Whyalla community comes together for Week of Ageing Well

Almost 60 people took part in South Australia’s Week of Ageing Well at Whyalla Recreation Centre. The statewide week runs from 1 to 7 October, and this year’s theme was Building Age-Friendly, Connected Communities.

Delivered by YMCA South Australia in partnership with Whyalla City Council, the program offered three free activities throughout the first week of October, encouraging older residents to try something new, enjoy gentle exercise and meet others in their community. No centre membership was required.

The week began with The Big Aqua, a low-impact aqua aerobics session led by instructors Nicky and Clarissa, followed by morning tea. Following this, Chair Yo-lates combined gentle seated yoga and Pilates, while the final activity, Social Pickleball, welcomed beginners to try the sport. Sessions included complimentary coffee from local business Eyre Roasted.

Centre Manager James Adair said the activities demonstrated the value of making recreation accessible to older residents. “A week that celebrates older people, with events made for them, is worth having, and we will keep offering it,” James said. “It was great to see our community come together and connect in a fun, supportive place.”  From a first go at pickleball to a coffee after aqua, the week helped build a stronger, more connected community among older Whyalla residents.