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Barwon Health / Barwon South West Public Health Unit

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Cats leaders encourage community to roll up their sleeves

Tuesday, 13 July 2021

Well-known Geelong Football Club leaders Chris Scott and Brian Cook have joined Barwon Health as 'Community Heroes' for the Barwon South West vaccination rollout.

Chris has joined the campaign as an ambassador to help spread the important message to the local community to get vaccinated to help return to a normal life as soon as possible.

The Cats coach believes getting his vaccination is important to help the wider community.

“The past 18 months have been difficult for so many people in our community,” Chris said.

“Many people have missed out on doing what they love. I am getting vaccinated this month so I can protect my family and our community and hopefully doing my bit to help us get back to normal life."

“I also can’t wait to see full capacity crowds back at footy and engaging with the fans again.”

Cats CEO and Barwon Health Board chair Brian Cook has seen first-hand the impact on both the sporting industry and frontline healthcare workers.

“I’ve seen the impact COVID-19 has had on our healthcare workers and they have done an incredible job supporting our community in such a critical time,” he said.

“I’ve been vaccinated so that we can support and protect our healthcare system.

“Like everyone, I also want to see people getting back to regular life and the events and activities that we all enjoy, like catching up with friends and going to the footy.”

This message has been backed by Professor Eugene Athan, Barwon Health’s director of the Barwon South West Public Health Unit.

“It is vital that people get vaccinated as soon as possible to ensure they are protected from COVID-19,” Prof. Athan said.

“We are now fortunate to have vaccines that will protect us from COVID-19. These are very effective vaccines that can protect, you, your loved ones and the community.”

The Barwon Health Community Hero campaign is being supported by the Geelong Advertiser who is putting out a ‘call to arms’ to get everyone across Geelong and the Surf Coast vaccinated. The Barwon Health Community Hero campaign will feature identities from around the region supporting the Barwon South West vaccination rollout.

PHOTO: (L-R) Chris Scott, Brian Cook, Professor Eugene Athan and Vaccination Hub Nurse Unit Angela Hayes.