Seniors Action: informative Advocare presentation, pairs bowl tournament the highlights for a busy June

Protecting the rights of older people, overcoming social isolation, addressing elder abuse and accessing aged care services were all issues on the table at Geraldton and Districts Senior Citizens Action Group’s latest monthly meeting. The guest speaker for the June lunch was Karen Noble from Advocare, who provided an informative powerpoint presentation in front of an audience of 40. Those gathered heard that advocates will listen to them, provide them with options about their situation and stand by them to achieve the desired outcome. They offer help with understanding your rights, accessing services, resolving issues with aged and community care providers and any concerns about elder abuse, loneliness and social isolation. Advocare services are free, confidential, unbiased and guided by those seeking help. For country callers, call 1800 200 422 or email rights@advocare.org.au. Ms Noble was able to stay for lunch and speak privately to some of our members. The monthly meeting and lunch was opened by president Trevor Hansen, with card raffles won by Carol Sutherland and Pauline Stacey. Two of our members recently celebrated significant birthdays — Pearl Wheatley turned 95 and Denis Blackwell 98. Congratulations to both. After minutes were read and endorsed, the president reminded everyone about our 41st birthday celebration at the QEII Centre on Saturday, July 20, with doors opening at 10am, with raffles and music entertainment provided, There is no monthly meeting and lunch in July due to this special celebration. Mike Kendrick is investigating a boat cruise in 2025. We have also now joined Facebook and Cheryl Samborski is going to keep this up-to-date. A delicious lunch was served of roast beef, gravy, potato, pumpkin, peas and carrots with trifle and ice-cream for sweets. Thank you to our lovely caterers. The 2024 Sandra Carr MLC Pairs Bowls Tournament started on Monday, May 13 and culminated in the grand final on Monday, June 17. All up, 36 members took part in the tournament, with 12 players in the grand final. The grand final winning team was Judy Kendrick-Currell and Doreen Major. Equal second place went to Tina and Rob Lucas with Kaye Morgan and Sue Waldon. Allan Brandis and Rhonda Parker were fourth, Rhonda Reynolds and Peter Clift fifth and Gloria Burnett and Elaine Reid sixth. Prizes were presented to winners by Stephanie Essex on behalf of Sandra Carr MLC who sponsored the tournament. DATES FOR THE DIARY July 20: 41st annual birthday celebration. $30 members. $35 non-members. All welcome. August 5: Committee meeting Jan Wennekes is a committee member of the Geraldton & Districts Senior Citizens Action Group