Local event bridges generations, connecting seniors and youth

Published on 15 July 2024

Mount Alexander Shire Council’s latest event for senior residents was an intergenerational games day.

The event was a collaboration between Council’s Community Wellbeing team and Youth Advisory Committee, who ran the event.

The day was Paris Olympic themed, and included trivia, craft, theatre games, geo-guessing and muso bingo. Plus, prizes for the winning team.

“We wanted to run an intergenerational event to connect with the older generation of our community, something that a lot of young people don’t get the chance to do,” said Thea Sydes, Youth Advisory Group member.

“It was an absolutely amazing day and we all learned so much about, and from, each other, and played lots of fun games!

“Events like this are so important for young people and older people to feel a sense of community, and an understanding respect and love for other generations.”

Council’s Manager Community Wellbeing, Rosalie Rogers, said that Council runs lots of events for senior residents, in addition to aged care services.

“Making sure our seniors stay socially connected is very important to us here at Council,” said Ms Rogers.

“We have a weekly program of events that are well-attended, but this is first time since before Covid that we’ve run a special games day between our senior and young residents.

“The event was our Youth Advisory Group’s idea and they were the ones who spearheaded the day.

“They organised everyone, ran the games and handed out prizes.

“It was a joyful day and hopefully we can make this a regular event here at Council.”

Council offers a weekly program of social activities for shire residents over the age of 65, including lunches, day drips, games groups and exercise classes.

The program can be found at www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/SocialConnection.

For more information, call Monte Macpherson, Council’s Community Wellbeing Business Support Officer, on 5471 1797.