By John Kenny

Kiama warmly welcomed Jay Allen OAM, cancer survivor and CEO of the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation, on Wednesday, 27 November. The visit was part of Jay’s Mission Melanoma Walk, a 333km journey from Parliament House in Canberra to Bondi, Sydney, to raise funds for skin cancer research and prevention. The walk coincided with National Skin Cancer Action Week (20–26 November).

Jay and his team stopped in Kiama for rest and refreshments before continuing their trek. They were greeted by Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald, members of the Kiama Rotary Club, and families from the community who have lost loved ones to skin cancer.

Speaking to the group, Jay emphasised the importance of the initiative:

“Every step we take is a step towards saving lives. By walking, we’re not only raising critical funds but also spreading awareness about skin cancer prevention and ensuring no one faces a diagnosis alone.”

Mayor McDonald thanked Jay and his team for their dedication and for including Kiama in the walk, acknowledging their efforts to honor those in the municipality lost to skin cancer.

Kiama Rotary Club President Phil Whyte echoed the sentiment, highlighting the club’s long-standing commitment to skin cancer detection through free skin check programs supported by local benefactors Tennille Shelley and her family, alongside medical staff.

“We’ve been committed to supporting skin cancer detection in our community for years,” said Mr. Whyte. “We are pleased to donate $3,500 to the Foundation to further its work in reducing melanoma’s impact in Australia, which unfortunately has the highest rate in the world.”

In response, Jay expressed gratitude, noting that funds from the walk will help finance a second mobile National Skin Check Truck. The first truck, launched in June 2023, provides free skin checks in communities with limited access to such services.

Before heading to Wollongong, Jay and his team enjoyed refreshments provided by Tennille and her family, a testament to Kiama’s support for this vital cause.