On Monday October 15, members and volunteers of the Bellinger River Day Club for seniors took part in a Games Day in recognition of the upcoming Invictus Games occurring in Sydney October 20-27.
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The Invictus Games is a multi-sport event created by Prince Harry, with the first games occurring in London in March 2014.
Former or currently serving members of Defence Forces who have been wounded, injured or become sick in the course of their service can participate in a number of adaptive sports.
Being able to prepare and participate in these games has made a massive improvement in the lives of many veterans who have struggled with physical and mental issues resulting from their service.
Having experienced many things in their lifetime, our Day Club members can empathise with these personnel.
They understand and appreciate the importance of good health, which is why they like to attend their Day Club to take part in a number of physical and mental activities all conducted in a pleasant social environment and all promoting the concept of positive ageing.
Members who took home medals and trophies in recognition of their success at our games were Hilary Weston-Webb (Shot Put), Josie Watts (Long Jump), Christine Bleom (Discus) and Jenny Fairbanks (Quoits). Bronte Sidrabs was the successful winner in the two remaining events, Bowls and Leprechaun Javelin (aka darts). Congratulations to all our winners and participants.
Recently our members were also entertained by local quilting experts Jeanette Gosschalk and Di Ginis who displayed and discussed their wonderful Aussie Hero quilts.
People throughout Australia who have a passion for quilting have come together to custom make hundreds of quilts and laundry bags to send to Aussie service men and women on deployment such as on ships or serving overseas on peacekeeping or active service duty.
In addition, every Australian service member participating in the Invictus Games has been provided with their own personalised quilt and laundry bag.
You are welcome to come and join us. Our club is open to all senior members of the community who can take care of their own personal needs, and offers social support and friendship to those who are unable to attend more active programmes. Free transport is available within the town area. Those attending pay a daily nominal fee.
So if you want to have fun, a friendly chat, and enjoy morning tea as well as a light lunch, please join us. We meet at the Senior Citizens Centre, Hyde Street, Bellingen on Mondays 10am – 2pm except on public holidays. We also have a recess over the Christmas Holiday period. On Monday December 10 we will gather to celebrate Christmas and then reconvene on 28 January 28. Next year will be a special one, as we celebrate our 30th year serving seniors in the Bellingen district.
New volunteers are also most welcome and have the opportunity to become involved in rewarding work and to make a positive difference within our community.
For enquiries about joining us as a member or a volunteer, please ring Gina Troy 6655 1756 or Kathy Mortimer 0427 55 0820.