Media representatives are invited to the opening of the CSIROFIT EXERCISE TRACK on Black Mountain, Canberra.

Dr McIntosh will open the Parcourse at 10.30 am tomorrow (Friday 2 August), at Station No. 5, near the Division of Water Resources, Black Mountain.

"The ancient Romans understood the importance of mens sana in corpore sano - a fit mind in a fit body," said Dr McIntosh. "CSIRO encourages all its employees to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

"This has two effects: it improves the individual's quality of life, and it helps CSIRO achieve its research objectives."

The CSIROFIT Exercise Track was designed and supplied to CSIRO by a Woden firm. It includes nine exercise stations, spread over 1.3 km.

The course takes approximately 35 minutes to complete.

Dr McIntosh said that CSIRO established a health promotion program (CSIROFIT) in 1993.

Approximately 200 staff of Canberra Divisions took part in comprehensive health tests conducted by the ACT Health Advancement Services. This included blood pressure and cholesterol levels, weight to height ratios, and lifestyle counselling.

CSIROFIT activities include the annual Black Mountain Fun Run, aerobics classes, tai chi, volleyball, and line dancing.

"One hundred minutes of exercise per week is time well spent," said Dr McIntosh. "I look forward to seeing CSIRO scientists, administrators, and managers, queuing to use the Exercise Track!"

More information from: Dr Chris Moran, CSIRO Executive Officer, 06-2766033 or Glen McPhee, CSIRO Health & Safety Adviser, 06-2465009