Summer's scorch and sizzle are on its way, and there's no better way to enjoy the cooling breezes of the ocean than on one of the many beautiful beaches on the Mid North Coast.
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Now there is a way for everyone to enjoy the beach this summer, Lake Cathie's Reg Mckay has devised a simple but ingenious sun-blocking product that can be easily transported anywhere.
Mr Mckay saw the need for the Sunshader Chair after a recent skin cancer operation in Sydney.
He was stunned to see most of those in recovery were women aged in their thirties.
"The lounge was filled with all these young women who had undergone terrible surgery to various parts of their bodies," Mr Mckay says.
"But we all had the same story - if only we'd known the danger of not having proper protection from the sun."
Mr Mckay created the Sunshader Chair in 2011 because he wanted to keep playing outdoors with his grandchildren, despite the restrictions of multiple rounds of surgery to remove cancers.
It weighs just five kilograms and can be erected or collapsed in a couple of quick steps.
Over time he has amended the design so it can be easily used by larger people or mums who need to feed children.
Plus it's got plenty of pockets for storage, and can safely store valuables while the user is having a swim.
Mr Mckay saw the difference the Sunshader could make on the Mid North Coast during trips to the beach with his grandchildren.
"I see very few umbrellas here when I'm at the beach," he said. "Although most do use some form of sunblock, sitting out in the sun can be dangerous
"The Sunshader Chair gives you the option."
The Sunshader is made to Australian Standards with the frame heavy-duty power coated high-tensile steel. Each one can have a weight capacity of 130 kg.
Mr Mckay's wife Helen recently let him know the chair has the added benefit of casting a shadow for another person to use.
"I can go anywhere and just put it down and put it up," he said.
The perfect Christmas gift
The Sunshader Chair makes for the ideal gift for those who want to enjoy our sun-loving lifestyle but keep safe from the harmful effects of the sun. It's perfect for just about any activity where comfortable seating is required.