Walk this way (Media release)

Moreland City Council has once again joined VicHealth for Walk to School month – a fun and creative way to teach kids the benefits of active travel.

Kicking off last week, a huge 25 Merri-bek primary schools have signed up to this year’s program.

Students can also join the program individually or with friends – so it’s easy for kids to get active, even if their school isn’t formally involved.

Walking, riding or scooting to school not only reduces traffic – a big plus for the environment – but it’s also a good way for kids to make friends, keep healthy and to get the 60 minutes of recommended daily activity they need.

Coburg Primary Junior School Coordinator Sandra Matracchi enthusiastically runs the Walk to School Program at the school. She says students were proud to win the award for most kilometres walked per student last year – out of all Merri-bek primary schools.

“We love Walk to School at Coburg Primary. Often it’s even the kids who are encouraging the adults to park that little bit further away from school to get their walking in,” said Ms Matracchi.

“It’s great to add up all the kilometres we’ve managed to mark on our special calendar. The kids get so excited.”

As part of this year’s Walk to School, Victorian primary school kids have also been encouraged to decorate their shoes, bikes or scooters to make walking to school even more fun. By sharing photos of their colourful creations, with the hashtag #walktoschool, kids will go into the running to win prizes.

Moreland Mayor, Councillor Helen Davidson says Walk to School helps whole families to develop healthy habits for life.

“It’s been so exciting to see Merri-bek’s participation in Walk to School grow. It’s the perfect program to encourage healthier lifestyles – for both parents or carers and kids.”

To find out more about Walk to School month in Merri-bek visit Walk to School or contact Council.

13 October 2017