Leopold walking group a step above the rest

A NEW walking group is giving Bellarine locals the chance to improve their health and connect with others at the same time.
Leopold Community and Learning Centre has launched the Leopold Walking Discovery Group, which meets on Mondays at 10am.
The group meets at different locations each week and comprises two groups – a slower shorter group and a faster fitter group.
Coordinator Lin Betz said the group gave her an incentive to get out and walk, and also enjoy a coffee while socialising.
“When you look out the window and it’s pretty grey and gloomy, this gives us an incentive to get out and meet up with the others in the walking group,” Lin said.
“We usually start at a coffee shop, then all head in the same direction, the faster ones lead the way, and then after half an hour we all turn around and meet back for a coffee, so we usually meet up at the same time.”
Lin said the group started with about 15 people, but numbers had since dwindled as people headed to Queensland for the winter.
“It was something the community centre suggested and I was there and thought it was a good idea,” she said.
“Kerrie (from the centre) originally drew up a roster for the walks but we are deciding which ones work and what places people like to walk.”
So far, the walks have included the Bellarine Rail Trail in Leopold, Gateway Sanctuary and then the Rolling Pin for coffee, Ocean Grove and this week was Portarlington along the foreshore.
If you would like to join the group to improve your health and connect with others at the same time, contact the Leopold Community and Learning Centre on 5250 1301.