26/05/2025
Our active classes are going great! It’s so great to see Garawa are making a difference to mob, particularly our Elders. If you are interested in our Elders workshops, we would love to hear from you. June workshop information will be posted shortly. For further information or if you have any questions, please contact [email protected]
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Two local Aboriginal women are hailing the physical and mental health benefits of being active after joining an exercise group on the Central Coast.
Aunty Helen, a Kamilaroi woman from the Peninsula and Aunty Maureen, a Biripi and Worimi woman from Kincumber, both signed up for exercises classes after struggling with their physical and mental health.
“I used to be very active up until a couple of years ago when I had a fall and fractured my pelvis and femur,” Aunty Helen, 74, said.
“I couldn’t walk at first, and I became too scared to get in the car, or get out and do things like go shopping, even with my walker.
“The classes are great. Our instructor, Lisa, knows our capacity and makes us feel relaxed and at ease. Now I’m much more confident and mobile. I can get in the car and go to the shops again. I feel like I have my independence back.”
Aunty Maureen (pictured with instructor Lisa) has also been attending the classes, which are held fortnightly at Ettalong Senior Citizens Club as part of Garawa Aboriginal Corporation’s Elders Know Your Rights workshops.
“Since going to the classes, I’m much more active, I feel better, and I sleep better too,” Aunty Maureen, 75, said.
"It’s also very social. We have group activities, a bit like a ladies day, which have really helped with my mental health.
“For anyone who’s thinking about joining an exercise group, just do it.”
To find an exercise program near you, visit the Active and Healthy website at
activeandhealthy.nsw.gov.au or call Central Coast Health Promotion Service on 4320 9700.
