VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter said her group, along with the City of Greater Bendigo and the Victorian government, wanted to make it easier to access water.

“There’s a common misconception that we need to drink sports drinks when we’re getting active to rehydrate when actually water is the best choice,” Ms Rechter said.

“A standard 600ml sports drink contains a whopping 11 teaspoons of sugar. Too much sugar in our diets can lead to a range of health issues such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke.”

Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards said nearly two-thirds of Victorian adults are overweight or obese. Reducing intakes of sugary drinks is one way to become healthier, prevent tooth decay and save money.

Bendigo council mayor Margaret O’Rourke said the the fountains are in locations where large numbers of people gather to play sport or take part in recreational activities.

“So we’re encouraging people to take a water bottle along when they visit these locations,” she said.

“Refilling a water bottle is good for the environment, good for your health and saves money.”

The new fountains have been installed at Lake Weeroona, Weeroona Oval and the North Bendigo Oval.

Related: Bendigo council moves to minimise sugary drinks at council-owned venues

Newly released Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data shows Australians are consuming too much added sugars, saturated fat and sodium, much of which comes from discretionary foods like cakes, biscuits, confectionary, pastries, potato chips, soft drinks and alcoholic drinks.

The data release follows an AIHW report from earlier this year that showed only 30 per cent of children aged two to 17-years and 44 per cent of adults meet physical activity guidelines.

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