In November, the Heart Foundation and Kellogg (Australia) Pty Ltd presented a 2006 National Heart Foundation Kellogg Local Government Award to New South Wales’ Hay Shire Council. Council received the National Category Winner Award for the Provision and Use of Facilities to Improve Heart Health for its Hay Health and Fitness community gymnasium.
As a National Category Winner, Council received a commemorative plaque and $2000.
The Shire identified a need within the community for a non competitive sport fitness facility. Hay Health and Fitness was built, designed and is now run by community volunteers with the help of Council.
A weekly fun run has also been introduced. The run, which takes place each Saturday, promotes heart health and enables participants to set personal health and fitness goals.
Awards judges were impressed that the program was initiated by the community and that its low pricing structure allows all of the community to be physically active.
Heart Foundation National Director of Cardiovascular Health Programs, Dr Peter Abernethy, said the 2006 Awards were given to Councils who had not only planned and implemented heart health programs in their community, but had achieved outstanding results.
“The awards are important because they recognise the achievements of Local Government in the fight against heart and blood vessel disease,” he said. “Local Government plays a pivotal role in introducing structural change, implementing policies and creating supportive environments which allow people to be physically active, reduce smoking and improve their nutrition.”
Hay Shire is one of four Councils across Australia to be recognised with a National Award for projects, policies and programs that encourage better heart health in their community.
Other winners were the City of Fremantle (National Overall Winner), District Council of Yorke Peninsula and Bowen Shire Council.
