After a successful run in Term 3, the Wallan After School Sports Program is set to continue, running once a week on Thursdays until the end of Term 4.
A free after-school sports program aimed at people aged 12–18 in Wallan and surrounding southern Mitchell Shire towns, the program offers a variety of sports and games, including nine-square, pickleball, football, soccer, and spikeball.
Workshops held by Nexus Primary Health identified a need for an after-school activity that would promote exercise, social inclusion, and a safe space for local youth.
The program is spearheaded by a collaborative effort between Reclink Australia, Valley Sport, Mitchell Shire Council, Nexus Primary Health, and Southern Healthy Kids Mitchell.
Regardless of experience, youth are invited to have fun and try new activities in the program. Healthy snacks are also available, with Mitchell Shire Council providing the food and the space at the Wallan Youth Room on Thursdays between 3.30pm–5pm.
Southern Healthy Kids Mitchell Facilitator and Health Promotion Officer at Nexus Primary Health Lucy Linton highlighted the collaborative effort.
“This program exemplifies how the community can come together to address identified needs. It’s been inspiring to see Reclink, Valley Sport, and the council work together to create such a fun and engaging program for our local youth,” she said.
Reclink Australia Sport and Recreation Coordinator Cooper MacDonald said he had created partnerships thanks to the positive impact of the program.
“Since starting this program at the start of Term 3, I have been able to build a strong rapport with students from both primary and secondary level, who thoroughly enjoy coming down to Hadfield Park every Tuesday and Thursday,” he said.
“This program really brings light to one of Reclink’s many purposes, in that it improves physical health, mental health, and creates greater social inclusion.”
Valley Sport Project Officer Heath Wharton echoed the impact of the space.
“It’s been wonderful to offer the youth of Wallan a welcoming space at Hadfield Park, where they can stay active and engaged after school, using the provided sporting equipment to enjoy time with friends and build healthy habits,” he said.
The program returned on Monday, and with continued facilitation by Reclink and support from the collaborative, sports, healthy snacks, and a fun and engaging space will be available every Thursday.
For more information, contact Lucy Linton via email at healthykidsmitchell@gmail.com or call Nexus Primary Health on 1300 773 352.