Benjamin Millar
Moorabool residents have called for more dedicated walking and cycling paths and cheaper access to healthy food in response to a council survey on community wellbeing.
The council surveyed local residents via community workshops and an online portal earlier this year, identifying the current challenges, issues and strengths relating to community health and wellbeing.
Almost 200 people participated in the surveys and consultations, with key findings indicating that more could be done to improve people’s health and sense of safety.
Seventy per cent of respondents said making healthy food cheaper than unhealthy food would support increased healthy food intake, while 72 per cent believe dedicated paths and trails would encourage them to walk more often.
Lighting, police presence and inclusive community building activities were also seen as important for improving safety, which 37 per cent of respondents cited as a barrier to participating in physical activity.
About half of respondents didn’t know where to get help with drug, alcohol or family violence issues, while close to a third of respondents were not sure what community groups were available.
The findings have been used to help develop the draft Moorabool Municipal Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021 – 2025, currently on public exhibition and open for feedback.
The key themes are healthy minds, keeping ourselves safe, the food we eat, our changing climate, being active and reducing harmful addictions.
A report to the recent council meeting noted that the plan incorporates priorities included in the recently adopted Community Vision 2030 and Council Plan 2021 – 2025, as well as community and stakeholder feedback.
“The proposed Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021 – 2025 provides a strategic direction for Council, local health providers and community organisations in improving the overall health of the Moorabool community,” it states.
“Whilst Council has the primary lead role in developing the plan, the delivery of strategies and actions are undertaken in partnership with organisations and the community.”
Feedback on the draft closes September 30, via haveyoursay.moorabool.vic.gov.au
