Victorian Seniors Festival empowers older Victorians to connect and improve wellbeing

The Victorian Government’s Seniors Festival has commenced marking its 40th year celebrating the more than a million Victorians over 60 who make a profound contribution to the state.

79 local councils, businesses and community and cultural organisations will help deliver festival activities across the state, including concerts, dances, sport, the arts, history talks and tours, as well as a film festival showcasing classic and digitally restored films.

The State Government has contributed $400,000 to support the festival with almost 3000 activities to be held across the state during October for older Victorians to enjoy with family and friends.

Victorian Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Colin Brooks launched the festival at Federation Square, with seven hours of live music from the Orlando Combo Jazz Band, the Makepisi Acapella Choir, Dave Arden Band, Sally Ford and the Idiomatics, Spectrum as well as roving performers, dances and activities.

This year’s theme ‘Takin’ it easy’ focuses on presenting accessible and comfortable spaces, both live and online, to ensure our seniors feel relaxed to participate and ease back into events.

Building on the success of the previous festivals, this year’s events will include online and radio programs, as well as First Nations performances and entertainment from multicultural artists.

The Country Concert series will take the festival fun on the road to 26 regional towns and the Aged Care Tour will entertain aged care residents with music and magicians from September to December.

To ensure older Victorians can make the most of the Festival, Victorian Seniors Card holders can access free travel on public transport services from 2nd to 9th October – including on V/Line.

Information programs can be found at Coles stores, local councils, libraries and community organisations, or view the online calendar at seniorsonline vic.gov.au/festival.