Cairns West Strategy recognised at 2011 Healthy Queensland Awards

Cairns West Strategy recognised at 2011 Healthy Queensland Awards

20 May 2011

Cairns Regional Council has been praised for its approach to increasing safety and community wellbeing at the 2011 Healthy Queensland Awards.

CRC was Highly Commended for its Cairns West Strategy, comprising a series of initiatives aimed at reducing crime and increasing education and interaction opportunities to help people make positive life choices.

Targeting areas with high levels of anti-social behaviour, drug abuse and low-income family, the Strategy provides opportunities for children to engage in physical activity and educational programs that will help them make healthy choices, as well as access to help with homework.

The Carrot on a Stick program focuses on healthy eating and lifestyle for children, with physical activity and teamwork encouraged through circus skills workshops.

Parents are also involved, with forums offering information on healthy cooking, setting a budget and where to seek help when it is needed.

The Community Safety Patrol, which has recently re-started, is also a key component of the Strategy.

As a result of the Healthy Queensland Awards, Council receives $50,000 in State funding to continue the projects.

Mayor Val Schier said the Cairns West Strategy provided assistance to families in a way that promoted self-development and self-esteem.

“These projects are aimed at giving people a choice,” Cr Schier said. “It arms people with the knowledge and skills they need to make healthy choices and to improve their wellbeing and that of their community.

“I congratulate the Council officers who put the awards submission together, as well as everyone involved in the Cairns West Strategy."