IN PICTURES: Seniors flock to ALAC to enjoy return of City of Albany seniors expo

After a 16-year break, the seniors expo returned to Albany on Tuesday to connect older people of the Great Southern to more than 30 local organisations, clubs and service providers.

The free event was held at the Albany Leisure and Aquatic Centre from 10am to 2pm and boasted a plethora of stalls designed to encourage seniors to remain socially connected and active.

City of Albany community relations manager Elise van Gorp said the expo is a vital opportunity to showcase the wide range of health, lifestyle, and community services and activities available locally.

“The seniors expo is about connection, choice, and community,” she said.

“It is a chance for residents to discover new ways to stay active, engaged, and supported, whether that is through volunteering, sport, or local care services.

“This is the first time we have hosted the seniors expo since 2009, and I hope to see it return as a regular event to Albany’s calendar, as it offers so much to our senior population.”

The program began with the Albany Over 50s Club hosting an introductory line dancing session before the official 10am start, followed by mobility equipment demonstrations, introductory Pickleball sessions and a minute of silence held at 11am in honour of Remembrance Day.

The event was sponsored by Clarence Estate and Mindspot GP, alongside Amity Health and Albany and Regional Volunteer Service.

MindSpot GP senior relationship manager Anthea Hodgson said they were pleased to use the expo as an opportunity to share information about their free psychological support options.

“MindSpot GP offers accessible, confidential mental health care for people who might be feeling anxious, stressed, or struggling with change,” she said.

“We’re pleased to be part of the seniors expo to share information about our free, digital support options that can be accessed from home, with no referral cost or waiting list.”