$200k to Golden Plains’ health

GRANTS totalling $200,000 were announced last week for programs in Golden Plains that encourage healthy eating, recreation and connection with other residents.

Golden Plains Shire received the funding as part of VicHealth’s $6.5 million Growing Healthy Communities grants program.

The program aims to support local ideas and knowledge strengthened by research evidence and expertise to make good health and wellbeing more accessible.

“These grants help communities, using their local knowledge, to assist young people and their families to access healthier food and participate healthy lifestyle choices and activities,” Geelong MP Christine Couzens said.

Golden Plains Shire mayor Cr Owen Sharkey said the shire is proud to work with VicHealth and community partners to help create healthier futures.

“It’s wonderful to see investment in local, community-led projects that support children, young people and families to eat well, get active and stay connected,” he said.

The $150,000 VicHealth Growing Healthy Communities grant will be spent on the council’s Local Food Connections project.

A council spokesperson said that the project brought schools, services and residents together to enhance the region’s food system.

“It supports practical, place-based initiatives including community food growing, local food distribution and donation pathways, food literacy, and activities that improve access to affordable, healthy, and culturally appropriate food,” they said.

“Using a collective impact approach, partners align efforts, share resources and co-design solutions that respond to local needs, particularly for people experiencing food insecurity.”

VicHealth’s Active Recreation program provided $50,000 for the council’s Together Outside project.

The council spokesperson said the project created inclusive opportunities for people of all ages to be active, connected and engaged in their local communities.

“The project focuses on non-competitive, accessible outdoor activities, such as orienteering and walking-based programs, that reduce participation barriers and support enjoyment, confidence, and social connection,” they said.