Older adults who dream of reconnecting with their sporting past and forging new social connections can make this a reality through a Redland City Council pilot project, Sport and Talk.
Mayor Jos Mitchell said the free walking sport for older persons initiative would introduce three sports – basketball, softball and soccer – at a combined come and try day, and participants could then join a structured four-week program.
“Walking sport aims to encourage physical activity, social connection and overall wellbeing among older residents,” the Mayor said.
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“It is a modified, low-impact version of the traditional game, ideal for older adults seeking safe and enjoyable movement-based activities.”
The Mayor said the Sport and Talk initiative aligned with the intent of the strong communities goal within Council’s Corporate Plan as well as strategies within the Redlands Coast Age-friendly Action Plan 2021–2026.
“It is important people of all ages can access and enjoy the city’s community facilities and outdoor spaces, can participate in a range of activities and events, and can access services to support health and wellbeing,” she said.
The Mayor said the pilot program was designed to build skills, confidence and community.
“Each session will blend gentle physical activity with opportunities for social interaction and conversation.
“There are many benefits for our older residents, including improved physical health and mental wellbeing, social connection, and increased confidence and independence.
“This pilot could serve as a model for year-round engagement in sport and I would encourage all our participants to consider forming a regular walking sport group with support from local sporting bodies and clubs.”
Sport and Talk will be delivered in collaboration with RedCity Roar Basketball Association, Redlands Softball Association and Football Queensland.
RedCity Roar Basketball General Manager Chris Angus said RedCity Roar was proud to be working with Redland City Council on the initiative.
“Combining sport and social connection in a fun and safe way is a great approach to re-engage those in our community who might have thought that part of their life was behind them,” Mr Angus said.
“Walking basketball is a great way to give seniors, or those who can no longer play a full-paced game, an option to play at a much more manageable pace.
“Whether they have played basketball or not, the program is designed to teach basic fundamentals and combine that into fun slower-paced games.”
Redlands Softball Association Operations and Development Coordinator Tamieka Whitefield said: “We’re excited to introduce Walking Softball as a fun, inclusive way for older adults in our community to stay active and connected.
“This initiative is a great opportunity to bring more people into our sport and strengthen community wellbeing through movement and connection.”
Football Queensland Manager – Inclusion Football Sam Escobar said Football Queensland was excited to work with Redland City Council to support the Sport and Talk initiative and bring Walking Football to the Redlands community.
“As a small-sided, modified version of the game, Walking Football provides the perfect introduction or entry point back into football for participants of all ages and skill levels while delivering social connection and physical and mental health benefits,” Mr Escobar said.
“We look forward to bringing Walking Football to the region as part of the Sport and Talk program, and encourage the local community to make the most of this opportunity to get involved in our beautiful game.”
The combined free come and try day will be held at PCYC Redlands on Friday 24 April from 9.30am to 11.30am, followed by a free four-week program:
- Basketball at PCYC Redlands, Capalaba from 9.30am to 10.30am each Tuesday from 28 April to 19 May
- Softball at Redlands Softball Park, Ormiston from 8am to 9am each Wednesday from 29 April to 20 May
- Soccer at PCYC Redlands, Capalaba from 9.30am to 10.30am each Friday from 1 to 22 May.
For more information about Sport and Talk, including how to register for the come and try day and four-week program, visit the Seniors page on Council’s website.
