Community
26 March, 2026
Embracing technology for healthy outcomes
TERANG and Mortlake Health Service (TMHS) has launched a new virtual walking group in a bid to heighten physical activity across the region.
A new social media group dubbed the Terang/Mortlake Virtual Exercise Group has now been launched.
TMHS health promotion officer Katrina Van Someren said the group launched with the hope greater flexibility would encourage more people to get active.
Walking groups had previously been established at set times, but participation was inconsistent due to a range of factors including work, study, family and other commitments.
The concept seeks to address the limitation by allowing people to get active on their own time while still maintaining the benefits of being connected to others in doing so.
“We know people are exercising out in the community but it can be hard to get people together in one place at the same time every week, especially in a rural setting,” Ms Van Someren said.
“We’re trying to target that demographic of the population that can’t get to an organised exercise group.
“They still get the social aspects of being in a virtual group, which can encourage people to get out there and inspire them to be more active.”
The group is designed to combine physical activity with social interaction, with members encouraged to share photos from their walk, wildlife sightings, trail recommendations or personal goals and reflections.
Ms Van Someren said the social aspect was important, not only for the benefits but a proven way to get more people involved.
“A lot of people find the social aspect of exercise groups are their main reason for going,” she said.
“It’s a great co-benefit with mental health, physical benefits and social benefits.”
Since launching, the group has since gone on to attract a membership in excess of 65 people.
“I’ve been surprised,” Ms Van Someren said.
“We were not too sure how it was going to go, but so far so good.
“It’s only been a week but people are already posting and introducing themselves.
“It seems to be a really supportive, warm environment.”
To join, visit the Terang/Mortlake Virtual Exercise Group on Facebook.