SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES URGED TO TAKE UP WALK CHALLENGE

Gippsland MP Peter Hall has called on Gippsland school students, parents and other members of the community to rise to the challenge of a new event on the calendar, Walktober.

The event is to promote the benefits of walking, not just for school students but also for their parents.

"The school in Victoria with the highest percentage of students involved in the special walk to school event on Wednesday 18 October will receive a special trophy, the Golden Shoe as well as $2,500.00 worth of sports equipment," Mr Hall said. "Wouldn't it be fantastic if the winning school was from Gippsland!"

October is the official International Walk to School Month and in 2005 more than three million children from 37 countries walked to school during this period. The invitation to be involved in Walktober has been extended to all primary schools across Victoria.

Mr Hall said the activity was also an opportunity for all people to enjoy the benefits of walking.

"Walking is an excellent way to exercise for everyone, as it helps with increased energy levels, increased cardiovascular and heart and lung fitness and reduced risk of heart disease and stroke," he said.

"Walking is good for our social health as well as our physical health, as we can connect with our neighbours and become more familiar with our surroundings and the community."

Mr Hall added that the Walktober program aimed to raise the profile of walking and highlight the broader community health and social benefits.

"The really good thing about walking is that everyone can participate at their own level, whether it's starting with a stroll down to the local park or more extended efforts around the town," he said.

"As well, of course, it's a chance to lose some of those kilos that can accumulate over winter!"

More information about Walktober can be obtained at www.walktober.com.au which links a number of high profile walking events across Victoria.

Media contact: Peter Hall (03) 5174 7066