled 2 coriander stalks and leaves, roots discarded 1/3 cup

lime juice

1/3 cup

rice wine vinegar

2 tbs sweet chilli sauce 8 chicken tenderloins 125 g dried rice vermicelli or bean thread noodles 1 tbs red curry paste 375 mL coconut-flavoured evaporated skim milk Olive or canola oil spray 8 iceberg lettuce leaves 2 carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks 4 spring onions (including green tops), chopped 2 cups bean sprouts 1 cup coriander, chopped, extra Method • Place garlic, coriander, lime juice and vinegar into a small food processor or blender and puree until smooth. • To make dipping sauce, remove 1/3 cup of mixture, stir in sweet chilli sauce and set aside. • Add remaining coriander mixture to chicken in a small bowl, stir to coat and set aside to marinate.

• Place noodles in a large bowl and cover with boiling water. • Add curry paste to a small saucepan on medium heat. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes until fragrant then turn to low heat and add evaporated milk. Stir until curry paste is mixed through, simmer for 1 minute, then add drained noodles. Mix well and remove from heat. • Spray a grill pan with oil and place on high heat. Cook chicken for 2-3 minutes each side. • To serve, place a chicken tenderloin in a lettuce leaf. Top with a spoonful of noodles, bean sprouts, carrots, spring onions and sprinkle with coriander. Spoon over ½ tablespoon of dipping sauce and roll up to eat. Hint: Cover and refrigerate marinated chicken for as long as time permits, from 30 minutes to overnight. Place lettuce, noodles, chicken, other vegetables and dipping sauce onto separate serving plates and allow diners to fill a leaf with some of each filling, roll into a parcel and eat with their fingers.

So It’s Cancer: Now What? by Ranjana Srivastava So It’s Cancer: Now What? is a guide to what to do when you receive a diagnosis of cancer, by medical oncologist and award-winning author Ranjana Srivastava. You have cancer. These three small words have the power to dramatically change the rest of your life. The words can set in motion a chain of events that render you – the patient – passenger, feeling out of control of your own body and circumstance. And while cancer connotes mystery, its reputation should not discourage you from understanding the illness. With her trademark wisdom and warmth, Ranjana Srivastava demystifies the labyrinthine world of the illness. What is cancer and how is it treated? Why can’t I have an operation? What should I eat and how do I manage pain? She equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions on the perennial issues, such as finding the right oncologist, and to ask the bigger questions, such as how to break it to the kids. More about this book and author can be found at penguin.com.au Visit Ranjana Srivastava’s website at ranjanasrivastava.com

VolunteerVoice | December2014

Events Calendar Relay For Life Queanbeyan: Queanbeyan Show Ground, 21 February

What do we believe? We will beat cancer. Everyone can do something every day to make it happen. No one should go on a cancer journey alone. Together, we are stronger than cancer.

Help us beat cancer

Nominate a Star Volunteer The Cancer Council NSW Star Volunteer awards recognise the invaluable contribution that volunteers make to the organisation and to the community. Approximately 32,000 people volunteer with Cancer Council NSW each year, bringing their enthusiasm and commitment to a range of roles, from fundraising to transporting cancer patients to treatment facilities. Help recognise and highlight the amazing work of our volunteers in helping us to beat cancer. Nominations for Star Volunteers are currently being accepted at cancercouncil.com.au/ starvolunteer Winners are announced on the first Wednesday of each month. For more information visit the Cancer Council NSW website and search Star Volunteer Award.

Register to join a research study today! Cancer Council and other academic bodies conduct research studies to do with cancer. These studies may be questionnaire based surveys, focus groups and interviews or other types of research. Study participants will not necessarily be cancer patients. Please register your interest to be included on our database. Your story or the story of someone you know will help us find the answers. Register at cancercouncil.com. au/joinastudy or call the special Join a Research Study number, (02) 9334 1398.

Your local Cancer Council contact details Metro Regions: Metro Sydney 153 Dowling St, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011 (PO Box 572, Kings Cross NSW 1340)

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Northern Sydney Community Office Crows Nest Regional Office, Level I, 117 Willoughby Rd, Crows Nest NSW 2065

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(02) 9334 1754 (02) 9334 1600

Greater Western Sydney Parramatta Regional Office, Rotary House, 43 Hunter St, Parramatta NSW 2150 (PO Box 3426) .. (02) 9354 2000 Casula Community Office 39 Ingham Drive, Casula NSW 2170 (PO Box 287)

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Penrith Community Office 114-116 Henry St, Penrith NSW 2750 (PO Box 4379)

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Rouse Hill Community Office Health One, The Terrace, 40 Panmure Street, Rouse Hill NSW 2155 (PO Box 6112)

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(02) 9354 2050 (02) 9354 2060 (02) 9354 2070

Regional and Rural offices: Hunter & Central Coast Charlestown Regional Office, Unit C1.2, Level 1, Landmark Building, 215 Pacific Hwy, Charlestown NSW 2290 .................................................................................................................................................................................... (02) 4923 0700 Upper Hunter Community Office 69 John St, Singleton 2330 (PO Box 570) ................................................................................................ (02) 6571 2899 Erina Fair Community Office The Hive, Erina Fair, Erina NSW 2250 (PO Box 5102)

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(02) 4336 4500

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(02) 6627 0300

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(02) 6659 8400

Northern NSW Suites 8 & 9, Level 1, 130 Jonson Street, Byron Bay NSW 2481 Coffs Harbour Office 121 High St, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

Southern NSW Wollongong Regional Office, Suite 7 Ground Floor, iC Enterprise 1, Innovation Campus, Squires Way, North Wollongong NSW 2500 (PO Box 21, Fairy Meadow NSW 2519)

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(02) 4223 0200

Bega Community Office Shop 8, Auckland Plaza, 81-83 Auckland St, Bega NSW 2550 (PO Box 772)

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(02) 6492 1805

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(02) 6392 0800

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(02) 6937 2600

Western NSW Orange Regional Office, 4a/122-124 Kite Street, Orange NSW 2800 (PO Box 1977) Wagga Wagga Office: 1/37 Tompson St, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 (PO Box 1164)

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Tamworth Office Shop 1, 218 Peel St, Tamworth NSW 2340 (PO Box 1616) ................................................................................................. (02) 6763 0900