Odd couple leads 21‑day push to get Australia moving
An 84-year-old retiree and an 11-year-old schoolboy have formed an unlikely friendship through a local exercise group in regional New South Wales. Their story is being used to promote the AUSactive Million Moves challenge, which encourages Australians to increase their physical activity.
Why it matters
The story highlights the importance of intergenerational community connection and public health initiatives in combating sedentary lifestyles.
John "Chippy" Le‑Carpentir and Keith, 11, met via their regular exercise group in regional NSW. Photo: PR IMAGE PHOTO At first glance, they look like an odd couple.
All articles from our website & app The digital version of Today's Paper Crosswords, Sudoku and Trivia All other regional websites in your area Continue John "Chippy" Le‑Carpentir is 84, a retired tradie with a lifetime of hard work in his joints. Keith is 11, a skinny schoolboy who still has homework and screen‑time limits.
Most mornings in the NSW town of Gerringong, you'll find them side by side: grinding through spin classes, rowing in sync, wobbling through yoga poses or walking the headland, talking about fishing.
"I met Chippy at the Bowlo gym about six years ago. He's my hero," Keith says.
"He's a great friend, and I'm in awe of how he's still moving the way he does.
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