Residents aged over 55, people living with a disability, their families and carers are invited to the Corangamite Shire Community Expo.
The free community event at the Theatre Royal on Tuesday 6 October will bring together stallholders from 29 local community groups and support services.
Mayor Kate Makin said the expo would showcase a wide range of community groups, health services and support organisations available across the Shire.
“The expo is designed to help people access information and services that support independent living, healthy ageing and community connection.
"By bringing local groups and service providers together in one place, the expo makes it easier for people to access information, build connections and make informed decisions about their future wellbeing and independence.
“Visitors will have the opportunity to meet service providers, ask questions and learn more about programs and assistance available in the region.”
Coordinator Positive Ageing Access and Inclusion Belinda Rowbottom said engaging presentations at the nearby Killara Centre would cover important topics including changes to aged care, future planning and emergency services.
“We encourage community members to take advantage of the opportunity to connect directly with local experts and organisations.
“The Corangamite Shire Community Expo is part of the Victorian Seniors Festival which invites older Victorians to gather together, discover new interests, and celebrate.
“Council has organised the event as part of our commitment to supporting healthy, active and resilient living, and delivering programs and services that benefit residents at all stages of life.”
Camperdown Community Health will be one of the stallholders.
SouthWest Healthcare Allied Health Team Leader – Camperdown Deeanna Bell said: “At Camperdown Community Health, our team offers occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech pathology, social work, diabetes education, complex care coordination, dietetics, podiatry and more to support your wellbeing.
“Whether you're looking to improve your mobility, manage a health condition, or maintain your independence, we're here to help you live well.
“Attending the Positive Ageing Access and Inclusion Expo will provide members of the community educational opportunities on specific health related topics, opportunity for discussion with one of our health professionals, tutorials and education on accessible equipment and strategies to maintain your own health.
“We look forward to seeing members of the community visit our stall at the Positive Ageing Access and Inclusion Expo."
Attendees will be able to watch a CPR and defibrillator demonstration by Ambulance Victoria, coinciding with the annual Shocktober campaign.
Ambulance Victoria Acting Barwon South West Operational Community Engagement Liaison Coordinator Samantha Western said it’s important for people to take action when they see someone in cardiac arrest.
“Held each October, Shocktober aims to highlight the importance of learning CPR and how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED).
“Each day 21 Victorians experience a cardiac arrest but only one in 10 survive. When a patient receives CPR and a shock from an AED before paramedics arrive, their chance of survival more than doubles.
“We want the community to know that they can make a lifesaving difference by following three simple steps: Call (call Triple Zero 000), Push (push hard and fast on the middle of the chest to give CPR), Shock (use an AED).”
Ambulance Victoria will also have resources at the event about available alternate care options to help people receive the most appropriate care for their needs.
Gary Kimber from Corangamite U3A (University of the Third Age) said members would have a stall at the expo to share flyers, photos, newsletters, and membership opportunities.
“People should join U3A because it provides them with a wide range of activities to help them with physical and intellectual activities,” Mr Kimber said.
“Being part of friendly welcoming activities can get you out of home and meeting new friends and like-minded people, and lifting your self-esteem.”
What: Corangamite Shire Community Expo
When: Tuesday 6 October, from 10am to 2pm
Where: Theatre Royal, 2 Bath Street, Camperdown
Admission: FREE
STALLHOLDERS: