EKKA 2007 SHOWBAGS GET SAFETY TICK OF APPROVAL

Thanks to the hard work of the Office of Fair Trading, this year’s Ekka showbags have been given the safety tick of approval, Fair Trading Minister, Margaret Keech, said today.

"I’m pleased to say that for the first time ever, OFT inspectors found no safety issues with toys or novelties contained in any showbags for sale this year," Mrs Keech said.

She said Office of Fair Trading inspectors examined about 300 show bags and found nothing they suspected might cause any harm or injury to small children.

"Show bags are a popular feature of the Ekka and each year our safety inspectors sort through the contents of every bag to weed out items which might be a safety risk," she said.

"Last year just three potentially unsafe toys were detected, and this year’s great result is a clear sign that our ongoing campaign to educate traders about their responsibilities is working.

"It’s pleasing to see retailers ensuring that their bags this year contain only safe products.

"The safety of products in show bags has been an issue in the past but the Royal National Association has done a good job this year making sure the goods in all the show bags meet safety standards.

"It’s good to see the industry is working cooperatively with the safety regulators and taking heed of our messages promoting product safety."

Safety inspectors from the Office of Fair Trading would continue to monitor the safety of the products in the show bags during the Ekka, but parents also had a role to play, said Mrs Keech.

"Parents should carefully check the contents of any show bag before giving it to their child to ensure the contents are safe and appropriate for their age," she said.

"I would urge EKKA show-goers to Shop Smart by following some simple tips:

• Shop around the various stands to compare quality with costs. Show bag contents can be seen online at www.ekka.com.au.
• Spend sensibly and take advantage of discount vouchers.
• Set children a dollar limit to help them budget, and choose some show bags online before heading to the show.
• Check your refund and warranty rights. Normal refund rights and responsibilities apply but because many EKKA traders move on after the show ends, make sure you check with every individual trader how you can follow up if there is a problem with your purchase.
• It is ok to say ‘no’ – do not 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 possible choice."

For more consumer tips and to view the product safety guidelines on safety of toys & novelties being supplied at shows visit www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au.

Media enquiries: Peter McCarthy on 322 51005 or Brian Larter (OFT) on 311 90067