People aged 60 and over in the Northern Rivers will soon have more options to help them stay fit, with applications now open for the ‘Active Ageing’ grants program. 

Active Ageing grants are now available to support exercise providers and fitness leaders to provide low-cost exercise programs for people over the age of 60 in the Northern Rivers. 

Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) is providing eight grants of $500 to support existing group exercise programs and five grants of $800 to help start new group exercise programs. 

NNSWLHD Acting Manager Health Promotion Graeme Williams said preventive healthcare plays a vital role in the health system. 

“Having access to affordable exercise programs is one of the key things we can do to support people in the Northern Rivers region to stay active and well as they age,” 

Mr Williams said.  “Exercise groups are a great way for older people to come together to build their strength, balance and endurance and to connect with others socially. 

“Through the grants program, we are particularly interested in supporting new exercise programs for older people in locations where there may not already be many existing opportunities.” 

The exercise programs must be delivered in the NNSWLHD footprint (the areas covered by Ballina, Byron, Clarence, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed Councils). 

Applications close 27 January 2023. To apply, or for more information visit:  healthupnorth.info/activeageinggrant