October 19th, 2023These gals can

Women across Macedon have spent the past week sampling some new sports as part of VicHealth’s This Girl Can Week that wound up on Sunday.
Building on the highly successful This Girl Can campaign, the week featured a range of fun, free (or low-cost) activities designed to welcome beginners, and those curious to try something new.
There are a wide range of fun, free or low-cost activities hosted by gyms and sports clubs
across the state, tailored to women and girls who want to get active but aren’t sure about
how to take the first step.
Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas said the beginner-friendly events were fun,
inclusive and ideal for women who want to move more but aren’t sure about how to take the
first step.
“This Girl Can Week is about supporting women to get back into exercise – whether that’s re-
joining a sports team, going for a walk with a friend or giving something completely new a
try,” Ms Thomas said.
“It’s about giving something a go and discovering again how good being active can make you
feel.”
“I encourage women and girls to check out the fantastic, beginner-friendly events happening
in our local area or join in online and show that in Macedon this girl definitely can!”
VicHealth’s Head of This Girl Can – Victoria, Rebecca Ahern said This Girl Can Week is about
creating more opportunities for women to enjoy movement amongst the busyness of life.
“This Girl Can is an uplifting, energetic and empowering campaign which speaks directly to
everyday women juggling work, family and trying to find time for self-care,” Ms Ahern said.
“We know how tricky it can be for women – especially mums – to prioritise their own physical
activity while caring for others. Five minutes is better than no minutes, whether it’s chasing
the kids around the park or walking around the block, I encourage all women to make time
for themselves during This Girl Can Week.”
“There’s no judgement if you haven’t exercised in a while or ever! All that matters is that you
give it a go and find what feels good for you.”
Ms Ahern said this year there are more opportunities than ever before to join in and it doesn’t
matter where you live.