The Hunter Melanoma Foundation (HMF), in partnership with the Newcastle Netball Association, geared up on the weekend to raise awareness of melanoma.

The inaugural Lace Up for Melanoma round for Newcastle Netball Association was held in support of HMF and was a huge success raising $8,500 for the Foundation according to HMF Executive Officer, Claudia Tolhurst.

Claudia said the Foundation was overwhelmed by the sporting community’s support, with many local netball clubs taking part in the initiative.

“We cannot thank the Newcastle Netball Association enough for creating a Lace Up for Melanoma round, and encouraging their clubs to get involved,” Claudia said.

“All money raised will go straight into the many community activations HMF runs in the Hunter, educating and raising awareness of sun protection and early detection of melanoma.”

Newcastle Netball Association President, Cheryl Hernando said the association supports the exceptional work HMF does within the local community.

“HMF continues to highlight the importance of prevention and early detection of melanoma through education and awareness campaigns throughout the Hunter region,” Cheryl said.

“To directly impress this to our members and families via this dedicated round was invaluable.

“HMF also kindly donated two wall-mounted sunscreen stations to the Newcastle Netball Association to ensure there is always sunscreen on hand for everyone to use.”

Lace Up for Melanoma was originally created by the late David Wallace, a local Rugby Union Referee, who passed from melanoma last year.

Claire explained that David and HMF wanted to bring an educational activation to the local sporting community, as the majority are spent being played outdoors.

“David was an incredible advocate of raising awareness of early detection and prevention of melanoma and supporter of HMF,” Claire said.

“As we know melanoma doesn’t discriminate and even though we are entering the cooler months, sun protection and early detection of melanoma are just as paramount as the warmer seasons.

“We are very grateful to keep this initiative going in the local community through the Newcastle Netball Association and look forward to expanding this in other sports in the years to come.”