Every Wednesday Ron Filmer, 87, catches the Council shuttle bus from his Lidcombe home to Berala Community Centre, lured by the “five star lunch” and good company that are hallmarks of Council’s Wednesday Wellness Program.
Delivered in partnership with the Australian Government Department of Health, the program runs from 10am – 2pm and includes a light-hearted mix of indoor sports, games, arts and craft, gentle exercises such as sitting down Tai Chi or Zumba Gold and cultural performances.
The Wednesday Wellness Program is available for Cumberland residents aged 65 years or older, or 50 years or older for residents identifying as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person.
For Mr Filmer the weekly activities have given him an invaluable opportunity to make new friends and remain active. “My family and neighbours are all gone. I was sinking pretty low. Then someone from Council recommended I come along; that I needed to get out,” Mr Filmer said.
The program had an immediate impact. “I enjoy everything about it. You get a good lunch. People are friendly. I enjoy coming and mixing with everyone.”
Ron takes advantage of the $10.40 return shuttle service that delivers him door to door, and $8 for morning tea, hot lunch and dessert. An additional $4 covers activities on the day.
Mayor Greg Cummings said it was stories like Ron’s that encouraged Council to expand the program into Berala.
“Getting outside, meeting new people and making new friends is important at all stages of life,” Mayor Greg Cumming said.
“It is particularly important as we grow older to keep our minds and bodies active and our ties to the wider community strong.
“The Wednesday Wellness Program has been designed to make it easy for residents to participate, with transport and meals all taken care of.”
For further enquiries please contact Council’s Service Development Team on 9688 4751.
