Milnerton community gets moving with Millie’s Movers initiative

A growing community fitness initiative in Milnerton is bringing residents of all ages and abilities together while strengthening neighbourhood safety and social connection.

Millie’s Movers, supported by the Milnerton Central Neighbourhood Watch, encourages residents to walk, jog, run, cycle, or skate together at scheduled sessions during the week.

The group meets at various locations in Milnerton and nearby areas, making fitness accessible and inclusive.

Sessions take place at the Milnerton Library on Mondays at 6pm, the Milnerton Tennis Club on Wednesdays at 7am and 7pm, and at NG Kerk Sonnekus in Beaufort Road on Fridays at 7am.

According to organiser Debbie Hofmeyr, the initiative is open to everyone.

“Anyone can join – we’re just a group of community members moving through the neighbourhood. We have several members who are over 80 years old and some as young as three,” she said.

The group has also attracted participants from surrounding suburbs, including Milnerton Ridge, Sandrift and Rugby, with one member travelling from Melkbosstrand before heading to work in Montague Gardens.

Ms Hofmeyr said the group caters for a wide range of abilities and movement styles.

“We have walkers, runners and even a couple of cyclists who move between the faster and slower members. We’ve also had people join us on scooters and skateboards. Dogs are welcome too.”

Millie’s Movers currently has around 70 members on its WhatsApp group, with between eight and 15 people typically attending each session. The largest turnout so far has seen 27 participants moving together through the neighbourhood.

Organisers said that the initiative is about more than just exercise, and there are no joining or membership fees.

By being visible and active in the area, participants help to build safer streets while fostering a strong sense of community.

Among the regular participants is long-time Milnerton resident Mark Wessels, who joined after being encouraged by a friend he walks with at a parkrun.

“I don’t really run, I walk. My friend encouraged me to get involved to help increase my fitness levels.”

Mr Wessels said joining the group forms part of a broader health journey.

“I’m working on improving my health, losing weight, and becoming happier and healthier,” he said, adding that what stood out most was the sense of acceptance.

“It’s a wonderful group where everyone is welcomed and accepted.”

He also noted that safety remains a concern in the area.

“There’s real safety in numbers, which makes Millie’s Movers ideal for those of us concerned about personal safety.”

Residents interested in joining Millie’s Movers can attend a session or contact Ms Hofmeyr on 084 336 3337.