Celebrating Cardinia Shire's Seniors

Throughout October, a record one thousand seniors across the shire participated in over 30 events, all designed to inspire, engage, and celebrate the contributions of our older residents. The events supported by a Victorian Government Seniors Festival grant included the enchanting, guided bush walks in Gembrook to the delightful high tea events, the festival showcased a diverse range of activities that fostered connections among attendees. 

A standout moment was the Men's Shed Spit Roast and Wellness Day, which featured a thought-provoking guest speaker from Beyond Blue focusing on men's mental health. The event fostered meaningful conversations and offered free haircuts from Chiara, the local barber, emphasising self-care and community spirit.  

The Outlook Community Centre transformed into a hub of activity, hosting a heartwarming Carers Morning Tea and dementia-friendly games day. Attendees enjoyed a welcoming environment where caregivers and individuals living with dementia could connect and engage in fun, stimulating activities.  

Another highlight of the Seniors Festival was the Sip and See and experimental theatrical performance, "Anything You Can Do," presented in collaboration with the Pony Cam theatre company at the Cardinia Cultural Centre. This captivating event featured the remarkable talents of local seniors, who shared their personal stories, interwoven with humour and heartfelt reflections.  

The festival also featured a range of exciting workshops and activities, including live art demonstrations at Moy-Yan Neighbourhood House, a scavenger hunt and garage sale organised by the Cardinia Men’s Shed, and the much-loved "Life in the Senior's Lane" photography exhibition. Each event encouraged seniors to explore new hobbies, build friendships, and strengthen community bonds.  

Families also enjoyed engaging activities at the Grandparents and Caregivers playgroup, where children and adults participated in interactive sessions focused on environmental awareness through fun games with Council's waste management and environment teams. The Deep Creek reserve Playground was a hit, providing a wonderful setting for grandparents, caregivers, and kids to connect and play.  

Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Jack Kowarzik expressed his gratitude to the volunteers who helped bring the 2025 Seniors Festival to life and shared his enthusiasm for next year's event.  

"The success of the Cardinia Shire Seniors Festival could not have been achieved without the incredible support from the Cardinia Seniors Network and dedicated volunteers representing numerous seniors' groups throughout the shire. Their hard work and commitment ensured that every event was a joyous occasion, showcasing the wonderful spirit of our senior community," said Mayor Kowarzik. 

"As we reflect on the success of the 2025 Cardinia Shire Seniors Festival, we celebrate not just the events that took place, but the connections forged, the laughter shared, and the stories exchanged. We look forward to the next festival and continuing the momentum of celebrating our seniors and their invaluable contributions to our community. Thank you to everyone who participated, supported, and made the festival a truly memorable experience!"  

Although the 2025 Victorian Seniors Festival has come to an end, there are still plenty of opportunities for seniors to continue to connect, create, and celebrate in Cardinia Shire. Council hosts and supports a range of events and activities to help people age well, to maintain physical and mental health, feel safe and secure, be involved in the community, and stay connected with others. To stay updated and connected on all events and activities on offer for older residents please subscribe to councils Ageing Well Newsletter by visiting www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/ageingwellnews 

For more information about services and events for older residents, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/ageingwell