Bookings are now open for the Bayside Healthy Ageing Seniors Festival, which returns this October, inviting older residents to connect, create and celebrate.
Now in its 23rd year, the festival has become a much-loved fixture on our local events calendar, bringing together community organisations, groups and performers to celebrate healthy ageing and lifelong learning.
Last year’s festival attracted more than 1,180 attendees across 59 events and introduced 769 people to local clubs and groups. For many, it was the first step towards building new friendships, staying active and finding a place to belong.
One organisation helping people make those connections is U3A Bayside, which has been part of the festival for the past 14 years.
U3A Bayside President Joe Arnephy said the festival was about much more than trying a new activity.
“The Seniors Festival gives people a chance to have fun, make friends and discover something they may never have thought of trying before,” he said.
U3A Bayside is powered by more than 200 volunteers and they will be hosting a community expo at this year’s Seniors Festival, where visitors can watch activity demonstrations, meet members and experience the welcoming atmosphere for themselves.
The expo is designed to encourage people to bring a friend, ask questions and discover what’s on offer.
With music, dance and performances returning after proving the most popular events in 2025, this year’s festival offers plenty of opportunities to stay active, meet new people and discover where your curiosity might lead.
“People often come because they’re curious about one activity, but what they really find is a community,” Mr Arnephy said.
