Why Walking Together Matters: The Hyde Park Group’s Return and Its Impact
- AMH Volunteer Team
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
After a successful trial last year, Activate Mental Health, along with support from the Rotary Club of Northbridge, is set to re-establish the Hyde Park Walking Group for the 2026-27 spring and summer seasons.
According to the Heart Foundation, walking for an average of 30 minutes or more a day offers the following health benefits:
Lower risk of heart disease: Walking can reduce the risk of heart disease by 35%.
Lower risk of stroke: Consistent walking can reduce the risk of stroke by 35%.
Lower risk of Type 2 diabetes: Daily walking can reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 40%
Our Hyde Park walks provide a safe, fun, and inclusive space for a walking meetup. The park’s flat, level terrain makes it an accessible place to walk, and the group generally meets at the starting point at the end of each lap to allow both fast and slow walkers to catch up.
Our impact over 2025-26
Over 2025-26, 23 Hyde Park Walking Group events were held by a team of 8 volunteers. We initially held three events in July but put the initiative on hold until the warmer weather arrived. The remaining events occurred from October 2025 through to March 2026. These events attracted 266 RSVPs, averaging 11 per event.
Of these 266 RSVPs, 89 event ratings were logged by attendees, with 83 rating the experience five stars and six rating it four stars, leaving an average of 4.93 stars. This average is slightly higher than the overall 4.7-star rating average that AMH has after 4,600+ ratings.
The benefits of becoming a volunteer
When we asked our volunteers about why they committed to this initiative, this is what they had to say:
“I was motivated to become a volunteer walk leader because I wanted to make a positive difference in my community and help create a welcoming space where people feel supported, connected, and encouraged to stay active.”
“I love the idea that something as simple as walking together can bring people closer, improve wellbeing, and build a sense of belonging.”
One volunteers shared the meaningful impact that leading this initiative had on their life:
“Being a leader of the group gave me a wonderful sense of purpose and connection. One of the main benefits was meeting new people and building genuine relationships within the community. I also found it incredibly rewarding to encourage and support others, seeing their confidence grow and watching them enjoy being active together while they grow personally by building their confidence, communication skills, and leadership abilities. Most importantly, being part of the group reminded me how powerful a friendly, supportive environment can be in helping people feel included, motivated, and valued.”
What our members experienced
Our members love the simplicity, regularity, and atmosphere that these events bring. When we asked our members why they participated in the initiative, this is what they had to say:
“I was looking for a social exercise group that allowed me to interact with new people and breathe in the fresh air.”
“I enjoy interacting with all the participants and feel that I can have in-depth meaningful conversations or a great belly laugh all in the same walk. People want to be involved and draw on each other for support.”
These were some of the valued testimonials:
“The Hyde Park walks have provided significant benefits to my mental health. I have met many people. I have heard and shared stories. Safe, welcoming and great scenery.”
“Hyde Park walks were tons of fun, safe & full of great conversation and heaps of laughter.”
“Thanks to the Hyde Park Walking group team, I love going on the Hyde Park walks - so enjoyable and healthy.”
Apply today
We are looking to build a team of 10 volunteers to help lead this initiative over the six-month period. You don’t need to commit every week, but we would appreciate it if you could volunteer for at least one event per month.
Your efforts will make an impact to the community, and to your well-being too.
And remember #itsmorefuntogether
Here's how else you can support Activate Mental Health
