Mount Alexander Shire Council has a few places available for its Social Support Program, which provides eligible local residents with the opportunity to get out, be active, learn new skills and have fun.
The program targets residents aged over 65 years who experience barriers to accessing the community independently. This may include challenges such as memory loss, health issues, mobility, frailty, anxiety, shyness, social isolation or lack of transport.
The service offers home visits from volunteers along with planned activity groups such as outings or activities based within local community venues.
The activities can be quite a hoot, as with the recent end of year performance by participants of the gentle water exercise class.
Castlemaine-based participant Lana Osterfield had the brilliant idea to perform a group swimming tribute to the glamorous 1940s and 1950s actress, swimmer and businesswoman Esther Williams.
Lana spent hours trawling local op shops to source colourful costumes and props which were used in the Million Dollar Mermaid-inspired performance.
The ten performers had lots of fun as they practiced their aqua dance moves each week and the grand finale delighted onlookers.
Other Social Support activities vary from scrabble and knitting, musical memories, community lunches and friendly gatherings.
Activities are coordinated by generous volunteers and Council staff.
The Social Support Team runs or supports programs in Castlemaine, Chewton, Metcalfe, Maldon and Newstead. Program participants must be eligible for Home and Community Care Services or the Commonwealth Home Support Program and reside in the shire.
There is a small number of vacancies within the program. To find out more including eligibility requirements contact Fiona McInnes, Healthy Ageing Officer, on 5471 1807.
You can also contact Fiona if you have some spare time on your hands and would like to become involved as a volunteer.
Image: (L-R) Participants Liz, Eileen and Jayne lead the group across the pool for their colourful tribute to the Million Dollar Mermaid.
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