THE Victorian Seniors Festival is bigger and better in its 40th year, with the State Government supporting the statewide event to celebrate older Victorians with the theme, Takin’ it easy.

Disability, Ageing and Carers minister, Mr Colin Brooks, has announced details of the 2022 Seniors Festival, which will feature in-person and online events including concerts, dancing, sport, history talks, and tours.

The Victorian Seniors Festival, which has been boosted by an extra $400,000 in funding this year, is an integral part of the government’s support for older Victorians by empowering connection, creating opportunities to socialise, and nurturing wellbeing.

“Victoria’s seniors make an invaluable contribution to our community and the Seniors Festival is a chance to say thank you for all they do,” Mr Brooks said.

Victoria is home to more than 1.5 million older Victorians, and this year 79 local businesses, organisations and councils will help deliver activities in every corner of the state.

The theme, Takin’ it easy, focuses on creating accessible and comfortable spaces, both in-person and online, to ensure our seniors feel relaxed while easing back into events and participating in the activities.

Building on the success of the previous Victorian Seniors Festivals, this year’s events will include First Nations performances, entertainment from multicultural artists, and online and radio programs.

The Country Concert series will take the festival fun on the road to 26 regional towns, and the Aged Care Tour will be performing for aged care residents with music and magicians from September to December.

To ensure Victorians can make the most of the festival, Victorian Seniors Card holders can access free travel on public transport services, such as the regional bus service to and from Hamilton.

The free travel period is from October 2-9 and includes V/Line services.

Some V/Line services, such as the V/Line train to and from Warrnambool, require a reservation. Bookings for trips that require reservations open on Tuesday, September 6.

More information can be found online at seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/free-travel

Information pamphlets can be found at Coles stores, local councils, libraries and community organisations, or the online calendar at seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/victorian-seniors-festival