MIC's Wellbeing Initiative

Good to know

What is MIC?

Maroondah Indian Community (MIC) is a local not-for-profit. We celebrate Indian and South Asian heritage and support the health, wellbeing and connection of our community across Melbourne's eastern suburbs, through events, programs and a local business network.

Why are we running this program?

Local health data shows many people in our community are at higher risk of chronic illness like diabetes and heart disease, and that prevention support often doesn't reach us early enough. We want to change that with a friendly, culturally familiar program close to home.

Why is this important for South and Southeast Asians?

People from South and Southeast Asian backgrounds can develop diabetes, heart disease and other conditions earlier and at a lower body weight, and can face extra barriers like language and unfamiliar services. A program built around our food, families and language reaches people that mainstream programs often miss.

Which countries are in this region?

South Asia includes India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, the Maldives and Afghanistan. Southeast Asia includes Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, Brunei and Timor-Leste. Everyone with roots in these regions is welcome.

Who is this program for?

South and Southeast Asian adults in and around Maroondah, especially people in their 40s, 50s and beyond. All ages and fitness levels are welcome.

What does the program involve?

Three parts each week: Learn (sessions with doctors and experts), Move (walking, group exercise, hiking or adult swimming) and Connect (Bollywood dance, art and craft or gardening). Plus a simple health check and progress tracking.

What will a typical week look like?

About 3 hours, in three 1-hour parts: a Sunday morning learning session for everyone, one movement activity you choose, and one community activity you choose.

How much does it cost, and why only $50?

$50 for the whole 12 weeks. A program like this is worth around $420 per person. A Maroondah City Council grant and our partners cover the rest. If $50 is difficult, tell us, support is available.

How are places chosen?

There are only 50 places and usually more people apply. We offer places by a simple selection, for example people the program is designed to help and who can commit. Applying early and telling us why both help.

When does it run, and is there a break?

If the grant is approved, it runs Oct 2026 to Jan 2027. Weeks 1 to 10 run Oct to mid-Dec, then about a 4-week Christmas and New Year break, then weeks 11 and 12 in mid to late Jan.

Where is it held?

Based at Central Ringwood Community Centre in Ringwood. Some activities, like walking, hiking, swimming and gardening, are at pools, outdoors or nearby.

Do I need to be fit or healthy to join?

No. All fitness levels are welcome and activities can be gentle. This is here to help you, wherever you're starting from.

Is my place confirmed when I apply?

Not yet. This is an expression of interest, places are limited to 50 and offered by selection, and the program depends on grant funding we've applied for.

Can I get help in another language?

Yes. Tell us on the form and we'll do our best to support you in your language.

MIC's Wellbeing Initiative

First, a little about you

Your health and goals

How a week works

The cost, and a small commitment

Ready to apply?

Thank you, we've got it.