Sometimes it seems as if we’ve spent our whole lives working. Now we’re at an age when we feel like slowing down, it’s time to dip back into our bucket list and do the things we love.
1. Arts and crafts
If it’s been decades since you picked up a paintbrush, crocheted or played with découpage, now’s the time to see if you still have your skills. In the Sutherland Shire, you’ll find many opportunities to explore leisure activities.
Where to find arts and crafts courses
The St George and Sutherland Community College (SGSCC) has a range of leisure activities, from cooking (bread-making, Thai food), photography for beginners, painting and drawing to fiction writing and sewing. See, too, our article, ‘Art for all ages’.
2. Exercise
As we age, exercise isn’t something we should give up. Disciplines like yoga and Pilates can not only keep our bones strong but will also reduce your risk of falls. And if you aren’t a fan of group activity, then you can go for a daily walk to maintain your fitness levels.
Where to find exercise opportunities
The St George and Sutherland Community College has a range of fitness classes to suit everyone. You might also find low-cost or free classes at your nearest community centre. The Sutherland leisure centres also run aqua classes for seniors.
3. Singing
If you couldn’t sing when you were younger, we’re not suggesting that you should start warbling now. It might upset the neighbours! However, if you could carry a tune but your voice is cracked from disuse, singing is excellent for breathing, and can also release pain-relieving endorphins.
Where to find singing opportunities
The Gymea and Community Aid & Information Service Inc. runs a number of programs, one of which is Gymea Community Singers. The singers meet on Tuesday afternoons during school term. Get in touch with Kalpna Patel to find out more: Kalpna.patel@gcais.ngo.org.au
4. Exploring nature
With our proximity to beautiful bushland and coastal walks, it seems a shame that most of us rarely visit.
Where to find nature-exploring opportunities
The Royal National Park ‒ Sutherland Shire is right on our doorstep and you’ll find plenty of nature walks that range from easy to more challenging. The Cronulla Beach walking track is a perennial favourite while visiting the Bundeena-Maianbar area offers a chance to get close to the bush.
5. Adventure travel by train
Most of us might think of the Rocky Mountains, the famous Hue to Da Nang train in Vietnam or the Glacier Express in Switzerland. But right on our doorstep, the trip to Wollongong rivals some of the best, with bushland opening to spectacular coastal views. Likewise, Sydney to Newcastle by train is a trip to remember. And let’s not forget our own luxury train adventure on The Ghan.
Where to find rail travel opportunities
Head to Sutherland Station to pick up a train that runs to Kiama, Berry and Bomaderry or head to Central Station to connect with the Newcastle train. For overseas and luxury rail travel, you might find it easier to head to your local travel agent or go online for a rail specialist such as TravelMarvel.
6. Learning about and drinking fine wine
A wine appreciation course will change the way you look at and drink wine.
Where to find wine appreciation opportunities
The SGSCC offers wine appreciation courses throughout the year.
Berry on the South coast offers food and wine tours that leave from the Shoalhaven area. For more convenience, Noble Transfers and Tours run regular tours and will pick you up from Sutherland Shire or your accommodation in Berry.
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