Queensland's half-a-million seniors will have a reason to celebrate during Seniors Week from August 14-22.  Member for Barron River Steve Wettenhall said 3 organisations in Barron River would share in $3,000 to support activities that dispelled common myths and stereotypes about older people and instead celebrated their positive contributions.

"Community organisations in Barron River are planning some fantastic events and programs for local seniors," Mr Wettenhall said.

"This Queensland-wide celebration is a great opportunity for Queenslanders of all ages and backgrounds to get together and celebrate seniors.

"Activities include book launches, workshops, concerts, art and craft displays, achievement awards, joint events with primary pupils and even a Seniors Big Day Out.

"Importantly, the activities will involve people of all ages and backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and people with diverse cultural and linguistic origins."

"I encourage local seniors to host their own Seniors Week events. It can be as simple as a morning tea or as big as a talent show.

"No action is too small when it comes to raising awareness and challenging stereotypes."

Seniors week activities in planned for Barron River include:
• Marlin Coast Neighbourhood Centre is holding an Information Expo
• St John's Community Care Redlynch will have a 'Sharing Culture and Community' day and
• Kuranda Neighbourhood Centre is hosting a morning tea

Mr Wettenhall said Seniors Week was celebration of seniors and the great contribution they have made and continued to make in our community.

"We know seniors give so much to life in Queensland," he said. "That's we released Positively Ageless earlier this year.

"It's a whole-of-government seniors strategy that contains a two year action plan that recognises seniors needs and their contributions to our communities.

"We've also increased discounts that can be accessed by seniors and pensioners in our latest budget." "These include a total QLD Government Budget increase of $12.6 million to increase rebates on power bills for eligible pensioners from $190 to $216 a year. Pensioners on the South East Queensland Water Grid can also now access an increased water subsidy rebate, up from $70 to $100."
 
For more information about Seniors Week events visit www.seniors.qld.gov.au or call 1300 135 500.