Cairns Regional Council’s Active Living program is providing free, targeted fitness classes for seniors across the city, drawing hundreds of participants each week to parks and community halls. The initiative aims to improve physical health and create social connections for the region's older population.
The program arrives at a critical time. While national attention focuses on cooling property markets and World Cup heartbreaks, the persistent issue of social isolation among older Australians continues to grow. For many seniors on fixed incomes, the cost of private gym memberships or specialised classes is a significant barrier. These free, accessible sessions offer a direct solution, promoting both physical mobility and mental wellbeing in a supportive group environment.
More than a walk on the Esplanade
Forget slow-paced bingo. The council's schedule is diverse, offering everything from gentle yoga at the Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre to high-energy Zumba Gold at the Edmonton PCYC. One of the most popular offerings is the aqua aerobics class held in the Esplanade Lagoon, where participants exercise with minimal impact on their joints, set against the backdrop of the Coral Sea. Another well-attended session is the Strength for Life class at the Marlin Coast Recreation Centre in Trinity Park, which uses light weights and resistance bands to build functional strength for everyday tasks.
These aren't just drop-in affairs. The program is structured, with a new winter schedule that kicked off on July 1, 2026. Data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that only about 25% of Australians over 65 meet the recommended guidelines for physical activity. Council-funded programs like Active Living are a direct public health intervention, designed to push that number higher, one tai chi class at a time.
An investment in health and community
The benefits extend far beyond improved cardiovascular health. Medical experts consistently point to group exercise as a key tool for maintaining balance and preventing falls, a major cause of injury and hospitalisation in older adults. A stronger, more stable senior population means less strain on local health services, including the emergency department at Cairns Base Hospital. By investing in preventative health on the grounds of Fogarty Park, the council is making a down payment on the future wellbeing of its citizens.
The social component is just as vital. For many attendees, the weekly class is a key social anchor, a place to catch up with friends and feel part of a community. After a class wraps up, it’s common to see groups heading for a coffee or browsing the fresh produce at Rusty’s Markets, extending the positive effects of the session long after the final stretch.
Residents interested in joining can find the full schedule and registration details on the Cairns Regional Council website. The program is free for all residents aged 60 and over, though booking is often required due to the popularity of certain classes. As with any new exercise regimen, participants are advised to consult with their local GP before attending their first session.
