The life skills, wisdom and knowledge of Goulburn's eldest were named as central themes of celebration at the 2022 Seniors Festival opening ceremony.
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Winners of the Senior of the Year award and Senior Community Group of the Year award were also announced at the ceremony which took place on Monday, March 28.
While COVID-19 still cast somewhat of a shadow over this year's ceremony, resulting in some absentees and the exchange of one big cake for individual cupcakes, the room was filled with hardworking and committed seniors.
Also in attendance were Cr Daniel Strickland and Cr Carol Jones who filled in for mayor Peter Walker who was unable to make the ceremony.
Cr Daniel Strickland had the honour of announcing the winners of this year's awards.
Miriam Lockwood was awarded the prestigious Senior of the Year award with Colleen Cooper named as runner-up.
Ms Lockwood has been a devoted volunteer within the Goulburn community for more than 25 years. She has given her time and energy to a range of causes including Waminda Aged Care, Breast Cancer Support Group and St John's Oncology Unit.
Ms Lockwood was described as a loving, caring lady who showed compassion and concern for all.
She said she was surprised and honoured to have received the award.
"I love Goulburn and I thank you all very much," she said.
The Senior Community Group of the Year award was taken out by Garry and Robyne White from the History Goulburn Research Team. Legacy Lodge Committee was named as runner-up.
Mr and Mrs White have been the backbone of the Goulburn historical scene for nearly 40 years. They have devoted their time to the research and archiving of local history. They have built valuable registers, research tools and have shared their knowledge with students, researchers, archaeologists, documentary makers, developers and many others.
They were described as quiet achievers whose work encouraged tourists from near and far to visit Goulburn and discover its roots.
Mr White said he encouraged everyone to get involved with some kind of community activity as they entered retirement.
"If I hadn't started something like this after retiring, I don't know if I'd be here today," he said.
During Cr Jones' address she spoke of Goulburn's richness and the variety it offered to seniors and youth alike.
Previous Senior of the Year award winner, Senior Constable Barbara Beard, agreed with Cr Jones explaining how she did not like hearing young people say there's nothing to do in Goulburn.
"I've loved my role as a police officer and I've loved helping children and I hope I've got a few years left in me still," she said.
Attendees also enjoyed a performance by Goulburn Regional Ukulele Band (GRUB) and an inspiring presentation from Luke Wallace and local youth on the Youth Mentoring Program.
The program is designed for young people who want to make a difference in their community.
For Goulburn's seniors there will be a variety of activities taking place throughout the week to continue the celebration.
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