‘COZZIE LIVS’ – 2023 Word of the Year by Macquarie Dictionary meaning Cost of Living
When Recreation Becomes Essential
As communities across Australia continue to experience increasing cost of living pressures (‘Cozzie Livs’), access to affordable and free recreation opportunities has never been more important. At the same time, many new residential developments are being delivered on smaller lot sizes, with limited private yard space for outdoor recreation and physical activity. As a result, access to quality public open spaces, trails, shared paths, parks and community recreation areas is becoming increasingly important in supporting healthy and active lifestyles. While rising household expenses can limit participation in organised sport and paid leisure activities, these community assets provide accessible opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to remain active without significant financial barriers.
The Value of Active Spaces
They provide opportunities for regular physical activity, social connection, mental health benefits and engagement with the natural environment.
The health benefits associated with regular physical activity are well established. Participation in sport and recreation contributes to reduced rates of obesity, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, anxiety, depression and other chronic health conditions. Active communities are also associated with improved social cohesion, increased community connectedness and enhanced quality of life.
One Step Can Change Everything
Reflecting on our previous article featuring Matt Horder’s book The Day the Sky Fell, one of the most powerful messages is the importance of taking small steps forward during life’s most challenging moments. Exercise will not solve every problem, nor remove grief, stress or adversity, but it can provide structure, purpose and a sense of progress when things feel overwhelming. Sometimes the hardest part is simply putting on your shoes and stepping outside. Building a routine, no matter how small, can create momentum and help support both physical and emotional wellbeing. A short walk around the block, a run with a friend or time spent on a local trail can often be the first step towards feeling more connected, resilient and hopeful.
For many people, taking that first step has been made easier through initiatives such as Parkrun. Whether walking, jogging, running or volunteering, Parkrun provides a welcoming environment where people can build confidence, improve their health and enjoy the encouragement of their local community.
Investing in Health Through Recreation
For local governments, sporting organisations and land managers, investment in sport, recreation, open space and trail infrastructure should be viewed not only as a recreation outcome, but as a preventative health measure. Well planned facilities encourage active lifestyles, support healthier communities and can contribute to reducing long term healthcare costs by promoting physical activity before health issues arise.
Planning Communities That Thrive
At Tredwell, we recognise the important role that accessible recreation infrastructure plays in creating healthier, more resilient communities. Through strategic planning, master planning, feasibility, needs assessments and trail planning, we work with clients to identify opportunities that maximise community benefit, improve accessibility and encourage participation in active recreation.
Looking to the Future
As the cost of living continues to influence how people spend their leisure time, the provision of high quality, accessible and affordable recreation opportunities will remain a critical component of community planning and development.
As communities continue to prioritise affordable and accessible recreation, Tredwell is here to help plan, prioritise and deliver projects that maximise community health and wellbeing.
