Media Release: 12 DECEMBER 2006

WOMEN'S BBQ AND CHILDREN'S SOCCER DAY OUT

African women and their children from across the western region are invited to attend the Footscray Park BBQ area on Friday 15 December from 10am to 2.30pm to meet, eat and play games with feet!

The inaugural African Women's BBQ and Children's Soccer Day is a free, relaxing social day for women and their children, sponsored by Women's Health West, with funding from Coles Myer and Sweeney Estate Agents.

The fun day was initiated by Victoria University Bachelor of Recreation Management students in the School of Human Movement, Recreation and Performance, who worked with Women's Health West to create a chance for Somali women and their children to make new friends, while eating a delicious Halal BBQ lunch and participating in fun outdoor activities.

"Women experience a big change in lifestyle when they come to Australia," says Rumia Abbas, Family and Reproductive Rights Education Program (FARREP) Worker at Women's Health West.

"They do less exercise because they rely on public transport and driving. And the food available is so different," Ms Abbas states. "Sweets and sugary drinks not widely available in many African countries are everywhere here, and organic food is much less available."

"Women's Health West has learned about the health information needs of African women through our long-running involvement in African Women's Groups," explains Melissa Afentoulis, Chief Executive Officer of Women's Health West.

"This is a great opportunity for women and children to extend social networks through an iconic Australian cultural event - the Aussie BBQ - and also enjoy some gentle exercise," says Ms Afentoulis.

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY

1pm, Friday 15 December 2006

African Women's BBQ and Children's Soccer Day Out

Footscray Park BBQ Area, Ballarat Road, Footscray (Melway ref: 2S, J4)

For more information or to arrange an interview with Melissa Afentoulis contact Nicola Harte, Communications Co-ordinator at Women's Health West on 9689 9588 or via email.