How to start a walking group in your neighbourhood

Walkers in inner Melbourne suburbs have begun setting up regular neighbourhood groups that meet twice weekly along the Yarra River trails near Southbank.

The trend follows increased local focus on mental health support and accessible exercise after recent reports on community wellbeing in Victoria. Groups fill gaps left by studio-based classes that often require bookings and fees, giving people an outdoor option that needs only comfortable shoes and a set meeting time.

One established model operates near the Tan Track in the Domain, where participants gather at 7am on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Another program runs from Fitzroy Gardens through Collingwood streets, organised by residents who post simple flyers at the local library branch on Napier Street. Both draw from the same pool of people who previously used pilates studios in Fitzroy and Collingwood but now prefer open-air routes.

Key steps for the first sessions

Start by choosing a flat, well-lit route under two kilometres for the initial four weeks. Post details on the suburb Facebook page and at the nearest cafe noticeboard, listing a start date no more than ten days ahead. VicHealth figures released in March 2025 showed a 28 percent rise in group walking participation across greater Melbourne compared with 2023 levels, with the largest gains in groups of five to eight people.

Set a firm time and send a reminder text the night before. Bring a basic first-aid kit and note the nearest public toilet or water fountain on the route. After the third walk, ask members for preferred days and whether they want to extend the distance toward longer Yarra River sections.

Scaling up safely

Once numbers reach ten, split into two smaller groups or add a weekend slot. Keep the format free and open to drop-ins to maintain the low barrier that first attracted participants. Local councils in the City of Yarra and City of Melbourne offer free permits for groups under twenty people using public paths, with applications completed online in under fifteen minutes.