Townsville seniors get into the swing of celebrations

Published Friday, 18 August, 2017 at 11:15 AM

Minister for Disability Services, Minister for Seniors and Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland
The Honourable Coralee O'Rourke

Queensland Seniors Week will start on a high note in Townsville tomorrow (Saturday 19 August) with dancing and music allowing seniors to get into the swing of things.

Minister for Seniors Coralee O’Rourke said Diversicare has received a Queensland Government subsidy of $1,000 to hold their event with Life without Barriers towards the 'Celebrate Diversity through Food, Culture and Dance' event being held at PCYC Townsville.

“This has something for everyone – dance, music and food,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“People from all walks of life are welcome.

“Two schools will also be  performing. The  intergenerational connections are important for both students and seniors.”

Diversicare is one of 10 organisations in North Queensland to receive a Queensland Seniors Week subsidy with events ranging from multicultural dance events, high teas, lunches and workshops.

“Queensland Seniors Week, to be held 19-27 August 2017,will bring local residents of all ages together to celebrate the valuable contributions of older people,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“The subsidies, of up to $1,000, mean there will be events and activities on offer right across North Queensland so everyone, both young and old, can participate in the week.

The theme for Seniors Week this year is ‘Celebrating a Queensland for ALL Ages’.

Seniors Week is coordinated by the Council on the Ageing (COTA) Queensland which receives Queensland Government funding to collaboratively plan, run and provide subsidies for Seniors Week events and activities.

COTA Queensland Chief Executive Mark Tucker-Evans said COTA produces an easy to use online Seniors Week calendar of events and is pleased to support organisations with resources to further develop intergenerational connections within communities.

The Queensland Government is providing around $100,000 towards 114 events and activities across the state this year.

For more information on Queensland Seniors Week or to register or view a Queensland Seniors Week event, visit: www.qldseniorsweek.org.au or phone COTA Queensland on 1300 738 348.

For more information about support and services for older Queenslanders visit http://www.qld.gov.au/seniors/