Aim for a 'Dry July'

Published on 19 June 2020

Gannawarra residents are encouraged to ditch alcohol for a month as part of the ‘Dry July’ initiative.

Survey results recently released by the Australian National University found almost 20 per cent of people consumed more alcohol under the Coronavirus lockdown than they usually did. Based on responses of more than 3,000 people from all states and territories, the survey compared respondents’ drinking habits in May to the previous two years.

Mayor Lorraine Learmonth said that as restrictions ease, now is the time to make lifestyle changes that will create long term health and wellbeing benefits.

“While the Coronavirus lockdowns may have increased stress and boredom levels leading to higher alcohol consumption, July is a great time to ditch any unhealthy habits that have developed over the last few months,” Mayor Learmonth said.

“This includes making healthier food choices, increasing levels of physical activity, looking after your mental health, and limiting alcohol intake.”

Northern District Community Health Chief Executive Officer, Mandy Hutchinson said that there was a long-term worrying trend towards unhealthy alcohol consumption across the Gannawarra Shire even before the pandemic.

“Having a month off alcohol has great health and wellbeing benefits – a healthier liver, sleeping better and more energy to get outdoors and be physically active,” Ms Hutchinson said.

“It is also a great way to break an unhealthy habit, many people who take the challenge go on to limiting their alcohol intake permanently – it’s a win-win.

“If you are super keen you can sign up and raise funds for people impacted by cancer as part of the formal ‘Dry July’ initiative.”

Since 2008, Dry July has inspired more than 200,000 Aussies to go dry and raised $49 million for the Dry July Foundation’s work in supporting people affected by cancer and funding projects at more than 80 cancer organisations across Australia. 

To sign up for the challenge, please visit www.dryjuly.com

ABOVE: Northern District Community Health Chief Executive Officer, Mandy Hutchinson and Mayor Lorraine Learmonth are encouraging residents to sign up to participate in Dry July.