Social connection and positive ageing activities

Social programs for positive ageing

If you’re keen to stay connected and active, you’ll be spoiled for choice in the City of Whittlesea. We have a diverse and engaging range of programs to keep you healthy, energised and independent for longer. No matter your interests and abilities, you’re sure to find something to suit.

The events and activities in this section are designed for people aged 50 years and older living in the City of Whittlesea. They include activities suitable for members of our Let Everyone Actively Participate (LEAP) program, as well people referred through their My Aged Care package.

All our programs are run by professionally trained staff and volunteers.

LEAP program

Let Everyone Actively Participate (LEAP) is a Council program of enjoyable and affordable events and activities for residents aged 50 years and older. As a LEAP member you can participate in physical and social activities to improve and maintain health, wellbeing and social connection.

It's a great way to meet new people, build new friendships, stay active and learn new skills.

Four older people in leisure wear smile and laugh towards the camera.

Regular LEAP programs include:

  • sports and recreation
  • exercise classes
  • health and wellbeing workshops.

How to join LEAP

To participate in LEAP programs and activities you need to become a member.

It’s easy to join. Simply download the LEAP membership form, complete it and return it to us at ageingwell@whittlesea.vic.gov.au.

You can also contact the Ageing Well department by phoning  03 9217 2170 then pressing option 4 when prompted to add an extension.

Download the LEAP membership form(PDF, 173KB)

Program fees

While LEAP membership is free, there is a cost to participate and attend some of the programs.

Review program costs by downloading the most recent price guide.

Download the LEAP program fee schedule (August 2023)(PDF, 238KB)

LEAP members are also eligible for discounted membership to the Thomastown Recreation and Aquatic Centre and the Mill Park Leisure.

Commonwealth Home Support Program participants

Social participation and carer respite is also available under the federal government’s Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) . These services are available for residents aged over 65 years, or Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people aged over 50 years.

To access these services you’ll need a My Aged Care referral.

Our programs are open to participants who:

  • are assessed as eligible for social support or centre based respite through My Aged Care
  • live in the Northern Metropolitan Region (City of Whittlesea, City of Yarra, City of Hume, City of Darebin, City of Banyule, City of Nillumbik).

Please note that you will need to arrange your own transport to the activity.

Home Care Package participants

Home Care Packages are a federal government program designed for people who have more complex support needs. If you are on a Home Care package, you can attend the program if: 

  • you are assessed as suitable for the nominated program
  • there is capacity for the program to accept Home Care Package clients
  • you agree to pay the fee.

Download the LEAP program fee schedule (August 2023)(PDF, 238KB)

Positive Ageing Program

You can download the 2024 Positive Ageing Program brochure or select from the weekly and monthly programs below.

Download the 2024 Positive Ageing Program brochure(PDF, 9MB)

Programs are available to both LEAP members and CHSP participants unless otherwise noted.

Click the link beneath each activity to go to the specific booking page.

For more information, you can also call our Ageing Well department by calling 03 9217 2170 then pressing option 4.

2024 weekly program 

Mondays

Social exercise and walking football

This program is for people interested in gentle exercise, fun games, mini walking football matches and social competitions.
No prior experience needed. 

Every Monday (during school terms)
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
The Y Leisure City, 41–53 Miller Street, Epping
Cost: CHSP $2, LEAP $4

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Exercise for older adults

Gentle exercise, strength training and balancing movements set to music. 

Every Monday (during school terms)
9:30 am to 10:15 am
Nick Ascenzo Community Centre, 2 Boronia Street, Thomastown
Cost: CHSP $5, LEAP $7

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Dementia and memory program

Our dementia and memory program gives people experiencing dementia and memory loss a chance to connect socially and stay active and engaged in their community. It also provides respite for carers.

Every Monday (during school terms)
12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Mernda Social Support Centre, 70 Mernda Village Drive, Mernda
Cost: CHSP $18

Please note you must be receiving CHSP funding to attend.

To book, call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Meals for seniors: cooking for two

This program begins 4 November 2024

Every Monday
10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Barry Road Community Activity Centre, 36 Barry Road, Thomastown
Cost: CHSP $15

Please note you must be receiving CHSP funding to attend.

To book, call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Tuesdays

Social golf

A weekly session of social golf and friendly competition. No golf experience required. Introductory lessons and clinics available for beginners.

Every Tuesday (during school terms)
7:00 am to 9:40 am
Growling Frog Golf Course, 1910 Donnybrook Road, Yan Yean
Cost:
9 holes - CHSP $10, LEAP $19.50
18 holes - CHSP $15, LEAP $29.50

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4. 

Exercise for older adults

Gentle exercise, strength training and balancing movements set to music. 

Every Tuesday (during school terms)
9:30 am to 10:15 am
Mernda Village Community Activity Centre, 70 Mernda Village Drive, Mernda
Cost: CHSP $5, LEAP $7

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Seniors exercise park

A volunteer-led session of gentle exercise followed by morning tea. 

Every Tuesday
10:00 am to 11:00 am
Barry Road Community Activity Centre, 36 Barry Road, Thomastown
Cost: Free

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Social connections, music and movement

Connect with others over a range of activities including music, craft, gardening and much more.

Every Tuesday
10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Barry Road Community Activity Centre, 36 Barry Road, Thomastown
Cost: CHSP $18

Please note you must be receiving CHSP funding to attend.

To book, call  03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Wednesdays

Social connections, music and movement

Connect with others over a range of activities including music, craft, gardening and much more.

Every Wednesday
10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Barry Road Community Activity Centre, 36 Barry Road, Thomastown
Cost: CHSP $18

Please note you must be receiving CHSP funding to attend.

To book, call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Social indoor carpet bowls

Indoor carpet bowls is an all-weather variant of lawn bowls. It's a great way to have fun, stay active and meet new people. No experience needed.

Every Wednesday
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Thomastown Recreation Aquatic Centre, 52 Main Street, Thomastown
Cost: CHSP $5, LEAP $7

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Thursdays

Social golf

A weekly session of social golf and friendly competition. No golf experience required. Introductory lessons and clinics available for beginners.

Every Thursday (during school terms)
7:00 am to 9:40 am
Growling Frog Golf Course, 1910 Donnybrook Road, Yan Yean
Cost:
9 holes - CHSP $10, LEAP $19.50
18 holes - CHSP $15, LEAP $29.50

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Please note you must be a LEAP member or receiving CHSP funding to attend.

Social connections, music and movement

Connect with others over a range of activities including music, craft, gardening and much more.

Every Wednesday
10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Mernda Social Support Centre, 70 Mernda Village Drive, Mernda
Cost: CHSP $18

Please note you must be receiving CHSP funding to attend.

To book, call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Exercise for older adults

Gentle exercise, strength training and balancing movements set to music. 

Every Thursday
9.30 am to 10.15 am
Nick Ascenzo Community Centre, 2 Boronia Street, Thomastown.

Cost: CHSP $5, LEAP $7

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Dementia and memory program

Our dementia and memory program gives people experiencing dementia and memory loss a chance to connect socially and stay active and engaged in their community. It also provides respite for carers.

Every Thursday 
10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Barry Road Community Activity Centre, 36 Barry Road, Thomastown
Cost: CHSP $18

Please note you must be receiving CHSP funding to attend.

To book, call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Fridays

Exercise for older adults

Gentle exercise, strength training and balancing movements set to music. 

Every Friday
9:30am to 10:15am
Whittlesea Community Activity Centre, 57-61 Laurel Street, Whittlesea
Cost: CHSP $5, LEAP $7

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Social tenpin bowling

Test your tenpin bowling skills and meet new friends at our tenpin bowling sessions.
All experience levels welcome.

Every Friday
10:00am to 12:00pm
Oz Tenpin Epping, 41-53 Miller Street, Epping
Cost: 
1 game - CHSP $5, LEAP $10
2 games - CHSP $8, LEAP $16

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Italian social connections

Enjoy Italian heritage social connections over a range of activities including music, craft, gardening and much more.

Every Friday
10:00am to 2:00pm
Barry Road Community Activity Centre, 36 Barry Road, Thomastown
Cost: CHSP $18

Please note you must be receiving CHSP funding to attend.

To book, call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

2024 monthly program

February

Morning Melodies with Laura Kate

A fun-filled morning of musical entertainment with singer and violinist Laura Kate. Kate has played in various musical projects including a Celtic band and pop/country duo The Gala Duo.

Morning melodies is a fantastic way to share some of your favourite songs with others and to stay connected within your community.

When: Tuesday 27 February
Where: Kirrip Community Centre, 135 De Rossi Boulevard, Wollert
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Cost: CHSP $6 LEAP $12

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

March

Coffee and chat information session

Learn about our LEAP and CHSP social support programs over a cuppa. This information session is for anyone aged over 50 years old and living in the City of Whittlesea.

When: Monday 18 March
Where: Barry Road Community Activity Centre, 36 Barry Road, Thomastown
Time: 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Cost: Free

Morning Melodies with Bollywood dance performance

Enjoy a Bollywood dance with Bindas Bollywood Dance Company. Get ready to explore the art of Indian dance with modern and semi-classical fusions.

Morning melodies is a fantastic way to share some of your favourite songs with others and to stay connected within your community.

When: Tuesday 26 February
Where: Kirrip Community Centre, 135 De Rossi Boulevard, Wollert
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Cost: CHSP $6 LEAP $12

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

April

Morning Melodies with Maria Pellicano

A fun-filled morning of  music and dance with singer and guitarist Maria Pellicano.

Morning melodies is a fantastic way to share some of your favourite songs with others and to stay connected within your community.

When: Thursday 11 April
Where: Mernda Social Support Centre, 70 Mernda Village Drive, Mernda
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Cost: CHSP $6 LEAP $12

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Know your city bus tour

Our bus tours offer people aged over 50 with an opportunity to explore the offerings available within the City of Whittlesea.

During the tour, you will discover where to find programs, activities and a range services. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or have just moved to the area, our tour offers you a chance to visit and see the services on offer.

When: Friday 19 April
Cost: Free

To book call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

Morning Melodies with Victoria Mantynen, a tribute to Vera Lynn

Join us for the amazing Sincerely Yours sho;, a tribute to Dame Vera Lynn by the amazing Victoria Mantynen.

Morning melodies is a fantastic way to share some of your favourite songs with others and to stay connected within your community.

When: Tuesday 30 April
Kirrup Community Centre, 135 de Rossi Boulevard, Wollert
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Cost: CHSP $6 LEAP $12

May

Senior’s liaison meeting

This is a meeting for all Senior Citizen clubs registered with the City of Whittlesea.

When: Wednesday 22 May
Where: City of Whittlesea Civic Centre, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Morning Melodies with Punjabi music and dance

A fun-filled morning with Punjabi music and dance.

Morning melodies is a fantastic way to share some of your favourite songs with others and to stay connected within your community.

When: Tuesday 28 May
Kirrup Community Centre, 135 de Rossi Boulevard, Wollert
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Cost: CHSP $6 LEAP $12

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

June

Ageing Well Expo

Discover the latest information, services and expert advice in staying safe and ageing well.

Whether you’re planning for your own future or caring for a family member, the Ageing Well Expo is the ultimate resource hub.

The expo brings together a range of products, services, information and educational resources available to support you stay independent and continue living at home safely. Everyone is welcome.

When: Tuesday 18 June
Where: Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre, 35 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang
Time: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Cost: Free

Coffee and chat information session

Learn about our LEAP and CHSP social support programs over a cuppa. This information session is for anyone aged over 50 years old and living in the City of Whittlesea.

When: Monday 17 June 
Where: Mernda Social Support Centre, 70 Mernda Village Drive, Mernda
Time: 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Cost: Free

Morning Melodies with John Bevilacqua

Catch up with old friends and connect meet new ones at this fun-filled morning of music, singalong and dance with singer and guitarist John Bevilacqua from Los Amigos Dance Band.

Morning melodies is a fantastic way to share some of your favourite songs with others and to stay connected within your community.

When: Thursday 13 June
Where: Mernda Social Support Centre, 70 Mernda Village Drive, Mernda
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Cost: CHSP $6 LEAP $12

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4

Morning Melodies with Polynesian dance performance

Join us for a mesmerising Polynesian dance performance by Sounds of Polynesia.

Morning melodies is a fantastic way to share some of your favourite songs with others and to stay connected within your community.

When: Tuesday 25 June
Kirrup Community Centre, 135 de Rossi Boulevard, Wollert
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Cost: CHSP $6 LEAP $12

Book online or call 03 9217 2170 and press option 4.

 

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