General News
22 November, 2023
All abilities walking group set to launch
A NEW all abilities walking group is set to launch in Mortlake which aims to unite members of the community and boost physical and mental health. People interested in joining the group will have an opportunity to shape the group’s activities while...
A NEW all abilities walking group is set to launch in Mortlake which aims to unite members of the community and boost physical and mental health.
People interested in joining the group will have an opportunity to shape the group’s activities while meeting new people or building existing relationships during a stroll through the community.
An expressions of interest session will be held on Monday, December 4 from 2pm at the Mortlake Community Health Centre on Boundary Road, with all interested members of the community of all
abilities invited to ask questions and join the group.
If enough support for the all abilities walking group is gained activities will commence in 2024, providing the perfect opportunity to stick with new year’s resolutions to be more physically and socially active.
Terang and Mortlake Health Service allied health assistant Chris Johnston said he hoped to see enough interest for the group to form and bring a wealth of positive health benefits to the community.
“There are all sorts of physical benefits such as boosting heart health, and it will also provide an opportunity for socialisation,” he said.
“There’s a lot of evidence out there that our physical and mental health is positively impacted by physical activity such as walking.”
Mortlake’s Carolyn Warneminde is among those who are looking forward to joining the all abilities walking group.
“Everyone I’ve spoken to walks around town a little bit, and there’s a benchmark in Terang with the success of their walking group – which has had up to 80 members,” she said.
“I hope to see the group grow in membership, I think it would be nice if people had something here.
“We might start with a walk around Tea Tree Lake because it’s so beautiful, it has different gradients and has good shelter and seating for anyone who might not want to walk the whole distance.
“We could expand but who knows; I think it would have to start small.”
The expressions of interest meeting will provide an opportunity for all to have their say on when the group will walk, what time, where and share all ideas.
“The more the merrier,” Mr Johnston said.
“People with questions are also welcome to contact me at the Josie Black Community Health Centre on 5592 0300.
“It’ll be community driven, so we’ll hear what people have to say and go from there.”