Qld: Make a Wish cuts ties over cosmetic surgery prizes

AAP General News (Australia)
12-06-1999
Qld: Make a Wish cuts ties over cosmetic surgery prizes

The Make-A-Wish Foundation today cut its ties with a controversial Gold Coast charity
golf tournament offering a penis enlargement to the man with the longest drive.

Cosmetic surgery firm Clinical Beauty which organised the Sanctuary Cove tournament
had said the tournament will raise funds for the charity which grants wishes to sick children.

But foundation chief executive officer TONY WALSH says the charity has ceased all involvement
with the tournament after learning it was offering cosmetic surgery as prizes.

The tournament, due to tee-off on Friday, is also offering breast enlargement surgery
for the woman with the best round.

The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons today joined Queensland Health Minister
WENDY EDMOND and the Australian Medical Association in condemning the competition.

A society spokeswoman says most of its surgeons are absolutely sickened when they hear
of such prizes being offered and not all patients are suitable for cosmetic surgery.

The issue is expected to be brought up at the next meeting of state and federal health
ministers to discuss possible uniform legislation throughout Australia.

AAP RTV jhm/sc/as/jn

KEYWORD: COSMETIC (BRISBANE)

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