31/8/05
Sport and Recreation Minister Bob Kucera launched Physical Activity Awareness Day with a walk with seniors at Burswood Park.
The day aims to raise awareness of the importance of physical activity and its link to physical and mental health benefits for all Western Australians.
Mr Kucera encouraged all Western Australians to be active with their families, friends and colleagues.
“Thirty minutes a day of moderate physical activity can provide substantial health benefits,” he said.
“Even those of us who are really busy can gain health benefits by exercising in three lots of 10 minutes, which may be easier to fit into your day.
“Physical activity can not only make you feel great, it also has a number of positive physical, social, and mental health benefits for individuals. The community also benefits economically and environmentally when people increase their levels of physical activity.”
Mr Kucera also used the launch to promote ‘Stay On Your Feet Week’ between September 4 and 11. The cost of falls to WA’s health system is currently $83million annually, with almost 7,000 people hospitalised from falls each year.
“Physical activity also has numerous benefits for older Western Australians - it can reduce the risk of falls, provide social opportunities and help preserve independence,” the Minister said.
“One in four seniors fall each year in WA.”
Mr Kucera highlighted the work of the Physical Activity Taskforce in co-ordinating a whole-of-government approach to increasing the levels of physical activity of WA. This includes: the Departments of Health, Sport and Recreation, Planning and Infrastructure, Education and Training, and Premier and Cabinet; the WA Local Government Association, Healthway, Lotterywest, and a leading academic in physical activity.
Events are being held in 31 locations around the State on September 1 to promote Physical Activity Awareness Day and encourage Western Australians to find 30 minutes in their day to participate in physical activity.
The Minister said the program also fitted well with the Gallop Government’s plans to enhance our unique lifestyle.
Minister's office: 9213 7000
