Healthy aging expo centre stage at Brighton

Brighton Health Campus was transformed into a healthy ageing knowledge hub recently with a wide range of health experts and almost 600 community members coming together for the second annual Healthy Ageing Expo.

Over 40 stalls filled the Campus Auditorium, offering free health checks, activities and information for the community to help them stay active, healthy and engaged as they get older.

Community and Strategic Relations Manager Danielle Grant-Cross said it was great to see so many people from the community taking full advantage of the activities on offer, from Tai Chi and a Heart Foundation walking group, to hearing and blood pressure checks.

“The Expo is all about helping people live the best life they can as they grow older,” Danielle said.

“We know that the health system can be complex and often overwhelming for people. By bringing the community and health service providers together in one place, we hope we have broken down some barriers and inspired people to make good choices about their own health.”

Exhibitors at the Healthy Aging Expo included Burnie Brae, BallyCara, Carers Australia, Sandbag, Australian Hearing, Sandgate Police, St John Ambulance, Centrelink, Breast Screen, Continence Foundation and various Metro North health teams.

The Expo also commemorated the 70th anniversary of the Brighton Health Campus with a display of historical items, photos and memorabilia.

A new wooden bench made by the Sandgate and District Men’s Shed commemorating the Campus’ 70 years was also unveiled on the day.

The bench will take pride of place in a special healing and sensory garden being developed on campus this year.

Sandgate Town Crier, Fred Krebs, and Sandgate High Senior Stage Band, led by conductor Mik Van Poelgeest, provided lunch time entertainment and helped create a carnival atmosphere while the crowds enjoyed a free sausage sizzle, courtesy of the Sandgate and District Mens Shed.

The World Café Forum provided an opportunity for community members to work in groups to discuss the theme “Transition through Life”.

A series of questions were posed with some great ideas and varied views and opinions shared. This feedback will inform health service providers to ensure community interests are better incorporated into their everyday work.