Wimmera Drug Action Taskforce has encouraged people to complete a different activity each day next month as part of the 31-day August Winter Challenge.

Taskforce co-ordinator Sally Pymer said the group ran the challenge last year and received positive feedback.

“It’s about us taking a more preventative approach, so people don’t take alcohol or drugs in the first place,” she said.

“The activities can be anything at all.

“We had people say last year one of their activities was smiling at strangers, and they were amazed at the response they received.

“It might be going for a walk around the block or doing something physical, complimenting people, or writing down something positive about yourself.

“It’s a bit of fun, and we hope it can give people confidence that they can set small challenges for themselves and achieve them.”

Ms Pymer said taking time out from social media was another challenge people could try.

“We got a lot of positive feedback last year from people who did that, and people said they really valued the extra time they had with their families by switching off for a day,” she said.

“Other challenges like FebFast and Dry July are only for adults, but this is something the whole family can do.”

Ms Pymer said people could register by calling her on 5362 1200 or emailing sally.p@grampianscommunityhealth.org.au.