With support from VicHealth through the Audience Access Scheme, the Geelong Performing Arts Centre worked with the Surf Coast Shire so that older, isolated people outside Geelong could attend the centre’s series of Musical Mornings.

The popular concert series, which has included favourites like My Fair Lady and the Peter Allen Songbook, is an ideal way to engage people in the community who don’t usually attend arts events because they are isolated or lack money or transport.

The Centre, the Shire and service clubs worked togther to make this happen: the Shire's Meals on Wheels staff identified socially isolated people, the Shire bought the tickets and provided buses, service club volunteers drove the buses, the Centre paid for the petrol, and a low-cost lunch was provided.

The Geelong Performing Arts Centre also recognised that the limited mobility of some of the attendees affected their confidence in participating in other activities at the centre.

By partnering with a local organisation called CREATE, which specialises in training people who are long-term unemployed, it was able to give many students practical experience in supporting older people with walking/moving difficulties. People attending the performances have benefited greatly from this extra support.

“Art n About values the contribution that social and cultural activities make to community wellbeing and a well-rounded society. It’s great that we can offer this exciting opportunity for our citizens to get together.”
– Surf Coast Mayor, Cr Beth Davidson