Making ageing fun

South West Community Transport
Caring. Capable. Genuine

Sharon keeps an ever-growing number of seniors fit and happy through her work with South West Community Transport.

Sharon has implemented popular programs at the non-profit.

Her fitness classes make exercise fun and help reduce falls, while the morning teas that follow encourage social interaction. Sharon’s initial class of eight seniors has grown to 54 participants across three weekly classes.

She refused to let the COVID-19 pandemic get in the way of her clients’ progress, distributing a booklet of at-home exercises and starting a one-on-one walking program.

One of Sharon’s most memorable moments was when a client was able to stop relying on her walking stick and carer, becoming confident enough to go shopping on her own.

Sharon is also thrilled that one senior is putting effort into improving her English to converse with her new friends.

Sharon also arranges social outings on public transport, accompanying seniors on trips to galleries, seaside cafes and the zoo.

She is excited to be nominated as a Westfield Local Hero. “I genuinely enjoy my work, and if I didn’t have to pay bills, I’d probably do it for free. This has motivated me more to see what else I can do,” Sharon says.

Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities, with the three top finalists per Westfield centre each awarded a $10,000 grant for their affiliated organisation. South West Community Transport will use its funds to train more fitness instructors and cover transportation costs.

For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here