The last week of November each year is Asbestos Awareness Week - this year it's November 23 - 27. The
week serves as a potent reminder of the effects of asbestos and
provides an opportunity to remember and support the families affected
by asbestos-related diseases. Elected occupational health and safety
reps also often use the week to check that their employer is complying
with the legal requirements (see the OHS Regulations, Part 4.3 Asbestos).
As usual there are going to be a number of events around the state around the issue of asbestos.
VTHC Activities
Forum: Towards a National Blueprint for Action on AsbestosTuesday November 24th - 9am
Entry: $30
Join us and a range of 'experts' for a half day forum to discuss the issues and begin the development of a 'Blueprint for Action'. Issues:
- Legislation - Workplace, Home, Workers Compensation
- Rehabilitation
- Early detection/Treatment
- Role of government - WorkSafe, EPA, Federal, State and local government
Wednesday November 25th - a discussion with Matt Peacock and Gideon Haigh, authors who have written books on the James Hardie company (followed by book signing).
In the Bella Union Bar, 6 for 6.30pm (to 8pm) - see poster on the left (James Hardie Authors)
Other Events
Tusday Nov 24th & Wed Nov 25th - The Asbestos Information and Support Service (AISS)AISS will be running a one hour information session on asbestos, including the medical and legal aspects, in both Melbourne and Geelong
GEELONG
Tuesday 24 November 2009 - Wesley Uniting Church Hall; 100 Yarra Street, Geelong
12-1pm, followed by free lunch
MELBOURNE
Wednesday 25 November 2009: Sunshine Uniting Church Conference Centre, 28 Withers Street, Sunshine
12-1pm, followed by free lunch
Friday November 27th
GARDS - Gippsland Asbestos Related Diseases Support Group
Asbestos Awareness Day Ceremony, Venue: Rose Garden in Morwell, 11.00am
The ceremony will be followed by free BBQ lunch with the compliments of Gippsland Trades & Labour Council - all most welcome to attend. For further information contact Vicki Hamilton 0407274173 or the GARDS office: 5127 7744
Asbestos Diseases Society of Victoria (ADSVIC)
ADSVIC is also holding its annual Asbestos Commemoration Ceremony at 11am, Friday 27th November. (see flyer)
The Governor of Victoria, David de Kretser AC Governor of Victoria and Martin Kingham will speak and members of the DUST choir with Mick Thomas, formerly of Weddings, Parties, Anything will present songs. The ceremony is a remembrance of lives needlessly lost to asbestos. Asbestos is a a problem of epidemic proportions killing around 800 people every year from the cancer mesothelioma Show your support for action on asbestos. Join us to send a message to the State Government about the dangers of asbestos in public and private housing. We are seeking to attract a strong media focus at the ceremony and your presence will add weight to the call for government action on asbestos.
A BBQ on the banks of the Yarra will follow the ceremony.