Get active: Walk everyday like Richard

Sunshine Coast local, Richard, aged 88 gets outside to do his daily walk around Lake Kawana.

Richard said he was quite proud of the amount of walking he could still do.

“It keeps me going and I’m motivated to just walk - I love it!” Richard said.

“I have walked all my life.

"As a youngster I’d walk all over the farm. I’ve just loved walking much more than cycling or kayaking or any other sport.

“Since I have been living here on the Sunshine Coast, I get up and walk around the lake early - it’s 5km around the lake and last year I walked a total of 1,800kms.

“I’m going to try and keep walking for as long as I can. It’s wonderful exercise - good for the hips.

“I encourage as many people as possible to take up walking as an exercise option and set a goal. Walk a couple kilometres up and down the lake like I do!”

With more than 1,500 kilometres of pathways across the Sunshine Coast region, walking has never been easier.

Easy ways you can stay active

Did you know Sunshine Coast Council has a flagship community health and wellbeing program?

Healthy Sunshine Coast is a holistic, low-cost initiative designed to cater to all ages and abilities, offering a variety of activities to help you move well, eat well, sleep well, think well, connect well and enjoy time in nature.

Sunshine Coast Council Strong Community Portfolio Councillor Taylor Bunnag said activities focused on overall wellbeing, including physical, mental and social health.

“Whether you’re a walker like Richard, or looking for something new to try, with more than 70 activities available across the Sunshine Coast, there is something for everyone,” Cr Bunnag said.

“From Outdoor Mat Pilates for all ages and abilities to Qi Gong and Meditation, I encourage everyone to check out the program and find a fun activity that suits them.”

The sessions are affordable at $10 per session or $5 with a Health Care or Pensioners card.

Registration is free. Visit Council’s website to register and for more information.