Queensland is gearing up to enjoy the second annual Queensland Seniors Month. From humble beginnings sixty-two years ago, this statewide celebration has outgrown its nine-day week and has become a month-long event.
Connecting Queenslanders through inclusive events and activities, Seniors Month will bring people of all ages, cultures, and abilities together within their community, uniting them through shared interests and passions. It also provides a great opportunity to discover new programs, activities, and support services.
Beginning on Saturday 1 October, the United Nations International Day of Older Persons Queensland’s Seniors Month will include National Grandparents Day, on 30 October before ending on 31 October 2022.
“Our continued theme of Social Connections remains incredibly relevant as these connections are essential at any age.” said COTA Queensland’s Seniors Month Coordinator Lisa Hodgkinson.
“Even with the uncertainty of the COVID pandemic, older Queenslanders have found diverse ways to build and maintain social connections.”
“This year we are proud to announce that the Queensland Government is supporting 108 events and activities, sharing in $100,000.”
“Central Queensland puts on a great spread of events. From the Bonding Baralaba Bus Tour to the Art of Good food: A recipe for Connection in Bundaberg.
“Rockhampton will socially connect their community with Generations in Faith, and loads o0f come and try games, fitness classes and more thanks to the Rockhampton Seniors Citizens.
“Cloncurry is hosting a great morning tea at the Community Precinct on the fifth of October, and Livingstone Shire is going European with their Vive la France Day and Connecting Seniors across their community.
“If you’re out near Winton join in by celebrating Seniors Month with a two-course lunch at the iconic beer garden at the North Gregory Hotel followed by a cent sale, thanks to the Winton Shire Council.
“Fraser Coast sure knows how to put on a full calendar of events with the Great Senior Bite, Seniors Morning Teas, expo and information days, concerts, talent shows and a 20th Birthday Celebration for Probus.
“This is just a small sample of what will be on offer this year.”
While there are plenty of events organised by council areas and other groups, COTA have come up with an event that seniors and their friends and family can plan themselves.
“Thinking of activities that connect us, this year we are calling for all Queenslanders to assist in combatting social isolation and loneliness, one fork at a time by joining together to create Queensland’s Largest Sunday Roast on Sunday 16 October,” Lisa explained.
“Imagine gathering Queensland households near and far with people of all ages to sit down to a big meal, reconnecting after a long week. The wonderful thing about food is that it has the ability to surpass physical and language barriers, allowing us to share our stories of life, culture, and creativity. “Making the Sunday roast perfect opportunity to assist in socially connecting people.
“Did you know that one in three seniors and one in two teenagers have reported feeling lonely?
“Or that 1 in 3 seniors live alone and are at increased risk for social isolation and/or loneliness?
“There are over 880,000 people aged 65+ and more than 686,000 teenagers in Queensland? That’s a lot of people who may be feeling lonely and socially disconnected.
“Feeling socially connected makes us feel good, provides great health benefits, and can improve our quality of life. Can you imagine all the stories we could share together?
“Best of all you can host your Sunday Roast any way you like. It could be at home with family and friends, at your local park with your community, or at a participating restaurant.
“The only way for us to know if we are making an impact to is measure your interest and participation. “
To find out more about Seniors Month, Queensland’s Largest Sunday Roast and to find events near you, visit www.qldseniorsmonth.org.au or phone 1300 738 348 (within Queensland) or 07 3316 2999 interstate.
