Victorian Seniors Card holders are encouraged to explore Melbourne and regional Victoria with free travel from 7 to 14 October, as part of the 36th Victorian Seniors Festival.
The free travel applies to Melbourne’s trains, trams and buses and regional V/Line trains, coaches and buses.
Seniors need to carry their Seniors myki and Victorian Seniors Card with them, and touch on and off as usual – but will not be not be charged during the eight days of free public transport.
Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley said the free public transport will help people get to as many of the festival activities as possible.
“The Seniors Festival is a great opportunity to recognise, celebrate and support the vital role seniors play in our community,” Mr Foley said.
“Throughout the festival seniors get free rides on public transport across the state, which we know motivates many to get out and about, enjoying the events and meeting new people.”
“We’re proud to support this wonderful event, which not only provides great entertainment, but also encourages increased social participation for Victorian seniors and promotes healthy, active lifestyles.”
The annual Festival provides opportunities for seniors and their families to participate in new activities, with more than 140,000 older Victorians expected to take part in more than 2,500 events across the state.
The theme for this year is “get social’ – with seniors encouraged to take part in fun-filled activities such as learning how to take better photos, making the perfect brew, trying the ukulele and having antiques appraised at an Antique roadshow.
Locally, there will be a number of events.
Australia’s Girls of Motown will be celebrating a musical era defined by upbeat rhythms and funky dance moves on Thursday 4 October, 1pm at Woodlands Park, 72 Kangan Drive, Berwick.
Paintbrushes and creativity will flow at Canvas and Cocktails at Meadowvale Retirement Village on Friday 12 September, 2pm, 12 – 26 Eagle Drive, Pakenham.
The 2018 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards will also be announced during the festival, at a ceremony at Government House on Tuesday 9 October.
For more information about events and activities, visit seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/festival or pick up a free Victorian Seniors Festival program at any Coles store, local library, council office or neighbourhood house.
You can also call 1300 797 210 to have a program sent to you.
