Safety – Amenity – Access – Health

 

Media Release

The people of Tasmania are being asked to make a commitment to leave their cars at home and put their feet first on National Walk to Work Day, Friday 5 October 2007.

 

Launching this week, National Walk to Work Day (WTWD) is an annual event held around Australia on Friday 5 October 2007.  It promotes better health and a cleaner environment.  By registering at www.walk.com.au individuals, businesses and organisations can help to improve their health and environment, while supporting four major Australian charities.

 

For just $20, those who register at www.walk.com.au will also receive a WTWD cap, poster and flyer, while supporting the Heart Foundation, Cancer Council, Diabetes Australia and the Australian Conservation Foundation.

 

Mr Trevor Shilton, National Physical Activity Manager of the Heart Foundation, said regular exercise like walking could halve the risk of heart disease.

 

Diabetes Australia CEO Mr Matt O’Brien says: “Regular walking everyday can help prevent and manage diabetes.”

 

And Professor Ian Oliver, Chief Executive Officer, The Cancer Council Australia, said: “Brisk and regular exercise, like walking to work everyday, can help reduce your risk of cancer.”

 

As well as better health, Walk to Work Day aims to reduce greenhouse pollution. “Leaving the car at home and walking just one kilometre to and from work each day saves up to $900 in travel costs and up to 300 kilograms of greenhouse pollution a year,” said Ms Elle Morrell, ACF GreenHome Research Coordinator, Australian Conservation Foundation.

 

National Walk to Work Day and registrations are open now at www.walk.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHIC / VISION OPPORTUNTIES FOR MEDIA:

 

WHAT:           Tasmanian-based representatives of the Heart Foundation, Diabetes Australia and The Cancer Council “walking to work”.  They are also available for interview regarding the health benefits of walking as outlined on page one of this advice and the importance of the event.

 

WHEN:          10.30am Tomorrow – 14 September 2007

 

WHERE:       Franklin Square, Hobart

 

CONTACT:   Nicolas Turner Tel 6270 2250 or 0418 538 865

 

 

So, Put Your Feet First, Unblock Some Arteries, Relieve the Congestion, and support four of Australia’s most important charities. Register today at www.walk.com.au

For further information and images go to: www.walk.com.au  or phone: Nicolas Turner Tel 6270 2250 or 0418 538 865