Get ready to celebrate life, laughter, and connections at Victoria’s largest seniors’ festival, returning from October 1 to 31.
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This year’s theme ‘Explore. Engage. Evolve.’ encourages older Victorians to stay curious and connected by trying new activities and meeting new people.
With over 110 local events and activities, the Greater Shepparton Seniors Festival offers thousands of opportunities to engage your mind, delight your taste buds, and embark on virtual adventures — all while making new friends.
Whether you’re a trivia master, a film buff, or looking forward to enjoying some high tea, there’s something for everyone.
So grab your calendar, mark the dates, and get ready to join this vibrant celebration that highlights the importance of community and connection among our seniors!
Uke3A Ukulele Show
Dive into an afternoon of contagious energy and melodies with the U3A Ukulele Group. Experience the joy of music as talented strummers fill the room with tunes that are sure to get everyone’s toes tapping. Perfect for those looking to enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere!
Where: Shepparton Library.
When: October 1, 2.30pm — 3.30 pm and October 29, 2.30pm — 3.30pm.
Author visit: Robyn Howarth
Step into the compelling world of Robyn Howarth as she shares her powerful journey and insights from her book Faraday: A Community Rediscovered.
In a gripping tale that begins with a shocking event from 1972, Robyn recounts the harrowing experience of being kidnapped from her classroom at just 10 years old. Her narrative unfolds the realities of childhood trauma and its lasting impact on her life and family.
After 62 years, Robyn proudly reflects on her roots in Faraday and her education at Faraday State School 797. Join her for an engaging discussion, and take the opportunity to purchase a signed copy of her book
When:
- Avenel Library: October 2, 10.30am — noon.
- Dookie Memorial Hall: October 2, 3pm — 4.30pm.
- Shepparton Library: October 3, 10.30am — noon.
- Cobram Library: October 3, 3pm — 3.30pm.
- Tatura Library: October 4, 10.30am — 11.30am.
- Violet Town Library: October 4, 2.30pm — 3.30pm.
Author visit: Kim McCosker
Meet the talented Kim McCosker, author of 42 bestselling cookbooks. In this engaging session, Kim shares her remarkable journey and presents some of her most popular recipes alongside insights from her latest book, 4 Ingredients MORE Diabetes.
Renowned for her simple, healthy, and budget-friendly approach to cooking, Kim has empowered millions to enjoy nutritious meals with ease. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from Kim and pick up a copy of her latest book at the event.
When:
- St Andrew’s Uniting Church, Yarrawonga: October 2, 3.30pm — 4.30pm.
- Mooroopna Library: October 3, 7pm — 8pm.
- Nagambie Library: October 4, 2.30pm — 3.30pm.
Come and try croquet
Discover the joys of croquet — a great way to enjoy gentle exercise that’s easy on the body. Join fellow enthusiasts for a morning filled with laughter, friendly competition, and camaraderie.
All equipment is provided, and coaching is available for newcomers. Plus, enjoy complimentary morning tea during your visit. The first five visits are free, so come along for a game and a chat
When: October 3, 9am — noon.
Where: Cobram Lawn Tennis Courts.
Drumming up fun at the library
Get ready to make some noise and unleash your inner rhythm with the upbeat Drumbeats sessions facilitated by Primary Care Connect.
Join in on this hands-on experience as you explore the vibrant world of African drums. No prior drumming or musical experience is needed — just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to have fun.
This engaging, evidence-based program fosters social and emotional skills, paving the way for healthy relationships and values. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to drum up some joy.
When:
- Euroa Library: October 3, 10.30am — 11.30am.
- Tatura Library: October 10, 2.30pm — 4.30pm.
- Avenel Library: October 16, 2pm — 4pm.
Tai Chi at the Shepparton Library
Embrace tranquillity and enhance your wellbeing with a calming session of Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and Yoga. This gentle exercise class introduces the fundamental concepts of Tai Chi, making it perfect for beginners and individuals of various abilities. Especially beneficial for seniors, Tai Chi focuses on muscle control, stability, balance, and flexibility through gentle movements.
Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing for ease of movement. As spaces are limited, early bookings are recommended.
Enjoy refreshments while you relax and rejuvenate!
Where: Shepparton Library.
When: October 3, 6.30pm — 7.15pm.
Movie afternoon: Queen Bees
Gather for a delightful afternoon at the Shepparton Library to watch the film Queen Bees. The film features a stellar cast, including Ellen Burstyn, James Caan in his final performance, Ann-Margret, Christopher Lloyd, Jane Curtin, Loretta Devine, and Elizabeth Mitchell.
After reluctantly moving into a seniors’ home, a woman encounters a clique of mean-spirited residents and an amorous widower. Enjoy laughter and camaraderie while watching this engaging film!
Where: Shepparton Library.
When: October 7, 2.30pm — 4.30pm.
Navigating your digital footprint and assets now and beyond
Explore the significance of your digital footprint and learn how your online presence shapes your digital identity.
This informative session will cover the implications of digital presence and provide practical steps to manage and protect your digital assets for today and the future.
Don’t miss this valuable opportunity to enhance your understanding of digital responsibility!
Where: Shepparton Library.
When:
- October 8: 10.30am — 11.30am
- October 10: 3.30pm — 4.30pm.
- October 29: 10.30am — 11.30am.
Movie afternoon: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
Join fellow film enthusiasts for an afternoon screening of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society at your local library.
Set in 1946, this poignant story follows a London-based writer who begins exchanging letters with a resident of Guernsey, an island that endured German occupation during World War II.
As she embarks on a journey to document the residents’ wartime experiences, she forms unexpected bonds and uncovers secrets they are hesitant to reveal.
When:
- Euroa Library: October 8, 2pm — 4pm.
- Mooroopna Library: October 9, 2pm — 4pm.
- Cobram Library: October 16, noon — 2pm.
- Shepparton Library: October 22, 2.30pm — 4.30pm.
Movie afternoon: 80 for Brady
Visit your local library for a special screening of 80 for Brady, featuring an incredible all-star cast.
Inspired by a true story, this heartwarming film follows four lifelong friends — played by Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, Rita Moreno, and Sally Field — who embark on an adventure to meet NFL superstar Tom Brady as he and the New England Patriots compete in Super Bowl LI in 2017.
When:
- Cobram Library: October 9, noon — 2pm.
- Euroa Library: October 23, 2pm — 4pm.
- Shepparton Library: October 31, 6.30pm — 8.30pm.
Movie evening: Senior Moment
Join fellow movie lovers at the Shepparton Library for a special screening of Senior Moment, starring William Shatner.
In this heartwarming film, a retired NASA test pilot lands in hot water after drag racing his vintage convertible around Palm Springs — resulting in the loss of his driver’s licence.
Forced to rely on public transport, he meets Caroline and embarks on a journey to rediscover love and navigate life’s ups and downs.
Where: Shepparton Library.
When: October 10, 6.30pm — 8.30pm.
Movie afternoon: Never Too Late
Join fellow film enthusiasts at the Shepparton Library for a special screening of Never Too Late, an Aussie comedy featuring an all-star cast.
This entertaining film follows four former prisoners of war, members of an elite squad known as the Chainbreakers, who now reside in Hogan Hills, a retirement home for returned veterans.
Enjoy the fun as the story unfolds with their amusing plans to break out!
Where: Shepparton Library.
When: October 15, 2.30pm — 4.30pm
Brains, games and digital devices
Just like your body, your brain benefits from regular exercise to stay sharp.
Join a lively group at the library to explore games you can enjoy on a tablet or smartphone. Devices and know-how will be provided, so come and discover the possibilities.
This session features a variety of fun games designed to give your mind a good workout, including free puzzle apps for crosswords, sudoku, and other brain-teasers.
You’ll also find plenty of options to play with a partner or in a group. If you don’t own a device, don’t worry — tablets will be available for use during the session and whenever you visit the library.
A staff member will be on hand to offer guidance, making this a perfect opportunity for beginners to join in and explore!
When:
- Yarrawonga Library: October 15, 2.30pm — 3.30pm.
- Tatura Library: October 29, 10.30am — 11.30am.
- Euroa Library: October 31, 10am — 11am.
Movie afternoon: The World’s Fastest Indian
Join fellow film enthusiasts at your local library for a special screening of The World’s Fastest Indian, starring Sir Anthony Hopkins.
Based on the inspiring true story of New Zealander Burt Munro, this film follows his incredible journey as he dedicates years to rebuilding a 1920 Indian motorcycle.
His passion and perseverance lead him to set the land speed world record at Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats in 1967.
When:
- Mooroopna Library: October 17, 2pm — 4pm.
- Cobram Library: October 23, noon — 2pm.
- Avenel Library: October 30, 1.30 pm — 3.30pm.
Best. Party. Ever.
Join an interactive Zoom show specially designed for grandparents and their little loved ones who live apart. Best. Party. Ever. promises a fun-filled experience featuring silly songs, parlour games, sock puppets, and plenty of shenanigans — perfect for sharing online despite the distance.
Hosted by the master of ridiculousness, Matt Kelly (of The Listies), alongside the delightful Genevieve Mooy, this show guarantees a memorable time.
Every year, Matt and his Gran celebrate their birthdays together, but this time Gran is off exploring the world, so they’ll need to party online — and YOU’RE INVITED!
Will you help Matt pull off the Best. Party. Ever? Can you stop his twin brother Trevor from ruining it all? Join in to help decorate, make cards, crack codes, and most importantly, blow out the candles.
Threshold creates experiences that invite people to connect more deeply, bringing delight and wonder to homes across the globe.
With a commitment to fostering connection and finding joy in the playful aspects of life, their work has garnered critical acclaim and has been featured in publications such as the New York Times.
When: Online on October 17, 4pm — 7.30 pm.
What people are saying:
- “Hilarious.”
- “It was so special to laugh along with my grandchildren and share this hilarious experience from a distance.”
- “It was like making your mind go Huh? Ha? Whaa!!!”
- “More please!”
Ticket Information:
Only one ticket is required per family, which includes access to TWO screens (grandparents and their grandchildren).
Contact details for both parties will need to be entered following purchase. Participation is welcomed from biological and chosen families of all shapes and sizes, representing any relationship with a strong intergenerational bond.
Trivia at Nagambie Library
Put your knowledge to the test with an exciting afternoon of trivia and puzzles! Just like your body, your brain needs regular exercise to stay sharp.
Join the fun at the Nagambie Library and keep those little grey cells active, while showing off all the quirky bits of information you’ve collected over the years. Compete for fun and the chance to win a prize!
Where: Nagambie Library.
When: October 22, 2pm — 3pm.
Travel the world from the library
Experience the wonders of the world without leaving the library through the magic of Virtual Reality. This immersive technology allows you to explore new destinations in a realistic way, making it an excellent option for those unable to travel due to health or other restrictions.
During this session, participants can journey to iconic locations — from the Eiffel Tower to the Colosseum and the bustling streets of Tokyo to Toronto. VR offers a far more engaging experience than traditional photos or videos, allowing you to look around and walk through a 360-degree world.
Booking is strongly recommended as spaces are limited.
When:
- Avenel Library: October 23, 10am — 11am.
- Mooroopna Library: October 27, 10am — 11am.
- Mooroopna Library: October 27, 2pm — 3pm.
- Cobram Library: October 31, 2.30pm — 3.30pm.
High tea
As part of this year’s Seniors Festival, Greater Shepparton City Council is delighted to host a special high tea event for some of the region’s oldest residents on October 29 from 1pm to 4pm.
The council is seeking community members aged 95 and over, as well as First Nations and Torres Strait Islander individuals aged 85 and over, to join this Centennial High Tea celebration.
If you know any seniors (and a carer if needed) who would like to participate, please email positiveageing@shepparton.vic.gov.au by August 31 with the following information:
- Full name
- Best contact number
- Email address (if available)
- Date of birth
- Town of residence
This event is free, but bookings are essential due to limited seating. For further information, contact Greater Shepparton City Council’s Positive Ageing Officer at 5832 9587.
Where: Greater Shepparton City Council.
When: October 29, 1pm — 4pm.
Movie afternoon: Roman Holiday
Join fellow movie enthusiasts at the Numurkah Library for a special screening of the classic film Roman Holiday, starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck.
In this timeless story, a bored and sheltered princess escapes her guardians for a day of adventure in Rome. Along the way, she encounters an American reporter who recognises her but keeps his identity a secret.
Where: Numurkah Library.
When: October 29, 2.30pm — 4.30pm.
Midday movie: Last Cab to Darwin
Join fellow film lovers at the Cobram Library for a special screening of Last Cab to Darwin, an Australian film starring Michael Caton.
In this poignant story, it’s never too late to start living. When Rex, a Broken Hill cab driver, learns he doesn’t have much time left, he embarks on an epic journey to Darwin, determined to die on his own terms.
Where: Cobram Library.
When: October 30, noon — 2pm.
Reading: Then and Now
Join fellow book lovers at the Nathalia Library for a lovely morning tea as you share your favourite childhood book and your current favourite read. These informal gathering invites participants to discuss their beloved stories over a chat and a cuppa.
Don’t worry if you don’t have a copy of the book — just come along and enjoy the conversation.
Where: Nathalia Library.
When: October 31, 10.30am — 11.30am.
To find out what’s happening throughout the state and to view the full program of events, be sure to check the festival's website.
Cadet journalist