QFLEET LINES UP FOR RED NOSE DAY

All QFleet vehicles auctioned, as well as some vehicles in the government vehicle fleet, are wearing red noses to show the Queensland Government’s support for the annual SIDS and Kids Red Nose Day, Public Works Minister Robert Schwarten said today.

Mr Schwarten said around 6,000 QFleet vehicles were proudly displaying the magnetised red noses in the lead up to Red Nose Day, one of the country’s highest profile and best loved fundraising events.

“SIDS and Kids is an international leader in the field of health promotion, dedicated to the elimination of sudden and unexpected infant death, and is best known for its SIDS-related research and education programs,” Mr Schwarten said.

“Red Nose Day, held annually on the last Friday in June, is SIDS and Kids’ major fundraiser.

“Funds raised through Red Nose Day activities help SIDS and Kids in providing its vital services and programs.

“In 1988, when Red Nose Day first started, 479 Australian babies died from SIDS. With Red Nose Day income, SIDS and Kids organisations funded research and produced the SIDS and Kids Safe Sleeping health promotion campaign, leading to a drop to 73 SIDS deaths in 2003.”

Mr Schwarten said this year’s Red Nose Day, on June 27, was the event’s 21st anniversary.

“In 1988, the Red Nose Day concept was adopted and since then, people, cars, and buildings around the nation have joined in the fun,” he said

“The red nose always brings a smile to people's faces. By wearing a red nose you can be silly for a great cause.”

For more information about Red Nose Day visit www.rednoseday.com.au.

Media contact: Scott Chandler on (07) 3237 1832