Mackay unveils new 10,000 Steps walkway

Mackay locals can now get their steps up while taking in the views of the Marina and the Port of Mackay' thanks to the Southern Breakwater becoming an official 10'000 Steps walkway.

Run by CQUniversity and funded by Health and Wellbeing Queensland' 10'000 Steps is a free program that helps motivate users to track their physical activity. The program includes a mobile app and website that encourages users to find ways to add steps to their day while exploring their local area or while on holidays.

The new 3.12km return trail allows visitors to the Southern Breakwater to track their steps along the length of the breakwater using the newly installed distance markers.

10'000 Steps Project Lead and CQUniversity Professorial Research Fellow Professor Corneel Vandelanotte said the development of accessible environments is crucial in supporting people to become more active.

"Walking is the most popular type of physical activity for Australians of all ages' and having good infrastructure where walking is an easy and desirable choice can help people to meet the physical activity guidelines of at least 30 minutes per day'" Professor Vandelanotte said.

"This is also where the 10'000 Steps program comes in. Members track how many steps they take to start with' then set goals and make improvements over time. It might be just a few changes to add more steps to your day or a 30-minute walk along places like the Mackay Harbour.

"Every step counts towards your daily goal. The program has been used by nearly 500'000 people and has demonstrated good effectiveness in helping people to be active for health benefits."

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) Chief Executive Officer Nicolas Fertin said the project has been chosen for the community' by the community.

"Each year our Community Reference Groups (CRGs) are asked to choose a community program or project to support'" Mr Fertin said.

"During the previous term of our Port of Mackay CRG' members chose to promote physical well-being through the registration of the Southern Breakwater as an official 10'000 Steps location."

CRG member Elizabeth Warren said she was excited to see the project unfold.

"It is exciting that we could see the delivery of this project first-hand'" Elizabeth said.

"The 10'000 Steps project demonstrates just one way that the CRG creates long-term benefits for our port communities'" she said.

Find out more about the 10'000 Steps program or download the mobile app.