Make a Move Make a Difference

We’re celebrating all the different ways to get active in our community

Make a Move Make a Difference inspires

Being active is important, but finding the time or motivation can be challenging. That’s why real stories matter—by sharing how, where, and why we move, we can inspire others to take that first step toward a more active lifestyle.

Sharing personal movement stories

Find out how someone you may know keeps moving—and what it means to them.

You can read Belinda’s story: Belinda an avid walker but thought running wasn’t for her.

Embrace new experiences

GO Soccer Mums Ross Reserve – creating an inclusive opportunity for women to get active

Since 2023, Monash Health’s Health Promotion Team has partnered with Reclink, Football Victoria, and the City of Greater Dandenong to deliver GO Soccer Mums – an inclusive, non-competitive soccer program designed for women and gender-diverse people. The program aims to improve the region’s lower-than-average physical activity levels by addressing common barriers such as lack of confidence, competing priorities, cost, and fear of judgement.

Delivered at Ross Reserve in Noble Park, the program offers a fun, welcoming space to learn basic football skills, make social connections, and enjoy movement without pressure or competition. Many participants had never played soccer before but now feel more confident and motivated to stay active.

Stay tuned for details on when GO Soccer Mums will be kicking off again.

Join our community gardening group, run by volunteers

  • connect with nature 
  • learn about planting, growing and composting 
  • grow fresh and organic vegetables
  • meet new friends.

Location: Afri-Aus Care Inc, 562 Springvale Road, Springvale South.

Time: Monday 11am to 2pm. 

For more information contact Marama Kufi by email at marama.kufi@monashhealth.org 

Venture outdoors and discover new places 

Step outside and explore the beauty of Victoria with a comprehensive guide to outdoor activities.

Explore Get Active Victoria’s Place interactive search engine to help you find new or local:

  • walks
  • playgrounds
  • skateparks
  • exercise stations.

You can find a variety of local walks at Heart Foundation Walking and guided park walks at Parks Victoria.

Join a local walking group or start a new walking group

Walking is a great way to keep active. Search to find your closest walking group. Search for local walking groups near you.

If you’d like to start a walking group, the Heart Foundation can help you with:

  • Planning routes, locations and meeting times.
  • Providing training and access to an online profile for group management.
  • Keeping you informed with ongoing communications, event invitations, and workshops from the Heart Foundation.

For more information, lead a Heart Foundation Walking group in your community

Run, jog, walk 5km with friends

Have you heard about parkrun? parkrun is a free, community event where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate. parkrun is 5k and takes place every Saturday morning. junior parkrun is 2k, dedicated to 4-14 year olds and their families, every Sunday morning.

parkrun is positive, welcoming and inclusive; there is no time limit, and no one finishes last. Everyone is welcome to come along.

Find your local parkrun.

Get active at home

Can’t step out? No worries. Dive into a world of home-based activities that keep you on your toes. Whether it’s workout routines or creative ways to get those essential 30 minutes of daily movement, we’ve got you covered.

Find free resources on Get Active Victoria’s site. 

Discover local events and activities in your area

Explore new experiences and activities. Find exciting local events and activities on your council’s website.

What’s on in Greater Dandenong

Find local events and activities across the City of Greater Dandenong. Search their website under Health and Wellbeing or Sport and Recreation events.

You will find strength training, Zumba, and come and try basketball sessions and more.

What’s on in Casey

Casey has many upcoming events and activities for you and your family. Head to their webpage and search under the category of Sports and Wellbeing or Health.

You will find local yoga, Bollyfit, Zumba, badminton, netball, pilates and more.

What’s on Cardinia Shire

Find out what is on around your local area at Cardinia Shire Council’s Events page. Events are changing daily so make sure you check in regularly.

You can also find an interactive website of all Councils outdoor facilities at Cardinia Outdoors.

Sun protection

The free SunSmart Global UV app tells you when sun protection is recommended for your location – this is when the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation is 3 and above. For maximum protection, use all five forms of sun protection:

  • Slip on sun protective clothing
  • Slop on SPF50 or SPF50+, broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen
  • Slap on a broad-brimmed hat
  • Seek shade
  • Slide on sunglasses.

Check out the SunSmart website for more information.

Experience the heart-healthy benefits of physical activity 

Did you know that dedicating time to physical activity is one of the most heart-smart choices you can make? The Heart Foundation backs this with compelling insights.

Ready to take the plunge? Check out the Heart Foundation’s and Get Active Victoria’s resource collection and empower yourself with trusted articles and health-related information.