New fitness equipment to help Derrinallum stay healthy

Published on 22 June 2021

Caption: (from left) Derrinallum Progress Association member Carrie Miller, Council Infrastructure Projects Officer Dean Finlayson, North Ward Councillor Nick Cole and Derrinallum Progress Association Vice-President Gordon Fisher check out the new exercise equipment at the Derrinallum Recreation Reserve.

Town residents listed exercise equipment as a priority during community consultation for the Derrinallum Community Plan.

Derrinallum Progress Association President Kevin Molesworth said there had been a good response from the community.

“We’re pretty happy with the project,” he said. “It’s been put in there for the clubs and community.”

The whole progress association was involved in planning the project, liaising with residents and different groups in the community.

“We had displays in the op shop and News and Natter looking for community input.

“There was a fair bit of work done by our secretary and other Progress Association members in getting out to the community.”

“We’re continually doing fundraising towards different projects.

The total cost was a bit over $30,000. The Federal Government contributed $20,000 through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Fund with the progress association making up the remainder.

Corangamite Shire’s North Ward Councillor Nick Cole thanked the Government for its contribution and congratulated the community for its efforts.

“Council is committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of our communities and this is a convenient no-cost opportunity for residents to look after themselves.

“The fitness stations are made from quality materials to make sure they are safe and long lasting. “Signs at each station have training tips and information about how to use the equipment safely.

“The equipment will provide opportunities for bootcamps, school PE classes and cross-training for the football/netball clubs.

“Congratulations to the progress association on their work and thanks to the Recreation Reserve Committee for their co-operation.”

Member for Wannon, Dan Tehan said the “Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program continues to support local jobs, businesses and boost the economy during COVID-19”.

“I commend Corangamite Shire Council and the Derrinallum Progress Association in working together to deliver access to fitness and exercise equipment at the Derrinallum playground,” said Mr Tehan.

“The inclusion of the fitness and exercise equipment adjacent to the playground provides multigenerational benefits, with children able to use their play structures whilst adults have access to a diverse recreation place, encouraging everyone in the community to stay active with lasting social benefits”, said Mr Tehan.

The equipment was designed and manufactured by a well-established Australian company and consists of 12 different exercise stations.

They will help users improve their strength, endurance and mobility/flexibility.

The stations include: