More than 200 people visited the Pit Stop Marquee of Sydney West Area Health Service (SWAHS) to get advice on such matters as kidney disease, diabetes, alcohol, smoking and immunisation.

They registered to go to health stations to speak to medical staff and get advice. Participants who successfully completed all health check points received gifts at the end.

Almost half had their blood pressure and cholesterol checked, and many others realised the importance of their health and asked for follow-up medical checks.

Eye tests for youngsters were available to give parents peace of mind about their children's sight before they start school.

Community feedback were extremely positive, according to a SWAHS spokeswoman.

``I'm so glad that I had my blood pressure and cholesterol checked,'' one participant said.

``I didn't realise it was so high. I'm going to my GP for a check-up.''

The inaugural Pit Stop health marquee was a great success and has improved community access to health services and information.

SWAHS Aboriginal health director Tim Agius said: ``We look forward to attending and participating again next year.

``The Pit Stop health stall aimed to give people important health information which can help them change their life style and so improve their health and wellbeing.''