Julia Banks (Chisholm, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

This year marks the 20th anniversary since the founding of the Breast Cancer Network Australia, the BCNA, and the inaugural tribute, Field of Women, held here in Canberra in 1998. Just last week I was truly honoured and moved to join inspirational BCNA founder, Lyn Swinburne; CEO of BCNA, the wonderful Kirsten Pilatti; board member Raelene Boyle; and many other passionate advocates and supporters of Australian women affected by breast cancer. At the Field of Women anniversary, there was a sea of pink on the lawns of Federation Mall, with Parliament House as a backdrop. It was a poignant and moving tribute to the survivors and the women we've lost.

It is estimated that over 18,000 women each year are met with a diagnosis of breast cancer. Breast Cancer Network Australia have worked since 1998 providing vital information, care, treatment and support to the thousands of women affected by breast cancer. BCNA is a superb organisation with a big heart and a big soul, where particularly the power of women supporting women comes to the fore. As the founding chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Women's Health I'm proud to be a passionate advocate for women's health and the wonderful BCNA and to provide my heartfelt support to all women and their families who are facing the challenge of breast cancer.