Barry leads local seniors

Queensland’s Laidley retiree, Barry Slocum, has used his initiative and experience, gained from upper management roles and serving the community, to set up a local group dedicated to older Australians.

More than 40 members of the Laidley Community Day Club meet each Tuesday at the Laidley Cultural Centre from 9.30am to 2pm to enjoy food, entertainment, excursions and friendship for only $5.

After moving to the Lockyer Valley from the Gold Coast, the former president of a Rotary Club division and former Probus District Chairman saw a need for a group catering specifically to older people in the area.

“Our social club deals with all areas of senior life,” he said. “We run themed days, exercise activities, games, dinners and it is a social outlet for men and women in the area.

“It helps people overcome loneliness and gives people an opportunity to get out and about; also to establish a network where they feel like they belong. Members get involved, tell each other about their lives and they look after each other,” Mr Slocum said.

The Laidley Community Day Club coordinator said the group had a range of guest speakers come through the doors, including the Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Police and the Laidley Library committed to teaching members how to use mobile phones and iPads.

“I have good communication skills from work – it would be a shame to waste them so I am enjoying helping to run the group,” he said.

The group has 10 volunteers, trained by the Department of Veteran Affairs, who support attendees.

“We are content to grow the group slowly, continuity is what we’re after,” he said.

Mr Slocum encouraged six people from his home at Tabeel Retirement Village to join in the fun.    

“We’ve got good neighbours here but we still retain our privacy. It turned out to be a good move for us and we love the tree change.”

His wife Carol (pictured with Barry) agreed and loves joining in the social dinners the group holds offering homecooked meals.

“I’m so happy it’s lovely here,” she said.

Anyone who is interested in getting involved in the Laidley Community Day Club can contact Barry Slocum on (07) 5465 1738 for more information.

For more information about Tabeel Retirement Village, visit their Open Day on Sunday, 18 November at 10am or visit www.lccqld.org.au