Seniors in Northam are being encouraged to get active through the State Government’s SilverSport program.
Member for Central Wheatbelt Mia Davies MLA said SilverSport was a trial program to encourage seniors to be more active and feel more connected to their community.
Based on the hugely successful KidSport program, the program invites seniors over 60 to apply for up to $200 per person to put towards sport club memberships or physical activity program fees.
SilverSport is happening in the Shire of Northam, City of Belmont, Shire of Coolgardie, City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder and City of Kwinana, so applicants must live in one of these areas and have a valid health care card or pensioner concession card to be eligible.
“We’re excited that SilverSport has been popular in Northam. So far 88 seniors have signed up for their voucher,” Ms Davies said.
“Having more seniors being active is not only good for their health, but helps create happier and more vibrant communities.
“The average age of our SilverSporters is 72, which means you are never too old to become more active or try a new activity.”
Ms Davies said the most popular activities in Northam were bowls, fitness through exercise rehabilitation and gym memberships, and golf.
Developed by the Department of Sport and Recreation, SilverSport is run in partnership with local government.
In the first year of the trial, $300,000 has been allocated for the project which runs until June 2017.
Of the 589 seniors who have applied so far across all areas, the majority are women.
For more information about SilverSport or how to claim your voucher, go to http://www.dsr.wa.gov.au/funding/individuals/silversport
For media enquiries please contact Mia Davies on 08 9041 1702 (Merredin office), 08 9622 2871 (Northam office) or email mia.davies@mp.wa.gov.au.
Photo: Member for Central Wheatbelt Mia Davies MLA with SilverSport participants, in Northam.
