Located at Miller Park, the gym was funded by a $52,000 grant from the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation.

It came to fruition as a result of the combined efforts of Cessnock Council, the Cessnock Healthy Lifestyle Network, the Samaritans’ Coalfields Healthy Heartbeat and members of the Branxton community.

Branxton resident Kate Gray and local personal trainer Josh Day spearheaded the project, after Ms Gray saw a similar facility in the New England town of Bendemeer (population 485).

“There was no gym here in Branxton, we all had to travel to Cessnock or Singleton,” she said.

Ms Gray and Mr Day took the idea to the Cessnock Healthy Lifestyle Network, and the Samaritans applied for the grant.

“The Cessnock LGA displays rates significantly higher than the state average for hospitalisations due to diabetes, coronary heart disease and high body mass so this new outdoor gym is designed to increase rates of physical activity, improve access to fitness equipment and support and encourage a healthier lifestyle for residents in our community,”  Coalfields Healthy Heartbeat coordinator Shane Feeney said.

Ms Gray said it was a great feeling to see it open.

“Everytime I drive past someone is using it,” she said.

“Without the Newcastle Permanent it wouldn’t have happened. We are very grateful for their generosity.”

Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation chairman Michael Slater said he was very happy to be involved with such a wonderful community project.

“It’s clear this equipment is centered on community needs and will be of great enjoyment to residents,” he said.

Cessnock Mayor Bob Pynsent said the facility is great example of different community organisations working together for the benefit of the entire community.

“I encourage residents to take this opportunity to improve their health as we are all aware of concerning research which revealed 42 per cent of Cessnock City residents are classed as inactive.”