Celebrate seniors in West Wimmera

Published on 07 August 2025

West Wimmera Shire Council will celebrate the 2025 Victorian Seniors Festival with a series of free community events, beginning with a special Muster Dogs showcase.

The event at the Kaniva Recreation Reserve will be on October 9 from 10:30am. It will feature guest speakers Helen McDonald, Jack Kennedy, Kim Dodson and Rob Tuncks from the hit ABC series Muster Dogs.

They will share stories from the show, talk about their experiences working with dogs, and reflect on the strong bonds formed with their canine partners.

After lunch, each guest will take part in a live sheep dog trial, showcasing their dogs' impressive herding skills.

West Wimmera Shire Council Chief Executive Officer David Bezuidenhout said it was an all-ages event, not just for seniors.

“Bringing the Muster Dogs team to West Wimmera will be an exciting drawcard,” he said.

Food and drinks will be available for purchase, including coffee, hot food, sandwiches and sweets from the Kaniva-Leeor United Catering Committee and Big Guys Pizza.

Official Muster Dogs merchandise will also be available.

The Seniors Festival celebrations continue on Tuesday 21 October with a seniors concert at the Kaniva Shire Hall.

The event begins at 1:30pm and will include the announcement of the 2025 West Wimmera Senior Citizen of the Year.

This will be followed by the Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly Tribute Show, featuring Rick Gauci and Steven Burns.

Afternoon tea will be served following the concert.

Tickets can be booked via Eventbrite at https://bit.ly/WWSCSeniors2025.

Rounding out the month, country music performer Kevin Sporer will perform at Apsley Hall on Thursday 30 October.

A light lunch will be provided from 12 noon, with the concert beginning at 1:00pm.

With more than four decades of experience and an induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, Kevin will bring his heartfelt sound and stage presence to this special event.

Although the event is free, bookings should be made by calling Council or via Eventbrite at https://bit.ly/WWSCKevinSporer.

Mr Bezuidenhout said the program was a great opportunity to recognise and celebrate older residents.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our seniors to come together and enjoy themselves in a vibrant and welcoming environment," he said.

For further information or assistance with transport to any of the events, call West Wimmera Shire Council on 13 99 72.

West Wimmera Shire Council acknowledges the support of the Victorian Government’s 2025 Seniors Festival Active Living Program for funding the Muster Dogs and Kevin Sporer events, and the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing for supporting the Seniors Concert.