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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 1997 Week 13 Hansard (4 December) . . Page.. 4568 ..

MR WHITECROSS (continuing):

The report goes on to state:

Helmets are designed to serve a number of functions. They absorb the force and decelerate the blow at the point of impact, resist impact-induced deformation, withstand surface abrasion and distribute the focal impact over a larger area. There is experimental evidence that cycling and ice hockey helmets achieve at least part of this aim.

The report also states:

The evidence that helmets reduce soft tissue injuries is shown by studies examining the effectiveness of cycling helmets.

In another review undertaken by Michael Henderson from the Motor Accident Authority of New South Wales, entitled "The Effectiveness of Bicycle Helmets - A Review", the wearing of bicycle helmets has been proven to result in a reduction in risk among some child helmet wearers of 63 per cent for head injury and 86 per cent for loss of consciousness. Dr Henderson's study also points out that in the two years following the introduction of the bike helmets law the number of bicyclists with head injuries decreased by 48 per cent.

In conclusion, Mr Speaker, when I raised some of these issues in the Assembly on 8 May I was not attempting to malign or falsely accuse Mr Curnow. However, I was attempting to ensure that the facts were provided to the community. Mr Curnow does not believe in the wearing of bike helmets. However, it is my belief that as legislators we are morally obliged to reduce the risk of harm and damage to our children and fellow citizens. Just as many people in the community do not like wearing seat belts, it has been shown that, in the event of an accident, wearing seat belts may save lives. This is not a guarantee that seat belts save lives, but the potential of saving life is increased if a seat belt is correctly worn.

I believe that the evidence currently available on the public record proves that, while a bike helmet may not absolutely protect an individual from brain injury in the event of an accident, it will substantially lessen the risk. At the end of the day that is all anyone can ever hope for; that is, to substantially lessen the risk of harm or damage to our children and loved ones using bicycle helmets. I defend my right to interpret the evidence provided by Mr Curnow as I did. I resent the attack on my reputation, and I resent, Mr Speaker - - -

Mr Osborne: That is all you had to say, Andrew; not carry on with all that crap.

MR SPEAKER: Order!

MR WHITECROSS: Mr Osborne says that my opinion in relation to the safety of wearing helmets is crap. That is what he said.

MR SPEAKER: Do not respond to the interjection. Ignore it.

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