YMCA hosts successful Get Active Expo for Seniors Month

Last week, YMCA Camp Manyung in partnership with Sports and Recreation Victoria, Mornington Peninsula Shire, Frankston City Council, hosted a successful Get Active Expo as part of Seniors Month aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of older adults in the community.

Over 200 locals aged 55 and over attended the event and tried tai chi, chair yoga, croquette and YMCA adventure activities like the giant swing, tree rolling and archery.

YMCA Camp Manyung manager Jim Boyle advised: “This was a terrific day for locals to try different exercises while bringing people together. Research shows that as people get older, their participation in sports and recreation declines and for people aged 65, there’s a huge decline.

“This lack of activity can lead to serious health problems and a sense of disconnection from their community. Days like today can help change this.”

Judy Cousins from Beleura Village was one of the many locals who enjoyed the day and added: “This is my first time visiting YMCA Camp Manyung and I found the camp absolutely brilliant! It’s not often events like this happen, and I didn’t expect anything as organised and substantial as what Camp Manyung has put on today.”

Courtney Persson, Active Living Coordinator from Beleura Village found a great community vibe: “I decided to bring five of our residents down who were interested as it actively gets them involved with other members in the community, helps break routine, and gets them out of their comfort zone.”

The day included many local activity clubs, groups and organisations including Mt Eliza 55 Plus, U3A Mornington, Frankston & District Netball Association (Jubilee Park), Probus Langwarrin, Pace, Narim Marr Djambana and many more.