Summerset gears up for fun open day

Participants preparing for a mobility gymkhana at Summerset Village next month have been warned that random drug testing before the race is on the cards. Practising their skills, from left, are Sonia Edmonds, Judy McGregor, Carol Hill-Smith and Laurie Barker.


A mobility scooter gymkhana is one of several fun events planned for a Golden Oldies Open Day at Summerset Retirement Village in Warkworth on Wednesday, October 2.

The Open Day is one of the first events on the 50th Kowhai Festival month-long programme.

The event is open to the public with an emphasis on inviting groups in the area that cater for people of retirement age.

Summerset activities coordinator Andrea Hinchco says there will be some static displays in the main centre covering subjects such as senior travel, wellness and genealogy. Local Probus clubs have also shown an interest in attending.

“The emphasis of the gymkhana will be on skills and agility, not necessarily speed!” she says. “When people get a mobility scooter, they often aren’t given any instructions, so this will be a fun way to help drivers feel more confident.”

A photo exhibition by residents, which will be memories of both people and scenic shots of the district,
is also planned.

“One of our residents who is a published author will run one, or two if needed, workshops on writing for your grandchildren.”

There will be a display of vintage cars in the afternoon and the day will finish off with a Music Hall-styled show. Tickets for this are $10 each and will need to be pre-purchased.

“The emphasis is on having a fun day and showcasing our residents’ talents with examples of options available for retirees to enjoy life to the full.”