The delivery of outdoor fitness spaces throughout the Shire is a priority identified in the Hepburn Shire’s Recreation and Open Space Strategy to promote active and engaged communities.Development of outdoor fitness spaces in Hepburn Shire commenced in 2019/2020 with the delivery of a space in Creswick and will continue in 2020/2021 with the supply and installation of outdoor fitness equipment pieces at Trentham Recreation Reserve to improve physical, mental health and wellbeing opportunities for community members. In addition, the project will meet Councils vision identified in the PlaySpace Strategy 2020-2030 of having a network of engaging, inclusive and sustainable Playspaces that are reflective of our people and our places.

This project is funded in partnership with the Federal Government through the Local Road and Community Infrastructure Grant Program and Hepburn Shire Council.

"OFE plays a vital role in the community, allowing access to equipment that provide an opportunity to improve personal fitness and mental wellbeing. Members of the community can greatly benefit from this free and unrestricted access in their local environment. The benefits of participants regularly using OFE depend on the equipment used and intensity. Regular OFE use has been found to assist in improving performance in areas such as aerobic activity, strength, balance and flexibility. Significant evidence also shows the benefits of outdoor exercise on mental health, in comparison to indoor exercise. Some of the benefits include improved socialisation, sense of community and revitalisation." – Department of Health and Human Services

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback during the initial consultation in March 2021.

We have heard from the community’s feedback, that the design should consider:

• Back (Strength)
• Leg (Strength)
• Chest (Strength)
• Stepper (Cardio)
• Cross (Cardio)
• A combination of static and dynamic equipment pieces and
• Equipment to cater for all ages and abilities

Following site feasibility of, and feedback from community and key stakeholders of a number of sites within Trentham including Wombat Trail, Trentham Recreation Reserve and Quarry Street Reserve,it has been determined that Trentham Recreation Reserve is the most suitable site due to its proximity to the main street, accessibility to public toilets and that the equipment will complement the other active recreation use of the reserve such as the pool, tennis courts and existing playground equipment.

Once the concept plans are finalised and pending final formal approvals, the project is anticipated to progress to the installation stage late in 2021.

If you have any further queries or feedback regarding the Outdoor Fitness Equipment Project or concept design, please contact Council’s Sport and Active Recreation Project Officer Justyne Carr on 03 5321 6160 or jcarr@hepburn.vic.gov.au

The Trentham concept design will remain available for public exhibition until 5pm Friday 8 October 2021.