PEOPLE of all ages came together last week to celebrate Seniors Week in the Nambucca Valley, enjoying a day of bowls, games, and a vibrant colour run at Hennessy Tape Oval.
The event, held on 12 March at Bowra Sports Club in Coronation Street, Bowraville, was delivered jointly by Nambucca Valley Council and Becoming U, and brought together students and aged care residents in a display of intergenerational connection.
Nambucca Valley Mayor Gary Lee said the event was both enjoyable and inclusive, while strengthening community ties.
“It was heart-warming to see members from the volunteer Nambucca Valley Youth Council show initiative by baking goods and selling cakes at the recent Open Streets festival to raise money to support last week’s event,” he said. “This intergenerational activity was attended by about 30 residential aged care home residents and 30 students from Macksville and Nambucca Heads high schools.
“The students helped the elderly residents with bowling, playing games and they delivered morning tea and lunch.”
Senior residents travelled from aged care facilities across the Valley, including Respect’s Autumn Lodge in Macksville and Uniting Pacifica in Nambucca Heads.
Autumn Lodge General Manager Joanne Parry said the day captured the true spirit of community.
“Days like this are what community is all about,” she said.
“Watching Wayne (French), for example, and our other residents alongside the children, laughing, getting covered in colour and just being in the moment, was something special to witness.
“Intergenerational events like this matter so much.
“They bring together generations in a way that can’t be replicated.
“We’re grateful to everyone who made this happen, including our special social care staff who made sure our residents were not just spectators. They were right in the thick of it.”
The event also aligned with Community Priority number 3 of the Nambucca Valley Community Strategic Plan 2035, which focuses on respecting, connecting and supporting all members of the community.
Running from 9.30am through to midday, the celebration highlighted the value of bringing generations together, leaving lasting memories for both young participants and senior residents alike.
By Mick BIRTLES
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