We are excited to announce a partnership between Melanoma Institute Australia (MIA) and the Boating Industry Association (BIA) which will help promote sun safety amongst boating enthusiasts.

The collaboration with BIA underscores the shared commitment of both organisations to enhance public health and safety. The partnership includes MIA hosting a stand at the 55th Sydney International Boat Show from 1-4 August, where attendees will have the opportunity to visit MIA’s ‘Sun Safe Island’ and learn about effective sun protection strategies and receive educational material.

“We are delighted to be a charity partner for the Sydney International Boat Show which will put sun safety front of mind for thousands of boating enthusiasts,” said Melanoma Institute Australia CEO Matthew Browne. “We have the highest melanoma rates in the world, with one Australian diagnosed with this potentially deadly form of skin cancer every 30 minutes. The sheer number of hours spent outdoors in the sun, combined with the reflection of UV from the water, makes boating a particularly high-risk activity in terms of sun exposure. We are urging everyone at this year’s Sydney International Boat Show to ‘get onboard with sun safety’ and give it the same importance as other life-saving safety measures when out on the water. We thank the Boating Industry Association for its ongoing support in helping us reach our mission of zero deaths from melanoma.”

In Australia, more than 85 per cent of the population live within 50km of the coast, with approximately 5 million Australians going boating each year. With an increasing number of people embracing boating year on year, the risk of sun exposure and its harmful effects, including melanoma, is a significant concern.

Boating Industry Association CEO Andrew Scott said, “Our partnership with Melanoma Institute Australia aligns perfectly with BIA’s mission to promote a safe, responsible and enjoyable boating experience. By emphasising the importance of sun safety, we aim to protect our community and encourage healthy habits when out on the water via our member network and in our many initiatives to promote the boating lifestyle.”

Our MIA community receive 20% off tickets to the Sydney International Boat Show – buy your tickets via the button below.