Council helps local families walk to school this October
October 10, 2017
Colac Otway Shire kids and families are encouraged to get active this October by taking part in VicHealth’s Walk to School program.
Council is working with local primary schools to deliver a range of activities encouraging more families to walk, ride or scoot to school thanks to a $10,000 grant from VicHealth.
Recreation Officer Lisa Loughnane said VicHealth’s Walk to School program is a free, easy and fun way for kids to get active and learn healthy habits for life.
“Colac Otway Shire Council is delighted to once again be part of this important initiative, which runs from 9 October to 3 November,” Ms Loughnane said.
“This year Council will install bright pavement decals around school routes to improve walkability and deliver safety messages to young children, as well as delivering lucky dips to participating schools and running a colouring and creative drawing competition with some great prizes on offer.
“We are excited to have 12 local primary schools involved this year and we’d love to see more families walking, scooting or riding in the shire to help local kids get active and build healthy habits, confidence and friendships.”
Local schools which participate in Walk to School will receive certificates to celebrate their students’ achievements, and will be in the running for a series of prizes provided by VicHealth.
VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter said each year the Walk to School program continues to grow with more and more schools taking part with fantastic results.
“Last year more than 144,000 kids from over 750 schools across Victoria took part in Walk to School. Together they walked more than 2.2 million kilometres – the equivalent of walking almost 55 times around the world,” Ms Rechter said.
“This year, we hope to see even more local kids getting active as they travel to and from school. If you can’t walk all the way, there are many great opportunities to get involved and support your school. Try parking the car a few blocks from school and walk, ride or scoot the rest.
“VicHealth’s Walk to School initiative is a fun, free way to get school kids active and help them build lifelong healthy habits. It’s also a great way for parents and carers to enjoy some quality time with their kids.”
To find out more about local Walk to School activities visit www.walktoschool.vic.gov.au.
Council Enquiries
(03) 5232 9400