Did you know that one in four children between the ages of 5 and 17 are now overweight or obese in Australia?
There are many factors that contribute to obesity in Australia, but one factor that cannot be ignored is the prevalence of fast food outlets and advertising.
For example, in Midland (Western Australia) there are about 40 fast food outlets in a 5 kilometre radius.
Now, some people will argue ‘What’s the problem? Just have a little self control!’ but it’s more complex than that.
Research shows that people’s eating habits are strongly influenced by advertising, availability and their environment.
We believe it’s time to reclaim control of our food landscape and start exploring innovative solutions to create a healthy and well nourished community.
This is why we are hosting a free public talk by two world public health experts: Healthway Visiting Research Fellow Professor Martin Caraher (City University, London) and Curtin University’s Dr Christina Pollard.
Martin and Christina will discuss the problem with junk food and young people and what we can do to combat childhood obesity in Western Australia.
Martin will share what is happening in the UK and internationally to tackle a culture of fast food. He will discuss the important role of parent and pupil power in bringing about change. Christina will share the situation in WA and what we can all do to make a difference.
When: Tuesday 22nd March
Time: 6:30-8 pm
Where: Mechanics Institute, 20 Meadow St, Guildford
RSVP via Eventbrite: https://junk-food-and-young-people.eventbrite.com.au
Following on from this talk we have organised a workshop to give people a bit of inspiration in the kitchen: Salads in a jar and healthy snacks.
When: Saturday 2 April
Time: 3pm – 4.30pm
Where: Mechanics Institute, 20 Meadow St, Guildford
RSVP via Eventbrite: https://salad-in-a-jar.eventbrite.com.au
Places are limited so register soon to avoid missing out!
Transition Town Guildford 