Move on for school walk

By Paul Pickering
PRIMARY school students from across Cardinia will be putting their best foot forward for the shire’s second annual Walk to School Day later this month.
On Wednesday 24 October, students will be encouraged to pound the pavement and pathways of Cardinia in a bid to promote physical activity and sustainable lifestyles.
The event, which is part of the Walktober initiative developed by VicHealth and Kinect Australia, was a huge success last year with more than 38,000 children taking to the streets from 209 primary schools across Victoria.
Prizes are awarded to schools which have the highest percentage of students participating in the walk.
Emerald Primary School principal Terry Simpson said his students were hoping to improve on the 88 per cent figure achieved in August this year.
Mr Simpson said the students will be asked to walk a minimum of 500 metres on the day, with the school informing parents of a number of recommended drop-off points.
“It’s a fantastic initiative,” Mr Simpson said.
“Anything to get the kids up and moving is a great idea.”
VicHealth’s chief executive Tony Harper was also keen to add that the benefits of walking go far beyond health implications.
“Walking also helps reduce greenhouse emissions and traffic congestion, as well as save money by cutting petrol, parking and car running costs,” he said.
For more information on Walk to School Day and other Walktober events, call VicHealth on 9667 1333.