Nominate now for new Walk-and-Ride to School Program

Council is calling on Noosa schools to join its new Walk-and-Ride to School Program.

Walking and riding to school keeps kids active, which has great health benefits, but with less kids being driven to school, it also helps reduce traffic congestion.

“Even replacing one car trip a week with a sustainable transport alternative, such as cycling or walking, can make a difference to congestion around schools,” says Councillor Ingrid Jackson.

“The Walk-and-Ride to School Program is a key part of Council’s Transport Strategy, to encourage sustainable travel choices.

“Walking and riding to school is something parents and kids can do together, so the whole family benefits from the exercise and the time together. Increased physical activity means healthier students.”

A Council project officer will work closely with each school that joins the program.

“We’ll look at how each school’s students travel to school currently, and we’ll work with schools to develop a range of fun activities and events to encourage more families to get on board,” says Council’s Project Officer Joanna Ferris.

“Besides the fitness and congestion-busting benefits of walking and riding to school, fewer cars on the roads around schools increases safety, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”

Schools taking part in the program may receive:

• Walk-and-Ride to School promotional events and activities suited to the school.
• Access to online resources.
• Small prizes and incentives such as pens, stickers, tuckshop goodies.
• Infrastructure improvements, if budgets allow.
• Data and statistics to highlight the school’s achievements.
• Customised maps with safe walking and cycling routes.
• Cycle Skills training for all Year 4 students.

Ms Ferris said each school taking part would need to nominate a staff member to champion the project.

“To be involved schools need to conduct at least one walk or ride to school activity each term and help keep track of the number of students walking and riding, either by classroom tallies or through contact with parents,” Ms Ferris said.

Principals of Noosa Shire primary schools have until Friday 17 November 2017, to nominate their school, either via email or by calling Noosa Council on (07) 5329 6500.

For more information about the Walk-and-Ride to School Program, contact Noosa Council Project Officer Joanna Ferris, by phone on (07) 5329 6447, or email.

“Council is contacting local schools to provide detailed information on the program. Interested parents can contact their school’s principal for details and to find out if the school is taking part,” Ms Ferris said.

8 November 2017