Byron seniors dancing to a different drum at Christmas bash

Paul Bibby

It’s official: Byron’s seniors rock.

Well, that’s certainly an apt description of the nearly 50 older locals who took part in an epic drum and dance circle at the Beef and Beach restaurant in Byron Bay on December 3.

Among the drummers were two 98-year-olds, Nina Mirza and ‘Feather’, both of whom were in the thick of the action.

‘It was such a joy to see our fantastic group of seniors and volunteers getting excited about the luncheon,’ Byron Community Centre activities co-ordinator Pippy Wardell said.

‘Watching our drumming group perform in the restaurant was nothing less than spectacular.’

Having drummed up a storm, the performers enjoyed a well-earned Christmas lunch provided for free by Beef and Beach.

‘It was so inspiring to see our senior citizens bucking the trend and keeping active and social in the community,’ the restaurant’s owner Troy Lister said.

‘I thought it would be great to have all the drummers in and then shout them a really nice Christmas lunch, they definitely deserve to be appreciated, he said.’

The Byron Community Centre runs a weekly program for seniors which aims to connect older residents and create a sense of belonging.

Activities include seniors’ drumming, chair yoga, a choir, ukulele classes and a morning tea.

‘The Byron Community Centre’s seniors’ program aims to foster a sense of belonging and community connection for older people,” Ms Wardell said.

For more information about the Byron Community Centre’s seniors’ activities visit https://byroncentre.com.au/community/seniors-activities/