With Queensland Seniors Week set to kick off – virtually – next week, event coordinator Lisa Hodgkinson has reminded participants to make sure their online skills are up to scratch to make the most of the lineup of events.
“It has been two months since we announced Queensland Seniors Week is going virtual and we have been busily working behind the scenes with event organisers to provide a great program of virtual events, and some small localised events in some areas, to enable people to celebrate in the safest way possible,” said Ms Hodgkinson.
“We know older people with limited internet skills can feel isolated from their community, friends and family. Some people need extra support to get online and build their digital skills and also need a compelling reason to take the plunge.”
She said a handy guide, Helping you to access virtual Seniors Week events, had been created in partnership with the Queensland Government, Volunteering Queensland, Telstra, and COTA Queensland to assist people to access the online events and activities.
“Seniors Week has historically provided opportunities for people to connect, find support and services, and assistance to reduce social isolation,” said Ms Hodgkinson.
“Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year Seniors Week will be predominantly an online celebration and we don’t want older Queenslanders to miss out on this important event.”
“If you know someone who would benefit from this guide, lend a helping hand and print and share this guide with them.”
Queensland Seniors Week has partnered with Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) this year to launch the week of events in style.
“QPAC’s Drawn Together invites people all over Queensland to share morning tea with friends and family, young and old, celebrating the powerful relationships that exist across generations,” said Ms Hodgkinson.
“From the comfort of your own home, join our morning tea as our guests discuss the big, complicated and fun issues of our times.”
Hosted by QPAC Scholar in Residence Professor Judith McLean, the free online event will mark the commencement of Queensland Seniors Week 2020 and includes performances from some of Queensland’s most outstanding artists – western classical and traditional Asian fusion ensemble JADE New World Collective, Babushka Cabaret, the Brat Pack Tappers, Cairns indie-folk artist Greta Stanley and Townsville musical theatre performer Sarah Murr.
“Gather for morning tea at home as our own morning tea guests – Dame Quentin Bryce, Aunty Colleen Wall, Creative Director of Briefs Factory Fez Fa’anana and internationally renowned didgeridoo performer and pianist David Williams – discuss ideas of happiness, heritage, the value of the arts in a community and for individuals.”
