Tons of fun for senior Victorians

Victorian seniors will be spoilt for choice with the 2013 Victorian Seniors Festival boasting a jam packed program of entertainment and activities throughout October.

Minister for Ageing, David Davis, urged seniors to pick up a 2013 Seniors Festival program guide and start planning to make the most of what this great festival has to offer.

“The festival, now in its 31st year, promises to be one the best with more than 1,000 events planned across the state,” Mr Davis said.

“Whatever your passion, whether it is music, the arts, sports or learning, there is sure to be something for you.

“The Victorian Seniors Festival is about celebrating the many men and women, aged 60 and over, who give so much to Victorian communities.

“The festival promotes their remarkable contributions and highlights the benefits of ageing well and keeping active, healthy and involved in the community.”

Key events run from Sunday, 6 October to Sunday, 13 October this year with additional festivities taking place statewide throughout the month.

“We are again pleased to offer free public transport for Victorian Seniors Card holders from 6 to 13 October, giving seniors plenty of opportunity to catch up with friends and attend wonderful performances and social events.

“With $208,000 from the Victorian Coalition Government, each of Victoria’s 79 councils will receive a grant to support local events during the festival.”

Special events in 2013 include:

• Festival Celebration Day, supported by Lifeview Residential Care, at Federation Square on Sunday, 6 October from 10.30am to 4pm on featuring musical performances on the main stage, activities and information displays and the opportunity to meet newsreader Peter Hitchener who is celebrating 40 years at Channel Nine.

• Festival after Dark, supported by the City of Melbourne, will run at the Melbourne Town Hall from Monday, 7 October to Friday, 11 October, from 7pm to 9.30pm.

• RDNS Melbourne Festival Hub running from Monday, 7 October to Friday, 11 October with photographic exhibitions, lunchtime concerts, information sessions and the RDNS healthy pit stop.
• The Apia Veterans Golf Classic featuring 16 clubs holding competitions, with the Stockland Seniors Active Living Program featuring more than 100 events where seniors can try tennis, bowls or croquet.

The festival’s program is now available at all Coles stores, libraries, council offices, neighbourhood houses, University of the Third Age offices and Life Activity Clubs Victoria.

For more information, contact your local council or phone Seniors Information Victoria on 1300 135 090 for a program or visit Seniors Online at www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au