Easier access to healthy choices

A CAMPAIGN aiming to get locals eating more nutritious food is underway.

The Eat Well, Feel Good Ballarat initiative will see sporting clubs and municipal facilities provide healthy food and drink options.

The City of Ballarat and Ballarat Community Health program launched at Selkirk Stadium last week and Cr Amy Johnson said it’s a step towards a healthier community.

“It’s so important that health-promoting venues provide healthy food options for young people and those that accompany them,” she said.

“Unfortunately, in Ballarat, we have higher rates of obesity and lifestyle-related health conditions.

“But with incremental change like providing healthier food and drink options at our canteens and cafes, we can improve those figures.”

The program is set to expand on the Eat Well, Feel Good IGA initiative, which identified and encouraged healthier options at Ryan’s IGAs throughout Ballarat.

As part of the campaign, a healthy drinks fridge is set to be installed at Selkirk Stadium and at outdoor pools.

A promotional campaign will run until the end of term one 2023, with characters and messaging designed alongside Mount Clear Primary School students.

BCH’s health promotion coordinator Melissa Farrington said the campaign will reach players young and old, families, and visitors at Selkirk Stadium.

“This is a pilot program set for six months and will be rolled out during the summer basketball seasons,” she said.

“There’ll be promotional material on the screens at the stadium… posters, and also sports rewards for the basketball clubs which players can redeem at the Selkirk cafe.”