Mackay residents encouraged to Try the 5

The names of the campaign ambassadors, who will inspire their network of friends and family and community members to Try the 5 and shape up, were also announced.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Try the 5 would build on the success of last year and get the community moving again.

“We have had a concerted regional effort to increase the health of our community over the last couple of years,” Cr Williamson said.

“And like last year, there will be five themed weeks of free activities in biking, adrenaline sports, water sports, gym/personal training and walking/running,” he said.

“The campaign is aimed at all residents, particularly those who are not physically active or have become inactive.

More than 40 get-active events and introduction sessions are being held across the Mackay region from Sarina, to the Pioneer Valley and north to Seaforth.

The new Mackay ARC facility is also getting involved, with a number of swimming and running classes being held in May.

Chair of councils’ Sports and Recreation Advisory Committee, Cr Ayril Paton, said there had been some changes this year to re-energise the campaign.

“The weekly themes have been adjusted to include adrenaline sports, which is already getting a lot of interest,’’ he said.

“We’ve also increased the number of Try the 5 ambassadors to 10 this year to help promote events during the week of their theme.

“Residents can share how they’re getting involved in the campaign by sharing photos or videos of them being active.

“They can upload their photos/videos to council’s website or share on social media and hashtag #trythe5.

“Anyone who shares photos or videos will be entered in random draws for weekly prizes and the major prize.”

The major prizes at the end of the campaign will be awarded for best photo and/or video.

There’s more than $6000 in fitness prizes up for grabs as an incentive to get moving.

Mackay Institute of Research and Innovation (MIRI) is a partner in the campaign, helping to promote its 10,000 steps and Inspire Your Tribe initiatives to reduce obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Inspire your Tribe has a dedicated web page where leaders, managers and community role models can take a challenge to lead their tribe to a more healthy/active lifestyle (see web link below for more information).

Southern Cross Austereo have also partnered with the campaign and Jay and Dave from Triple M are featured in the campaign’s TV advertisement.

The Mackay Marina Run on Sunday, June 2, will be the last opportunity to enter the competition. To find out more about Try the 5 free introductory sessions and events, go to council’s Facebook page or website.

Try the 5 weekly themes and campaign ambassadors: