Wear a hat to farm day

Source: Queensland Times, September 2014

A DAY on the Farm will be held this month at Wehlston Farm in Rosevale to raise money for vital melanoma research.

The event was created in memory of the late Peter Wehl, a farmer, husband, son and grandfather who lost his battle with melanoma in February.

Heather Wehl said her husband loved having friends and family at their farm in Rosevale, and that’s exactly what the fundraiser was all about.

“It was such a dreadful experience that we felt we had to create a positive out of it," she said.

“The aim of the day is to raise awareness of the importance of skin protection while giving kids a fun day on the farm.

“We want to raise truckloads of money for melanoma research because scientists are on the cusp of some very exciting results at the moment."

Health Minister Lawrence Springborg presented a $5000 donation from Queensland Health to the local cancer fundraising event.

Mr Springborg said the fun day would raise funds for the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute for future melanoma research and for Melanoma Patients Australia.

“I am proud to present this cheque today on behalf of Queensland Health to kickstart the fundraising efforts for this great event," he said.

“The theme of the event will be around farming – something Peter was passionate about.

“It sounds like an amazing event for the kids with a petting zoo, jumping castle, hay rides, face painting and trucks and tractors.

“I congratulate the Wehl family for hosting such a wonderful event, so soon after losing Peter to melanoma, to help others and to raise money for a great cause."

Mrs Wehl said contrary to popular belief, skin cancer did not just happen on the beach.

“Melanoma is the biggest killer of adults under 40 in Queensland, and affects people in rural areas just as much as those on the coast," she said.

“The $5000 donation was wonderful; it’s nice to realise that the Queensland Health Department understands the importance of melanoma research.

“I encourage everyone to come, bring a hat and have a fun day out in the country."

The event will be held on Mr Wehl’s birthday on Saturday, September 27, from 10am to 3pm on Wehlston Farm, Rosevale. For more information about the event or to donate, visit adayonthefarm.org.