Joint media release with Northern NSW Local Health District:
Healthy North Coast and Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) are pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026–2027 Older Adults Physical Activity Grants Program to help older people stay active, healthy, and connected across Northern NSW.
Ten grants worth more than $150,000 have been awarded to local organisations to deliver tailored physical activity programs for older adults, particularly those who are not currently active or who face barriers such as cost, transport, rurality, chronic conditions, or social isolation.
The funded projects will commence between now and 30 June 2027, with a focus on improving strength, balance, mobility, and social connection, while supporting healthy ageing across the region.
Healthy North Coast CEO Monika Wheeler said the strong response to the program reflects the commitment of local organisations to supporting their communities:
“Regular physical activity plays a critical role in maintaining independence, preventing falls, and supporting mental wellbeing and social connection,” Ms Wheeler said.
“These projects show what’s possible when local organisations are supported to deliver practical, community-led solutions that help older people stay active and connected.”
The program is delivered in partnership with NNSWLHD and aligns with a preventative health approach to reduce the risk of chronic disease and support people to remain healthy for longer.
NNSWLHD Acting Director of Aboriginal Health, Oral Health and Health Promotion, Cameron Johnson said the program supports early intervention and improves access to inclusive, low-cost opportunities for physical activity:
“By investing in programs that are accessible and culturally appropriate across our region, we can support older people to stay active, reduce their risk of injury and illness, and remain connected to their communities,” Mr Johnson said.
Successful grant recipients (total funding awarded $150,142):
- Aunty Gwen Cares – Casino Goori’s Living Healthy program, a culturally led healthy ageing initiative for Aboriginal adults aged 45 years and over – $15,000.
- Ballina Coast Walking Football Incorporated – Ongoing walking football program for adults aged 50 years and over – $5,676.
- Byron Shire Council – Healthy Ageing Aqua Aerobics program for adults aged 50 years and over – $16,040.
- Lismore Basketball Association Incorporated – Basketball: A Game for Life, a community-based physical activity and social connection program for older adults – $8,150.
- Maclean Football Club Incorporated – Walking football program for adults aged 60 years and over – $9,412.
- Matung Kunarr Aboriginal Corporation – Culturally safe physical activity program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 45 years and over, in Tweed – $15,000.
- Meet Move Eat – Chair Yoga and Coffee program for adults aged 50 years and over, or 45 and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants, in Uki, Tumbulgum and Murwillumbah – $27,152.
- Nimbin Physical Activities Centre – Exercise equipment for strength, balance, and healthy ageing programs for adults aged 50 years and over – $15,000.
- Northern Rivers Pickleball Association – Structured strength and balance program for adults aged 50 years and over – $14,392.
- Tweed Valley Basketball Association – Walking basketball program for adults aged 50 years and over – $24,320.
Tweed Valley Basketball Association President Zac Hoade was excited to accept the grant:
“With almost half of the Tweed Shire’s population aged over 50, there is a clear and growing need for accessible, low‑impact ways to stay active and connected. We are delighted to receive this grant funding to keep this program affordable and accessible for the entire Tweed community,” he said.
“Walking Basketball fills an important gap in our region, offering a safe and supportive environment for older residents to re-engage with the sport they love or try something entirely new. It’s about keeping our community moving, reducing isolation and ensuring that everyone – regardless of age or ability – can participate and belong.”
The grants were assessed against criteria including community need, accessibility, inclusiveness, and the ability to deliver sustainable, locally relevant programs.
A second grant round will open later this year. To register your interest, visit:
healthupnorth.info/get-active.
NSW Health offers free healthy eating and active living information and services for older people and whole of community across NSW. Visit the Healthy Living website for more information: nsw.gov.au/health-and-wellbeing/healthy-living/healthy-living-for-adults-and-older-adults.
Pictured above (L-R): Tweed Valley Basketball (TVB) Board Member, Anthony Le Maistre, Monika Wheeler, CEO Healthy North Coast, community members Bethaney Kean, Kay Ayres, Lee Bolla, TVB Board Member Carla Goronszy and NNSWLHD Acting Health Promotion Manager, Sarah Beaumont.
