National week to celebrate hard working carers

Disability Services Minister Annastacia Palaszczuk and state Ipswich MPs Wayne Wendt and Rachel Nolan today paid tribute to Queensland's carers ahead of National Carers Day Celebrations on Tuesday, 20 October.

Ms Palaszczuk said it was important to acknowledge the valuable contribution of carers to individuals, families and communities throughout the state.

“There are more than 530,000 unpaid carers in Queensland and the Bligh Government recognises the integral role they play in our society,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

“As well as making a big difference to a person’s wellbeing, they make a significant social and economic contribution to the community.

“Carers Week activities are a small but visible way of reaching out to carers to let them know support is available, and to celebrate the incredible role they play in the community.”

Queensland Carers Week, which runs from 18 to 24 October and is an initiative of Carers Queensland with the full support of the Bligh Government.

Member for Ipswich West Mr Wendt said there were a number of ways that people could be involved in the week.

“I encourage community members to seek out carers they know, or those they may not know but who live in their neighbourhood, and make the effort to spend some time with them,” Mr Wendt said.

“This could be as simple as a cuppa at home or taking them out for coffee, a movie or some other activity.

“In Ipswich, Carers Day will be celebrated at Metro Hotel – Ipswich International tomorrow (Tuesday, 20 October) from 9.30am to 12.15pm.

“The event will include entertainment, information and some well deserved time-off for local carers.”

Member for Ipswich Ms Nolan said Ipswich winners of the Carers Queensland Carer Friendly Business Awards will also be announced.

“State winners will be announced at a gala lunch on Thursday 22 October 2009,” Ms Nolan said.

“These awards give carers an opportunity to thank those businesses that have demonstrated an understanding of the difficulties faced by carers, and made a special effort to help make life a little bit easier.”

Carers Queensland Ipswich Carer Services Officer Alex Galea said the theme for Carers Week 2009 - Anyone, Anytime Across Australia - recognised that becoming a carer was not always expected.

“Carers are friends and family members who can find caring responsibilities thrust on them quite suddenly,” Mr Galea said.

“Caring can impact on a carer’s health or wealth and they need support and services to help them continue in their caring roles.

“Carers Week is an opportunity for carers to come together, support one another and share ideas.”

More information about Carers Week, including a calendar of events, is available at www.carersweek.com.au

Media Contact: Minister Palaszczuk’s office 3237 1944

Alex Galea, Carers Queensland 0488 080 522