The second WellAhead open day, led by Northern Health on October 24, brought people together for a half-day of wellness activities.
Eighteen participants including community members, health professionals and local leaders attended the event which was hosted by Whittlesea U3A which runs programs for residents over the age of 50.
The event was themed around Deepavali, the festival of light, and was opened by former mayor, Cr Martin Taylor, who said the initiative plays an important role in community health.
“The City of Whittlesea is proud to support events and programs such as this… providing opportunities for our diverse community to benefit,” said Cr Taylor.
Northern Health said its WellAhead program was originally developed for people with cancer but has since expanded to supporting carers as well as those with mental health challenges and people with chronic conditions.
“WellAhead integrates evidence-based practices such as chair yoga… and guided meditation,” a Northern Health spokesperson said.
“These activities foster relaxation… resilience, and… social connection… essential pillars of holistic wellbeing.”
The chair of U3A Australia, Glen Wall, said the program demonstrates how collaboration between organisations can deliver better health and wellbeing for older people.
Mr Wall said the program promotes lifelong learning opportunities for older Australians, and is particularly important for those who are isolated.
The divisional director of medicine and cancer services at Northern Health, Bec van de Paverd, said cancer risk increases with age, so events like this are critical.
“Nearly one in two Australians will face a diagnosis by 85, driven by an aging population and growth,“ she said.
The next WellAhead open day is scheduled for 20 February 2026, coinciding with Chinese New Year celebrations.
