Rotary on the right track to better health in the Borough

QUEENSCLIFFE Rotary Club is aiming to raise $120,000 over two years for an exercise trail in Point Lonsdale and a pod of equipment in Queenscliff.

The club has been working with the Borough of Queenscliffe for some months looking at the benefits of such equipment, possible locations and potential funding sources.

The council has included the project and allocated $10,000 in its 2018-19 draft budget, with the club set to seek federal, state and local grants for the remainder.

Club president Peter Deacon said there were more than 700 such installations around Australia but none close to the borough.

“Health and obesity issues face our communities and with our aging population, there is an ever-growing need to increase physical activity.

“With over 50 per cent of the local population aged over 60, this should be a priority area for Council, healthcare providers and community organisations.”

Mr Deacon said initial equipment would focus on cardio, strength, mobility and coordination/balance and would be particularly suitable for seniors but equally beneficial for all teens and adults and fitness levels.

“They could be included in individual exercise programs as well as sports clubs, boot camps and other groups.”

He said that people who trained outdoors felt more invigorated, were more alert and had lower anxiety.

Accessible outdoor gyms are also open 24/7, are free, inclusive and are a social platform.

Bellarine MP Lisa Neville has provided a letter of support to the Rotary Club reiterating the benefit such equipment would have for the physical and mental wellbeing of both locals and visitors, while Queenscliffe mayor Susan Salter also provided a letter of support and welcomed the club being the catalyst in raising funds from other sources.