Gilgandra residents of all ages and abilities are being encouraged to get moving, connect with others and prioritise their wellbeing with the launch of the Gilgandra Gets Goin’ – Have a Crack Challenge.

The region-wide health and wellbeing initiative is a joint effort between Gilgandra Shire Council and the Gilgandra Multipurpose Service, designed to boost physical activity, social connection and health literacy across the Gilgandra region.

Running throughout February and March, the challenge focuses on fun, accessible and non-competitive activities, inviting locals to “have a crack” at movement and connection in whatever way suits them - whether that’s joining a team, turning up to a casual session or simply tracking their own activity.

Gilgandra MPS Nurse Manager John Alchin said the initiative was about encouraging healthier lifestyles while keeping the focus on enjoyment and inclusion.

“The team at the Gilgandra MPS and I are excited to partner with the council to bring this challenge to our community,” Mr Alchin said.

“We’ve lined up a range of fun, inclusive activities running throughout February and March that anyone can jump in and be part of. Community sport is such a great way to catch up with mates, have a laugh and sneak in a bit of activity along the way.”

He said participation looked different for everyone and residents were encouraged to get involved at whatever level felt comfortable.

“Whether you can run one kilometre, ten, or just enjoy a good walk-and-talk, we encourage everyone to sign up or get a group together,” Mr Alchin said.

“Registrations are open throughout January, and we’re also offering free health checks to get you started and help you track your health improvements from the program.”

As part of the challenge, a range of activities will be delivered across the region, including touch football, netball, lawn bowls, boot camp and yoga sessions at the pool, and Windmill Walk, Talk and Run Club sessions held in Gilgandra, Armatree and Tooraweenah.

Want to get fit in Gil? Your opportunity is available now!

Dates and details for activities will be released progressively via Council and Gilgandra Region social media channels.

Free health checks will also be offered through Gilgandra Youth Services, delivered by Gilgandra MPS, on Thursday, 22 January and Thursday, 29 January between 3pm and 4pm.

Community members who choose not to participate in organised activities are still welcome to attend health checks and track their own physical activity as part of the challenge.

Throughout the program, participants will be supported with data tracking and analysis, including step counts, blood pressure and pulse rate monitoring, wellbeing indicators, and support around smoking or vaping cessation.

Social connection and wellbeing outcomes will also be assessed as part of the initiative.

Organisers say the mix of physical activity, health literacy, social interaction and community leadership ensures the challenge is more than just an event series, describing it as a platform to re-energise community connection and build long-term, grassroots wellbeing across the region.

Individual and team registrations are open throughout January.

Locals are encouraged to register, get involved and “have a crack” at wellbeing.

For more information or to register, contact Tracey Stevenson at Gilgandra Youth Services on 6817 8798 or via email at [email protected], or John Alchin at Gilgandra MPS on 6880 5900.

Updates and event information are also available via the Gilgandra Region events page.