Strategy: Walkway Signage
The Australian Catholic University was one of 12 10,000 Steps Community Grant recipients awarded funding for the implementation of 10,000 Steps Community Strategies in 2018. The aim of the community grant was to install durable signage for the Flourish Gardens Walk and promote community walking groups, leveraging ACU's campus as a health resource. The initiative aligns with ACU's mission, aiming to provide a free, safe health intervention for local residents while drawing on the university's health science expertise. By enhancing the walk's appeal with clear signage and scenic trails, the project seeks to attract both local and neighboring communities, fostering broader social engagement.
Background
The Australian Catholic University (ACU) McAuley Campus in Brisbane, located in Banyo, is a modern and welcoming hub for higher education. Established in 1991, it offers a range of programs in fields like education, nursing, allied health, theology, and business. Known for its commitment to social justice and community engagement, the campus features state-of-the-art facilities, peaceful surroundings, and a supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.
Implementation
- Signage was installed on 6 walks on the Australian Catholic University Brisbane Campus, including 16 directional signs and 6 map signs.
- A map brochure was established which identifies off-leash dog areas to support dog walking in the community.
- The 10k Steps Banyo walk and walking groups were officially launched on October 26th, 2018 with Cr Adam Allen in attendance representing the Lord Mayor Graham Quirk.
- A walking group and Facebook page was also established Banyo 10K Steps Walk to provide the community with more information on weekly walks with an Exercise Physiologist from the ACU Health Clinic.
Outcomes
- Established community walking groups departing from the ACU Health Clinic. Regular walks occur on Tuesday and Thursday mornings.
- Partnered with the Brisbane Airport Rotary Club and Deception Bay mothers' group to use walking paths, supported by the School of Behavioural and Health Sciences and the ACU Health Clinic.
- Offered one-on-one walks with an accredited exercise physiologist for newcomers, including registration and access to the ACU Health Clinic.
- 48 community members registered interest online for the 10k Steps Banyo walking groups.
- 25 adults participated in at least one guided walk, with an average group size of six participants.
- 10 children (aged 6 months to 4 years) joined walks with their mothers.
- Anecdotal reports suggest increased community walking activity in the area.
“The 10,000 Steps Community Grants gave us the capacity where we would have otherwise not had it. That we could lean on the existing resources and branding to make our project in the community waking space credible and identifiable.”