Diabetes Australia is encouraging fans attending the NRMA Insurance Boxing Day Test to take a five-minute health check that could change their life.
Free Shane Warne Legacy (SWL) Health Checks are being offered at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in partnership with the Legacy’s founding partner, Latrobe Health Services, and health partner Diabetes Australia, to support people to know their numbers and start a conversation about their health.
Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain urged people attending the Test to take advantage of the opportunity to get on-the-spot results.
“Last year, over 13,000 cricket fans underwent a SWL Health Check at the Boxing Day Test, and we’re aiming for even more in 2025,” Ms Cain said.
“While not all diabetes can be prevented, and some people are at higher risk due to genetic factors or family history, we know that 58 percent of type 2 diabetes cases could be prevented or delayed. For that to happen, we need to reach people who are at risk.
“This Boxing Day Test, we’re encouraging attendees to take a few minutes out of their day to visit the SWL Health Check stations and get to know their numbers.
“The great thing about the SWL Health Checks is that they are free, quick and self-serve, and they give people information on their key health metrics that can help start a conversation with their health professional.
“Shane Warne was a much-loved fixture of Australian sport, both as a larger-than-life cricketer and as an iconic personality with a passion for community. Diabetes Australia is proud to partner with the SWL to encourage greater diabetes awareness and health screening.”
1.3 million Australians are living with type 2 diabetes, and 2 million more are at risk, which could include around 7,000 people at risk in a stadium the size of the MCG – or 1 in 14 attendees.
The Shane Warne Legacy CEO Helen Nolan said the health check initiative perfectly reflects Shane’s belief in supporting individuals and the wider community.
“I know he would have been genuinely thrilled to see a program with such meaningful impact come to life. These screenings are more than just a check on your health, they’re a chance to take proactive steps towards a stronger, healthier future. Because of the awareness Shane’s name brings many people have embraced this mindset, and I know he would have encouraged everyone to make the most of these free services,” Ms Nolan said.
This year 56 SiSU Health Stations will be available throughout the MCG, giving cricket fans easy access to quick, non-invasive health assessments. Each self-serve station measures blood pressure, body composition, heart rate, BMI, and AUSDRISK, with results delivered instantly on-screen and via the SiSU Health mobile app.
In addition to the self-serve stations, clinician-led finger-prick blood tests for cholesterol and blood glucose levels will be offered to eligible participants. If elevated risks are identified, users are encouraged to follow up with a healthcare professional.
Free SWL Health Checks are also available nationwide, year-round on SiSU Health Stations at over 300 locations, visit https://shanewarnelegacy.com/ to learn more.
Together with Shane Warne Legacy, Diabetes Australia is committed to raising awareness about the risks of serious health conditions like type 2 diabetes and its close connection with other chronic conditions.
More information about type 2 diabetes prevention is available to individuals by calling 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) on 1800 773 8368 or visiting https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/prevention/1800prevent/
