Senior citizens across the coast will have the chance to take part in a range of events and activities as part of the NSW Seniors Festival running from Friday 3 to Sunday 12 March.

From stand up paddle boarding to cupcake decorating and with over 80 events to choose from there is something for everyone.

For 59 years, the NSW Seniors Festival has been the largest festival for seniors in the Southern Hemisphere. Previously known as NSW Seniors Week, the festival now runs for 10 days due to its popularity and number of events.

Group Leader of Connected Communities, Ms Julie Vaughan, said the annual event is a fantastic opportunity for seniors to celebrate their age and the benefits that come with that, such as wisdom and experience.

“Council has put together a fun and inspirational event calendar that feature a wide range of events to choose from,” said Ms Vaughan.

“We’ve decided to run events throughout March, so that everyone can be involved and no one misses out.

“The activities available are a great opportunity to make new friends or spend time with old ones, learn a new skill, try something new, or show off your skills doing something you love.

“This is your time to shine as a senior citizen on the Central Coast, to have fun and celebrate your contribution to the community, your family and friends.”

Secretary at the Long Jetty Senior Centre, Ms Betty Brown said that the NSW Seniors Festival showcases the diverse range of activities on offer at Senior Citizen Centres.

“There are a wide range of programs offered at centres right around the Central Coast,” said Ms Brown.

“The NSW Seniors Festival helps to showcase our ongoing programs and our vibrant and friendly community of members.

“At Long Jetty, we hold regular yoga, Zumba and art classes; as well as table tennis, darts and a very popular computer class.”

The events are held at various locations around the coast, with most activities free or at a discounted rate.

NSW Seniors Festival is presented by the Department of Family and Community Services.

The festival will include indoor bowls, table tennis, aqua fitness, iPad workshops, yoga, grandparents’ story time and a green living bus tour.

For more details and a full list of events see our Event Calendar.

A calendar of events will also be available from Council’s 50+ Leisure and Learning Centres, Senior Citizen Centres and Libraries.

Some highlights of the 2017 NSW Seniors Festival:

Grandma Moses 2016 Selected Artist Opening Show

Date: Friday 3 March
Time: 10am – 11am
Cost: Free (includes morning tea)
Location: The Foyer, Erina Library

See artworks from selected artists who won, or entered, the over 50’s 2016 Grandma Moses Art Competition. Be warned - you may be inspired to get painting and enter the popular competition yourself in 2017. Bookings are essential, call 4304 7065 to secure your place.

Central Coast Seniors Short Films Session:

Date: Friday 3 March
Time: 11am – 12pm
Cost: Free (includes morning tea)
Location: The Hub, Erina (next to Erina Library)

Enjoy a short talk and morning tea, then watch a series of 8 short films as selected by a representation of the over 50’s community.

Alison Homestead Buffet Breakfast

Date: Wednesday 8 March
Time: 8am – 10am
Cost: Free
Location: Alison Homestead, Wyong

Enjoy breakfast at Alison Homestead, home of Wyong District Museum and Historical Society, while listening to guest speakers as they talk about growing up in the area. After breakfast, those wishing to tour the Museum may do so at their leisure and chat to the volunteers about how to become involved. Bookings are essential, call 4352 1886 or info@alisonhomestead.com.au