Walking track opens at Sutherland Hospital

A new walking track – or muru yana (a path to walk) – was recently launched at Sutherland Hospital.

The one-kilometre track links existing pathways around the hospital grounds. New outdoor seating, exercise equipment and hopscotch have also been installed.
 
Valerie Jovanovic, General Manager, Sutherland Hospital, said the track was a welcomed addition to the hospital campus. 
 
“The walking track and equipment can be used and enjoyed by staff – as well as visitors, volunteers and patients – to exercise or take a relaxing break,” Ms Jovanovic said.
 
“Hospitals have the potential to be stressful places to visit or work, but we know that exercise and spending time outdoors may help manage or reduce the levels of stress experienced.”

As part of the launch, the Work Health and Safety team had an information stall in the hospital atrium which included a map of the walking track and information about Steptember – an initiative where participants aim to achieve 10,000 steps per day and raise funds to support research into cerebral palsy and much-needed equipment.

The walking track was the result of funding from The Inspiring Ideas Challenge, and the exercise equipment was donated by the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District Mental Health Service.