New partnership breaking down barriers to being active in Frankston

The partnership, which began as a successful pilot program in March 2023, aims to provide affordable and inclusive pathways for individuals experiencing disadvantage to lead healthier, more active lives.

At the core of this collaboration is Peninsula Leisure’s ‘Active Pathways’ program, which helps to reduce barriers to physical activity and social connection. Eligible participants are now able to join as a Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre (PARC) Active Pathways member, with a minimal contribution, thanks to subsidies provided by Peninsula Leisure and Reclink Australia.

The new Active Pathways program is open to residents of Frankston, with priority given to those who are disengaged from physical activity and face greater challenges to achieving health and wellbeing. This includes individuals experiencing financial hardship, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people living with disabilities, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander community members, women, girls, and the LGBTIQ+ community.

An Active Pathways member said that the program had helped her access a PARC membership where she otherwise would not have had the opportunity and given her more time to focus on herself. “I wouldn’t have had the chance to get a gym membership without Active Pathways. It’s really great having something just for me, something to focus on my health,” she said.

Participants are referred to the program through partner or member agencies of Reclink Australia, ensuring that a strong support network is in place for these individuals. Interested participants can contact their support agency, including Head Space or Youth Support + Advocacy Service (YSAS), and ask for a referral to the PARC Active Pathways Program via Reclink Australia.

Peninsula Leisure General Manager Business Improvement, Lisa Newman-Morris, said: “Our vision at Peninsula Leisure is to improve lives through activity and connection. By offering the Active Pathways subsidised membership program, we hope to remove some of the barriers to being active and help foster a community of engagement and connection.”

Under the program, membership options and pricing vary depending on the age of the participant, with a focus on making the program as accessible as possible and encouraging active usage and participation of the membership. Participants have the option to use all PARC’s health club facilities with a Full Access membership, the aquatic spaces with an Aquatic Access membership or enjoy regular visits to Pines Forest Aquatic Centre with a 10-visit pass.

Reclink Australia’s Frankston Sports Coordinator, Funda Nakkasoglu, welcomed the collaboration, which was supported through funding from the VicHealth Future Active Program, along with the Victorian Government Community Support Fund.

“This collaboration between Peninsula Leisure and Reclink Australia underscores a commitment to breaking down the barriers that prevent people from pursuing a healthier and more active lifestyle. Together, we are making a significant impact on the community's wellbeing by ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to get active and stay healthy,” Ms Nakkasoglu said.

For more information about the Active Pathways program and how to join, please visit https://peninsulaleisure.com.au/