As this newspaper marks the 30th anniversary, I took the opportunity to reflect on the importance that Have a Go Day – a Livelighter event, has played in our evolution.
Since our inception we have worked hand-in-glove with event organisers Seniors Recreation Council of WA to promote healthy ageing through activity with Have a Go Day the prime opportunity to demonstrate this ethos.
This year mark your diary for Wednesday 10 November for the peak event of Seniors Week. Seniors Recreation Council of WA headed up by executive officer Dawn Yates, president Phil Paddon and their team of volunteers do an amazing job to ensure the day provides a unique opportunity for people to connect with their community.
This year marks the 29th year Have a Go Day has been held in the grounds of Burswood Park, nestled by the Swan River.
There is no other free event which encourages older adults to return or continue recreational activities. This mission to promote healthy ageing through activity remains as it did 30 years ago with a plethora of activities to try, clubs to join, entertainment to enjoy and information to source.
And over the years I have seen and continue to see the results firsthand of the many people who have maintained physical activity throughout their later years. (80 is the new 60!)
The pandemic hasn’t slowed down the support for the day and all Covid-19 protocols are adhered to with onsite hand sanitiser placed around the grounds and extra space for stall holders.
For the first year in his role as Minister for Seniors and Ageing the Hon Don Punch MLA, will attend the event and officially welcome everyone at 10.30am at the entertainment stage (site 98) with emcee Radio 6PR’s Simon Beaumont.
Following the formal proceedings, the WA Police Pipe Band will lead the Over 55 Walking Association for the annual walk around the park.
There are a wide variety of activities to have a go at, including boomerang throwing, disk bowls, tai chi, pole walking and loads of dance activities.
Take the opportunity to be adventurous and canoe on the river or traverse the climbing wall.
The very popular Trishaws for Seniors will be on the grounds offering rides for people around the park.
For those who want to become savvier with technology, Tech Savvy Seniors will be on hand with information, advice and electronic activities to try including Seniors Exergaming and Laser Pistol Shooting.
Health checks are also on ground including hearing tests, blood pressure and blood sugar testing.
Have a Go News will be running the hospitality tents which serve free tea, coffee and water in a café style with tables and chairs to stop and relax. The chocolate wheel will be spinning at the main tent every hour with great prizes available.
The entertainment line-up includes, the WA Police Pipe Band, country music artist Terry Bennetts, bands Music Meyhem and FBI and a variety of other artists. The entertainment stage is sponsored by Ingenia Gardens.
There are a variety of food and drink outlets on site or bring a picnic and enjoy all Burswood Park has to offer.
Age is no barrier to getting out and about and Have a Go Day – a LiveLighter event, runs from 9am to 3pm on Wednesday 10 November.
See the Seniors Week Liftout inside for your comprehensive guide to this free event.
