It has been a trying time for small regional and remote towns through the COVID 19 pandemic.

For the little towns of Moorook, Kingston on Murray and New Residence, located in the Riverland of South Australia, news that a grant application to assist the older residents to stay healthy and connect with others was celebrated.

“Through the generosity of the Minister for Health, SA Health and the Office for Ageing Well, the Moorook Community Hall was able to commence four x eight week courses to support older people in the community”, said Rae Szulawa, Secretary, Moorook Community Hall.

An IT course run by professional tutors has assisted the attendees to connect with family and friends.

“Through their phones, laptops, tablets and computers, they continued to understand the technology they had in their hands”, said Rae. “They can now find services, talk face-to-face with loved ones, do online banking, find government agencies and so much more”.

Run by award winning photographers, the photography course was also very popular. “The participants have learned more about how to get the most from their cameras, phones, tablets and computers and the tricks of enhancement. Their progress and outcomes have been outstanding”!

Participant’s photos went on show in the local hall for all to see and they have created a beautiful 2022 calendar with their best shots.

The ‘Healthy and Fresh’ course educated the attendees in eating well as we age. “They learned to understand the information on packaging as a path to making healthy choices. Diabetics and those with special dietary needs such as gluten free, lactose intolerance and vegetarian diets were discussed, and easy and nourishing recipes were demonstrated”. The course was a ’make and taste’ program, so participants enjoyed a light brunch and a chat at the end of each session. One hour lessons often became two hours or more!

At the local fitness centre, a course was tailored towards maintaining general fitness as we age. Balance, flexibility, strength and safe mobility were the focus for this group. “All who attended enjoyed the exercise programs. One session was held on the riverbank at Moorook and another along the banks of Lake Bonney in Barmera. Participants were getting fitter and having fun as well as being able to connect with like-minded people.”

“The tutors and trainers were experienced and very enthusiastic. Their feedback was extremely positive. The most asked question in these courses was ‘’Can we continue when the 8 weeks is reached?” The answer is obvious! Yes! The courses will continue!!”

“New skills were learned; old friends and families were re-connected and new friendships were made. The program did not only educate and inform, it helped many to understand the pathways to happier ageing. These outcomes have been outstanding, and we sincerely thank the Minister, Office for Ageing Well and SA Health for a grant that keeps on giving!”

Moorook Community Hall Inc. is supported by 2020-21 Grants for Seniors funding from Office for Ageing Well, SA Health to deliver this project. Click here to read more about Office for Ageing Well’s Community Grants.