Lilydale Council Launches Free Fitness Programs for Residents Over 60

The Shire of Yarra Ranges Council has launched a series of free senior fitness programs, available to all residents aged 60 and above, as part of its efforts to promote healthy aging and community engagement in Lilydale.

With the recent heatwave affecting the region, it's more important than ever for seniors to stay active and mobile, while also being mindful of their health and wellbeing. Regular exercise can help prevent chronic diseases, improve mental health, and reduce the risk of falls and injuries. The council's initiative is particularly significant in Lilydale, where there is a strong culture of active wellness and a high proportion of residents aged 60 and above.

In Lilydale, seniors can access free fitness classes at the Lilydale Lake Recreation Reserve, the Yarra Valley Community Centre, and the Council's own Civic Centre on Maroondah Highway. The programs on offer include gentle exercise classes, such as tai chi and yoga, as well as more energetic activities like line dancing and walking groups. The Lilydale Bowls Club and the Lilydale Football Club are also participating in the initiative, offering their facilities for free to seniors who want to get involved in sports and social activities.

Program Details and Benefits

According to the council, over 500 seniors have already registered for the free fitness programs since they were launched in May 2026. The programs are run by qualified instructors and are designed to be low-impact and accessible to all abilities. Statistics show that regular exercise can reduce the risk of falls by up to 30% and improve mental wellbeing by up to 25%. With the council's initiative, seniors in Lilydale can access these benefits at no cost, with classes running every weekday morning and afternoon.

The council has allocated $150,000 to fund the senior fitness programs for the next 12 months, with the aim of reaching at least 1,000 participants by the end of the year. The programs are also being supported by local healthcare providers, including the Eastern Health service, which is providing expertise and resources to help promote the initiative. As the program continues to grow and expand, residents can expect to see even more activities and classes on offer, including water-based exercise programs at the Lilydale Leisure Centre and outdoor walking groups in the Dandenong Ranges National Park.

For seniors in Lilydale who are interested in getting involved, the council is advising them to contact the Civic Centre on 1300 368 333 to register for the free fitness programs. With classes running throughout the week and a range of activities to choose from, there's never been a better time for seniors in Lilydale to get active, meet new people, and improve their overall health and wellbeing.