The Maroondah Journal has reported on Maroondah City Council’s decision to continue the Walking School Bus Program:

Community pressure has led to a backflip by Maroondah Council to extend its Walking School Bus program

Last week, the council agreed to resinstate program for another 18 months. Under the program, pupils are led by an adult to school in a bid to reduce childhood obesity and increase community safety.

Cr Alex Makin said there was a need to encourage walking to build a sense of community.

It has been demonstrated that walkability (the ability to walk easily, conveniently and safely within a community) is a key factor in revitalising urban areas and in helping to reduce looming health issues such as obesity. It is imperative that a culture of walking is established to ensure a vibrant and healthy future for Maroondah.

The Walking School Bus program will help provide for this and I would like to thank the many community members who have advocated for the continuation of the program.