National week to celebrate hard working carers
Posted by editor (editor) on Oct 28 2009
2009 >>

Disability Services Minister Annastacia Palaszczuk and state Gold Coast MPs Peta-Kaye Croft (Broadwater), Peter Lawlor (Southport) and Christine Smith (Burleigh) today paid tribute to Queensland's carers ahead of National Carers Day Celebrations on Tuesday, 20 October.

Ms Palaszczuk said it was important to acknowledge the valuable contribution of carers to individuals, families and communities throughout the state.

“There are more than 530,000 unpaid carers in Queensland and the Bligh Government recognises the integral role they play in our society,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

“As well as making a big difference to a person’s wellbeing, they make a significant social and economic contribution to the community.

“Carers Week activities are a small but visible way of reaching out to carers to let them know support is available, and to celebrate the incredible role they play in the community.”

Queensland Carers Week, which runs from 18 to 24 October and is an initiative of Carers Queensland with the full support of the Bligh Government.

Ms Croft said there were a number of ways that people could be involved in the week.

“I encourage community members to seek out carers they know, or those they may not know but who live in their neighbourhood, and make the effort to spend some time with them,” Ms Croft said.

“This could be as simple as a cuppa at home or taking them out for coffee, a movie or some other activity.”

Mrs Smith said Carers Day on the Gold Coast would be celebrated at Fradgelley Hall, Burleigh Heads tomorrow (Tuesday, 20 October) from 10.00am to 1.30pm.

“The event will include entertainment, information and some well deserved time-off for local carers and official launched by Lord Mayor Ron Clarke,” Mrs Smith said.

Mr Lawlor said Gold Coast winners of the Carers Queensland Carer Friendly Business Awards will also be announced. 

“State winners will be announced at a gala lunch on Thursday 22 October 2009,” Mr Lawlor said.

“These awards give carers an opportunity to thank those businesses that have demonstrated an understanding of the difficulties faced by carers, and made a special effort to help make life a little bit easier.”

Carers Queensland Gold Coast Carer Services Officer Cheryl Seely said the theme for Carers Week 2009 - Anyone, Anytime Across Australia - recognised that becoming a carer was not always expected.

“Carers are friends and family members who can find caring responsibilities thrust on them quite suddenly,” Ms Seely said.
 

“Caring can impact on a carer’s health or wealth and they need support and services to help them continue in their caring roles.

Last changed: [PUBLISHED_DATE] at 1:06 PM