The Lions Club of Barossa Valley brought back free head-to-toe skin cancer screenings over the October long weekend, courtesy of volunteers from the Lions Medical Research Foundation SA/NT - and the results are in.
As reported by Simon Westwood, Chair Skin Cancer Screening Committee, "This year's statistics were 130 people screened, with 37 people referred for further investigation, which equates to 28.5 per cent of those screened.
"This is higher than the average for this year, but not as high as in some areas.
"Only 16 clients had never been screened, with most (58) having had a screening over 12 months previously," said Mr Westwood.
Of those referred, Mr Westwood explained, "all were over 60 years of age, which reflects the research as well as the majority demographic of those screened."
"It's a good thing that the public care and are aware now...and screening is free," said Nuriootpa resident, Rose Wauer.
"There was no sunscreen in our day, we slathered ourselves in baby oil," she added.
The Skin Cancer Screening Unit covers South Australia, Northern Territory, Mildura and Broken Hill, and the unit is staffed by volunteers who are medical professionals, or have been trained in screening procedures.
"Even after the event the public were still calling, trying to get a booking," said Tom Wauer, Secretary The Lions Club Barossa Valley.
The Lions Club of Barossa Valley hopes to get the unit back in two years, due to the overwhelming need for the service.
"There's satisfaction in what you can do for the community," said Rose.