Eastern Victoria Region MP Edward O’Donohue and Gembrook MP Brad Battin are urging Cardinia and Yarra Ranges residents to get moving during Premier’s Active April.
In response to rising obesity rates, the Coalition Government’s new-look campaign encourages all Victorians to challenge themselves to do 30 minutes of physical activity each day during April.
Mr O’Donohue encouraged community members to enjoy the Autumn weather and take advantage of the region’s fantastic local parks and recreational facilities.
“Premier’s Active April is a great place to start getting more active, more often – all it takes are a few minor changes to your lifestyle – choose the stairs, walk the kids to school or get out in the garden,” Mr O’Donohue said.
Mr Battin said the new Premier’s Active April mobile website and app were great for people on the go as well as those needing some encouragement.
“The new online activity tracker is great to challenge your family and friends and chart your progress together,” Mr Battin said.
Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty said the Victorian Coalition Government is committed to finding solutions to the rising levels of sedentary lifestyles and obesity rates.
That’s why the campaign has evolved from the Premier’s Active Families Challenge, to now focus on all Victorians.
“Sixty-one per cent of Victorians are now either overweight or obese. It’s time to convert our passion for sport into actual physical activity,” Mr Delahunty said.
“We’re encouraging Victorians to embrace this opportunity to improve the long-term health and wellbeing of not only themselves but also their family and friends.
“Active April is a great chance to introduce physical activity into your daily routine and enjoy yourself along the way.
“There is a serious reason for getting active but there’s no reason why it can’t be light
hearted and enjoyable too.”
Melbourne Vixens captain Bianca Chatfield and football legend Tim Watson are ambassadors for the campaign.
Leading the way in the build up to Active April, Bianca recently took a figure skating lesson at Melbourne’s Icehouse during a day off from training, sticking to the plan of 30 minutes of activity each day.
Premier’s Active April is free to join and offers great incentives and prizes to every participant including 10 free YMCA passes, 15 per cent discount at Rebel Sport and one hour free court hire at Melbourne Park.
For more information and to register for Premier’s Active April visit www.activeapril.vic.gov.au, or check out Premier’s Active April on Facebook and Twitter.