North West Queenslander will be putting its best foot forward on Friday 2 October as hundreds of residents pound the pavement for National Walk to Work Day, helping the nation stride towards better health and cleaner air.
Queensland employees from the North West 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 North West region of Queensland staff from MMG Century and Boulia and McKinaly Shire Councils will all walk to work on Friday 2 October.
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.
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WHAT: National Walk to Work Day (North West Queensland - McKinlay Shire Council)
WHERE: Water Tower (Julia Creek) 7.00 am, where Mckinlay Shire Council staff will then walk around town for 30 minutes and join a healthy breakfast in the Council Hall with health checks. AND
Boulia Shire Golf Club (the Mayor and others will be walking to Boulia Shire Council).
WHO: McKinaly Shire Council/Boulia Shire Council
WHEN: Friday 2 October 2009 from 7.00am
CONTACT: Amanda Stubbs - Walk to Work Day Organiser (0418 713 760)
Shelly Norton 47463188 Boulia Shire Council
Jillian D'Urso - (MMG Century) 4769 5395/0417117753
Will Guy - Mckinlay Shire Council 4746 7166 |
Harold Scruby from the Pedestrian Council of Australia said:
"What a way for the Gold Coast 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.
"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)
