The City’s Girrawheen Koondoola Senior Citizens Centre will be bustling with activity on Thursday 14 November as the City of Wanneroo holds Then and Now, a free event to celebrate WA Seniors Week.
The event is in partnership with the Girrawheen and Koondoola Seniors Group and will run from 10am to 1pm. It will include morning tea, a variety of games from different decades, and opportunities to meet people from community groups.
Mayor Tracey Roberts said the City would not be the vibrant progressive place it is without the hard work of its senior residents.
“They are some of our busiest community members, often volunteering their time to help others,” Mayor Roberts said.
One such senior is Audrey Brady who volunteers with the Merriwa Playgroup.
Mrs Brady said she became involved four years ago after learning the group was likely to close because of a lack of volunteers.
“It has been wonderful to see local children, including my own granddaughters, thrive in the group while their parents form strong, supportive friendships,” Mrs Brady said.
“I have not slowed down as I have grown older; I am just as busy being a grandmother as I was when my children were young.”
Koondoola residents Roger and Annette Buddrige have been volunteering in their local community for more than four decades. Now aged 70, the couple are actively involved in the Australian Air Force Cadets in Madeley.
“We have always felt a responsibility to give back to the community and have been involved in many organisations that benefit young people and seniors,” Mr Buddrige said.
“It has been very rewarding to see young people develop self-respect, confidence and leadership skills through the Air Force Cadets.”
For more information about the Then and Now event, services for seniors and volunteering opportunities in the City of Wanneroo visit wanneroo.wa.gov.au or call 9405 5618.