Good health startClockwise from top, Alex, Emma, Kristen, Kristy, and Geordie are heading for good h

By Tania Martin
MACCLESFIELD children are learning the key to a healthy life – eating right and exercising regularly, with the help of a State Government cash boost.
Monbulk MP James Merlino last week announced that Macclesfield Primary School would receive $6000 as part of the State Government’s Healthy Start in Schools program.
Mr Merlino said Macclesfield was one of 137 primary schools to share in the $780,000 cash boost.
“These grants will give schools extra support to revamp canteens and provide more play areas for students to get fit and active during their time at school,” he said. School principal John Chiswell said the funding would help to extend the schools healthy eating program.
Mr Chiswell said the cash would help the school to extend its healthy food choices canteen, extend the school garden and to build a running track.
In June last year Macclesfield children ditched meat pies for carrot sticks and fruit after the school canteen underwent a radical change.
But despite the change the children embraced the healthy food choices and lunch orders almost doubled in a matter of months.
Mr Chiswell said the healthy food choice menu could now be expanded with the State Government funding.
He said the school hopes to extend its garden so that fruit and vegetables grown at school can be used on the new canteen menu.
Mr Chiswell said a new exercise track would also be built which will help encourage more children to get fit and exercise more.
Mr Merlino said the funding would help promote healthy eating and fitness for young Victorians.
“These grants reinforce the Government’s campaign to promote healthier lifestyles, physical activity and healthy eating to reduce the prevalence of obesity and diabetes in Victoria’s communities,” he said.