Kwinana Seniors

Seniors Week 2023 Grand Finale

On the dance floor we all agreed with Patrick Hernandez as we belted out that it is indeed ‘good to be alive’ (born to be alive), as we showed off dance moves like ‘greased lightning’ - or is that just the ‘jive talking’!

With help from DJ Dion and MC extraordinaire Pauline, we did indeed remember when; with everything from the twist and Nutbush to the macarena. A karaoke screen confirmed we all had the right lyrics and even provided an opportunity for having one’s fifteen seconds of fame!

Merle’s dress was dazzling (literally) – get those fishnet stockings! Suzanne was clearly ‘going to San Francisco’, with flowers in her hair as Scott McKenzie suggested. On the subject of hair…Jean’s purple frizzy locks were simply amazing. Annette declared herself a ‘Mod’ with large daisy earrings and bright blue eye shadow and the Hippy Twins stole the show!

Yes, it was all happening at the Kwinana Bowling Club on Saturday 18 November, ensuring that Seniors Week closed having created its own special memories.

President Dean and his wonderful team of volunteers welcomed us warmly and as always, provided an excellent supper. ‘Remembering when’ is apparently hungry business.

Oh, and we even had line-dancers! What a hoot as those experienced patiently showed their routines to the rest of us. There were at least three versions of ‘Nutbush’, but we turned right together every time! Is it a little cryptic to ask if there is an analogy in there somewhere?

Groovy man!

Annette
Proud Savvy Senior

As Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons sang, Oh, what a night! (for late December back in ’63, please read mid - November 2023) one in which not even rain stopped play! With its soft lighting and twinkling table candles, Theatre 2 at Koorliny Arts Centre created a welcoming ambience for guests and performers at the City of Kwinana’s 2023 Seniors Week Launch event, on Monday evening, 13 November.

Deputy Mayor and First Nations Community Leader Barry Winmar warmly Welcomed everyone to Country, to which Jean, Chair of Kwinana Savvy Seniors responded with her Acknowledgement of Country and thanked the many people who made this event possible. Mayor Peter Feasey formally opened the City of Kwinana’s 2023 Seniors Week Celebrations, describing the City’s support for Seniors and the unique contribution we continue to make in our community.

The scene was then set for an amazing evening of celebration, fun and reflection; enjoyed by Seniors and non-Seniors alike! The success of the event was the result of a partnership between the City of Kwinana and Seniors groups, which fosters positive and healthy ageing for all residents.

Under the stewardship of Master of Ceremonies Justin, Koorliny’s General Manager – who also gave a cameo performance – a program showcasing activities available to Kwinana Seniors unfolded. Local Poet Graham’s 2022 poem ‘Seniors’ at times tender and at others hilarious, challenged former perceptions of Seniors whilst validating the many roles and responsibilities, formal and informal, we hold - in our city and beyond.

Jane mesmerised guests with her Tai Chi Gongfu Fun demonstration, followed by an invitation to ‘have a go’; one of the aims of Seniors Week. Singing groups, Singing Ukes and Singing Seniors, took us down memory lane as we listened, sang and clapped along. Delicious light refreshments fuelled our energy for the fun and activity!

So, did the 2023 Seniors Week launch in the City of Kwinana celebrate joyfully and meaningfully? Absolutely!

Will we do it this way again? Definitely! Feedback supports this.

Was it hard work? Certainly, anything worthwhile often is; which is where the partnerships are so important.

Is there anything we could do differently? Yes! Spread the word even more widely, ensuring this fabulous event is available to all.

Annette

Proud Kwinana Savvy Senior

Seniors Week recognises and celebrates the unique contribution that Seniors continue to make in our community. It is also an excellent opportunity for Seniors to meet new people and have a go at a range of different activities.

What takes your fancy in the week’s program?

Check the Key Dates for full details and contacts for each activity.