“Congratulations to Oberon Council for taking this proactive step to help make its community cancer smart,” said Ruth Fagan, Western Regional Manager of Cancer Council NSW.

Ms Fagan presented Oberon Mayor Bob Hooper with a Partnership Certificate at the Interagency meeting held at Oberon Library on Tuesday.

The Cancer Council Community Partnerships program uses council outlets, networks and venues to get cancer prevention and support programs through to people and organisations in local communities.

“For a small amount of effort and time, and almost no out of pocket expense, councils can reap big health benefits for their community,” Ms Fagan said.

Cr Hooper said that Oberon Council welcomed the partnership and its potential to improve the health and wellbeing of Oberon Council residents.

“I and the other councillors believe that by working in this partnership we can lower the impact of cancer in the Oberon LGA,” Cr Hooper said.

“One in three people will get cancer in their lifetime so it’s important that we’re proactive about preventing cancer and helping cancer patients in our town and community.”

The Community Partnerships program will include vital sun safety advice to childcare centres and workplaces, and skin cancer awareness programs for older citizens and providing resources in council libraries.

The partnership also offers local cancer support groups to utilise council venues.

“The partnership is excellent value as most of the materials and programs are provided free by the Cancer Council,” Cr hooper said.

“Our role is to ensure the greatest number of people in our community benefit from what’s on offer.”

It is estimated that 108 residents from the Oberon Local Government Area were diagnosed with cancer between 2000 and 2005, with an estimated 35 dying from the disease.