Park promotes fun and fitness

A NEW outdoor exercise park in Lucas is set to support the health and wellbeing of older residents.

The facility was developed as part of the City of Ballarat’s Ageing Well Strategy Action Plan 2024 to 2026 and it aims to provide opportunities for exercise and social connection.

The park is open to all community members although it was designed for older residents.

It includes equipment ranging from low impact machines to stretching stations and walking circuits.

“Ballarat’s seniors exercise parks are a great example of how Ballarat is investing in the health and wellbeing of our older community,” Cr Damon Saunders said.

“They provide a safe accessible environment for older adults to encourage physical activity and exercise which is key for mobility, independence and mental health.”

The park was funded by the City of Ballarat with support from the Ballarat Lions Club for landscaping, plantings and seating.

Two further outdoor exercise parks for older people are at Mount Pleasant Reserve and MR Power Reserve in Sebastopol.

The location of Lucas was chosen for the new park due to its growing population and links to walking parks and nearby amenities.

The newly formed City of Ballarat social activity volunteers will begin free, weekly sessions at the park in coming months.

“This is about more than exercise equipment, it’s about building a community space where people can move, talk, laugh and feel part of something,” Cr Saunders said.