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Celebrate connection, creativity and wellbeing in week four of Seniors Festival

By Contributed

Oct 20, 2025

Ushers at the Swanpool Community Cinema, Robert Wright and Sjoerd Bakker, as it prepares for a morning movie event as part of the 2025 Seniors Festival.

The Victorian Seniors Festival continues its vibrant program of activities celebrating senior residents across Benalla, offering opportunities to connect, create and explore.

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Benalla Rural City Council has collaborated with the Victorian Government, local businesses, and community organisations to deliver a vibrant program, including social games, history tours, tech sessions, multicultural events and outdoor adventures.

Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn said the festival featured mostly free or low-cost events designed to foster connection, creativity, and active ageing.

“I encourage all interested senior (60+) community members to take part and discover new interests, connect with fellow community members, and redefine what it means to age,” Cr Hearn said.

“The Victorian Seniors Festival is all about celebrating life, learning, and healthy, engaged living.

“Whether you’re exploring local history, testing your skills at mah-jong, enjoying a high tea, or moving to the rhythm of Tai Chi, there is an experience waiting for you.”

Week four highlights:

Morning mah-jong at the Benalla Library – Social games to foster connection and conviviality, followed by light refreshments.
Benalla historical walking tour – Explore the history of Bridge St with museum entry and morning tea.
Reel history: Benalla’s story on screen – Enjoy historical short films and documentaries with a choc top ice cream.
World flavours morning tea – Multicultural food, music, and dance experiences.
Barbecue Lunch and Digital Classes at U3A – Social lunch while learning digital skills.
Author tTalk with Gabriel Bergmoser – Engaging author discussion with light refreshments.
Seniors High Tea and Fashion Parade – Afternoon tea, fashion parade, raffle, and lucky door prizes.
U3A car torque – Monthly car nostalgia group with afternoon tea.
U3A birdwatching around Lake Benalla – Guided birdwatching group around Lake Benalla.
Morning movie screening: The Great Escaper – Watch a heart-warming film with morning tea and optional bus transport.
Tai Chi in Benalla – Gentle Tai Chi for physical and mental wellbeing.

For bookings or more information, visit www.benalla.vic.gov.au/ or call 5760 2600.

Printed programs are available at council’s customer service centre, the Benalla Library, Benalla community care, and the Visitor Information Centre.