PRESS RELEASE - 18 August 2000 - for immediate release

PRESTIGIOUS AWARD FOR "MAKING THE MOST OF LIFE"

On Thursday, 17th August, 2000 at the Annual Sport and Recreation Awards Dinner, it was announced that COUNCIL ON THE AGEING, VICTORIA won the prestigious MINISTER FOR SPORT AND RECREATION AWARD for "outstanding contribution to the industry by an individual, organization or partnership", for their MAKING THE MOST OF LIFE EVENT - with it's focus on positive ageing, the contribution older people make to their community and the innovative programme presented annually.

"MAKING THE MOST OF LIFE is all about active participation in all facets of recreation and leisure by older people in the community. With Australia's population getting older, and not being replaced by younger Australians in number, our country needs fit, active and healthy older Australians. Through MAKING THE MOST OF LIFE, we aim to highlight and continually present older persons opportunities for involvement in their community," said Event Organizer, MARG MCLEAN. "The event presents exhibitors across a broad range of interests such as sport, craft, music, travel, tourism, table games, computers, collectables, motoring, horticulture, art, photography, dance, conservation, environment, social clubs, community service clubs - all the leisure pursuits that interested everyone when they were teenagers, plus many more that are now available in the community."

Each year special guests attend the event, and previous guests and celebrities include Weg, current on-air Presenters from Magic 693, Australian Girls Choir, Joy Murphy - Elder of the Wurundjeri Tribe, Senior Citizen of the current year, Minister for Sport and Recreation, Minister for Community Health and the Opening Ceremony of Celebration is held in the presence of His Excellency The Governor of Victoria. It is a FREE event for both exhibitors and patrons.

Congratulations to all those involved with the event, the exhibitors, volunteer helpers and officials, the COTA team of staff and the Event Organizer, Marg McLean. This event is in its 11th successful year. Make a note in your diary to come with your friends on Thursday, October 12th, 2000, 10am to 4pm to the ROYAL EXHIBITION BUILDINGS, MELBOURNE and join in the fun.

This event belongs to all the over 50's. DON'T MISS IT!