Good News

Best friends Maureen Stone and Gwyneth Gallagher braved the bad weather, showing the community just how easy it is to stay active at the official launch of the Yankalilla community outdoor gym on October 14.

Through the Social Links program, Maureen and Gwyneth have become two regulars at the Yankalilla community outdoor gym, both benefiting greatly from the exercise.

“I can run a bit now, just a short distance without being breathless. My arms and legs feel better too,” said Maureen.

Proudly donning her ACH Group t-shirt, hat, and a “can do” outlook, Gwyneth enjoyed the festivities while catching up on some core strengthening exercises.  She attends classes on a weekly basis, come rain, hail or shine.“I enjoy the exercise because I feel stronger and I also sleep better now,” she said.

Gwyneth who joined Social Links after her husband’s death, also found the program helpful in linking her with activities she enjoys within her local community.

The event provided Gwyneth and Maureen not only the chance to talk about the importance of staying fit and active, but also to mingle and chat with the Yankalilla community which included the Mayor of Yankalilla District Council, Mr Paul Newman.

“Initiatives like Yankalilla’s community outdoor gym are working examples of how a lot of difference can be made to the lives of others when the community works together,” said ACH Group General Manager Innovation and Development, Jane Mussared.

In her speech to the launch gathering of around 40 people, ACH Group Coordinator, Anita Greening touched on the benefits of reconnecting older people who feel isolated by geography and limited access to transport.

“Over the last three years, more than 150 people across the Fleurieu region have been part of the Social Links program, participating actively in their community and building friendships and interests,” said Anita.

A joint ‘Good Lives’ project of the Yankalilla District council and ACH Group, the gym was funded by a donation from ACH Group Foundation for Older Australians.