Welcome
Trying What’s Next
Lorraine Penn from the Coffs Harbour Older Women’s Network says this year’s Seniors Festival is also about trialling what’s next, you can expect new and innovative activities shaped directly by local voices.
Three festival favourites are Art with Arthritis, Cooking for One, and the Night Owl Bus Trip from Red Rock to the Jetty Memorial Theatre. These have been developed from feedback during the Elder Persona research, drawing on insights from more than 120 local older people. Their message was clear: keep activities practical, creative and social, and make them accessible to real lives and real needs.
Art with Arthritis focuses on creativity with comfort and support. Cooking for One builds confidence, skills and connection around everyday food. The Night Owl bus makes it possible to enjoy an evening out without worrying about night driving - turning a special event into a simple outing and a shared social experience.
“These programs didn’t just happen,” Lorraine says. “They reflect what older people told us they want and what helps them age well in their own communities.”
With funding support from the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, these activities are being piloted during Seniors Festival and may inform future innovative activities.
There are limited places available, bookings are essential and limited to two places per booking. Bookings are available from Monday 2nd of February.
You can learn more about the Coffs Harbour Olders Women's Network Here
Festival Favourites
Art with ArthritIs
Join Julieanne Gosper for a gentle, supportive art workshop designed for people living with arthritis or joint pain.
Participants will take part in simple drawing and painting activities using accessible techniques and adaptable materials, with a focus on creativity, enjoyment, and social connection rather than technical skill.
Julieanne will be accompanied by an occupational therapist, who will share practical tips on comfortable positioning, pacing, and tool use to help reduce strain on hands and joints. These small, optional adjustments are designed to make art-making easier and more enjoyable.
The session is relaxed, social, and flexible. No previous art experience is required, and participants are encouraged to work at their own pace.
About Julieanne Gosper
Julieanne is a practising artist and experienced art facilitator who has worked extensively in community and adult education settings. She is known for creating welcoming, inclusive workshops that help people reconnect with creativity and build confidence through art.
What to bring
- Reading glasses if needed
- Any personal adaptive tools you already use (optional)
- All art materials are provided
Dates:
Please click on the date link below to register your free place.
Sat 07 March - Woolgoolga Art Gallery
Cooking for one
Join Lyndall - The Cheese Lady, who is known for friendly, hands-on cooking experiences and cheese making.
This Cooking for One class is free and designed especially for older adults who are challenged cooking for themselves and dining alone. Lyndall brings 17+ years of culinary experience and a passion for real, wholesome cooking to this welcoming workshop.
In this relaxed session, you’ll:
· Learn to prepare simple, nutritious meals suited to cooking for one
· Gain practical tips from a nutrition-informed perspective on flavour, ingredient choice, and storage
· Share and enjoy the food together, building connection while learning skills you can use every day
This class emphasises enjoyment, confidence, and community, and is suitable for all cooking abilities. All ingredients are provided and the focus is on practical, home-friendly techniques you can take straight into your kitchen.
About Lyndall
Lyndall Doig is a nationally recognised cheese maker, food author, and educator who has inspired thousands of students with her approachable style and enthusiasm for hands-on cooking and cheesemaking.
What to bring
• Appetite and enthusiasm
• A favourite recipe to share – culturally inspired (optional)
Venue: Artisan Cheese & Cooking School, 62 Lake Russell Drive, Emerald Beach.
Duration: Approx. 2–2.5 hours
Dates:
Please click on the date link below to register your free place.
Night Owls Bus Trip
Night Owls Bus Trip
The Aegean - Movie @ Jetty Flicks
The Night Owls is a special Seniors Festival outing designed for older people who enjoy social evenings but prefer not to drive at night.
The tour will include return transport (from selected locations) to the Jetty Theatre, light refreshments, a movie ticket, with time to enjoy good company and shared experiences.
This tour makes it easy to head out after dark without the worry of night driving, parking, or navigating unfamiliar venues. Just hop on the bus, enjoy the evening, and be dropped back at your pick-up point at the end of the night.
About the Movie
The Aegean (2024). Enjoying the social life of our community -safely and comfortably.
A widowed Greek fisherman and a teenage refugee form an emotional bond while sailing the azure waters of the Aegean Sea.
Date: Thursday 12 March
Venue: Jetty Memorial Theatre
Cost: $25
Transportation: Pick up locations
Red Rock
Darlington Park,
Plantations,
Woolgoolga,
The Pines,
Emerald Beach,
Moonee Beach
Transport is funded by the Department of Communities and Justice
Bookings available from Feb 2
Community “Give It a Go” Invitations
Coffs Hikers
Cultural connection
down at the beach
Coffs Hikers are offering two beautiful Seniors Festival walks.
On Thursday 5 March, enjoy the peaceful Bonville Creek Walk from Bongil Picnic Area, surrounded by rainforest, birdsong and calm waterways.
Then on Saturday 14 March, the Arrawarra to Woolgoolga Paint and Hike Walk blends gentle coastal walking with creativity and observation. A $5 sign-up fee includes access to three guided trail walks and insurance, making it easy and affordable to get involved.
Register your interest if you would like to ‘give outdoor hiking it a go’ register, to get access to the Coffs Hikers Membership form.
down at the beach
Cultural connection
down at the beach
Social Bodyboarders welcome newcomers every Wednesday and Sunday at 8:30am at Woolgoolga Main Beach.
It’s a relaxed, friendly group that encourages people to give bodyboarding a try at their own pace.
During the Seniors Festival, (March 2 to 15) you can even get a few bodyboarding tips to help you spot that elusive wave.
A word of warning from regulars …. “Bodyboarding is good for your health and may be addictive” 😊.
Cultural connection
Cultural connection
Cultural connection
The First Sikh Temple of Australia is warmly inviting seniors to a special Sharing Day on Sunday 15 March, anytime between 11.30am and 2pm
This gentle, open-hearted gathering is all about connection. Community members are welcome to experience a spiritual moment, enjoy friendly conversation, or simply come along for a shared meal. It’s an opportunity to slow down, meet new faces, and enjoy the warmth of culture, hospitality and togetherness.
Whether you’re curious about the traditions, looking for a meaningful chat, or just keen to share a meal in good company, this day is for you. Come for the spirit, stay for the stories -everyone is welcome.
5 Hastings Street, Woolgoolga
These events are hosted by the
Coffs Harbour Older Women’s Network
and funding support by the
NSW Department of Communities and Justice
Elder Persona research funding by the UTS Business School
