Mandurah’s new Local Legend is Jan McGlinn OAM, recognised by Council in November for her efforts in promoting a healthy, active lifestyle for seniors in the local community.
As the long serving Peel Branch President of the Seniors Recreation Council of WA Inc, Jan has championed the branch’s mission to promote ‘Healthy Ageing Through Activity’, supporting the physical, mental, and social wellbeing of older people in the region.
Her work to encourage a healthy community includes securing grants, managing programs, and overseeing weekly activities that enrich the lives of many seniors.
Mayor Rhys Williams said Jan was a deserving recipient of the Local Legend award and recognised her 18 years of leadership to the volunteer organisation as the local Peel Branch President.
“Jan’s dedicated efforts in encouraging a thriving community has had a huge positive effect on the wellbeing of our seniors,” Mayor Williams said.
“Supporting and promoting connected, active communities is central to our local lifestyle, and we are so grateful to Jan for leading the charge and organising many great activities in this space,” he said.
"She’s been an integral part of the Peel Seniors Recreation Council since it was established in 2002, encouraging and inspiring many people to stay fit and active plus make valuable connections to others. Her commitment and care have made her an invaluable asset to our region while fostering a strong sense of community in our area. Congratulations Jan on your years of service which have made you a very worthy winner of the Local Legend award.”
One of Jan’s standout programs is the ‘Double Dip’ initiative; ocean-based exercise sessions for seniors held at Town Beach in summer. This successful program attracts more than 60 seniors, with lifeguards on hand to ensure safety and support. Jan personally sets up the beach, manages registrations, and creates a welcoming, inclusive environment for everyone to participate.
On accepting the award, Jan recognised the team of “wonderful volunteers” working with her to deliver the programs for the benefit of local seniors. Jan will soon be retiring from the President role and encouraged volunteers to put their hand up for the job or volunteer for the Strong on Your Feet program.
“We have an amazing group of volunteers who coordinate our programs, but we are always looking for more, so I encourage everyone to get involved,” Jan said.
The Peel Branch offers programs including Chair Yoga, Strong on Your Feet classes, Fit and Flexi, the annual Peel Live Lighter Aged Care Games, plus Jan volunteers for the annual state based Have a Go Day at Burswood Park. Despite stepping down as President, Jan will remain coordinator of the Strong on Your Feet program.
Jan was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2020 for service to seniors through wellbeing programs. She was also the first coordinator of the then Mandurah Senior Citizens Centre, starting the role in 1990 and staying for close to 15 years.
