Country music to end 2025 West Wimmera Seniors Festival
Published on 31 October 2025
West Wimmera Shire Council has wrapped up its 2025 Seniors Festival with a country music concert at Apsley.
The month-long celebration was dedicated to the contributions and achievements of seniors in the shire.
The festival offered a diverse program of activities, events, and performances, including bus trips, sheep dog demonstrations and live music.
Country music performer Kevin Sporer closed out the 2025 Seniors Festival with a performance at Apsley Hall on Thursday.
Attendees enjoyed a light lunch served by students from Apsley Primary School before Kevin took to the stage, performing classics from Johnny Cash, the Everly Brothers, and other iconic artists.
Council Chief Executive Officer David Bezuidenhout said it had been a wonderful month for West Wimmera seniors, allowing people from across the shire to come together.
“The festival has highlighted the vital role seniors play in our community,” he said.
“Events like the Kevin Sporer concert show the importance of bringing people together and creating memorable experiences.
“We thank all participants, volunteers, and partners for helping make the 2025 seniors festival such a success.”
The festival kicked off on 3 October when members of the Edenhope Men’s Shed and the Grampians Health Edenhope Day Centre visited Portland.
Participants toured the Port of Portland and the Alcoa Aluminium Smelter, gaining insight into the region’s industrial and maritime history.
On 9 October, Kaniva hosted the Muster Dogs showcase, attracting more than 200 people.
Helen McDonald, Kim Dodson, and Rob Tuncks shared stories from the hit ABC series Muster Dogs, highlighting the remarkable bonds between trainers and their dogs.
The day included a Q&A session and working dog demonstrations featuring sheep, goats, and cattle.
On 15 October, members of the Harrow, Kaniva, and Goroke Men’s Sheds visited Rupanyup, exploring the Rupanyup Men’s Shed, the Woods Museum, and the Murtoa Stick Shed.
Council announced Serviceton’s Les Milliken as its 2025 Senior Citizen of the Year at a seniors concert in Kaniva on 21 October.
This was followed by the Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly Tribute Show, featuring Rick Gauci and Steven Burns.
Mr Bezuidenhout said it had been great to see seniors getting out, having fun, and connecting with each other.
“That’s what makes the seniors festival so special,” he said.
West Wimmera Shire Council acknowledges the funding support of the Victorian Government and the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing in delivering this year’s festival.