Seniors in the Glen Innes Highlands and Guyra will be front and centre this March as two regional councils receive funding to host inclusive, creative events as part of the NSW Seniors Festival 2026.
$10,000 Grant to Support ‘Re-Wired’ Festival in Glen Innes
Glen Innes Severn Council has been awarded a $10,000 grant through the NSW Seniors Festival Grants Program to deliver Re-Wired — a new two-week festival designed to foster creativity, connection and curiosity among local seniors and carers.
Running from 2–15 March 2026, the festival will take place across council venues and community spaces including the Highlands Hub and Glen Innes Severn Learning Centre.
Activities will include:
- Digital learning sessions
- Tech & Tea cafés
- Storytelling and oral history recordings
- Wellbeing workshops
- Collaborative art projects
The program has been developed to be inclusive and accessible, with transport support and flexible options available to ensure people of all abilities can participate.
“We are incredibly grateful for this $10,000 NSW Seniors Festival grant. It gives Council a wonderful opportunity to say thank you to our seniors for their decades of dedication, commitment and volunteerism by delivering an event filled with positive, accessible activities that strengthen social connections and bring joy to our community,” said Mayor Margot Davis.
“This grant also reinforces Council’s ongoing commitment to initiatives that support our seniors to age well in place, right here in Glen Innes Highlands.”
The festival is being delivered by Council’s Economic Development and Tourism team in partnership with the Glen Innes Severn Learning Centre. It builds on insights gathered through ongoing community engagement, including calls for more digital literacy programs and social connection opportunities.
The full program for Re-Wired will be released in early 2026.
Guyra to Host ‘Golden Years Gathering’
Neighbouring Armidale Regional Council has also received $4,500 through the same grant program to host a special event in Guyra — the Golden Years Gathering: A Guyra Seniors Music, Meal, and Memories Celebration.
Scheduled for March 2026 at Kimmy’s Kitchen, the event will offer:
- A free two-course hot meal
- Drinks and live music featuring old-time favourites
- A chance for seniors to share stories, connect with others and celebrate community life
“We’re thrilled to receive this funding for such a meaningful event,” said Mayor Sam Coupland. “Seniors are the heart of our community, and the Golden Years Gathering will give some of our valued older community members a chance to connect, celebrate, and enjoy a wonderful day together.”
“Events like this remind us of the importance of inclusion and social connection. It’s about creating opportunities for our older residents to live life in colour and feel valued and supported.”
The event will be hosted by Guyra Home Support Services and will be free to attend. Booking information will be announced closer to the event date.
Something going on in your part of the New England people should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@netimes.com.au