Heart Support Australia volunteers Max Heslehurst and Mike Storrier came up with idea for the outdoor exercise station project and sought a donation from Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams to support the initiative.

Mr Heslehurst said the exercise station was something everybody could use.

"I'm really happy with the whole concept," he said.

The outdoor exercise station in the hospital's garden courtyard features a mix of static and dynamic stations from a chest press to sit-up bench.

Further work is planned with privacy screening and a shade sail to be installed.

Port Macquarie Base Hospital physiotherapy manager Anthony Best said the exercise equipment was a brilliant addition to the courtyard.

Mr Best said the exercise station would encourage people outdoors.

"We know the benefits of physical activity in terms of mood and mental health as well as physical health," he said.

A committee, convened by Mr Best, determined the exercise station's configuration and location.

Mrs Williams officially opened the outdoor exercise equipment on Thursday, October 3.

"We all know the benefits of exercise and now anyone at the hospital can stay active with this new $36,000 gym equipment which was funded with the support of the NSW Government," she said.

"It is particularly important for patients being treated with cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation to have the opportunity to use this new equipment that targets muscle and core strength, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness using both static and dynamic exercise stations."

Mid North Coast Local Health District Governing Board member Neville Parsons said the project was a great example of how partnerships could deliver.

The opening celebration also included cardiac rehabilitation group members, Heart Health NSW volunteers and Mid North Coast Local Health District representatives.

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