Get behind 'Dry July'

Published on 01 July 2021

Local residents are encouraged to ditch alcohol between 1 July and 31 July and support people affected by cancer.

Now in its 14th year, Dry July has inspired more than 250,000 Australians to raise funds for more than 80 cancer organisations nationally by choosing not to drink alcohol during July.

“Dry July encourages us all to ditch any unhealthy habits that we may have developed and support a great cause,” Mayor Charlie Gillingham said.

“These changes include making healthier food choices, increasing levels of physical activity, looking after your mental health, and limiting alcohol intake.”

Northern District Community Health Chief Executive Officer, Mandy Hutchinson said that consumption of alcohol is a serious issue in Australia and a month off alcohol is a great way to kick start a positive lifestyle change.

“Giving alcohol the flick has a lot of health and wellbeing benefits,” Ms Hutchinson said.

“A month off alcohol helps clear your head, gives you more energy, helps you sleep better, and improves concentration and productivity. It is also a great way to break an unhealthy habit, many people who take the challenge go on to limiting their alcohol intake permanently – a win for both your physical and mental health.

“If you are super keen you can sign up and raise funds for people impacted by cancer as part of the formal ‘Dry July’ initiative.”

Dry July participants have raised $60 million since the program’s development in 2008, with participants able to sign up individually or via a workplace challenge.

For more information and to register for the challenge, please visit www.dryjuly.com