There is a new facility in Orange that’s all about promoting active ageing with a full schedule of events available.

UPA Community Centre have created a new space which includes a gym, an art studio, a music room, a library, a café, massage therapy, The Shed and so much more. 

The centre is located at 199 March Street, as an extension of Ascott Gardens, and everybody in the community are welcome to attend, however most of the classes are tailored for people who are over 55 years old.

UPA Community Centre Manager, Nicole Gill, says this new centre is so important to the community.

“There is nothing else like it in Orange, particularly for those aged over 55, that is focused on wellness and active ageing.

“The program is completed individualised and it is all about complete wellness. It is all about creating a space for socialisation as well,” said Nicole.

The centre has already seen some great results and it is really helping people to continue to live independently.

“We have had incredible feedback. We have had one woman who was in a wheelchair who can actually stand on her own and now we are working on her upper body strength but also maintaining muscle in her legs. We also have a man who has been doing Tai Chi for a while now, he was with a wheelie walker and now he can walk independently,” said Nicole.

The centre is also an important hub for socialising and Nicole says that this is an important part of peoples wellbeing. 

“There are a lot of people in the community who are very isolated, and they don’t realise how important it is to stay active physically but also socially. That is why we have specific groups like our Men’s Shed, women are allowed as well on a couple of days, and that is any age group. Once men get to a certain age group they don’t socialise. Our Men’s Shed is purpose built so anyone who is in a wheelchair or not able to mobilise very well, it has a flat surface, but we also have a care worker availability every group if somebody needs assistance,” said Nicole.

There is something for everyone so why not head along and give it a go. Here is a list of just some of their events. On Monday you can enjoy Tai Chi at 10am, then again at 11.15, then in the afternoon The Shed Men’s Group is open form 12-3pm. On Tuesday Women for a Cause meet at 10am then from 10-12pm enjoy an Art class. On Wednesday enjoy Chair Yoga from 9-10am, Physio from 9-10am, Physio class from 10-11am, Open Gym from 11-12.30pm, The Shed Men’s Group from 1-3pm then Music Therapy from 1-2pm. On Thursday come try Relaxation/Mindfulness from 9-10am and Bowen Therapy by appointment. On Friday you can enjoy Massage Therapy by appointment.

If you would like to come check out the facility or even try a class you can call Nicole on 6361 3322. Carers or supporters are also welcome to attend the classes to provide support.