Cancer Council Ugly Xmas Rashie

Cancer Council Ugly Xmas Rashie

Australia's much-loved answer to the Ugly Xmas Sweater is back for 2017 - with a new, true-blue cockatoo design!

Cancer Council's 2017 limited edition Ugly Xmas Rashie, manufactured by Scody Australia and featuring a cockatoo, is set to be another instant hit for the beach this summer.

The Ugly Xmas Rashie first launched in 2015 and sold out within 48 hours - and has been an Aussie tradition ever since. 

Cancer Council Queensland CEO Ms Chris McMillan said the charity was proud to launch another new design of the Ugly Xmas Rashie - Australia's answer to a global Christmas trend.

'It's too hot for us to don Ugly Xmas Sweaters in summer in Australia – but the Ugly Xmas Rashie ensures Aussies can stay on trend and sun safe while supporting a great cause," Ms McMillan said.

'What better way to incorporate sun safety into your Christmas get-up and stay festive all summer long?

'With two in three Australians diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime – we are always looking for ways to make sure Australians can safely have fun in the sun – and this product does just that.

'The rashie is rated UPF50+, keeping trendsetters safe while at the beach, with the added bonus of supporting our work in cancer research, patient support and prevention programs."

Ms McMillan said pre-orders were now available for the new cockatoo design, and the original Ugly Xmas Rashie kangaroo design, in a range of unisex adults and kids' sizes.

'Get your orders in today to get your hands on a limited addition rashie or cycling jersey before they sell out," Ms McMillan said.

'They're the perfect gift for the whole family and play a key role in keeping you SunSmart.

'When you head outdoors, pair the rashie with a pair of sunnies, a hat and some sunscreen, and seek shade to help protect your skin from the sun and reduce your risk of skin cancer later in life."

Scody Australia Bernard Schreiber said the Ugly Xmas Rashie was an Australian tradition, crafted to the highest quality.

'We're thrilled to partner with Cancer Council this year in the promotion of the Ugly Xmas Rashie and give Australians the opportunity to get festive for a good cause," Bernard said.

Scody has also released an Ugly Xmas Cycling Jersey which will be available in the original kangaroo design to help keep cyclists festive while out on the road. 

The Ugly Xmas Rashie is now available for pre-order online at www.uglyxmasrashie.com.au and will be in some Cancer Council stores across Australia from October 2017. 

Aussies can share their pics wearing their Ugly Xmas Rashie with the hashtag #uglyxmasrashie and visit @uglyxmasrashie on Instagram or Facebook to raise awareness.

Every year in Australia:

Skin cancers account for around 80 per cent of all newly diagnosed cancers

Between 95 and 99 per cent of skin cancers are caused by exposure to the sun

GPs have over 1 million patient consultations per year for skin cancer

The incidence of skin cancer in Australia is one of the highest in the world, two to three times the rates in Canada, the US and the UK.

Cancer Council provides vital research, support services and cancer prevention programs for those affected by cancer. For more information, visit www.cancer.org.au or phone 13 11 20.