There’s a lot to do in 2026

THERE will be no excuses for boredom in 2026 with plenty of activities, groups to join, and volunteering opportunities for all interests and ages.

Take your pick from arts and crafts, gardening, physical activities or lending a hand in the community.

Heathcote Community House offers interest groups, special events and is a Services Australia agency. Activities include Chair Yoga, Zumba, walking, Writing for All and Chatty Community Craft.

Volunteers help to prepare food for the Food Relief Meal program and new volunteers are always welcome.

The community house is a great go-to place for information.

If staff and volunteers don’t know, they will do their best to point you in the direction of someone who does.

“Our program for 2026 will include all the same activities as we had this year,” said executive officer Vicki Forde.

“As well as regular group we are also a Services Australia Agency and we offer photocopying and internet use.

“Returning in 2026 will be the Zucchini Festival and our Multicultural Festival.”

Heathcote has strong support from committed volunteers throughout the community, but more are always needed. SES Heathcote Unit and Heathcote Fire Brigade welcome volunteers to help in emergency situations.

Training is provided and there are a range of different ways volunteers can help.

Contact community safety officer Evan Pritchard at [email protected] or call 0417 178 658 for the fire brigade or unit controller Darren on 0419 516 414 on ways you can help the SES.

Heathcote Lions Club began in 1971 and is active in fundraising and many areas in the community. The Heathcote Lions Bush Market is held on the first Saturday of each month at Barrack Reserve.

For more information about joining or Lions Club activities, contact Greg Spiers on 0408 332 235.

The Heathcote Craft Group meets every Tuesday morning from 9am to 2pm at the RSL Hall. New members are always welcome. For further information contact president Jan Rowe on 0417 526 339.

Pallings Poetry and Musings meets on the first Sunday of every month, except January, at palling Bros Brewery to perform the spoken word. Previously known as Pizza Box Poets, everyone is welcome. Sessions start at 4pm.

The Australian Plants Society Heathcote meets on the second Tuesday each month at 7pm, at the Senior Citizens’ Hall, 121 High Street at Heathcote.

Meetings include guest speakers and light refreshments and for further information, contact [email protected].

U3A is part of a world-wide movement where retired and semi-retired people can enjoy a range of activities from yoga, writing and singing to gardening, movies and current affairs.

Membership fees are $50 per person, or $80 per couple, annually.

For the musically inclined Heathcote Ukulele Group (H.U.G.) meets regularly and performs at local events.

Look for their Facebook page for further information or contact Amanda[email protected].