A new forest shelter has opened at the National Arboretum as a place of reflection to remember the impact of ‘Mr Fluffy’ loose fill asbestos insultation in the ACT.

The place of reflection in the Black Tupelo Forest provides an opportunity for the community to reflect upon the impact of loose fill asbestos on the lives of hundreds of Canberrans, Rebecca Vassarotti, ACT Minister for Sustainable Building and Construction, said.

“The discovery of the health impacts of ‘Mr Fluffy’ loose fill asbestos insultation and the need to knock down over a thousand homes as a result, deeply impacted the lives of thousands of Canberrans,” Ms Vassarotti said.

“Individuals and families continue to live with its impact. This place of reflection is an important part of the healing process for the community.

“ACT residents and visitors to Canberra will be able to visit the pavilion and reflect on the impact of ‘Mr Fluffy’ on their lives, and the community.”

Dangerous ‘Mr Fluffy’ loose fill asbestos insulation was first installed in homes more than 50 years ago. In June 2014, the ACT Government’s Loose Fill Asbestos Insulation Eradication Scheme sought to address the ongoing public health and safety risks posed by this substance, and eliminate it from homes through a Voluntary Buyback and Demolition program.

The ‘Mr Fluffy’ Community and Expert Reference Group recommended establishing a place of reflection to provide a focal point for those impacted, and educate the community on the historic use of loose fill asbestos in the ACT.

Black Tupelo Forest was selected following feedback from the Canberra community.

“The opening of the place of reflection coincides with National Asbestos Awareness Week and provides an opportunity to highlight the progress that has occurred since the ban of asbestos in Australia,” Ms Vassarotti said.

“I encourage everyone to visit the shelter and reflect on this chapter in Canberra’s history while looking over our city.”