best life live your Celebrating our Seniors
The exhibition and publication is a collaboration between Manning Regional Art Gallery and Community and Cultural Development of MidCoast Council. 2026 The Live Your Best Life: Celebrating our Seniors exhibition highlights people who are actively supporting their health and wellbeing through photography and personal stories. While this exhibition shares only a small selection of stories, it reflects the richness and vitality of seniors in our community who continue to live life to the fullest and challenge stereotypes. We hope their stories will inspire others through their attitudes, experiences and everyday actions. Photographs by Julie Slavin and project coordination by Jane O’Dwyer.
care for koalas Nancy, 82 Since 2006, Nancy has devoted her time to the wellbeing of koalas at Koalas in Care a small, 24-hour rescue organisation on the Mid North Coast led by Paul and Christeen. What began as an offering of her skills as a qualified Bowen therapist soon became something more. By 2007, she had joined the morning cleaning team supporting the round-the-clock work of Paul and Christeen, and the vulnerable koalas in their care. For Nancy, volunteering with koalas is extremely rewarding finding joy in the small moments like seeing a koala respond to therapy, to watching them play and fight and run around. “It’s like watching babies,” she says. “They’re always doing something interesting.” Each koala has its own personality, and Nancy delights in observing their differences, from the thicker fur of the Barrington koalas or the pointier faces of those from Tinonee. Supporting the work of Paul and Christeen is just as important, recognising the commitment to their work seven days a week, every week. In return, she finds purpose and perspective: “You can’t be depressed when you’re helping koalas.” Not one to sit at home Nancy likes to keep busy. She walks daily, collecting rubbish along the way and volunteers with Meals on Wheels and the Browns Creek crew. She also finds great joy in playing her ukulele everyday. Take a leaf out of Nancy’s book: there is no use sitting at home, helping others helps you. TAREE, JANUARY 2026
care for community Helen, 77 Helen is a lifelong advocate for her community and the environment and has spent decades turning her values into action. From coordinating Landcare initiatives for over 30 years to supporting the next generation through her granddaughter’s Coastcare group, she continues to nurture both people and place. Her commitment to environmental conservation and protection is grounded in the belief that we must care for the earth better than we do. Helen’s contribution to her community runs just as deep. A former councillor, she still attends council meetings and shares local updates through 2BOB Radio, helping others stay informed and engaged. She also volunteers in an op shop and shares her knowledge through sessions at U3A on topics including local government, writing, and the forests of the Manning. Helen has written and recorded numerous oral histories, preserving the stories and identity of her region so people can better understand the communities they belong to. When floods hit her home in Glenthorne, Helen experienced firsthand the strength of community. Supported by friends, strangers, and local churches, she saw the power of collective care in action. Through volunteering, activism, and education, Helen has found a sense of purpose that continues to grow. You will often find her on Fridays sitting with the Knitting Nannas, continuing her advocacy. For Helen, it comes down to knowing your values and living them: “If you can enact them, then you feel more fulfilled and satisfied with your life.” GLENTHORNE, DECEMBER 2025
MOORLAND CAFÉ, NOVEMBER 2025 stay active Manning Valley Cycle Club, 74 and under The Manning Valley Cycle Club has been cycling for just over 60 years, continuing a cycling tradition in the region dating back to the early 1900s when it was known as the Taree Cycle Club. While the club once raced on a dirt track at the Taree Showground and later at the Wingham Velodrome, members now ride and race at the Taree Recreation Centre Criterium (Crit) track. While racing takes place at the Crit track, social rides take riders out of town along the highway and back roads to places such as Kew, Crowdy Head, Bago, Nabiac and Burrell Creek. Moorland is a favourite destination, with riders heading to the Moorland Café for the past 20 years to enjoy coffee, scones and plenty of laughter, lively conversation and banter. For these riders, cycling is a way to stay fit, keep the mind active, and maintain social connections. Long-term friendships have formed through decades of weekly rides, shared laughter and mutual support. For some, returning to the bike after health challenges has helped restore fitness and enjoyment of life. Whether riding locally, travelling overseas for cycling adventures, or being involved in the organisation of major international cycling events, the group shares a lifelong love of the sport. Most of all, they value the camaraderie, coming together each week, sharing stories, and heading home happy. If you see them riding the local highways and back roads, give them a little space and a friendly wave.
Kate’s interest in exercise started in her 40s when she was living remotely in Broken Hill, joining a local exercise group that met five mornings a week. Kate recalls becoming “very fit” and smiles, “I’ve been trying to get back to that ever since.” Now 69, Kate started attending her local gym a couple of years ago when she was having trouble with her hip and worked to strengthen it. Despite her best efforts she eventually needed a total hip replacement in 2023. With the guidance of a physio plan, Kate continues to attend the gym regularly, focused on building strength to support her mobility and enjoyment of the activities she loves from walking her dogs to working in the garden. Her goal is to maintain her mobility and strength into her dotage! Just as importantly, Kate loves the effect of getting up early and seeing the sunrise. “I feel strong, fit and happy after I’ve come to the gym, it’s a mood lifter.” For Kate, staying strong is about showing up, doing the work, and staying active in the life she enjoys every day. Staying strong is also important for Kate’s partner Jazz, who at 66 regularly attends bootcamp at the front of the gym. The perfect place to enjoy exercise and take in the beautiful beach and sunrises with like minded friends. TAREE OLD BAR SLSC GYM, JANUARY 2026 STAY STRONG Kate, 69 and Jazz, 66
Have adventures Margie, 66 Margie has always been a dynamo, enjoying school cross-country running reaching representative level in her youth, then going on to study nursing and have a family. Living with multiple sclerosis since her 20s, this has sometimes been a hurdle but has never held her back. Usually, one to stay in her lane, about eight years ago, Margie discovered a love of trail running and the joy and benefits of having adventures. For Margie, exploring new places and planning adventures activates her mind, body, and soul. While experiencing issues with coordination and balance and having spent some time in a wheelchair she has a strong belief in the power of the mind to support the body. Strength is something Margie has in spades. As she has grown older Margie has embraced time spent in nature with curiosity and a sense of exploration. From adventures on local forest trails, travelling from Wingham to Taree Park Run on a paddleboard, to running the Simpson Desert 100km Ultra and Loch Ness Marathon – Margie’s advice is to just do it! It makes you younger, younger for longer. If you’re looking for encouragement or tips for planning an adventure, check out Taree Park Run where you will be sure to find Margie. POSSUM BRUSH, JANUARY 2026
support our young people Aunty Isabell, 70 and Aunty Gail, 66 Aunty Isabell and Aunty Gail bring decades of experience, wisdom and energy to supporting our young people and strengthening cultural connections in their community. Through their involvement with Ngarra Wakulda Aboriginal Advisory Committee, they provide cultural guidance to the First Steps Count Child and Family Hub. Aunty Isabell was on the original board of directors before the centre opened and continues her involvement through the advisory group, while Aunty Gail values the opportunity to learn and contribute. Aunty Gail, who recently returned to the area, is reconnecting with her family and culture through being part of Aboriginal women’s camps, the Elders Group and Biripi dance group. Aunty Isabell dedicated more than 20 years to the Department of Education and now continues her work in local schools, supporting Aboriginal students through cultural and creative programs. A talented designer and seamstress, she was recognised internationally when one of her dresses toured Japan. Today, she teaches students to create their own designs, draw the patterns, and sew garments from start to finish, building confidence and pride in their abilities. Aunty Gail works alongside her in the classroom, supporting the students with measuring up, unpicking and bringing their ideas to life. Together, they are creating opportunities for young people to learn, express themselves and stay connected to culture, passing on knowledge, skills and confidence that will carry forward to future generations. FIRST STEPS COUNT, NOVEMBER 2025
SALTWATER POINT, FEBRUARY 2026 enjoy what you do Craig, 65 Growing up around Botany Bay, Craig started sailing at six and surfing at eight and he’s loved the water ever since. He’s been riding a mal ever since a chance plumbing job introduced him to longboarding, following a tough period in his late 30s that kept him out of the ocean for several years. Craig surfs every morning in good conditions or bad, he’ll surf in anything just to get in the water and enjoy it. The feeling surfing gives him is hard to explain. As he has gotten older, not only does surfing keep him physically fit, he likes to set himself goals and challenge himself. The more you do it, the better you get. Most importantly he always sets out to enjoy himself. Craig has been part of the Saltwater Malibu Club on and off for the past 15 years and loves the community feeling the club brings. Coming together once a month to surf and enjoy a BBQ, he enjoys meeting people from all walks of life, all there for the same reason. Craig continues to embrace new opportunities. With a newly grown COVID beard, Craig ventured into being a Santa which he continues to do for charity. It was at a Santa gig that he was ‘spotted’ and asked to be in an ad. The last couple of years he has enjoyed this acting chapter in his retirement and takes on roles when it suits. More recently Craig has started singing at U3A alongside his beautiful wife Susie. As the current 2025 NSW State Longboard Champion in the over 65 division, Craig isn’t slowing down. As Craig says, whatever you’re doing enjoy it!
Cuppa and Company Café is a beautiful example of ageing well through connection, community and purpose. An initiative of the Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Group in partnership with Gloucester High School, the café brings students and community members aged 65 and over together over morning tea. Students prepare the food and serve the morning tea themselves. Over time, their confidence and skills grow, especially talking with older community members, who love having a chat with the young people. Some long-standing locals have known some of the students since they were in preschool! The café is a welcoming space to catch up with friends, make new friends and feel a sense of belonging. For some, it might be the only conversation they have for two or three days. Community members enjoy talking with the students and watching them grow in confidence and capability and they certainly make outstanding scones and sandwiches! Bringing the generations together is a win-win for all! have a cuppa Cuppa and Company Community Café, 90 and under Cuppa and Company Community Café is funded by Regional Industry Education Partnerships GLOUCESTER CWA ROOMS, FEBRUARY 2026
dance Silver Swans, 80 and under Silver Swans isn’t just a dance class; it’s a community! This group brings together dancers aged 80 and under who started out as strangers who have formed strong friendships through their shared love of ballet. Not only do they dance together, they enjoy coffees before and after class, lunches, and trips away to watch performances. Most of all there is fun and some sore muscles! For some, ballet has been in their blood all their life and is a joy revisited. For others it is completely new, embracing the challenge of learning something new, with some going on to take exams. The dancers gain so much from being a Swan. They stay fit, keeping muscles moving and sore backs at bay. For one dancer, lining up at the barre makes her feel 15 again, although she may not feel it by the end of the class! Some very wise advice, “If you don’t move it, you lose it.” It’s not just physical, it keeps the mind active, supports mental wellbeing and slows down ageing. Every year the Swans share their love of dance on their annual Nursing Home Tour, bringing smiles, magic and joy to others. The Swans are a vibe, through their friendship they support each other through life’s ups and downs, encourage one another and know how to have fun and embrace life. ANDREA ROWSELL ACADEMY OF DANCE TAREE, FEBRUARY 2026
grow together Gloucester Community Garden, 95 and under Located in the beautiful Gloucester District Park, surrounded by shady trees and crepe myrtles, the Gloucester Community Garden is thriving with fruit, herbs, vegetables and conversation. More than just a garden, it is a welcoming space where people new to town and longterm locals, come together to share a love of gardening and enjoy the company of others. Everyone enjoys different aspects of the garden. Some prefer working with plants and growing produce, while some prefer maintenance and building projects. Whatever it is, everyone contributes and that’s what brings the community feel. It keeps everyone active and involved from walking the paths and caring for the beds to building wicking gardens, learning from one another, sharing knowledge and ideas with one another. After a busy morning, everyone gathers for a cuppa, sharing homemade treats, chats and laughter. Visitors of all ages are welcome, from children and locals to tourists with an interest in community gardening. There is signage throughout the garden to educate and inspire. Community driven and self-sustaining by raising funds through Return and Earn, plant sales, and garage sales the garden is a great success. Produce is shared among gardeners and through the share shop, alongside donations from other community members. With the oldest gardener aged 95, the Gloucester Community Garden is proof that gardening truly keeps you young. GLOUCESTER DISTRICT PARK, FEBRUARY 2026
GLOUCESTER CREATIVES, FEBRUARY 2026 Scribe a line Writers Group, 88 to 46 Creativity and a love of storytelling brought together this small writers group of eight women who meet monthly at the Creative Café in Gloucester to share their writing. The group began around six years ago when a few members of a book club decided they wanted to start writing themselves. Their writing spans poetry, screenplays, memoir, fiction and reflections from their own lives. Some have published books, others are just beginning, with one member completing her memoir at the age of 88, a shining example that it is never too late to try something new. Sharing both laughter and tears, they have created a safe and supportive space where each person brings different skills and life experience. The small group allows time for everyone to read aloud and receive considered feedback. The supportive environment is important, as sharing writing and personal reflections can feel vulnerable. One member says, “I used to write at home in isolation, but now I feel excited and look forward to these meetings.” Through a shared love of the written word, they show that curiosity, connection and creativity are not limited by age.
Take centre stage Arts Gloucester Players, 79 and under The Arts Gloucester Players have been bringing theatre and creativity to the Gloucester community since 1999. If you’re new to town or new to the theatre this is the place for you. The group is welcoming, supportive and love to share their passion for theatre and inspire new members. Ranging from their 40s through to most senior at 79, there is something for everyone. Ageing, they don’t even think about it, bringing an energy and enthusiasm to be admired. Being part of the Players keeps the mind active and engaged, learning scripts, remembering lines and rehearsing scenes provides great mental exercise while having fun. Just as important as the performances is the camaraderie. Rehearsals are filled with laughter, joy and friendship not to mention the after parties! The community is always supportive and keen to know what’s coming next and enjoy seeing familiar faces on stage. While members also get great joy performing for people they know. Sharing a deep love of the theatre and they relish the opportunity to give back to the community. Keen to inspire the next generation of performers, they share their experience, mentor newcomers and work with local schools any chance they can. “I just enjoy it. I’m really happy that I came to somewhere I could do this, that’s part of the joy of the Gloucester community. There’s always something to do.” With creativity, friendship and plenty of fun along the way, the Arts Gloucester Players show that staying active and connected is a wonderful way to keep ageing well. GLOUCESTER ARTS AND CULTURAL COUNCIL, FEBRUARY 2026
be creative Philip, 70 With longevity running deep in his family, Philip has always viewed ageing from a unique perspective. At 70, he is considered one of the younger members of his family, coming from a remarkable line of centenarians. Raised in Colorado, he studied at Yale and spent 30 years running an architecture firm in New York City with his husband Mark before making their way to Australia during the COVID pandemic. Philip has traced his family history back 12 generations to the 1600s and the Mayflower. Descended from ancestors connected to early American industry, agriculture, publishing, and major art collections, he continues that legacy through his own creative work. He is currently writing two books: one weaving his family history into a compelling narrative, and another drawing on the rediscovered diaries of an ancestor, revealing what it meant to live authentically in less accepting times. Now living in Tallwoods, Philip is an active member of the local arts community as President of Friends of the Manning Regional Art Gallery and member of the Urban Sketchers. With Sydney’s cultural life a short trip away and beaches and bush at his doorstep he enjoys the best of both worlds. This chapter of life has given Philip the opportunity to reconnect with the artist he began as, enriched by life experience. He is ‘super happy’ in his studio, painting daily and continues to write and work towards publication. His love of music, reading, politics, history and all forms of art is reflected in every aspect of his life. Although he majored in Russian at college, Australian slang still proves a challenge. One thing is certain, Philip is far from done. Watch for future exhibitions of his work and upcoming publications. TALLWOODS, APRIL 2026
work together Great Lakes Pearl Dragons, 92 to 14 Set against the beauty of Wallis Lake, the Great Lakes Pearl Dragons come together throughout the week to paddle, connect and share in the experience of being on the water. The club brings together people from all walks of life, abilities and ages. Pearlers hit the water five times a week enjoying stunning sunrises and sunsets with dolphins often appearing alongside the boats. On the water, everyone works in synchronicity towards a shared goal. Alongside the physical benefits of exercise comes community connection, friendship and strong camaraderie as members support and encourage one another. Being part of a team inspires you to do your best and not let each other down. For those with a competitive spirit, the Pearlers enjoy testing themselves at local, state, national and international championships. This year they competed at the State Championships at Penrith and the National Championships on the Sunshine Coast qualifying for the Club Crew World Championships in Taiwan later this year. Yet the greatest rewards are not found in medals, but in the friendships formed over training sessions, coffees shared after paddling, and the quiet encouragement exchanged between teammates. The club’s motto, “We paddle for fun, fitness and friendship,” reflects the heart of the Pearl Dragons. Come and try a free Dragon pass or join the Learn to Paddle Program in September. Be careful you might find yourself hooked in no time! FORSTER, MARCH 2026
WINGHAM, FEBRUARY 2026 No. 1 supporter Greg, 70 Greg has been part of the Wingham Tigers for as long as anyone can remember. Growing up in Wingham, he found his place at the football club early, and decades on, he remains its most dedicated supporter. Week after week, he is there at training, on game day, and behind the scenes offering encouragement, lending a hand, and sharing in every moment of the game. Now 70, Greg still brings energy and enthusiasm to the club. He helps prepare the grounds, supports the players, and has proudly led the team onto the field at home games. His presence is constant, his support unwavering. In recognition of his commitment, the club awarded him Coach of the Year, a reflection of how much he means to the team. Beyond the footy field, Greg leads a full and active life. He has worked with Valley Industries for more than 40 years and continues to work three days a week, where he enjoys being with his mates. Greg keeps fit and active, long known for getting around town on his push bike, visiting friends and staying connected. These days, he still enjoys a kick of the footy, watching games, listening to music, and catching up over coffee with the occasional Tim Tam or two as a treat. For Greg, the Tigers are more than a club, they are where he belongs. Through every season, he has been there and they, in turn, have embraced him as one of their own.
be in harmony Wingsong Choir, 84 and under Bringing people together through the simple joy of singing, Wingsong Choir is a welcoming, inclusive community choir where everyone has a place, regardless of experience or ability. There are no auditions, you simply come along and sing. Led by musical director Sandra, members are supported to find their voice and contribute their unique skills. The choir performs a diverse range of music, including cultural songs from around the world in languages such as Russian, African, Korean and First Nations languages. The physical act of singing in harmony is uplifting, supporting mental and physical wellbeing, while weekly rehearsals offer opportunities for connection and friendship. For members, the choir is a community where people feel at home, they have found their ‘tribe’. Beyond rehearsals, members share food, social gatherings and occasional trips to the pub. They also perform at community events, with a highlight each year opening the Wingham Music Festival, along with appearances at events such as the Taree Eisteddfod. For Sandra, the choir is about more than music. It is a shared experience that helps members develop skills, stay mentally active as we age together and form a network of friends. Through their singing, she hopes the choir’s positivity, compassion, and humanity will reach beyond the group and contribute to a kinder, more connected community. With members ranging from younger adults to the oldest singer, aged 84, there is something for everyone. So don’t be shy, come along and join the harmony. PRESBYTERIAN HALL WINGHAM, MARCH 2026
Share culture Susie, 65 Born in the Philippines, Susie arrived in Australia in 1981 at just 22 years of age. Now 65, she continues to bridge her Filipino heritage and her life in Taree, sharing culture, connection and community. Passionate about her culture, she has been a long-standing member of the Filipino dance group that performs at Harmony Day, Australia Day, preschools and aged care homes. She has also shared Filipino cuisine through cooking demonstrations at community events, using food as another way to bring people together. When Susie arrived, she experienced isolation and had few Filipino connections. That experience shaped her commitment to welcoming others. Known as a Filipino matriarch, she organises gatherings that help new arrivals make friends and feel at home. The Filipino community meets monthly at St Mary’s Hall beside the Catholic Church, gathering for morning tea and sometimes singing and dancing. It is a space of cultural connection and belonging for those new to the area. Susie also contributes widely to the broader community. She is a long-standing member and former President of Taree Rotary and proud to be the first Filipino to hold the position. She is also an active member of the Catholic Church and serves on its board. She continues to work at Cundletown Preschool where has been for 30 years. She loves working with the young children and has no plans to retire. Work keeps her active and engaged. Through work, dance, food and community, Susie’s everyday acts of welcome, quietly builds belonging across cultures and generations. CUNDLETOWN, MARCH 2026
Walk, Talk and Support The Man Walk, 84 and under For these men, Monday mornings are about more than exercise, they are about connection. Every Monday morning at 7am, 30 to 50 men gather at the Tuncurry Rock Pool for the Man Walk, a weekly ritual of movement, conversation and camaraderie. Six years on, the group remains a thriving part of a national network that now includes nearly 100 Man Walk groups. Not only a place to walk, it is a place to share stories, enjoy some trivia, check in on each other’s health and wellbeing, and build friendships through common interests like football, the races, community events and volunteering. The group’s oldest walker is 84, and everyone participates in their own way: some walk a little, some walk further while some stay behind to chat at the BBQ shelter. Everyone is welcome. A strong sense of humour and camaraderie runs through the group. As one walker explains, “It’s about the boys and a bit of fun.” Outside the walk, members stay connected through social gatherings and volunteering together at places like Ronald McDonald House and the Rotary Book Fair. Led by Terry who rings the bell to start each week, the group follows the Man Walk mantra: Walk, Talk and Support. Weekly check-ins ensure that no one walks alone, and that those who are unwell or absent are remembered. Once a month the walk finishes with a BBQ breakfast at the shelter, giving the group time to relax, exchange banter and chat after the walk. Moments like these, walking, laughing and looking out for one another capture the spirit of Man Walk. TUNCURRY ROCK POOL, MARCH 2026
TAREE, MARCH 2026 Speak up for future generations Knitting Nannas, 80 and under The Knitting Nannas are a strong-minded group who come together to sit, knit and share a cuppa while speaking up for the environment and future generations. Each Friday, rain, hail or shine, they sit outside the Federal Member’s office to raise awareness of environmental issues and keep politicians accountable. They are not aligned with any political party, often saying, “We annoy all politicians equally.” The group also attends protests and gatherings such as the Bob Brown March and actions in local forests, including the Bulga Forest. Formed around eight years ago, the group has grown in visibility and support, with many now recognising their ongoing presence and commitment. For members, it is a space of shared concern and understanding. “We are all worried about the future for the next generation,” one member explains. Beyond protest, the Knitting Nannas offer connection and emotional support. Members speak of climate grief, frustration and despair, but also about the relief in finding others who understand. “When I feel overwhelmed, I can sit with Helen and we just connect.” For many, the group provides both purpose and resolve. While younger people are often constrained by work and family, the Nannas see this as their time to act. Through collective action, learning and solidarity, they transform grief into purpose, choosing action over despair. Together, they show that ageing can bring clarity of values, courage, and a powerful commitment to the future. If you see them knitting on a Friday, say hello, have a chat and maybe even stay awhile and stand with them.
be with family Uncle Percy, 78 For Uncle Percy, what matters most is family, connection and making the most of every day. Having spent most of his life in Forster, his days are filled with family, work, fishing and travel. Work has been an important part of Uncle Percy’s life. After a decade at Biripi Medical Centre supporting Elders, he worked with Awabakal Medical Centre before returning home to Forster. Retirement was the plan, but Percy was not quite ready to stop. Today, he enjoys working part-time at Tobwabba Medical Centre, where he values the opportunity to meet people, have a yarn and stay connected. Following open-heart surgery in 2003, he became even more focused of his health and the importance of looking after himself. Surrounded by his wife Leanne, his children and grandchildren, he says, “it makes you want to keep going.” Watching his family grow and sharing in their lives continues to bring him great joy and motivation. Fishing is one of Uncle Percy’s great pleasures, it is a chance to slow down, relax and forget about everything. It is also something he shares with his family. His children who grew up fishing with him, now bring their children along. “They’re good kids,” he says proudly. At home, Uncle Percy and Leanne have created a lush tropical garden that has grown alongside their family over 40 years. Whether in the garden, on the water, travelling in their caravan or enjoying the beauty of Bali, he continues to embrace the people and places that matter most. FORSTER, MAY 2026
“When Jane first approached me about this I didn’t hesitate, meeting and photographing interesting vital people in our region over 60...a big yes, please. The wisdom shared with us from this group of real people has been invigorating and humbling as I myself navigate the 70s and beyond.” Julie Slavin, 76
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