Community
25 September, 2025
Health Service set to launch evening walks
A NEW Evening Walking Group will be launched next month to help promote safety and respect for women in Terang.
The new community-led initiative is launching in Terang to encourage safe, inclusive and respectful walking practices, particularly for women, during the evening hours.
The Evening Walking Group will have its first meeting on Wednesday, October 8 before meeting weekly at 7.30pm outside the Terang Library.
Organised by the Terang and Mortlake Health Service (TMHS) health promotion team, the group aims to foster a sense of safety, community connection, and confidence for women who wish to remain active after dark.
“Many women report feeling uneasy walking or running alone at night,” TMHS health promotion officer Michelle Dowden said.
“This group provides a supportive environment to exercise safely while also raising awareness about respectful behaviours in shared public spaces.”
A key focus of the group will be educating community members, particularly runners or faster walkers, on how to respectfully approach others from behind.
Suggested strategies include:
Making your presence known by gently coughing, saying ‘passing on your right,’ or lightly tapping your feet louder;
Avoiding sudden movements or running up closely behind someone;
Using a light or wearing reflective gear to ensure visibility, and
Respecting personal space and choosing well-lit, open paths.
“This is not just about safety,” Ms Dowden said.
“It’s about creating a culture of respect and shared responsibility in our community spaces.”
The walking group is open to all genders and fitness levels, with a strong emphasis on creating a welcoming and safe space for women.
No registration is required – anyone interested can just turn up with their walking shoes and a sense of community spirit.
Read More: Terang