General News
18 January, 2024
Numbers Bolster new group
A NEW all-abilities walking group is set to launch in Mortlake next month with strong support from the community.
Terang and Mortlake Health Service (TMHS) will host the Mortlake All Abilities Walking Group with its first session planned for Wednesday, February 7.
It is currently planned for the group to walk on a Wednesday (8.30am) and Thursday (9.30am) from the Mortlake Community Health Centre on Boundary Road, with a planned stroll around Tea Tree Lake.
As Western District Newspapers reported in December, a meeting was held to gauge community interest and exchange ideas on a vision for the group.
More than two dozen expressions of interest were received with around 15 members of the community joining ahead of the group’s first walk.
TMHS allied health assistant Chris Johnstone said it was “fantastic” to have interest far exceeding early expectations.
“At the moment we’ll just be walking around Tea Tree Lake but this is a group which will be driven by what members want to do, be that where they want to go and how far they will go,” he said.
“We’ll start at the lake and build from there but the interest has been strong and we’re excited to see how it unfolds.”
Mr Johnstone said the concept behind the group stemmed from the success of walking groups in other communities.
In addition to positive physical benefits, the groups have helped to grow social connections in their respective communities and help participants stay motivated to put one foot in front of the other.
“At the moment the group is a predominantly a female group but we would encourage others to get involved as everyone is welcome to come along,” Mr Johnstone said.
“We want to encourage everyone, of all abilities, to feel they can be included in this group.
“This is an opportunity to stay physically and mentally active while building social connections.
“There are so many benefits to walking with a group as opposed to exercising by yourself so if you’re interested, give us a call and bring a friend.”
Anyone interested in joining the walking group can contact Mr Johnstone directly at the Josie Black Community Health Centre on 5592 0300.
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