Connect, create, and celebrate Seniors Month

Connect, create, and celebrate Seniors Month

by SUSAN FOREMAN
21st September 2026

THERE IS MUCH to enjoy across both Manningham and Nillumbik during Seniors Month.
Celebrate positive ageing and take part in events and activities close to home, or get out and about and get involved in events right across the state.
Victorian Seniors Card holders can enjoy nine days of free public transport across Victoria from October 3 to 11.
This includes:

all metropolitan public transport services
V/Line train and coach services
selected regional bus services outside the myki area.

You can do Tai Chi on Lake Wendouree, join the Big Sing in Nunawading, a drumming circle in Blackburn, take a walk with wildlife on the Great Ocean Road, or stay close to home and find one of the plethora of activities happening across Manningham and Nillumbik.
This year’s theme is “Connect, Create, and Celebrate”, and there are literally hundreds of ways to do just that.
See the full program at seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/festival.
Connect, create, and celebrate with the 2026 Victorian Seniors Festival.

In Nillumbik

Nillumbik is hosting over 30 local events.
This year, there are many opportunities for over 50s in Nillumbik to get active at their own pace, with weekly sessions at Nillumbik leisure venues, Walking Basketball, scenic bike rides (e-bikes welcome), and even a Wok and Roll Disco.
Most Seniors Festival events are free, including all Council-run events — such as the new Nilli-Billi Bushdance, and the ever-popular Seniors Festival lunch.
Council has also funded six events in the program through its Seniors Festival Grants.
Mayor Naomi Joiner invites older adults to explore all the events on offer.

“In Nillumbik, we are committed to supporting older residents to live well and feel a strong sense of belonging, as reflected in the priorities of our Council Plan and Health and Wellbeing Plan.
The Seniors Festival is a joyful expression of this commitment, with many opportunities to learn something new, meet people, get creative, and get moving.”

View the program and book your tickets at: nillumbik.vic.gov.au/seniors-festival.

In Manningham

There will be more than 60 free and low-cost events and activities across Manningham, and Council has produced a Seniors Month Local Activity Guide to help older people, care partners, and family members find fun and affordable events and activities to stay active, learn something new, and connect with others in the community.
Deputy Mayor, Deirdre Diamante, said the annual program, including the popular Seniors Morning Tea, was a highlight for many residents.

“Manningham Council is proud to support the diverse range of activities hosted by local clubs, groups and service organisations that are designed to promote healthy ageing, wellbeing, and connection.
Seniors Month provides opportunities to meet new people, discover new interests, stay active and enjoy everything our vibrant and diverse community has to offer.
Thank you to all the organisations who have helped to create such an engaging program.”

The Doncaster Dolphins Masters Swimming Club is one of the groups to get involved, hosting a series of come-and-try sessions.
Assistant coach Rod Clarke is a passionate advocate for staying active later in life.
He recently broke the state and national record for the 50m backstroke short course at the Australian Masters Nationals in Brisbane.

“It’s never too late.
We’ve got members ranging from their 20s to their 90s.
Some are swimming for fitness, some compete, and some just enjoy being part of the community.”

Copies of the Seniors Month Local Activity Guide are available to pick up from community venues including the Civic Centre, local libraries, and leisure centre.
Explore the full calendar online at Manningham Council’s website: manningham.vic.gov.au/seniors-month.

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