Healthy choices central at aquatic centre

VISITORS to the Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre now have more healthy food and drink choices.

The City of Ballarat partnered with Ballarat Community Health and Afloat Cafe to update the menu to promote healthy eating.

The changes include Eat Well, Feel Good Ballarat branding which is also at the Eureka Pool and Selkirk Stadium.

“Good food fuels good lives and by championing healthy food options, we’re supporting the wellbeing of families and setting the next generation for success,” mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said.

“We’re proud to work with Ballarat Community Health on this initiative and want to pay particular thanks to Will at Afloat Cafe for being so willing to come on the ride with us.”

A survey was conducted last year and received more than 750 results and indicated that community members liked the coffee, variety and customer service at the cafe.

Opportunities to increase healthy options were identified and since then, healthy alterations have been trialled.

The number of healthy options has been increased as well as greater promotion, and the less healthy options have been reduced and moved to less prominent locations.

The number of sugary drinks available has decreased by 16 per cent.

Ballarat Community Health CEO Sean Duffy said healthy food options at the centre support lifelong healthy habits.

“Ensuring healthy food and drinks are readily available is vital to supporting healthier lifestyles,” he said.

“We’re delighted to partner with the City of Ballarat on this initiative and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the wellbeing of our community.”