Primary school students urged to step out on Walk to School Day

  • 2016-04-25
Maroochydore students are being urged to join the rest of the nation in a health-inspired government initiative to walk to school.

The National Walk Safely to School Day was introduced 17 years ago to promote health, the environment, road safety and public transport.

According to a Sunshine Coast Council spokesman, the event is already marked on primary school students’ Calendars around Australia, with most schools participating on May 20. Some schools will opt for another day during the same week.

Students on the Sunshine Coast will walk, skate or ride their scooters on the day. Those participating are invited to register online at the Sunshine Coast Council website for a chance to win a skateboard or scooter, with 10 of each to give away.

The initiative, according to the spokesman, is aimed at promoting ways to achieve and maintain good health, including regular walking.

He said the exercise can help in the prevention of chronic problems such as heart disease and obesity, diabetes, and mental and behavioural issues.

In addition, children walking to school can assist in reducing the number of parking and traffic problems experienced every day around schools, as well as teach children the fundamentals of road safety.

The spokesman said it was also up to drivers to ensure they were considerate and alert when passing through a school zone, especially on Walk Safely to School Day.
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