Funding to get older residents moving

Published on 01 February 2019

Council, in partnership with nine other councils has received a federal funding boost to improve the health and wellbeing of local residents 65 years of age and over throughout the region. 

Federal Minister for Regional Services, Sport, Local Government and Decentralisation, Bridget McKenzie yesterday announced the Australian Government would provide $1.838 million over two years. The successful funding application was made in partnership with the nine councils across the Loddon Mallee region to fund new local and community-based activities for older residents that increase levels of physical activity.

Examples of activities that may be offered as part of the program include swimming, soccer and volleyball, and active recreation activities such as water aerobics, dancing, yoga, cycling and walking.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council successfully applied for the Better Ageing Grant Program on behalf of Buloke, Campaspe, Central Goldfields, Greater Bendigo, Gannawarra, Loddon, Mildura, Mount Alexander and Swan Hill councils. 

There were more than 2000 applications and this was one of only 27 successful applications across Australia.

Mayor, Cr Janet Pearce welcomed the news and said it will contribute to the positive health and wellbeing of residents in our community and across the region.

“We are so pleased that we are able to support people to improve their health and wellbeing.

“There are almost 70,000 people over the age of 65 in the region, and each Council in the region is looking at how best to cater for the needs and interests of this diverse group.

“Through the funding provided as part of the program we will be able to offer sporting and other opportunities that are fun, inclusive, promote social connection and improve health and fitness.”

Council will now work with project partners, the Victorian Government, and local not-for-profit sport and recreation providers to implement activities.