Community
26 September, 2024
New fundraising initiative launches
GREAT tasting smoothies are just a pedal away thanks to new equipment which is poised to help community groups fundraise vital dollars.
Blending health and exercise is taken quite literally in the form of new stationary bikes acquired by Terang and Mortlake Health Service (TMHS).
The bikes are designed to attach a blender to the front, which operates when the user pedals, allowing for healthy smoothies to be whipped up in a matter of seconds with just a little leg work.
TMHS health promotion officer Tanya Glossop said the concept had come to life earlier this year thanks to support from Corangamite Shire Council.
“Back at the end of June, Corangamite Shire Council offered to work with us to do something within the community that would promote wellbeing and community involvement,” she said.
“We decided to purchase these smoothie bikes, which will be located at the Josie Black and any community group can borrow them, completely free of charge, to raise money, and promote exercise and healthy living.
“To borrow them you do need to have someone with a class two food registration, as per the shire rules, which can be registered with the shire.
“But we’re happy to loan them out for anyone to use because it’s a fun, healthy way for people in community groups to raise money in a way which encourages a positive lifestyle.”
The bikes received a trial run last week with the help of Terang College students, who made smoothies for members of the TMHS social support group.
“We decided we need to have a test run with students from Terang College who come every Wednesday, so we thought it was a great time to trial it in a good environment,” Mrs Glossop said.
“It is good to get the kids involved and get the older people in our Social Support Group to enjoy an activity with the kids, and just to mingle together.
“Everyone had a go, and the feedback has been very positive.”
Terang College flexible learning teacher Matthew Murray said students enjoy their weekly visits, and the trial run of the bikes is all part of their efforts to be more involved in the community.
“Something like this is huge because it gives our students a sense of purpose,” he said.
“They have an opportunity to engage with the community, bring a smile to the client’s faces and be part of a weekly check in to see a familiar face and learn about some of our town’s older people and learn about their lives.”
Any community groups interested in borrowing the bikes for a fundraiser are invited to contact the Josie Black Community Health Centre and speak with Mrs Glossop on 5592 0300.