MNCLHD health promotion coordinator Trish Davis said this is the fifth year staff have participated in the STEPtember fundraiser to raise money for people living with cerebral palsy.

"It started out five years ago as a way for our staff to work on team building," she said.

"We had teams of four and some really great prizes as well. Everyone really got behind it and got involved which was great. It's just continued from there."

Mrs Davis said it's also a way for MNCLHD staff to stay active and healthy.

"It moved from being about team building to highlighting high obesity rates and to encourage others to get out and get moving," she said.

The goal is to walk or run 10,000 steps each day for the month of September.

"Most of our staff know about it now because we've been doing it for a few years so everyone gets involved and gets busy being active," Mrs Davis said.

"A lot of our staff here know someone who has cerebral palsy and it's a great way to raise funds for a good cause as well."

Mrs Davis said last year during COVID-19 restrictions, staff organised Zoom meetings to help each other brainstorm ideas on how to get their steps in each day.

"A lot of people were working from home, much like we are now because of lockdown, and they found ways to get out and go for a walk each day," she said.

"There are a number of people working from home and they don't realise how long they sit for during the day. Just getting up at lunchtime and going for a walk can make a difference.

"This also benefits our mental health and that's so important at the moment."

The goal for MNCLHD staff is to have 150 teams of four for this year's fundraiser.

"There is no pressure to raise a certain amount of money, but staff are always very generous and get involved in the fundraising as well which is always really positive to see," Mrs Davis said.

STEPtember is also a way in which MNCLHD staff can be healthy role models for the community.

"I'm always looking at ways to get people out and moving," Mrs Davis said.

"It's also a lot of fun for staff and has a number of added health benefits as well."

To find out more about STEPtember, visit their website.

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