Strategy for good health

By Peter Douglas

Yarra Ranges Council’s draft 2017 health and well-being strategy is set for community consultation, with the final version to be tabled in September this year.
At its Tuesday 13 June meeting, council passed the draft strategy, which aims to outline how council will protect, improve and promote public health and well-being.
The draft strategy won support from all councillors, with Cr Tim Heenan underlining much good work behind the scenes.
“This facet of what we do here at Yarra Ranges is important and we certainly support the work that’s been done over a long period of time,” he said.
Among the key issues highlighted within the Yarra Ranges include mental health and encouraging healthy eating and physical activity.
Also of concern are high incidence of chronic disease, limited service access, and problematic alcohol and other use.
The draft strategy focuses on prevention, through advocacy, developing strong partnerships and involving the community.
Council is required to develop a health and well-being strategy within 12 months of the election of a new council.
For more details on the health and well-being strategy, visit www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au.