Northern Beaches Council is excited to announce the Invictus Games Walk and Talk will be launched at Australia’s best beach this weekend.

The Invictus Walk and Talk is a series of temporary yellow circular decals (footpath stickers) featuring conversation starters on a range of topics such as sport and wellness. Some of the questions include:

• What challenges would people in the armed forces face as they leave service?
• What weird ability do you have?
• Do you know someone in the armed forces?
• Who would be the best road trip buddy?

The decals will be placed along the 2.6 kilometre walk between Shelley and Queenscliff beaches and are part of a mental health initiative - one of the core philosophies that underpin the Invictus Games.  

The link between physical activity and talking to someone is well known to improve mental health and wellness.

Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan says Council is a proud supporter of Sydney’s Invictus Games and was pleased Manly has been chosen to host the Walk and Talk.

“The Invictus Walk and Talk is a great initiative. Its aim is to look after your mental health by getting out and exercising and talking to a friend, colleague or stranger. 

“Manly is the ideal location, not only because of its extraordinary scenery but for its reputation as a health and wellness hub. Manly has a huge number of gyms, fitness centres and yoga studios which cater for people of all abilities.

“We’re so pleased to be able to support the Invictus Games and local veterans in our own backyard with this important mental health initiative.

“I want to encourage our community to get ‘walking and talking’ in support of the Games and our returned service men and women.” Mayor Regan said.

There will be 134 conversation starters (67 in each direction), placed 20 metres apart along the length of the course.

The Walk and Talk will be installed until the end of Sydney’s Invictus Games (20-27 October).

For more about the Invictus Walk and Talk visit northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au