A club to keep seniors "alive"
SENIORS WRAP
With their motto “we do not get old, we just get older” the Douglas Seniors Inc is there to support seniors who have ‘given up’ and improve their quality of life.
Around 20 years ago, John Booth, a workaholic and a community minded citizen, was forced to give up working on doctor’s orders.
He was struck by the fact that there was nothing for seniors to do in the shire and the idea for Douglas Seniors Inc was born. In 2005, the club was officially launched with 40 members registering on the spot.
Sadly, John passed away about two years later and his wife, Ann Booth, took up the challenge and is still involved as secretary/treasurer, organising the day-to-day running of the club. In 2025, the Club will celebrate its 20th birthday with around 200 seniors now enrolled.
A chatty bunch
According to Ms Booth, the main objective of the club is to offer different activities for seniors to keep them active and connected with their peers on a social basis.
“Talking to each other is one of the most important of our activities,” she said.
“A few of our members have actually admitted that the club has saved their lives. Keeping the mind and body busy and occupied is what keeps us going.
“It is most satisfying to see seniors who may have ‘given up’ start to enjoy the interaction with other people who may have been in the same boat. It is great to watch them increase in confidence and start to enjoy themselves again.”
Busy schedule
“Everyone involved with the club works on a voluntary basis and they have been greatly supported over the years by the Mossman Bowls Club,” Ms Booth explained.
The club offers weekly activities such as a Seniors Fitness Gym Class, a Pilates class, a Glee Club (singing) Group, Indoor Bowls, Bingo.
Together with regular trips to Cairns Performing Arts Centre, Port Douglas Clink Theatre and day tours searching the Cairns op-shops, Ten-Pin Bowls trips and other days out.
“The Hoy fun mornings are especially popular since it’s a very easy card game learned in 5 minutes and it only costs $3 to play 20 games, which also includes an impressive morning tea!”
If you think you may enjoy any of the club’s activities, please contact Ann on 40981543 or email jandma@aapt.net.au.