The Northern Rivers Times
February 22, 2024!!!
52 SENIORS & HEALTH NEWS
Embracing Wisdom: The 2024 Byron Seniors Festival Celebrates Community and Connection Prepare for a heartwarming celebration as Byron Community Centre hosts the highly anticipated 2024 Byron Seniors Festival from March 11th to 15th. Themed ‘Reach Beyond’, this annual festival promises an exciting week of enriching activities, captivating performances and interactive workshops. “I’m thrilled to be
organising the Byron Seniors Festival, driven by the belief that our older generation is an essential part of the Byron Bay community,” says Izzy Durbin, Festival Coordinator. “In a world that’s constantly evolving, championing the support and nurturing of seniors has never been more crucial.” Seniors will be treated to diverse experiences
designed to inspire, connect and entertain. Whether it’s Art, Drumming, Afro Dance, Drama or Computer Club, there’s something for everyone at this vibrant festival. An inspiring Art Exhibition will be on display throughout the week in the foyers of the community centre. On March 13th, the Byron Seniors Festival Luncheon with
Pippy Wardell, Seniors Festival Coordinator
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Carers NSW will offer delicious cuisine and a chance to connect, followed by a film screening of ‘The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’ at Byron Theatre. A special Seniors Showcase on March 14th will feature a variety performance by our talented seniors. “This festival is about creating moments of connection, new experiences and, most
importantly, having fun together,” adds Izzy. All of the festival workshops and events will be held at the Byron Community Centre and Theatre, at 69 Jonson Street in Byron Bay. The Byron Seniors Festival is a celebration of life, creativity and community, inviting seniors to embrace new experiences and foster connections. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary
opportunity to Reach Beyond and make cherished memories. For more information and to register for the 2024 Byron Seniors Festival please visit: www. byronseniorsfestival. com. Contact Festival Coordinator Izzy Durbin at (02) 6685 6807 or seniors@byroncentre. com.au.
Afro Dance - Byron Seniors
CRYPTOSPORIDIOSIS ALERT FOR NEW SOUTH WALES Following a significant rise in cryptosporidiosis cases statewide, NSW Health advises the community to refrain from swimming for at least two weeks after experiencing diarrhoea. Dr. Jeremy McAnulty, Executive Director of Health Protection NSW, revealed that 498 cases of cryptosporidiosis have been reported in NSW so far in 2024, compared to the 5-year average of 95 cases for the same period. Cryptosporidiosis is a diarrhoeal disease caused by the parasite Cryptosporidium, commonly affecting young children and manifesting symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fever, headache, and loss of appetite. Dr. McAnulty emphasized the need for heightened awareness and precautions among parents, as nearly half of the reported cases
involve children under ten years old. The parasite is typically contracted by ingesting water contaminated with Cryptosporidium parasites, which can survive for extended periods even in chlorinated pools. To mitigate the risk of transmission, individuals who have experienced diarrhoea are advised to refrain from swimming and sharing towels for at least two weeks after symptoms resolve,
and to avoid handling food for 48 hours thereafter. Children with diarrhoea should be kept home from preschool, childcare, or playgroup until 24 hours after symptoms cease completely. To prevent cryptosporidiosis, the public is urged to avoid swimming in estuaries, inland waterways, and ocean beaches during and after heavy rainfall, as well as to refrain from swallowing water
while swimming. Additionally, thorough handwashing with soap and water, avoiding untreated water sources, and boiling water before consumption are recommended preventive measures. The surge in cases has also been observed in Queensland, with further information available at https://www. health.qld.gov.au. For additional details on cryptosporidiosis, visit the NSW Health website.
