Orange City Council is asking the region’s seniors to share what activities and programs they would like the new Orange Seniors Village Hub to offer.
The Orange Seniors Village Hub was established at the Senior Citizens and Pensioners Centre (Nguluwau Ngurang) with funding from the Australian Government Department of Social Services
to increase wellbeing and reduce isolation experienced by older people in the area.
It has kicked off with activities such as board games, art classes, Tai Chi and Scrabble, as well as tea and coffee facilities for people to sit and rest or chat with friends.
Click for larger image.
However, organisers are looking to ramp up the Hub’s offering to provide a wider range of social, cultural, physical, educational and artistic activities designed to build social connections and maintain mental and physical health.
To help decide the way forward, Council is inviting seniors and retirees to attend one of three consultation sessions next week to brainstorm ideas, share their opinions and suggest activities the hub could offer.
The sessions will be held from 10am to 11am on:
- Monday 4 April – Community Services Centre (Giyalang Ganya), 286 Lords Place
- Wednesday 6 April – Senior Citizens and Pensioners Centre (Nguluwau Ngurang) 77 Kite Street
- Friday 8 April – Senior Citizens and Pensioners Centre (Nguluwau Ngurang) 77 Kite Street
Orange City Council Community Services Policy Committee Chair Cr Mel McDonell said this was an opportunity for community members to play an important part in what happens next at the centre.
“We want the Village Hub to be a hive of activity, where people can take part in activities, learn new things and share their skills, interests and experiences with each other in a supportive and resilient community,” Cr McDonell said.
“Many people don’t know the centre is open to seniors of all ages, whether you want to maintain health and wellbeing, keep up your social connections after retirement or simply have a place to sit and rest while you’re in town shopping or waiting for an appointment.
“It’s important to contribute to the conversation and let us know what is important to you as an older resident of Orange.
“The Village Hub will be created by the community and maintained by the community and we want it to be something the community can be proud of. It will also be a great opportunity to
meet new people and reduce social isolation.”
