During 2009, findings done on a random sample of over 1,000 patients revealed that their number was two-and-a-half times the national reported incidence of malignant melanoma. 1 in 10 patients also had a lesion that was highly suspicious of skin cancer and just over a quarter of patients were diagnosed with moderate to severe sun damage. Of the 1 in 10 patients highly suspicious of skin cancer, approximately 40 percent were between the ages of 41 and 50.

With these numbers, it is important that everyone, including outdoor workers, become skin cancer conscious. Besides encouraging everyone exposed daily to UV-Radiation to become aware, it is important that Yass schools educate students on why wearing a hat and sunscreen is important.

All childcare centres, preschools and primary schools in Yass have a “No Hat, Play in the Shade” or similar policy in place for children who fail to wear a hat when outside. As for the High Schools in Yass, this is a different story.

Ray Claydon, Principal of Berinba Public school, said when recently asked that Berinba had a policy in place and that there was "quite good compliance," and that this policy was in effect “during terms four and one.” He also noted that this policy was “not in effect during winter months.” As the school sells the hats themselves and sunscreen is provided for if necessary, students who don’t follow this policy are a rarity. When asked if he believed implementing this policy saves lives, Mr Claydon said “Definitely. Sun awareness is an issue for children as they are young.”

Principal of Yass Primary School, Jenny Garnett, had a similar policy in place and that “all children are encouraged to wear hats in Term 1 and 4.” When asked if she believed the policy was successful, Ms Garnett said that the policy was “very successful, well over 90 per cent of students are wearing hats.” She also believed “awareness is needed but it is difficult to demonstrate to young children why it is such an issue.” The principal believed it was important to encourage the message, however, she added that she believed the “message is getting through successfully.”