THE Hastings Senior Citizens Club is inviting new members to join them for a friendly cuppa and a wide range of social activities.
Known for its welcoming atmosphere and packed calendar of events, the group is encouraging local retirees and senior citizens to stop by and see what’s on offer.
From craft to carpet bowls, board games, jigsaw mornings, card games, chair exercises and speaking about current affairs, the club has something for everyone.
“You don’t have to come with anyone or know anyone – just show up and we’ll make you feel at home,” club spokesperson Dianne Ashton said, adding if anyone had trouble accessing transport, they would gladly organise a community bus for $2.
In even more exciting news, the club is celebrating confirmation that its original home will undergo long-awaited preliminary works to spruce up the building, thanks to a $50,000 investment from the Mornington Peninsula Shire.
Its home at the Senior Learning Hub in Herring St has been closed for the past three years following building issues, leaving the Hastings Senior Citizens Club to temporarily use a space at the Hastings RSL.
Mayor Cr Anthony Marsh announced the news, with the funding to be spent on fixing drainage issues and removing contaminated walls and floor linings throughout the building.
“We hope to complete this work by the end of September, which will allow it to dry out over the summer period,” he said.
“Removing the wall and floor linings will allow the project team to confirm the full scope of works required to fix the building.”
Marsh added a further budget submission would be put forward for consideration in the 2026–27 budget, that would seek funding for the full rectification of the building so that it can be reopened.
“I want to thank the Senior Citizens and U3A for their patience and understanding as we work through this process,” he said.
Marsh said in the meantime, the shire would explore options for the club to use part of the former Hastings Club building at 155 Marine Pde to run their activities.
Ashton said the closure of their original home had been a worrying time for members and warmly welcomed the preliminary works. They were also enthusiastic and grateful for an interim move.
“This decision by council has literally saved our club,” she said.
“We were delighted to share the news with our members. Our thanks go to council and a special thank you to our hard-working councillor Michael Stevens who has supported our group along our difficult journey.”
The club also thanked the Hastings RSL for their support and for the use of their facilities.
Ashton said it was a huge relief to have the opportunity to move to the former Hastings Club building where they “finally have somewhere to conduct our club as it should be”.
She said the club was hopeful of moving in by as early as August.
Membership is only $5 per year. Activities are $2.
For more information, contact club president John Kelly on 5909 8012.
First published in the Western Port News – 30 July 2025
