Hills residents are being invited to participate in numerous free events and activities to celebrate the 2024 NSW Seniors Festival, which runs from 11-24 March.
The 2024 festival celebrates the role and contribution of older adults, and Hills Shire seniors are encouraged to connect, explore and celebrate through a range of free activities and programs.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Peter Gangemi, said seniors deserve recognition for their significant and long-term contribution to their families and communities.
“We’re saying thank you to our local seniors with a great range of activities to enjoy during this year’s Seniors Festival,” Mayor Gangemi said.
“Seniors Week has been extremely popular so far, with our aqua aerobics classes at Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre almost booked out. Our special movie screening of the movie Next Goal Wins has also been extremely popular, with most of the free movie tickets being exhausted.
“There are still many more activities that our residents can participate in, including the Reach Beyond Expo, which will provide helpful information on the services that can support you in your retirement. Council is also running a special workshop about getting the most out of our online services.
“I truly look forward to meeting you at this year’s events.
“A big thank you to everyone working with us to host our 2024 Seniors Festival, including Event Cinemas Castle Hill, Rouse Hill Town Centre, Arthur Thomas Ware and Peter Graham, Council staff and all groups and community organisations involved.”
Seniors Festival events in The Hills are free, with details below:
• Navigating Council Services Online
Tuesday 12 March, 10:30am – 1:00pm
Rebellion Room, Castle Hill Community Centre (below Castle Hill Library)
14 Pennant Street, Castle Hill
A helpful workshop on how to access Council’s digital resources and maximise your online engagement. Staff will show you how to access services including e-pathway, receive your rates online and set-up digital library services.
• Aqua Aerobics at Waves
Wednesday 13 March, 11:30am – 12:15pm and Thursday 19 March, 10:30am – 11:15am
Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre, 44 Mileham Drive, Castle Hill
Enjoy a free aqua aerobics exercise class at Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre! Aqua aerobics is a low-impact exercise that helps improve coordination and range of movement.
• Free Movie: Next Goal Wins
Thursday 14 March at 10:00am
Event Cinemas, Castle Hill
Take your seats for a free movie screening with complimentary popcorn, choc top and bottle of water at Event Cinemas Castle Towers! Oscar-Winning director Taika Waititi tells the story of the American Samoa soccer team who suffered the worst loss in World Cup history, losing to Australia 31-0 in 2001. With the 2014 World Cup approaching, the team recruits a down on his luck, maverick coach to help turn their fate around. Starring Michael Fassbender, Elisabeth Moss, Oscar Kightley, David Fane, Beulah Koale, Lehi Falepapalangi, Semu Filipo, Uli Latukefu, Rachel House and Kaimana.
• Reach Beyond Expo
Friday 15 March from 10:00am – 1:00pm
Market Square, Rouse Hill Town Centre
Browse the Reach Beyond Seniors Festival Expo, a stall holder event with Council, Rouse Hill Town Centre and local organisations. Learn about the services on offer for seniors in The Hills, meet new people and create stronger bonds within the community.
• Seniors Retirement Seminar
Thursday 21 March from 10:00am – 1:00pm
Baulkham Hills Community Centre
This helpful workshop, delivered by Arthur Thomas Ware and Peter Graham, provides a perspective on the challenges and emotions commonly experienced by retirees, aiming to equip you with strategies for maximising long-term retirement satisfaction.
Events are available for residents aged 60 years and over. For details and bookings, visit Council’s website, www.thehills.nsw.gov.au and search ‘Seniors Festival 2024’.
Even more great events for seniors, including the Premier’s Gala Concert, Festival Expo, Comedy Festival and more can be found on the NSW Government’s website www.nsw.gov.au/seniors-festival.