A LOT is said about the health benefits of participating in physical activity and in particular sport.

However, there are so many more benefits to participating in sport that are not always spoken of.

Sport can form friendships and unite people from all walks of life.

Sport allows people of all ages to engage in social interactions that help keep our minds healthy.

Sport can overcome barriers of differences in culture, race or political views.

April 6 is International Day of Sport for Development and Peace.

Sport Matters are celebrating this day by launching a social media campaign "Why Sport Matters'' on Facebook and Twitter.

So why does sport matter to your club?

What things do you have in place to ensure that your club is a safe and inclusive environment for all residents of Ipswich?

Visit facebook.com/sportmattersAU for more information.

Free holiday program

THE ever popular Active Breaks and Nature Breaks School Holiday Program continues this week with a huge variety of activities on offer for kids and families to try out.

The activities are free.

Why not try a game of touch football, tennis, circus skills or cheerleading? Or, bring your parents along for a Family Scavenger Hunt.

For more information, visit: ipswich.qld.gov.au

Women on Wheels

THE Women on Wheels (WOW) program is another great opportunity, having classes for mountain biking, scootering, skateboarding, cycling, roller rerby and roller fit.

For more information on what's available, visit ipswich.qld.gov.au

The Gallipoli Run

THE Gallipoli Run is a community and family fun walk/jog and run to signify the awareness of ANZAC Day.

Gallipoli Run participants on April 17 are encouraged to run, jog or walk in either distances of 5km/10km or a 2km children's dash as a community based event and raise money for a charity of choice.

At the end of the run, participants will be provided a piece of rosemary that they can place on the iconic Hill at North Ipswich oval and it will remain until Anzac Day.

Each participant for their effort will receive a special custom designed boxed Gallipoli Run rugby league ball to take home. Brisbane Broncos star Anthony Milford will be in attendance to sign the footballs.

For more information, visit executiveexcellenceevents.com.au

Share your info

IF your organisation would like their event or sign-on days promoted, provide details to Sport Ipswich at www.facebook.com/sportipswich or email sportrecreation@ipswich.qld.gov.au