New look Heart Foundation awards opening soon*

The Heart Foundationís awards for Local Government take on a new look this year, with the Heart Foundation Healthy Community Awards opening soon.

Since 1992 the Heart Foundation has been recognising Local Government initiatives that contribute to improving heart health in Australian communities.

In 2010 the awardsí overall winner was Mackay Regional Council in Queensland for its Bluewater Trail. The purpose built trail delivers a critical piece of infrastructure that supports the community through a proactive approach to community health, wellbeing and safety. It takes in much of the regionís natural beauty and aims to build a healthier community through access to an environment that encourages physical activity.

Other winners included:

• Yarra City Council (Vic) – Employee Health and Wellbeing
• Kogarah City Council (NSW) – Say No to Trans Fats
• Central Desert Shire (NT) – Softball Tournament for Indigenous Women
• City of Marion (SA) – Rajah Street Reserve Project
• The Hills Shire Council (NSW) – All Accessible Playground
• City of Casey (Vic) – Casey RACE.

This year the awards take on a new look, with the launch of the Heart Foundation Healthy Community Awards. These awards recognise Councils for their contribution to improving heart health and aim to encourage their ongoing commitment to creating healthy communities.

Entries open 28 March and close 27 May 2011. On offer are:

• exciting winner incentives, including $38,000 in cash awards
• a high level of exposure for the winners
• an easy electronic application process.

For more information visit www.heartfoundation.org.au/lga or call 1300 362 787.

*Copy supplied by the Heart Foundation