Clubs Celebrating Older Australians
- Policy
Clubs across the state participated in the festivities for the NSW Seniors Festival — held from 11 to 24 March 2024 — celebrating the role and contributions of older adults in their local communities.
Venues invited members and guests to view a live stream of the Premier’s Gala Concert — a sold-out event at the ICC Sydney Theatre — providing complimentary afternoon tea and discounted meals to patrons.
Some of Australia’s greatest entertainers including Damien Leith, Paulini, Darren Coggan and Julia Lea Goodwin performed at the gala, entertaining those in attendance and at clubs, with members and guests singing, clapping along, and even dancing to their favourite tunes from their seats.
Here’s how a few of our clubs celebrated the day
In the Northern Metropolitan region, Dee Why RSL marked the occasion by organising an event for more than 110 seniors. Upon arrival, guests were welcomed with a pre-concert performance by Sing Australia.
Staying true to this year’s ‘purple’ theme, the Dee Why RSL showroom was decorated with purple table runners and napkins. During the intermission, seniors indulged in a delightful high tea featuring warm scones, handcrafted pastries and fresh sandwiches.
Club Rivers in the Southern Metropolitan region offered bistro and café specials for seniors to enjoy before tuning into the Premier’s Gala Concert.
The Central West also tuned in, with Lithgow Workies offering seniors discounted meals and complimentary afternoon tea, followed by streaming the concert on a large screen in their showroom.
Other clubs chose to host different activities, including concerts, social gatherings and luncheons.
On 15 March, Quirindi RSL Club hosted a presentation of Senior Awards along with a luncheon and entertainment. Local guitarist and performer Al Buchan put on a show with locals also lucky to witness Joan Manning’s piano performance. By all reports the day was filled with smiles, laughter and hugs.
It’s safe to say that many are already asking: “when will this happen again next year?” — stay tuned for more info.
Seniors make remarkable contributions to our local communities from dedicating time to important community causes to fulfilling roles as grandparents or guardians. We thank clubs for acknowledging their efforts throughout the month of March.
We’d love to hear how your club supports local seniors. Please email your stories to [email protected].
