Free healthy lifestyle program for families in Tweed, Coraki and Grafton

Families in NSW can access support to build healthy habits together, plus tips and assistance with getting active, healthy eating and wellbeing.

Go4Fun is a free 10-week after school program for children aged 7-13 and their families, which aims to support their health and wellbeing.

Parents and carers can now enrol their primary school aged children in the Term 2 programs in Tweed, Grafton and Coraki.

Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) Acting Director of Integrated Care and Allied Health Services, Kathryn Watson said the program is for kids and their families who want to get healthier together.

“For many families, the focus is on just getting by on a day-to-day basis, and many don’t have the money to invest in healthy lifestyle programs,” Ms Watson said.

“We know many parents can be overwhelmed by the amount of healthy lifestyle information available. Go4Fun helps by providing easy tips to make healthy changes and involves parents, carers and children in activities to help put these into practice.

“This free program allows families to have the chance to learn healthy habits, and have fun together.”

The program includes games, activities, prizes and a supermarket tour. It also helps families and children to connect with others in their local area.

“Families love that the program is free and that it helps their child’s wellbeing, including their sleep. It creates a space to connect and build relationships as a family,” Ms Watson said.

“For families who are not in the Tweed, Grafton or Coraki areas, the Go4Fun online program is always an option.”

Parents and carers can sign up to the program directly, and health professionals and GPs can also refer their patients.

Places are available for Term 2 in the following locations:

• CORAKI
  Aboriginal Go4Fun
  Tuesdays 4pm-6pm, starting 30 April
  Location: Coraki Youth Hall, 75 Bridge St, Coraki NSW 2471
  To register for the Coraki program, call Coraki Campbell HealthOne on (02) 6683 9000
• GRAFTON
  Go4Fun
  Tuesdays 4pm-6pm, starting 30 April
  Location: PCYC, 300 Powell Street, Grafton NSW 2460
• TWEED
  Go4Fun
  Wednesdays 4pm-6pm, starting 1 May
  Location: Banora Point Community Centre, Cnr Leisure Dr, Woodlands Dr, Banora Point NSW 2486

For more information and to register your child, call 1800 780 900, visit here.

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Upgrade starts at Jack Evans Boat Harbour beach

The sun is shining bright on Jack Evans Boat Harbour at Tweed Heads as construction kicks off on an exciting project aimed at enhancing access to the central beach area of this beloved swimming and recreation spot.

Made possible by a generous $748,000 grant from the NSW Government’s Places to Swim program, the upgrade of the central beach area is a significant step towards better connecting people to natural waterways and supporting the health and wellbeing of the community.

This 12-week project, expected to be completed by the end of June 2024 (weather permitting), promises to add a new dimension of enjoyment just in time for next summer.

The comprehensive upgrade includes a range of improvements designed to elevate the overall experience for visitors. Key features of the project entail enhancing the existing ramp for improved access and safety, replacing the current timber decking with tiered composite decking, and installing steps and handrails to facilitate easier entry into the water.

Furthermore, the addition of shade structures and umbrellas will provide essential sun protection, while accessible picnic facilities, seating, and improved landscaping will create inviting spaces for relaxation and enjoyment.

Pathway connections, bike racks, and art elements reflecting Aboriginal water values and cultural connections will further enrich the environment, making Jack Evans Boat Harbour a vibrant and inclusive destination for all.

Mayor of Tweed Shire, Chris Cherry, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, emphasising its importance in revitalising the precinct. She highlighted the significance of infrastructure investments in fostering community wellbeing and enhancing the overall appeal of the area for residents and visitors alike.

A graphic representation of the concept plan for the upgrade of central beach at Jack Evans Boat Harbour, which has been funded by the NSW Government’s Places to Swim program.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully, echoed Mayor Cherry’s sentiments, applauding the transformation brought about by the funding. He emphasised the positive impact of quality public infrastructure on community health and wellbeing, underscoring the importance of providing accessible recreational spaces for families.

This project aligns with Council’s commitment to safeguarding and enhancing the quality of public open spaces in the Tweed region. A draft concept plan, informed by community and stakeholder feedback, guided the finalisation of the project design, ensuring it meets the needs and aspirations of the local community.

Over the past year, the Jack Evans Boat Harbour precinct has undergone a significant revitalisation, including the introduction of a new inclusive playspace, barbecues, picnic facilities, seating, landscaping, and a youth recreation area. The adopted Jack Evans Boat Harbour (JEBH) Plan of Management serves as a guiding framework for current and future development initiatives within the precinct.

To learn more about the project and provide feedback, residents are encouraged to visit yoursaytweed.com.au/goorimahbah.

The Places to Swim program, with its commitment to enhancing access to inland waterways across NSW, has been instrumental in funding initiatives like the Jack Evans Boat Harbour upgrade. For additional information about the program, visit planning.nsw.gov.au/places-to-swim.

With this ambitious project, Jack Evans Boat Harbour is poised to emerge as a premier destination, offering a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and community engagement. As construction progresses, anticipation builds for the unveiling of this enhanced waterfront gem, set to captivate residents and visitors alike for years to come.

For more information about the Places to Swim program, visit here.

For more Tweed Shire news, click here.

WYAA 2024: Tweed Regional Gallery Revives Youth Art Award

The Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre is thrilled to herald the return of the esteemed Wollumbin Youth Art Award (WYAA) in conjunction with the highly anticipated 2024 Wollumbin Art Award.

Now extending an open invitation for submissions, this biennial accolade warmly welcomes budding artists aged 5 to 18 from the vibrant locales of Tweed, Byron, Ballina, Kyogle, Scenic Rim, Lismore, City of Gold Coast, and, for the inaugural time, Richmond Valley. Young creatives are encouraged to unleash their imaginations, as entries encompassing a diverse array of visual artworks across all subjects and mediums are eagerly anticipated. Alongside the prestige of recognition, prizes including art materials and a multitude of art-making opportunities valued at up to $1,000 await the brightest talents.

With dedicated categories tailored to each age bracket – ranging from 5–8 years to 16–18 years – the WYAA endeavours to celebrate the boundless ingenuity and artistic prowess of regional youth. Ingrid Hedgcock, esteemed Gallery Director, expressed her profound enthusiasm for the initiative, affirming, “This award stands as a testament to the exceptional abilities of our young artists, instilling within them a sense of pride and empowerment to craft works of enduring significance.”

The Gallery extends a warm welcome to Jodi Ferrari, the esteemed Children’s Gallery Coordinator at HOTA, Home of the Arts, who joins as the distinguished guest judge for the Youth award. Renowned for her expertise in curating immersive art experiences tailored for young audiences, Ms. Ferrari brings invaluable insight to the adjudication process.

Ms. Ferrari herself shared her anticipation, remarking, “I am eager to bear witness to the kaleidoscope of perspectives and boundless creativity showcased in this year’s submissions. It is a privilege to be entrusted by the Gallery to preside over this prestigious award, albeit one that promises to present a delightful challenge.”

Mark your calendars as the selected finalists earn the esteemed opportunity to showcase their masterpieces at the Gallery from September 6 to November 24, with the eagerly awaited award announcements set to unfold on September 7.

Generously sponsored by Friends of the Gallery, the Wollumbin Youth Art Award epitomizes a commitment to fostering and celebrating emerging talent within the artistic community.

The award features categories for different age groups:

• 5–8 years
• 9–12 years
• 13–15 years
• 16–18 years.

Don’t miss your chance to leave an indelible mark on the art world – entries for the WYAA 2024 are now open and will conclude at 5 pm on Monday, June 3, 2024.

For comprehensive details, including entry prerequisites, please visit the Gallery’s official website.

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