Connect. Create. Celebrate.

With this year’s theme, “Connect. Create. Celebrate.”, Seniors Festival 2026 is an invitation to get involved, meet people and enjoy new experiences. Take part in a month of free and low-cost events and activities in your local community and across the state. Discover something new, share experiences with others, try an activity you’ve always wanted to explore and celebrate the many opportunities to enjoy life at every age.


This year some of our local key events include….

Community Lunch and Mini-Expo – Tues 13 October, 12:00pm

The mainstay of Seniors Festival over the last few years, seniors eat for free at our community lunch. Come and enjoy a vegetarian two course meal and browse the many services, programs, community organisations and social groups on offer.  Click here to register

Dannielle De Andrea: Country Concert

Dannielle De Andrea’s performance is like a masterclass in blending the nostalgic charm of the Great American Songbook with a contemporary sensibility, delivering an event that resonates with both seasoned jazz enthusiasts and casual listeners.

Dannielle’s voice is a revelation, exuding the kind of effortless warmth and authenticity that draws listeners in from the first note. Her natural charisma and the impeccable craftsmanship of the songs give her performance substance and depth. Click here to register.

Jimpa Community Screening

Join Shed shaker Brewery for a community screening of the acclaimed film JIMPA, inspired by the life of activist Jim Hyde who had strong connections to and involvement with our Castlemaine community.


Scroll down for a full list of local events running throughout October.

Booking information:
Contact Castlemaine Community House to book
for an event.
Phone 03 5472 4842 or email reception@cch.org.au.


Alternatively, book in online through the booking links below, or visit us in person at 30 Templeton Street, Castlemaine.

Generations

September 15 | 6:00pm
A Seniors Festival taster! Older and younger artists collaborate to transform old gramophone records into unique artworks. The finished pieces will be showcased in a community exhibition, raising funds for Community Houses Art Projects.

Castlemaine Community House
No bookings required

Superannuation Essentials

October 2 | 10:00am
Join us for an informative session and a Q&A on superannuation and retirement planning, including practical tips to help you make the most of your super..
Free for seniors.

Castlemaine Community House
Bookings required
Click here to register

Harcourt Valley Community Lunch

October 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 | 12:00pm
Join us for a hearty and delicious meal with your community. Everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy good food and company. It’s a great opportunity to connect with others, share a meal and enjoy a welcoming community atmosphere.

23 Station street, Harcourt
Cost: $5 suggested donation at the door
No bookings required

Three Cord Club

October 4 | 2:00pm
A relaxed open mic event celebrating folk, blues, country and singer-songwriters, providing a space for performers to share their music and connect with the community.

Maurocco Bar Midland Hotel
4 Templeton St, Castlemaine
Cost: $5
No bookings required

Castlemaine Community House Chess Club

October 5, 12, 19 & 26 | 1:00pm
Join our weekly Chess Club for friendly games, social connection and a chance to sharpen your mind. All skill levels are welcome, whether you’re an experienced player or new to chess. Come along, meet fellow chess enthusiasts.

Castlemaine Community House
No bookings required

Castlemaine Community Lunch

October 6, 13, 20 & 27 | 12:30pm
Join us for the Castlemaine Community Lunch and enjoy a delicious two course vegetarian meal. Come along with friends, family and community members for a relaxed and welcoming meal together.

Castlemaine Town Hall, 25 Lyttleton St Castlemaine
$7 Suggested Donation
Community Lunch on Oct 13 includes a mini-expo
No bookings required

1:1 IT Help

Every Tuesdays & Wednesdays October | 2:00pm
Get one-on-one IT help at Castlemaine Library with support for your technology needs.

Castlemaine Library, 212 Barker St, Castlemaine
Bookings required: Call 5472 1458

Community BBQ In The Park

October 7 | 12:00pm
Join us in Victory Park for a relaxed BBQ gathering as part of the 2026 Seniors Festival. Bring your lunch or something to cook, enjoy a chat, meet new people and connect with the community.

Victory Park, 30 Mostyn St, Castlemaine 

Bookings required
Click here to register

Maldon Community Lunch

October 7, 14, 21 & 28 | 12:00pm
Join us for the Maldon community lunch for a good feed and friendly chat with local people. Vegan and gluten free meals are available by request, please contact Maldon Neighbourhood Centre by the Tuesday.

Maldon Community Centre, 6 Francis Street Maldon
$7 Donation Suggested
No bookings required

JIMPA Movie Screening

October 7 | 6:00pm
Join Shed shaker Brewery for a community screening of the acclaimed film JIMPA, inspired by the life of activist Jim Hyde who had strong connections to and involvement with our Castlemaine community.
Funny, accessible, full of sadness and joy, and with a wonderful multi-generational cast, JIMPA is a celebration of LGBTQ+ culture. It brings a queer family to screen, taking a nuanced look at just how much has changed in terms of social expectation and our understanding of family over three generations.

This is a Free Event, but Donation is appreciated!
Bookings required
October 7 | 12:00pm
Join us in Victory Park for a relaxed BBQ gathering as part of the 2026 Seniors Festival. Bring your lunch or something to cook, enjoy a chat, meet new people and connect with the community.

Victory Park, 30 Mostyn St, Castlemaine 

Bookings required
Click here to register

A bar will be available on the day, with drinks and refreshments available for purchase.

ATO Stay Safe From Tax Scams

October 7 | 9:00am
Learn how to recognise common ATO scams and protect yourself from fraud. Discover the warning signs of scam calls, texts, emails and messages claiming to be from the Australian Taxation Office and learn simple steps you can take to keep your personal information and money safe.

Castlemaine Community House
Bookings required
Click here to register

BIYAL at Castlemaine Art Museum

Open until 21 November 2026
Thurs – Fri: 10:00am–4:00pm
Sat: 11:00am–4:00pm
Sun: 12:00pm–4:00pm

BIYAL is a celebration of the Guildford Biyal (Red gum), known locally as the Guildford Big Tree. The exhibition is a part of DJAARA’s Guildford Biyal Project.

Castlemaine Art Museum, 14 Lyttleton St, Castlemaine

Danielle De Andrea: Country Concert

October 8 | 2:00pm
Join an afternoon of song at the Castlemaine Town Hall! Dannielle De Andrea’s performance is like a masterclass in blending the nostalgic charm of the Great American Songbook with a contemporary sensibility, delivering an event that resonates with both seasoned jazz enthusiasts and casual listeners. Dannielle’s voice is a revelation, exuding the kind of effortless warmth and authenticity that draws listeners in from the first note. Her natural charisma and the impeccable craftsmanship of the songs give her performance substance and depth

Presented by Mount Alexander Shire, Macedon Ranges Shire and Hepburn Shire Councils.

Castlemaine Town Hall, 25 Lyttleton Street.
Bookings required
Click here to register

Cooking for Blokes

October 8, 15, 22, 29 | 1:00pm
Join our 4-week course designed to help men build cooking skills & gain confidence in the kitchen.
Remy is a local cafe operator and hands-on educator who is dedicated to creating exceptional hospitality experiences through food, specialty coffee, and community connection. Remy has learned the ropes of customer service through years of practical, everyday face-to-face interactions and has experience working in almost every hospitality and retail setting. With an engaging, down-to-earth teaching style, Remy loves supporting others on their journey to service greatness.  

Castlemaine Community House
Bookings required
Click here to register

LGBTI Short Stories, A Podcast For Seniors

October 9 | 10:30am
Share a short, anonymous five-minute story for the Pride Across the Ages Podcast. Stories will be recorded at Silver Rainbow Social Club. Morning Tea provided.

Ray Bradfield, 33 Forest St, Castlemaine
No bookings required

Digital Legacy Planning

October 9 | 10:30am
What happens to your digital life when you’re no longer here? Learn how to plan for your digital legacy with Goldfields Library, including online accounts, photos, social media and important digital information. This practical session will help you understand your options and take simple steps to make your digital affairs easier for loved ones to manage.

Castlemaine Community House
Bookings required
Click here to register

Harvest Community Lunch

October 9 & 23 | 12:00pm
Join us for the Harvest Community Lunch at the Anglican Church Hall. Come along with friends or by yourself, everyone is welcome. Vegetarian and gluten free options available.

8 Mostyn Street, Castlemaine
$5 Donation suggested
No bookings required

Tap Dance

October 9 | 1:00pm
Dust off those tap shoes and twinkle toes and learn a tap dance in one session with Paula! Some tap dance experience required

Over The Moon Studio, 9 Templeton St Castlemaine
Gold Coin Donation suggested!
No bookings required

Chair Yoga

October 10, 17 & 24 | 10:30am
Enjoy gentle, accessible yoga with Meera, suitable for beginners and all abilities. Practise simple movements, stretches and breathing exercises from a chair or mat, at your own pace.

Castlemaine Community House
Bookings required
Click here to register

Getting Up With Confidence

October 12 | 9:30am
Join Dhelkaya Health staff for a practical and informative session focused on preventing falls and staying steady on your feet. Learn simple strategies to improve balance, strength and confidence, reduce your risk of falls, and feel more secure in your everyday activities. You’ll also discover local support options, helpful resources and practical tips to help you stay active, safe and independent at home and in the community.

Castlemaine Community House
Bookings required
Click here to register

Community Lunch & Mini – Expo

October 13 | 12:00pm
Join us for the Seniors Expo and Community Lunch, a free event celebrating Seniors Month and bringing the community together. Discover a wide range of local services, community groups, activities and opportunities that support healthy, active and connected ageing. Drop in anytime from 12.00pm to 2.00pm, with lunch served from 12.30pm. Quiet Time from 1.30pm–2.00pm will provide a calmer experience with reduced noise and fewer announcements for those who prefer a quieter setting.
Frederick Street is closed to traffic, but the Town Hall remains accessible by the footpath.
Transport available upon registration AND Seniors eat for free!!
Click here to register

Planning Ahead: Taking Control Of Your Future

October 14 | 10:30am
Join Seniors Rights Victoria for a free Planning Ahead session. Learn about Enduring Powers of Attorney, Medical Treatment Decision Makers and Advance Care Directives, with practical information and resources to help you plan ahead and ensure your wishes are understood and respected.

Castlemaine Community House
Bookings required
Click here to register

No Tech Games: Mahjong

October 16 | 3:30pm
Put down the technology and join others to try the classic game of mahjong, a tile-based game of Chinese origin

Castlemaine Library, 212 Barker St, Castlemaine
Bookings required: Call 5472 1458

Jazz Jam

October 18 | 2:00pm
A welcoming Jazz event brining musicians and music lovers together to enjoy live performances, creativity and community connection.

Maurocco Bar Midland Hotel, 4 Templeton St
$5 Entry Fee
No booking required

Housing Rights For Older Renters

October 16 | 11:00am
Learn about renters rights and protections, including minimum standards, repairs, rent increases and notice periods. ARC Justice housing advocates will share practical legal information to help renters understand and advocate for their rights.

Castlemaine Community House
Click here to register

Wills – Why Having One Matters

October 19 | 10:00am
Join us for an informative session about wills and why having a valid will is an important part of planning for the future. Learn what a will does, what can happen if you die without one, key things to consider when making or updating your will.

Castlemaine Community House
Bookings required
Click here to register

Discover The Gardens – A guided Walk

October 20 & 27 | 9:30am
Join Tina Thanos for two relaxed guided garden walks exploring local history, plants and beautiful landscapes. Discover the seasonal highlights of Lake Joanna, the Front Gardens, Pinetum and Rose Garden while enjoying a gentle pace, regular rest stops and good company.
 
Castlemaine Botanic Gardens 2 Walker St, Castlemaine
Bookings required
Click here to register

Summer Safety: Apps to Know

October 21 | 10:30am
Mount Alexander Shire Council for a free Get Online Week morning tea and learn how digital tools can help you stay informed and prepared this summer. Discover how to use emergency apps, access trusted weather and bushfire updates, and build confidence using your smartphone or tablet.

Castlemaine Community House
Bookings required: contact Lesley on 5471 1807 or Email – L.payne@mountalexander.vic.gov.au

Understanding Services Australia In Retirement

October 22 | 9:30am
Learn how Services Australia can support you in retirement, including help at home, means-tested fees, overseas travel and using myGov. Enjoy a friendly session with practical information and time for questions.

Castlemaine Community House
Bookings required
Click here to register

Understanding My Aged Care & Local Support

October 22 | 11:00am
Understand your aged care options with Phillipa from Mount Alexander Shire Council, whether planning ahead or supporting a loved one

Castlemaine Community House
Bookings required
Click here to register

A Creative Day Out In Bendigo

October 23 | 12:30am
Join Dhelkaya Health’s Get Connected group for an excursion to Bendigo Town Hall to explore an exhibition and enjoy a creative activity. Connect with others and enjoy the outing, with pick up and drop off from Castlemaine Community House.

Bookings required
Click here to register

Media Literacy In The Age Of AI

October 23 | 2:00pm
In a world where anyone and anything can publish online, how do you tell fact from fiction? In this timely seminar, we take a look at how AI is influencing news, social media and other online content.

Castlemaine Library, 212 Barker St, Castlemaine
Book Via the Goldfields Libraries website.


Supporting You In Your Caring Role

October 26 | 9:30am
Learn about Carers Victoria, Carer Gateway and local support services available to unpaid carers and their families. Hear from a Carers Victoria regional carer navigator, about finding information, connection and support.

Castlemaine Community House
Bookings required
Click here to register

Silver Screen Social – Calendar Girls

October 27 | 1:30pm
Enjoy “Calendar Girls” a much loved classic film with Dhelkaya Health’s Get Connected program. A relaxed afternoon of friendship, film and connection.

Castlemaine Community House
Bookings required
Click here to register

Hearing Australia

October 28 | 10:00am
Reconnect with sounds you love and learn how good hearing can help you stay connected to family, friends and your community

Castlemaine Community House
No booking required

Breads, Birds and Herbs

October 29 | 1:00pm
Go wild with three regional authors talking yeast, birds, and herbs. Mara Ripani, Tanya Loos and Caroline Parker are passionate about nature and thrive when connected to it, cook with it, and walk in it. Come along to be inspired.

Castlemaine Library, 212 Barker St, Castlemaine
Book via the Goldfields libraries website

Protecting Babies, Grandchildren and You

October 30 | 9:30am
Learn how vaccinations can help protect you, your loved ones and vulnerable babies and children from serious illnesses. Discover which vaccines are recommended for older adults, when to have them, where to access them and what’s available through the National Immunisation Program. Bring your questions and join us for a friendly, informative session.

Castlemaine Community House
Bookings required
Click here to register

Age-friendly Gardens

October 30 | 11:00am
Join us for an informal and inspiring chat about creating beautiful, practical and enjoyable gardens that work well as we age. Discover simple ideas to make your garden safer, easier to maintain and adaptable to changing needs.

Castlemaine Community House
Bookings required
Click here to register

Lifes2Short

October 31 | 2:00pm
Laugh, reflect and be inspired by Lifes2Short, a heartfelt theatre performance that reminds us to embrace life’s unexpected moments.

Thompson Family Funerals
No Bookings Required, $20 entry

StokeSafe Talk

October 29 | 10:00am StrokeSafe speakers deliver engaging, life‑saving talks that explain what stroke is, how to recognise the F.A.S.T. signs, and what to do in an emergency.

Castlemaine Community House Bookings Required Click here to register

Good Grief Lounge – Embracing Joy

November 14 | 11:00am
Join Lucy Mayes for a conversation, followed by music, singalong and movement with Close To The Bones and Silvertops dancers. Enjoy a relaxed morning of connection, music and community, with homemade tea provided.

Northern Arts Hotel, 359 Barker St, Castlemaine.
$10 Entry Fee
No booking required

Click here to download the full brochure!

Keep an eye out for special offers, activities and programming from local businesses and Friends of Castlemaine Community House, including Shedshaker Brewery & Taproom. Throughout October, seniors can enjoy a special seniors menu!