Seniors citizens' centre to host a bazaar

The Ettalong Senior Citizens Centre will host a Bazaar by the Sea on Saturday, October 27 from 9am to 1pm.

The bazaar will feature an array of market stalls selling handcrafted leatherwork, handicrafts, artworks, raffles, trash and treasure, as well as information stalls and live entertainment.

Central Coast Council unit manager Mr Glenn Cannard, said: "This event provides an opportunity for seniors to participate within the community and feel valued for their contribution, while also providing a fun occasion for the broader community to visit the Council's Centre and find out more about the services and activities on offer."

The event is supporting Australian rural communities impacted by the drought by raising funds for the charity, Aussie Helpers.

"Council is committed to helping older residents in our community lead healthy, active and independent lives as they age," Mr Cannard said.

"Seniors Centres provide opportunities for older residents to engage with others and maintain a healthy lifestyle and encourage them to actively participate in the community and feel valued for their contribution," he said.

"The centre also provides access to information on senior services and support.

"It runs activities that cover a range of interests such as ballroom dancing, handicraft, over-50s fitness programs, indoor bowls and chess.

"Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community, make new friends and provides an opportunity to develop new skills and promotes personal growth and self-esteem and the Centre provides many different opportunities to volunteer."

Mr Terry Batey said he had been volunteering at the Ettalong Centre for over three years now and was nominated for a 2018 Australia Day Award for Volunteering.

"I would say to anyone that is interested in volunteering to just try it," Mr Batey said.

"We all have a great deal to share with others who may be less fortunate than us," he said.

"The rewards that come back to you on a personal level is wonderful."

Ms Dulcie McKeown and Ms Michelle Peters said they regularly volunteered in the centre kitchen and were looking forward to volunteering at the open day event and encouraged seniors to join in.

"Bazaar by the Sea is a great chance to meet up with friends and find a bargain," Ms Peters said.

Mr Michael Hardisty, who participates in leatherwork workshop on Wednesdays, said: "This event provides an opportunity to show the community what we do here at the centre and information on how to become involved."

SOURCE:

Media release, 17 Oct 2018

Glen Cannard, Central Coast Council