Port Macquarie-Hastings Council (PMCH) has put its support behind the health and wellbeing of Bonny Hills residents by delivering a new outdoor gym facility.
Positioned at Rainbow Beach reserve, the newly-constructed outdoor exercise station has been built by Council on behalf of the community.
It includes an elliptical trainer, aerobic cycle, pull down bar, chest press bar and leg press bar – suitable for use by people of all ages and fitness abilities.
Mayor Peta Pinson said the equipment will have substantial health benefits for participants and the broader community alike.
“An active community of around 3000 people, Bonny Hills is a growing township with new residential subdivisions, emergency services and school upgrades emerging,” she said.
“I have no doubt that this new beachside equipment will increase the popularity of this reserve, and prove very popular with locals and visitors.”
This project is a collaboration between PMHC, the Bonny Hills Progress Association (BHPA), and the Bonny Hills Community Council Action Team.
The concept for the outdoor gym began in 2019 following an approach to Council by the BHPA and residents advocating for its inclusion in the reserve.
BHPA committee member Ian Simpson said the new gym will support existing activities and functions at the popular Rainbow Beach Reserve.
“We are extremely happy to see Council deliver this much-needed community asset, which was strongly advocated for by the Bonny Hills Progress Association and local community,” he said.
“Rainbow Beach Reserve is the natural beachside centre for the Bonny Hills community, and serves as the headquarters for Wauchope-Bonny Hills Surf Lifesaving Club. It is also a popular spot for barbecues, gatherings and other recreational activities, and we see this new equipment as a positive enhancement to the usability and popularity of the area.”
The project was made possible thanks to a $59,650 Australian Government grant through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie said he was proud to support initiatives such as these for the local community.
“This is a wonderful recreational asset that will have significant benefits for people of all ages,” Dr Gillespie said.
“It is one of many projects I have thrown my support behind in the Bonny Hills community, and I look forward to seeing it put to good use in the years to come.”
