Shire of Meekatharra recognised for promoting community sport

THE Shire of Meekatharra has excelled in the 2017 Western Australia’s seventh annual Local Government Children’s Environment and Health Policy Awards receiving a commendation for the Environments Promoting Physical Activity category.

The Children’s Environment and Health Policy Awards are presented annually by the Public Health Advocacy Institute of WA, showcasing local government’s progress in creating environments that protect and support the health of children.

The Shire of Meekatharra’s mentoring and promotion of sport in the community has won a commendation in the Environments Promoting Physical Activity category. A partnership formed with the Stephen Michael Foundation offers role modelling and highlights future opportunities to young people through sports.

The Awards, an initiative of the Public Health Advocacy Institute of WA with support from Healthway, the WA Local Government Association (WALGA), the Commissioner for Children and Young People WA (CCYP) and The Cancer Council WA were presented by the Vice President of WALGA Mayor Tracey Roberts and Commissioner for Children and Young People Colin Pettit.

Dr Melissa Stoneham, Director of The Public Health Advocacy Institute highlighted the importance of the work being recognised.

“Local councils are important; as the name suggests – they are local. They care about local communities and people,” Dr Stoneham said.

“Children are an important part of any community, and they are our future.  We are so excited to be acknowledging the Councils in WA who have developed policies that promote children’s health and wellbeing.”

There were 25 Local Governments showcasing innovative projects, programs and policies across 14 categories prioritising the health and wellbeing of children. Categories included Environments Promoting Physical Activity, Road and Active Transport Safety, Early Literacy and Climate Change.