“I stay young at heart…because I just am” stated Sutherland Shire Councillor Tom Croucher in the latest short film developed by Sutherland Shire Council to celebrate International Day of Older People.

Young@Heart, a short film that celebrates the lives of 15 inspirational Sutherland Shire residents, will be launched on Friday 5 October.

The film features interviews with some of Sutherland Shire’s seniors who believe that getting older doesn’t mean you are ‘old’.

The film includes stories from a centenarian, a philanthropist, Citizen of the Year, Miss National Australia, an Indigenous elder and other valued community members.

“You will hear first-hand just how these 15 residents are challenging stereotypes of ‘old age’ and are living life their way,” said Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Carmelo Pesce.

“The stars of this film demonstrate that ageing can be what you make of it, by staying active and living life to the fullest.

“Everyone in this film has a great sense of community and I am sure those who watch it will feel inspired to stay active as they get older so that they too will always feel ‘young@heart’.”

The film has some powerful messages to inspire us all. Elaine Reynolds from Sutherland was thrilled to be a part of the film as it allowed her to tell her unique story.

“I have dementia, and I feel that by challenging yourself to new and different things you create new pathways in the brain which helps keep your mind active,” said Mrs Reynolds.

“Every day I face the day with positive thoughts and believe in living and enjoying every precious moment.”

Ruth Gardner from Cronulla is a volunteer who loves meeting new people and keeping busy learning new skills.

“I was 65 when I learnt how to use a computer, and at 88 I still love using it to make my own cards for family and friends, it keeps my life interesting!” said Mrs Gardner.

“I stay young at heart…because I just am” stated Sutherland Shire Councillor Tom Croucher in the latest short film developed by Sutherland Shire Council to celebrate International Day of Older People.

Young@Heart, a short film that celebrates the lives of 15 inspirational Sutherland Shire residents, will be launched at an opening night fit for Hollywood on Friday 5 October 2018.

The film features interviews with some of Sutherland Shire’s seniors who believe that getting older doesn’t mean you’re ‘old’.

The film includes stories from a centenarian, a philanthropist, Citizen of the Year, Miss National Australia, an Aboriginal Elder and other valued community members.

“You will hear first-hand just how these 15 residents are challenging stereotypes of ‘old age’ and are living life their way,” said Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Carmelo Pesce.

“The stars of this film demonstrate that aging can be what you make of it, by staying active and living life to the fullest.

“Everyone in this film has a great sense of community and I am sure those who watch it will feel inspired to stay active as they get older so that they too will always feel ‘young@heart’.”

The film has some powerful messages to inspire us all. Elaine Reynolds from Sutherland was thrilled to be a part of the film as it allowed her to tell her unique story.

“I have dementia, and I feel that by challenging yourself to new and different things you create new pathways in the brain which helps keep your mind active”, said Mrs Reynolds.

“Every day I face the day with positive thoughts and believe in living and enjoying every precious moment.”

Ruth Gardner from Cronulla is a volunteer who loves meeting new people and keeping busy learning new skills.

“I was 65 when I learnt how to use a computer, and at 88 I still love using it to make my own cards for family and friends, it keeps my life interesting!” said Mrs Gardner.

23 per cent of Sutherland Shire residents are over 60 years.

“This is our opportunity to acknowledge the important contribution our seniors make to our community,” added Mayor Pesce.

You can attend the launch of Sutherland Shire Young@Heart, at GU Cinema, 2 Cronulla Street, Cronulla, after which you can enjoy a compilation of short films.