Community groups across the region are being encouraged to be a part of the next Flourishing on the Fleurieu Festival.

Held every two years, the festival celebrates active ageing. It involves a program of events that showcase the many opportunities available for people to get involved in their local community and connect with others.

Maintaining social connections can become harder as people get older and this has become increasingly difficult since the COVID-19 pandemic. Loneliness is a real issue for many older people living in Fleurieu communities. 

Addressing the challenge of loneliness requires a whole-of-community approach and everyone has a role to play. 

The Flourishing on the Fleurieu Festival encourages community groups to think about the valuable contribution they make and how they can reach out to people who may be experiencing loneliness within their community.

Following the postponement of the Festival in 2020 due to COVID-19, the 2021 Flourishing on the Fleurieu Festival will take place over two weeks from 17 to 30 April 2021. 

Community groups based in Alexandrina, Victor Harbor, Yankalilla and Kangaroo Island council areas are invited to take part in the festival by hosting an event or activity that aims to encourage new people to join in.

The Southern Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island Positive Ageing Taskforce is offering grants to small community-based groups to assist in hosting an event during the festival. 

Hosting an event is a great opportunity to showcase the group and inspire older people to get involved.

Flourishing on the Fleurieu Festival grants are now open for applications. The closing date is Wednesday 23 December 2020.

Grant guidelines and application forms are available online or via email request. Alternatively, paper copies can be collected from local council offices.