What’s Happening?
Redland City Council’s popular Sport and Talk initiative is returning on Friday, 30 October 2026, offering free walking sports for older residents.
The program combines gentle physical activity with opportunities to meet people and build friendships through basketball, softball and football.
Following a positive response to its earlier trial, Council is bringing the initiative back with local sporting organisations. Sessions will take place at community sports facilities in Capalaba and Ormiston.
Why It Matters
Sport and Talk aims to help older adults maintain their physical health while supporting mental wellbeing and social connections.
Acting Mayor Julie Talty said the initiative supported Council’s commitment to accessible community spaces and activities.
“Council is committed to ensuring that people of all ages can access the city’s community facilities and outdoor spaces,” Cr Talty said. “It is also important they can participate in a range of community activities and events, and access services to support health and wellbeing.”
She said the program brought these priorities together.
“Sport and Talk is a free low impact walking sports program designed for older adults, and aims to improve physical health, boost mental wellbeing and build social connections.”
Local Impact
The program provides an opportunity to remain active without the physical demands of traditional sports.
Council’s Sport and Recreation portfolio representative, Cr Jason Colley, welcomed its return following the success of the initial program.
“Sport and Talk is a great initiative that provides an introduction to three walking sports, which are ideal for older adults seeking safe and gentle exercise,” Cr Colley said. “What is just as important, however, is the social aspect and the initial program was very successful in helping residents connect with others in the community and have some fun.”
He also encouraged residents to participate regardless of their sporting experience.
“I encourage our older residents to take advantage of this opportunity, whether they are interested in reconnecting with a sport they love or learning new skills.”
By The Numbers
The program’s return follows strong community interest in Council’s earlier trial.
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Six weeks: The latest Sport and Talk program will offer structured walking sports sessions, beginning in November and continuing through December.
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Eight weeks: Council launched its pilot on 24 April 2026 with a Come and Try Day and four-week program. Strong participation prompted another four-week extension.
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Three sports: Walking basketball, softball and football will be offered through partnerships involving four sporting organisations.
Zoom In
The program begins with a Come and Try Day on Friday, 30 October, from 9.30am to 11.30am at PCYC Capalaba.
Following the introductory event, participants can attend regular sessions across three locations.
Walking basketball will run every Tuesday from 3 November to 8 December, between 9.30am and 10.30am at PCYC Capalaba. Meanwhile, walking softball will take place every Wednesday from 4 November to 9 December, between 8am and 9am at Redlands Softball Park in Ormiston.
Walking football (soccer) will be held every Friday from 6 November to 11 December, between 8am and 9am at Sam Sciacca Sportsfield in Capalaba.
Zoom Out
The program reflects Council’s efforts to make recreational activities more accessible while encouraging older residents to remain involved in community life.
Its return also strengthens collaboration between Council and local sporting groups. This round will be delivered with RedCity Roar Basketball Association, Redlands Softball Association and Football Queensland.
Capalaba Bulldogs Football Club has also joined as a new program partner, helping support the initiative’s return.
What To Look For Next?
With sessions continuing through December, Sport and Talk offers older residents another opportunity to develop healthy routines and lasting community connections.
Whether returning to a familiar sport or trying something new, participants can enjoy gentle exercise in a social setting.
Residents interested in joining can find registration details through Redland City Council’s Seniors webpage.
