Parkop, Tkatchenko open fitness centre worth K2mil

By PARKER TAMBUA
MORESBY South MP Justin Tkatchenko and National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop opened a new fitness centre worth K2 million in the electorate on Wednesday.
According to Tkatchenko, the South Side Fitness Centre has a gymnasium, and basketball, volleyball and netball courts with stands, which were co-funded by National Capital District Commission (NCDC) and Moresby South.
Tkatchenko said the facilities would be used for Wanigela volleyball and basketball, and Motu-Koita netball competitions. He said the centre would also host NCDC’s Active City programme.
“We want to change the attitude and mindset of our people, and improve their health, which is why we have built these facilities,” Tkatchenko said.
“These facilities also complement what the governor’s vision with the Active City and Walk For Life programmes which he had introduced to change people’s attitudes.
“The basketball and netball courts were initially constructed by Curtain Brothers when they constructed the Healy Parade 15 years ago. We have upgraded that and the car park.
“Inside the centre, we have a fully-equipped gymnasium.
“There is a changing room and ample space for people to do exercises.”
Parkop said the centre would help lift the city’s image.
“I want to thank the minister for joining me and working towards achieving the outcomes that we want for our city,” he said.
“We face so many challenges in the city but we will continue to spend more on infrastructure development.
“The health and lifestyle of our people is very poor starting with us, the MPs in parliament.”