Have your say about future active living services

Live life to the full: Co-CEO Neighbourhood Collective Australia and The Old Church on the Hill Rose Vincent, chair of Marong Community Action Group and 2024 Citizen of the Year Heather Wearne, Long Gully Community Garden coordinator Jonathan Ridnell, City of Greater Bendigo mayor Andrea Metcalf, member of Bendigo Disability Inclusion Reference Committee Alex Reimers, City of Greater Bendigo CEO Andrew Cooney, deputy youth mayor Alyssa Beaton, and Intercultural Ambassador Valentine Joe. Photo: SUPPLIED

THE 2025 Active Living Census (ALC) has commenced, giving residents a chance to have their say about programs, recreation spaces and services in our community.

The ALC is a region-wide survey conducted by Healthy Loddon Campaspe, asking residents in the region about their health, wellbeing and daily activities.

Almost 20,000 people took part in the 2019 ALC, providing the region with detail data about health and wellbeing in the community.

The survey looks at things like how often people play sport or are physically active, what they eat and drink, smoking and gambling habits, how happy people feel about their lives, and what stops people from being healthy and active.

This information helps schools, sporting clubs, community groups, government, and local leaders make better decisions about health programs, new recreation spaces, and services.

It also helps the community get funding to make the region a healthier place for everyone.

Heathcote community house is providing assistance for anyone needing help completing the census.

“We have printed copies available or one of our volunteers can help with completing the census on one of our iPads,” said Heathcote Community House executive officer Vicki Forde.

“I encourage everyone to do the census as it will benefit everyone in the community, and you could win a prize.”

Anyone who completed the Active Living Census online by 1 June could go in the draw for the Early Bird prizes including the $1000 Grand Prize Voucher.