Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner is encouraging Brisbane’s senior residents to kick up their heels and join in an assortment of fun-filled activities this Queensland Seniors Month, saying age should not be a barrier to experiencing the best of Brisbane.
Cr Schrinner said more than 500 free and low-cost activities would be on offer to help seniors come together, socialise, and connect with loved ones under this year’s theme Social Connections.
“Brisbane’s more mature residents make an incredible contribution to our city and community,” Cr Schrinner said.
“They’re caring for grandkids, volunteering for charities and community causes, and making our city an all-round better place to live. Queensland Seniors Month is our opportunity to say thank you.
“From Bollywood fitness and painting workshops to Tai Chi and cooking classes, there’s no shortage of exciting activities on offer.
“Grandparents can enjoy quality time with their grandkids at a special Grandparents Day soccer game on 31 October.
“For music lovers, we’re hosting a series of seniors suburban concerts with performances from The Kitty Kats, graduates from the Queensland Conservatorium of Music, La Forza and the Killer Queen Experience.
“Dance the night away at the Lord Mayor’s Seniors Cabaret Gala: A Night at the Oscars on Sunday 24 October, with performances from participants and their professional mentors.
“Try something new or enjoy a bit of something you already love. There are activities to suit all interests and our tech-savvy seniors can find them on the free Brisbane app.”
Australian Academy of Tai Chi and Qigong instructor, Kevin Bee, 90, teaches at Council’s Active and Healthy classes across the city.
“I’ve found that as you grow older, two things become increasingly important – mobility and socialising,” Mr Bee said.
“Participants of all abilities take my classes and so long as they’re moving, socialising and enjoying themselves, that’s all that really matters.”
Cr Schrinner said free seniors off-peak public transport will continue to help residents travel to all the activities on offer.
“Our initiative eases the cost of living for our city’s seniors and it’s incredibly easy, just touch your TransLink Seniors go card or Seniors Card +go while getting on and off public transport,” he said.
The free travel applies to Brisbane City Council buses, CityCats and ferries from 8.30am-3.30pm and 7pm-6am Monday to Friday and on Council buses all weekend.
The free Brisbane app is available to download via the Apple Store and Google Play.
For more information on Queensland Seniors Month activities, please visit Council’s website – www.brisbane.qld.gov.au