Each year, Spectrum is proud to partner with the Northern Federation of Ethnic Senior Citizens Clubs (Federation) to celebrate wisdom, experience and community with older people from across our community. This year was extra special, with over two hundred seniors from dozens of cultures and language backgrounds, coming together with family, friends and carers to celebrate with us. Making Connections was all about the things that bring us joy, together – laughter, music, culture, dance, and of course – food!

Our day’s schedule was jam-packed – hosted by a professional comedian, who had the giggles flowing from all ages, and roused into delight by European music sensations Vardos. Many took to their feet to dance and clap along, to cheer on our Bollywood dancers, or to greet old and new friends with warm hugs and smiles.

CJ Mendioro, Spectrum’s Group Services Team Coordinator, said, “The venue, staff, clients, program, performances and food were all amazing! It’s been a great experience for our seniors!”

Everyone loves a prize, and many of our attendees were lucky enough to win a special gift in our raffle, or spin to win on our prize wheel.

We were also determined to ensure our celebration was also a one-stop-shop for important information – so we invited many of our friends, community and health organisations from DPV Health to Ambulance Victoria, to join in, with stalls and information sessions tailored just for seniors. Attendees could find out the latest updates about the changes to the Aged Care Act, learn about what free services were available, or even connect with community events to help them stay socially active.

One of our many participants let us know that our Seniors Festival celebration was a ‘perfect’ day – and it was for us too. Making connections and being a part of community is so important for our health, and this is even more important into our golden years.

To all who joined us for the first time, we say – welcome! And to those familiar faces who stopped by to dance, laugh, sing along and chat together, we say – see you next time!