Walking with heart: a morning in the Adelaide Hills

Blog: Tuesday 24 July 2025

Walking with purpose

There is something undeniably uplifting about walking with others, especially through the misty Adelaide Hills on a crisp winter morning. On 1 July 2025, Dean Watson, the Heart Foundation’s Gifts in Wills Relationship Lead, joined the Bridgewater Adelaide Hills Walking Group, one of the country’s most dedicated and warm-hearted community walking groups.

“It was more than just a walk,” said Dean. “It was an experience that truly embodied the spirit of community, health, and generosity.”

Community at its heart

Led by former nurse and cardiac researcher Adele Graham, the Bridgewater group shows how grassroots health initiatives flourish when locals step up. Adele’s commitment goes beyond organising walks, she recently secured a grant to buy a portable AED (automated external defibrillator), which now comes along on every walk.

“It’s comforting to know it’s there with us,” one walker shared.

The Heart Foundation was proud to see this kind of local leadership in action, demonstrating how its programs inspire communities to take charge of their health and safety.

Stories on the track

As the group of 36 walkers, and a few dogs and children, wound through the scenic trails, conversations flowed easily. Some members spoke about the health benefits they had gained, while others shared personal connections to heart health or how they found the group. There were stories of recovery, resilience, and friendships formed step by step.

“There is a real sense of community here,” Dean noted. “You feel it in the greetings, the stories, and the way people slow down to walk alongside someone new.”

Many walkers were already familiar with the Heart Foundation’s programs and felt grateful for the walking groups that help them stay active and connected. Dean took the chance to update them on the latest research and ways they could support heart health further, including by leaving a Gift in Will.

Warm thanks and future steps

After the walk, Adele sent Dean a warm message:

“It was lovely to meet you. Hopefully when you’re next in Adelaide, you’ll walk with us again. We love having visitors!”

Their appreciation continued on social media, with walkers sharing messages of thanks and photos of the misty morning trails.

The visit strengthened more than just personal connections, it sparked ideas for the future. Several members expressed interest in leaving a Gift in Will to the Heart Foundation, others asked about future events, and some discussed ways the group could raise funds to support heart health.

“This group is the Heart Foundation in action,” Dean reflected. “People coming together to protect their health, support one another, and make a difference. It’s a joy to walk among them.”