Puppies, Lego and scooters headline Positive Agein

Mobility scooter and puppy races, myth-busting sessions and Lego masterclasses are just some of the fun and entertaining events planned for the Positive Ageing Fair, 23 August.

Drawing on a race carnival theme, this year’s Fair has events, workshops, information sessions packed into an entertaining program for anyone 55 years and over.

Cr Cathy Zeiger said the free event will get people looking at ageing from all perspectives, demonstrating ways to enjoy their twilight years to the fullest, while have a lot of fun.

“The fair is a race-themed event, but with no horses of course, so we have instead some novelty races for our seniors to support and cheer on, including a mobility scooter race, an alternative egg and spoon race, and the most adorable of all, the puppy race,” Cr Zeiger said.

“And of course myself and fellow councillors will be riding cute wooden hobbyhorses – what a contest that’s set to be.”

Stallholders are being encouraged to register their interest to be part of one of Cairns’ most popular events for seniors, with an emphasis on unconventional and creative ideas.

Some residents from Regis Aged Care in Redlynch, a major sponsor of the event, have already been getting some practice for the various hands-on workshops planned for the fair, in particular the Lego Master Builders Worksop.

Local enthusiast Luke Kotai, who will be hosting the Lego workshops, has been drawing on more than 30 years of experience to give residents some tips.

“Lego combines a variety of different things like creativity, critical thinking and problem solving, and appeals to people of all ages,” Mr Kotai said.

“And what better way to impress the grand kids.”

The Myth Busters presentation will have experts showcasing interesting facts and lifting the lid on some urban misconceptions, including: Preparing for Natural Disasters, Keeping Chickens in the Tropics and Safe Online Banking & Shopping.

Other workshops will include: Junk Weaving, using single use plastic to weave and make plastic jewellery; An introduction to Tai Chai; and making a take-home tiny garden.

The popularity of the event continues to grow, with the two free ticketed “Tea Time Treats” events booked out less than two weeks after the ticket release.

However, there are some tickets left for the “Fillies and Fellas” luncheon – first in, best dressed.

“There are lots of fun free things to do at the Fair and we encourage seniors, carers and family members interested in understanding the options for the twilight years to come along,” Cr Zeiger added.