The Ekka is on its way!
Posted by editor (editor) on Jul 19 2009
2009 >>

You know the countdown has begun to the Ekka when the Office of Fair Trading starts checking the showbags.

Minister for Fair Trading Peter Lawlor said each year more than 300 different showbags are checked before the Ekka gates open to reduce the chance of unsafe toys and novelties ending up in the hands of children.

“The showbag industry is very cooperative in making sure show bag items are safe, however, even with the best of intentions problems can occur,” he said.

“This week Fair Trading officers spent two exhausting days sifting through hundreds of showbags.

“Some toys have been taken away for further lead testing and some other stuffed toys will be checked to ensure they have safety certificates.”

Minister Lawlor said this year the Office of Fair Trading has issued a ‘6 point showbag survival guide’ for parents and caregivers to prepare them for this year’s Ekka.

1. Only buy showbags suitable for the age of the child.
The bags are well labelled with age suitability. Any toy or novelty that fits into a 35mm film canister (or about the size of ping pong ball) is a choking hazard for children under three years.

2. Report any safety problems with showbags to the Product Safety Unit at OFT quickly 3008 5983. Product safety officers will visit the show to spot check for safety problems but we also encourage the public to report anything suspicious.

3. Take time to compare value
There is a huge number of showbags (more than 300) and some are better value than others. The internet guide is a good starting point to compare value before the Ekka starts: www.ekka.com.au

4. Its OK to say ‘No’
Don’t feel pressured into a buying frenzy. If you go to the show early it is less crowded and you will be more able to shop around and make the best choice.

5. Have a budget (and stick to it)
While it is natural to want to spoil children, the RNA is as good a time as any to teach your children about budgeting and purchasing choices.

6. Take advantage of free stuff
You would be surprised what is free to see at the Ekka - take advantage of all the free activities.

Last changed: Oct 06 2009 at 3:45 PM