THE Big Banana lights up red on Saturday 9 September as part of International FASD Awareness Month and the Red Shoes Rock campaign.

Building awareness and educational programs around Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a key role of the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE), which is why it is working alongside the National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (NOFASD) and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) to create communities that support alcohol-free pregnancies.

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“Alcohol consumed at any stage of pregnancy passes directly to the developing baby and can damage their brain, body, and organs,” said Caterina Giorgi, CEO, FARE.

“It can lead to the lifelong disability known as FASD, the leading preventable developmental disability in Australia.”

Red Shoes Rock is a global awareness campaign giving voice and support to those affected by prenatal alcohol exposure.

The campaign was started by RJ Formanek, an adult with FASD.

He decided to wear red shoes to stand out, be noticed and start a conversation about his invisible disability.

“We’re encouraging Australians to wear red shoes or red socks throughout the month, to spark conversations and create understanding about this largely invisible and preventable disability,” said Caterina.

As part of Red Shoes Rock, the Big Banana will beam out in red amongst more than 50 other landmarks across Australia.

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said raising awareness of the outcome of drinking while pregnant was key.

“Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder can have long lasting impacts on the victims, their family and the community,” he told News Of The Area.

“Raising awareness of this preventable disorder and the steps people can take to prevent it are a challenge for us all and I commend the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education and the Big Banana for going out of their way to raise awareness.”

2023 Coffs Harbour Electorate Local Woman of the Year Award, Di Woods, Health Promotion Manager at Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education told NOTA, “National FASD Awareness campaigns are making an impact.

“They are contributing to a generational change, especially in regional areas like Coffs Harbour.

“Having communities, families and friends that support people to have alcohol-free pregnancies helps to provide the best start to life for our young Australians.”

TWOOBS, the iconic ethical Australian shoe brand, is partnering with FARE to amplify the campaign across social media.

By Andrea FERRAI