Council to deter smokers from lighting up in Nowra’s CBD

Smoking is more prevalent in Nowra than in many parts of Australia, and many residents have had a gutful of second-hand smoke in the CBD.

A South Coast Register poll indicated there has been widespread support for an all-out ban on smoking in Nowra’s CBD.

A majority of readers (59 per cent) who voted on the poll advocated for a smoke-free zone.

Worrigee Health Centre nurse Kathy Godwin treats patients suffering smoking-related health problems on a daily basis.

She said even minimal exposure to smoke adversely affects residents, and would be pleased to see council implement a ban.

“In the Shoalhaven we have one of the highest asthma rates in NSW, smoking can be a trigger,” she said.

“The elderly are at risk, smoke can irritate their lungs, so are babies.

“By reducing the amount of smoke in the CBD, we can reduce hospitalisations and the burden on the health system.”

She believes it would service the community on the whole, and smokers who intend on quitting.

“Everyone’s entitled to be healthy,” she said.

“It would be a good thing for community wellbeing.

“It should encourage smokers to reflect on their risky lifestyle behaviour, and give them the opportunity to reduce their smoking habit.

“Statistically, it’s still one of the biggest killers in Australia.”

Her comments follow Shoalhaven City Councillor Nina Cheyne’s renewed calls to ban smoking in the CBD at a recent meeting, where councillors voted to erect anti-smoking signs around Junction, Berry and Kinghorne Streets.