Townsville residents will be putting their best foot forward on Friday 2 October as they pound the pavement for National Walk to Work Day, helping the nation stride towards better health and cleaner air.
Townsville employees of all ranks will join walkers from companies around Australia as they make walking a priority. Those that can't walk to work will take a walk at lunchtime, walk to their first appointment or get off the train or bus a few stops on the way home, and walk the rest of the way.
In the Townsville region the Townsville City Council is participating along with MMG Century and Mckinlay Shire Council.
Recent data from the Federal Health Department notes that 72% of Australians have low exercise levels and a shocking 61.3% of adults in Australia are overweight or obese. In addition, the transport sector (including cars) is responsible for 16% of green house gas emissions, with this statistic continuing to grow. Walking is a great way to beat obesity and reduce our carbon footprint.
WHAT: National Walk to Work Day (Townsville)
WHO: Townsville City Council, MMG Century and Mckinlay Shire Council
WHEN: Friday 2 October 2009
CONTACT: Amanda Stubbs - Walk to Work Day Organiser (0418 713 760) Tony Wode- Townsville City Council 4727 9565 Jillian D'Urso - MMG Century 4769 5395/0417117753
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Harold Scruby from the Pedestrian Council of Australia said:
"What a way for Townsville to start the day - with a wonderful walk! It's fantastic to see so many people - from all around the country - are leaving the car at home this morning to enjoy a walk to work instead.
"Walking regularly is not only an effective way to get around, it can be a good medicine, to help prevent obesity, diabetes, heart illnesses and depression.
"The AMA officially prescribed a doctor's prescription to each and every Australian, effective today. The script is simple. A 30 minute dose of walking commenced today on National Walk to Work Day, repeat daily, 365 days a year.
"Walking is one of the best ways to exercise and its environmentally-friendly transport. So many of us reach for the car or hail a taxi when really, we could - and should - walk.
"If walking all the way to work is impractical, get off the train or bus a stop early and walk the rest of the way, park the car a few blocks away and walk or walk at lunch time."
RADIO GRABS AND LIVE INTERVIEWS AVAILABLE
PLEASE CONTACT: Amanda Stubbs (0418 713 760)