THREE Gawler couples have strolled towards five decades of marriage together as part of the Gawler Walkers Group.
Colleen and Pierre Vermeeren, Peter and Helen Tooth, and Jill and Merv Lewis all reached 50 years of marriage within the same fortnight recently, and have been walking around Gawler together once a week for the past 13 years.
Mrs Vermeeren, who organises the walking group, said keeping fit as a couple has contributed to the long and happy marriages.
“We’re all fit and healthy and we’ve been married 50 years,” she said.
“We’ve got all these couples who are walking together and it’s something couples can do, it’s great.
“If you’re married that long and are still out enjoying nature and walking around beautiful Gawler, it’s great for you.”
The walking group celebrated the trio of anniversaries with a high tea at Tanunda Wohlers.
The Heart Foundation lists reducing the risk of heart disease
and stroke; weight, cholesterol and blood pressure control; reducing risks of some cancers; maintaining bone density; and improving balance and co-ordination as just some of the benefits of regular walking for people of all ages.
Mrs Vermeeren, who has recovered successfully from a stroke, said a walking group is a great way for retirees to stay healthy and socialise.
“I’ve had a stroke, I’ve had health issues just like a lot of people our age, but it’s kept me going,” she said.
“I know a lot of the other members have had the same thing happen to them, but it gets you up, gets you going and keeps you fit.
“It’s great for your social life, you meet lots of lovely people.
“Especially if you’re retired here and you don’t know anyone, it’s a great way to meet people and walk around our beautiful town.”
The group, which currently has 36 members of all walking abilities, meets at the Gawler Sport and Community Centre
at 9.30am each Wednesday and hikes around Gawler for the
morning.