By Luke Voogt
There is nothing “lazy” about a sole-saving New Zealand project sneaking its way into Australia through Geelong.
Geelong council has backed the Lazy Sneakers initiative to rehome shoes with aspiring young local athletes who need them to get active and participate in the sports they love.
Since 2018, Lazy Sneakers has distributed more than 4000 pairs of runners to children and young people all over New Zealand.
Geelong council partnered with the initiative recently to bring its sneaker bank to its first location outside of New Zealand.
Circular economy portfolio chair Belinda Moloney said council was “passionate” about “removing the barriers to participating in active living” and “creating more equitable access to
services and facilities”.
“Not only will this initiative help community members participate in sport, it also reduces waste by giving preloved items a new purpose and diverting them from landfill,” Cr Moloney said.
Geelong locals can donate second-hand or new sports shoes at Leisuretime Sports Precinct in Norlane.
Council plans to work with local schools, sporting clubs and community groups to identify children and young people who could benefit from a pair of donated shoes.
Shoes in suitable condition will go to those in need, while other donations will go towards Australian Sporting Goods Association’s Save Our Soles initiative to recycle sneakers.
The Running Company Geelong has donated about 40 pairs of runners in near-new condition to the Lazy Sneakers initiative so far.
For more information phone the Leisuretime Sports Precinct on 03 5272 4990 or email leisuretime@geelongcity.vic.gov.au.
