In a week filled with celebrations and community connection, ICOPE (Iluka Community Organisation Planning for Emergencies) hosted two distinct events that brought residents from Iluka and Woombah together.
Kicking off the celebrations was the Seniors Festival Week morning tea held on Thursday, March 14 which was funded by Headspace, NSW Health and ICOPE.
This event was a resounding success, drawing a diverse crowd eager to participate in a morning of reflection and connection.
Attendees were treated to speeches from guest speakers Jane Bysher, Ian Russell, John Maclean, and Ele Hoskins who shared their life stories with Year 6 students from Iluka Public School, Principal Phil Bradmore, and members of the Iluka and Woombah communities, fostering intergenerational dialogue and understanding.
The event was further enhanced by performances of the Iluka Choir, whose rendition of a few classic songs captivated the audience.
Everyone present enjoyed a delightful morning tea provided by The Freshwater Kitchen.
Following the success of the Seniors morning tea, the community celebrations continued with the Field of Friends community party on the evening of Saturday, March 16.
While not part of Seniors Festival Week, this independent event organised by ICOPE served as another opportunity for community members to come together and celebrate.
The event attracted a good crowd despite the rain, with attendees of all ages gathering to enjoy an evening of music, dance, and food.
Once again, the Iluka Choir graced the crowd with their incredible performances, joined by the talented Iluka Ukuleles.
The tunes of ‘Pistol Whip’ kept the dance floor alive throughout the night, as attendees enjoyed the company of friends and neighbours. Service and emergency groups, including Iluka RFS, Iluka Woombah Rotary, the Red Cross, Iluka Emporium and Marine Rescue, were on hand to give vital information about volunteering and disaster preparedness.
Katie Connelly from Iluka Massage and Health provided attendees with relaxing massages, while I Scream ice cream delighted everyone with their ice-cream creations. The evening also included a free BBQ.
This event was generously funded by the Yulgilbar Foundation and the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal.
As residents reflect on the two events, they are reminded of the importance of coming together to celebrate shared values and experiences.
ICOPE’s commitment to fostering connections and promoting well-being within the Iluka and Woombah communities is at the heart of everything the community group undertakes.
For more information about ICOPE and future events, please visit icope.net.au, email icope2466@gmail.com or call 0498 219 846.