Fraser Coast celebrates a standout Seniors Month

Published on 31 October 2025

People standing together, against a dark backdrop, looking at a digital camera.jpg

A photographic competition, a sold-out talent quest and more than 40 events across the Fraser Coast helped make Seniors Month 2025 a celebration of creativity, connection and community spirit.

Fraser Coast Regional Council Seniors Liaison Officer Juls De Waard said thousands of older residents took part in concerts, expos, competitions, morning teas and social gatherings during October.

“Seniors Month brings people together through friendship, fun and creativity - and this year’s events really showcased how valued our older residents are,” Ms De Waard said.

“The Over 50’s Lifestyle Expo attracted around 800 visitors and almost 80 exhibitors, while the Mayor’s Picnic at the Museum drew a crowd of about 300, entertained by the Believe It or Not Singing Group and even a performance from the Mayor and Councillors.

“The Seniors Photographic Competition returned with around 40 entries received across two categories reflecting this year’s theme, Enjoying Retirement on the Fraser Coast.”

Winners were announced at the Over 50’s Lifestyle Expo earlier this month:

Family/Friends Category

Shirley Baker photograph, 1st place in the family/friends category. The photograph shows an adult and a child walking along the wet, sandy beach under a cloud-covered sky, with the sun peering through.

1st – Shirley Baker

Kay Suter 2nd place photograph. A small child sits on the grass, laughing and holding a straw hat, while their grandparent takes their photograph.

2nd – Kay Suter

Highly Commended – Kay Suter and Greg Suter

Hobbies/Interests Category

Greg Suter 1st place photograph. Two men standing in front of a dark backdrop looking at the screen of a digital camera.

1st – Greg Suter

John Clark 2nd place photograph. A group of people walk along a sandy beach at Hervey Bay, bathed in the golden morning sun.

2nd – John Clark

Highly Commended – Greg Suter and Clive McWaters

Ms De Waard said the much-loved Seniors Talent Quest once again drew a full house at the Hervey Bay RSL, with 21 local performers showcasing their talents in music, comedy, poetry and song.

“Jo-anna Cooper-Katts took out Best Overall Performance with her Golden Medley act, while other award winners included Alan Jarrett (Best Vocal), The Boys (Best Musical), The Silver Charms (Best Group), and Neroli den Houting (Encouragement Award),” she said.

“We were fortunate to have Ms Billie Wilde - an international author, well-known performer and former 1970s–80s star who now calls the Fraser Coast home, attend the event to perform and assist with judging.

“Congratulations to all the winners, everyone who joined in across the month, and thank you to the many volunteers, community groups and sponsors who helped make this year’s program possible.

“Seniors Month is a special time on the Fraser Coast. It helps people reconnect, share stories, and celebrate the wisdom and life experiences that enrich our community.”

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