SPECIAL INVITATION For Our PEOPLE Our COMMUNITY & For AUSTRALIA

Dear Leader

Peace builder & Mega Meeting Ambassador.

We warmly invite you to join us for a special event — a Social Tournament dedicated to raising awareness for Parkinson’s Disease.

Organized by:
Walking Football 4 Health Victoria, Soccer for Peace Foundation, Rotary Mega Meeting Online International Platform (The International Mega Meeting) In partnership with: Hume City Council, Shake It Up Australia Foundation, and Mental Health Foundation Australia

 

 This Event Commemorates:

• United Nations International Day of Sport for Development and Peace
• World Health Day (April 7)
• World Parkinson’s Day (April 11)

 Why This Event Matters

This event shines a spotlight on the importance of health, mental well-being, and physical activity in Australia and around the world. With April 7 recognized globally as World Health Day and April 11 as World Parkinson’s Day, we are taking action to improve understanding and support for people living with Parkinson’s disease.

More than 150,000 Australians are currently affected by Parkinson’s. Through this event, we aim to:

 Raise awareness about Parkinson’s and its impact
 Advocate for the Parkinson’s community
 Promote physical activity—such as walking football—as a tool to support independence and well-being

 About the Tournament

The Walking Football Tournament will feature friendly matches that unite diverse teams, including gender-inclusive and disability-friendly groups. The event will bring together Rotarians, families, and kind-hearted individuals from clubs and organizations across Australia — both in person and online.

PROCEEDS from the event will go to support Parkinson’s research. Donations can be made directly to the Shake It Up Australia Foundation.

 

 Event Details

• Date: Friday, April 11, 2025
• Time: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
• Venue: Broadmeadows Aquatic and Leisure Centre
• Address: 41-85 Tanderrum Way, Broadmeadows VIC 3047, Melbourne

 Team Categories

• Men’s Over 60s & 70s
• Mixed Gender
• Women’s Teams (subject to number of participants)
• Disability-Inclusive Teams

Format: 6-a-side teams plus substitutes
Individuals welcome: We will place you into a team
Each team is guaranteed at least 3 matches

Watch the a segment on Channel 9 News about Walking Football 4 Health Victoria: [Click here to view Click here to view]

 Special Guests & Dignitaries

• MP Iwan Walters (Greenvale), attending between 12:15 PM – 12:45 PM on behalf of Minister for Community Sport, Ros Spence
• Vasan Srinivasan, CEO of Mental Health Foundation Australia
• The Mayor of Hume City and council representatives
• Paul Wade, former captain of the Australian Men’s National Football Team (around 1:30 PM)
• Amy Ruffle, actress (Mako Mermaids), representing Shake It Up Australia Foundation [ Click here  to read about Amy
• Amy’s father, who is living with Parkinson’s, will also be joining us

 About Walking Football 4 Health Victoria

Transforming Lives Through Inclusive Football

Our Mission:

• Encourage Active Aging – Improve cardiovascular health and mobility for older adults
• Foster Family Participation – Strengthen intergenerational bonds
• Support Inclusivity – Create space for women, people with disabilities, and those with neurological conditions
• Promote Social Inclusion – Combat isolation through connection and friendship
• Enhance Mental Well-being – Boost self-esteem and mental health through team-based sports

 What is Walking Football?

Walking Football is a low-impact, modified version of soccer where players walk instead of run. It retains the core spirit of the game while reducing the risk of injury—making it ideal for seniors, those recovering from injury, and anyone seeking a gentle yet enjoyable way to stay active.

Key Features:

•  No Running – One foot must always be on the ground
•  Non-Contact – Tackling and physical challenges are minimized
•  Modified Rules – Smaller pitches, lower ball height, and reduced intensity for safety
•  Team-Based – Encourages communication, connection, and teamwork

 Impact of Walking Football 4 Health Victoria

Our work has:

• Kept older adults active through structured play
• Increased safe participation among women
• Supported those experiencing loneliness or mental health challenges
• Enabled individuals with disabilities or neurological conditions to stay active
• Provided education on health, fitness, and nutrition
• Expanded across Victoria through partnerships with councils, health orgs, and clubs

 Why Walking Football Matters

In an era of increasing sedentary lifestyles and social isolation, Walking Football 4 Health Victoria serves as a vital bridge between sport, well-being, and community connection.

 Join Us & Make a Difference!

We truly value your support and look forward to welcoming you at this meaningful event.

 for inquiries or participate for Rotarians please call or SMS 0414 518 508 or send us an email. Let’s stand together for Health , Peace Mental health and Wellbeing for our People, our community and for Australia !

Yours in Rotary Service,

Host Michael Trim
Founder & President – Walking Football 4 Health Victoria
Host –Parkinson’s Awareness Day Event

Co-Host & Event Coordinator  
Past President Ozuem O. Esiri
Host & Convener – The Rotary Mega Meeting
Founder & President – Soccer for Peace Foundation

Director: International Service Rotary Club of Sapele GRA