Victorian Seniors Festival

The Victorian Seniors Festival, a statewide initiative, runs throughout October, inviting older residents across Victoria to engage in a diverse range of free and low-cost activities. Coordinated locally by councils and supported by the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, the festival's theme, "Connect, Create, Celebrate," emphasizes fostering social connections, lifelong learning, and community involvement. A significant benefit is a period of free public transport across Victoria for Seniors Card holders, typically from October 3 to 11, covering metropolitan, V/Line, and selected regional bus services.

In Benalla Rural City, the local program includes practical workshops such as woodworking and gardening, along with social events like high tea and line dancing, designed to promote skill-building and new friendships. Meanwhile, the City of Ballarat hosts an extensive program with over 100 events, featuring the Victorian Seniors Festival Country Concert with vocalist Dannielle De Andrea, guided tours of the Ballarat Town Hall and Botanical Gardens, and various fitness and wellbeing classes. Practical assistance, like "Bring Your Bills" Day, is also offered.

Greater Shepparton's festival program kicks off on October 1, presenting 121 events aimed at celebrating older residents and enhancing wellbeing. Highlights include live entertainment, workshops, and the annual Seniors Festival Concert on October 13 at Riverlinks Eastbank, showcasing the Honky Tonk Queens. This concert includes an Auslan interpreter and a bus service for accessibility.