The program was developed as a support program structured specifically at assisting in the reduction of childhood obesity in Queensland. The program aims at increasing physical activity of primary school students, educating them about healthier diet choices and encouraging them to take a balanced approach towards leisure activities.

To date the QOC’s program has supported the following initiatives:

North Queensland Sports Foundation – Sports Education Tours
Julie McDonald participated in tours with the North Queensland Sports Foundation. Julie was able to speak to a large number of children in rural and remote regions of Northern Queensland about healthy eating and the importance of physical activity plus sharing her own Olympic experiences. The QOC and the NQSF have received some really positive feedback from the tours and in particular the impact Julie McDonald had on these young kids. Thanks Julie.

Bluearth Discovery
Bluearth Discovery is a unique health and movement education program utilising physical activity to develop children’s health and wellbeing. Bluearth offers physical activity in a positive and enjoyable environment with the aim on engaging them in life long active pursuits. Bluearth is conducted by qualified Bluearth coaches endorsed to lead the program in Queensland schools.

Having recognised the Bluearth program as very valuable and seeing the benefits of the longevity of the program, the QOC have funded the Bluearth Institute to trial their education program in selected Queensland primary school in Term 4 of 2005.

The program is conducted over 9-10 weeks which commenced during the week of 3rd October and schools have the choice to have 1 or 2 classes undertake the program. The QOC are value adding to this program by having Olympians visit schools for one Bluearth session to share their Olympic experiences and join in with the programs activities. Olympians Sandra Allen (Softball Silver and Bronze Medallist), Brent Livermore (Hockey Gold Medallist), Libby Lenton (Swimming Gold Medallist and World Champion) and Nick Sprenger (Swimming Silver Medallist) are the Olympians involved in this program.

Primary School Visits & ‘Fit Kids’ Donations
Olympian Julie McDonald is again assisting the QOC deliver their program. In Term 4, 2005 Julie is visiting over 50 primary schools in the Brisbane area. Julie is presenting to the school students about healthy eating and physical activity, her Olympic experiences and generally acting as an active role model to the children. Julie is also distributing to each class, copies of Lisa Curry-Kenny’s book titles ‘Fit Kids’ that have been kindly donated to the QOC by Lisa. The book details practical and user friendly information regarding nutrition and physical activity for young people. It is anticipated that this book will assist teachers and parents in developing techniques to keep students healthy and active.