Walking exchange 3 Sept 2009

Provide an opportunity for Walking Action Groups (WAG) and people interested in walking for transport to meet, discuss ideas and what works and learn about Victoria Walks.

What we will cover

• Victoria Walks about & news • WAGs – what/why/how• WAGs on Victoria Walks website• Walking audits• Example action (EIWAG)• Working with your council• Future exchanges

Victoria Walks Inc.

A independent walking-for-transport health promotion body funded and supported

by VicHealth.

Context

• People are more likely to walk in safe, attractive and vibrant communities.

• Congestion, transport and liveability are ‘hot’ issues.

• Many local car trips could be walked.

• Health, social, economic & environmental benefits to walking.

Vision and Mission

Our vision is for vibrant, supportive and strong neighbourhoods and communities where people can and do choose to walk wherever possible.

Our mission is to promote the health of all Victorians by increasing the number of people who walk as a means of transport.

Victoria Walks’ Activities

Leadership submissions, resource provision, policy, research, forums & social marketing.

Support local action to change neighbourhoods into walk friendly environments.

Media comment and publicity to increase awareness of the health, environmental, social, and economic benefits of walking for transport.

Promote walking for transport by conducting campaigns, events and promotions.

Victoria Walks website

• Walking Action Groups

• Connecting communities

• Register users

• Victoria Walks activities

Walking Action Groups

• What is a WAG

• Why start a WAG

• WAG structure – informal/ formal

• Single/multiple issues

Walking Audits

• What – survey the walking environment

• Why – structured way to identify issues

• How – online and print

• Who – walk with others

• Afterwards – write up, prioritise, further help, advocate?

East Ivanhoe Walking Action Group – Paul Rumpf

• Background Issue (the roundabout) • Roundabout safety rally

• Engagement of the relevant authorities

• What worked/hasn’t worked

• Outcomes and where to now?

Working with councils

Tips and ideas by

Ben Grounds City of Darebin

How to work with Councils

• Walking responsibility• Strategies and guidelines• Use customer service• Individual officers?• Patience• Councillors

Plans, Strategies, and Policies

• Council Plan• Municipal Health Plan• Climate Change Action Plan• Transport Strategy• Walking Strategy• Safe Travel Strategy• Crossover Policy• Goods on Footpaths Policy

Councils and WAGs

• Local knowledge• Positive voice for walking• Consultation• Organised approach

Google My Maps

• My Maps for walking audits and advocacy

• My Maps for walking to local destinations

• My Maps Paul’s map

• My Maps workshop/tutorial?

Workplace WAGs

• Why walking works

• Walking meetings

• Walking to and from work

• Workplace WAG’S

• Workplace walking audit

Where to from here?

• How often to meet?

• Tailored workshops

• Webinars

• Using the discussion board

• Promotional materials