2026 Federation Forum

It was our Annual Federation Forum, where Spectrum’s Northern Federation of Ethnic Senior Citizens groups, along with our senior clients, come together for a day of entertainment, learning, and connection.

The theme for this year was “Active, Connected and Thriving” – with a big focus on physical activity and community as the keys to longevity for Melbourne’s diverse seniors.

Wisdom and insight

Representing 20+ culture and language groups, our Federation Forum each year isn’t just a nice day out. It’s a reflection of the importance, and the contribution, of the migrant communities who helped build Melbourne. And now, have endless wisdom to share.

After being welcomed by our colourful, fabulous Anemones Hellenic dancers and Assyrian performers, we were glad to welcome our distinguished presenters – Associate Professor Michelle Lim, Dr Santosh Kumar, and Jacinta Allen from Dementia Australia.

And this year, our Federation members co-hosted our Forum, helping ensure their voices were front and centre.

Speaking up

As Aged Care in Australia continues to evolve, social connection becomes ever more important to seniors to stay independent, physically healthy, and thriving.

With that in mind, participants all joined in group activities to have their say on what connection means to them, how services can help, and how their social groups can make lives better.

This honesty was gratefully received by our Spectrum team – and we were touched to hear that our Social Support Groups and Federation were key to so many people’s ongoing vitality and love of life.

Making memories

When asked their favourite group activities from their time with Spectrum and Federation, there were dozens to list.

From restaurant outings, dancing and attending musicals; to cosy sessions of mahjong, cooking and even swimming.

Our Greek participants showed the power of giving back – telling us how they visit homes for members who are unwell, and perform traditional dances at nursing homes and other events to bring joy and share culture.

What these many activities had in common was that they fostered connection, giving each day a sense of purpose. For those who have called Melbourne home for so many decades, caring for community still remains a priority.

Our members love singing together, gardening together, and perhaps most importantly – sharing their stories with others who understand.

A celebration of connection

To celebrate another year of memories made through Spectrum’s Federation, many of our members put on rousing dance and music performances to huge applause from the audience.

The richness of culture was on display, including Vietnamese music, Filipino and Macedonian performances, Tai Chi and an exciting and joyous moment of Bollywood dancing.

For some, this was the first time they had been invited to join in the cultural dance of other communities, and the smiles on faces said it all.

And ultimately, this day reminded us that it’s just staying active that brings people together – it’s the opportunity to share and be seen.