Ballina walking football group scores funding to keep older residents active

By Published On: July 30, 2026

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Ballina Coast Walking Football has received a grant to help more older residents stay active, healthy and socially connected as part of a regional funding program supporting healthy ageing across Northern NSW.

The Ballina-based club has been awarded $5,676 through the 2026–27 Older Adults Physical Activity Grants Program, which is jointly funded by Healthy North Coast and the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD).

The funding will allow the organisation to continue delivering its walking football program for adults aged 50 years and over, providing a low-impact way for older people to improve their fitness while building friendships and reducing social isolation.

Ballina Coast Walking Football was one of 10 organisations across Northern NSW to share more than $150,000 in grants aimed at encouraging older people to become more physically active, particularly those who face barriers such as cost, transport, chronic health conditions, rural isolation or limited opportunities to exercise.

Healthy North Coast Chief Executive Officer Monika Wheeler said the strong response to the grants highlighted the commitment of community organisations to improving the health and wellbeing of older residents.

“Regular physical activity plays a critical role in maintaining independence, preventing falls, and supporting mental wellbeing and social connection,” Ms Wheeler said.
“These projects show what’s possible when local organisations are supported to deliver practical, community-led solutions that help older people stay active and connected.”
The program is being delivered in partnership with the Northern NSW Local Health District as part of a preventative health strategy to reduce the risk of chronic disease and help people remain healthy and independent for longer.
NNSWLHD Acting Director of Aboriginal Health, Oral Health and Health Promotion Cameron Johnson said investing in accessible programs would help improve health outcomes across the region.
“By investing in programs that are accessible and culturally appropriate across our region, we can support older people to stay active, reduce their risk of injury and illness, and remain connected to their communities,” he said.
Other Northern Rivers organisations to receive funding include:
Byron Shire Council – $16,040 for a Healthy Ageing Aqua Aerobics program.
Lismore Basketball Association – $8,150 for its “Basketball: A Game for Life” program.
Northern Rivers Pickleball Association – $14,392 for a structured strength and balance program.
Nimbin Physical Activities Centre – $15,000 for exercise equipment supporting healthy ageing.
Aunty Gwen Cares at Casino – $15,000 for a culturally led healthy ageing program for Aboriginal adults.
Healthy North Coast said the grants were assessed on community need, accessibility, inclusiveness and the ability to deliver sustainable, locally relevant programs.
Photo:  Ballina Coast Walking Football was among several groups to receive funding as part of the 2026–27 Older Adults Physical Activity Grants Program.
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Ballina Coast Walking Football, Healthy North Coast, NNSWLHD, Walking Football, Older Adults, Physical Activity, Ballina, Healthy Ageing, Community Grants

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