Smiles on dials at community day

THE Heathcote Community Smiles Day was held last Saturday and connected locals, promoted good mental wellbeing, and active lifestyles.

“The Heathcote community really worked together to organise it,” Heathcote Community House’s Vicki Forde said.

“Bendigo Bank covered some of the activities, and emergency services, health organisations, and the library came along and had stalls that made it a fun day.

“We had about 300 people come along, and the major highlight was the faces of the children.

“We’ve only got room to grow, to have more people involved in the future, and make the children smile before Christmas.”

Charlie Miller was named Community Smiles Day ambassador and was “speechless.”

“He always has a kind word to say, is an amazingly positive person, and he credits Heathcote Health with his life,” Ms Forde said.

The organising committee was also made up of representatives from Heathcote Health, Heathcote Primary Health, and Bendigo Community Health Services.

Bikes and trikes were part of a prize pool for kids who took part in colouring and activity challenges, and many prizes were donated by Toyworld Bendigo shoppers.

There was a visit from the big man in red, a petting zoo, yoga, Christmas activities and a photo booth. Give event feedback at bit.ly/3hmXd5I.