The search is on for SunSmart ambassadors to spread the word about Slip! Slop! Slap! Seek! and Slide! this summer.
Cancer Council Victoria and SunSmart have launched a statewide search for people affected by skin cancer to spread the message about the importance of sun protection.
This includes men and women of all ages and walks of life who have had melanoma and non-melanoma types of skin cancer.
SunSmart Manager Jen Makin said SunSmart ambassadors were an important part of spreading the word about the need for sun protection when UV levels are above 3.
"By sharing your personal experiences with SunSmart, and helping us get your stories to the community via the media or through online or social media channels, you can help us change lives," Ms Makin said.
"It's a very effective way to let people know they should be slipping on sun protective clothing, slopping on sunscreen regularly, slapping on a hat, seeking shade and sliding on sunglasses – especially coming from people who have experienced skin cancer," she said.
Ms Makin said skin cancer is Australia's (and Victoria's) most commonly diagnosed cancer.
"More than 40,000 Victorians are diagnosed with skin cancer each year and more than 80 die from it," Ms Makin said.
"Whilst skin cancer is one of Australia's most common cancers it is also one of the most preventable.
"The good news is that we can all reduce our chances of developing skin cancer by being SunSmart," Ms Makin said.
Victorians wanting to share their skin cancer stories, and explain how their experiences changed their attitude towards the sun and affected their daily lives, are invited to contact SunSmart.
Send a brief summary of your experience with skin cancer via email to cairin.conway@cancervic.org.au or via post to Cairin Conway, Cancer Council Victoria, 615 St Kilda Road Melbourne Vic 3004. Please also include your age, occupation and postcode.