Seniors activities continue through Seniors Week and beyond

Date: Friday, 21st August 2009

Seniors Week in Townsville will finish on Sunday, but events for the city’s seniors will keep rolling on.

For those wanting another outing, the annual Seniors Music Day on Maggie will be held in the Alma Bay Parklands at Arcadia from 12.30pm to 3.30pm this Sunday.

Magnetic Island Bus Service will transport guests from the Nelly Bay ferry terminal to the Arcadia venue.

The council has organised a variety of entertainment, including Thuringowa Brass, Marion Bligh, Double Play and the Barramundi Brothers. The MC will be Acting Mayor Cr David Crisafulli.

Afternoon tea also will be served, the highlight of which will be the usual “Larger than Life” lamington produced on the island by Bell’s Harbour Bakery.

Lifestyle and Community Development Committee chair Cr Jenny Lane said she was especially pleased with this year’s Seniors Week.

“We had a wonderful attendance at the Seniors’ Picnic on Thursday and we’ve received overwhelming feedback that people enjoyed the day and council’s hospitality,” Cr Lane said.

“Everything, from the catering by Michel’s Restaurant to the entertainment by Little Pattie, was a hit. Staff and volunteers served 2100 meals in 21 minutes, which is an amazing achievement.”

Cr Lane said the council was gearing up for its next big seniors’ event, the annual Pioneers Party on Saturday, 12 September, which would feature entertainment by Barry Crocker and a presentation by media medico Dr John D’Arcy.

Registrations can be made by calling the Customer Service Centre on 4727 9000 or going online to www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Cr Lane said residents over 70 and their partners/carers were eligible to attend.

“This is another free event hosted by council to celebrate our older folk and the contributions they have made and continue to make to our community,” she said.

“There’ll be two sessions at the Entertainment Centre, a morning tea from 9.30am to 11.30am and an afternoon tea from 2.30pm to 4.30pm.

“At both sessions guests will have the chance to win lucky door prizes, including a ‘Jupiters Experience’ – an accommodation and show package at Jupiters Townsville.

“Numbers are limited to 650 at each session, so we’re asking people to register early.”

Cr Lane said the council had partnered with Townsville Taxis to provide transport where needed.

“Just mention this when you call the Customer Service Centre or follow the prompts online and we’ll help you get there,” she said.

Another event on the seniors’ calendar: The Civic Theatre is presenting Morning Melodies on 29 and 30 September at 11am. The Hits of the Piano Men will feature Danny Elliott showcasing songs from some of the world’s great piano men, such as Billy Joel, Elton John, Barry Manilow, Neil Sedaka and Liberacé. Singer Sharna Le-Grand will share the stage. Morning tea is included.