Bengali Association of Victoria, first launched the BAV Seniors group in 2013 to facilitate Bengali Senior Citizen get-togethers. This was kicked off with the aid of a Positive Ageing Grant from the City of Monash and its Monash Council.

Once the COVID-19 pandemic was under control and Victorian lockdowns were eased, a face-to-face meeting was held at Jells Park on 22nd March 2021. This meeting was attended enthusiastically by Senior Citizens, including few returning expats who were quite glad to be able to reconnect with their community. There was broad consensus to continue and elaborate the activities of this group through periodic meetings and social activities. Since that meeting in March 2021, BAV Seniors have met regularly.

Through BAV’s numerous interaction with Monash Council Grants Program, BAV has been granted the use of the space at Glen Waverly Community Centre (GWCC) primarily for use of seniors, for 3 years at this time (2024- 2026).

It is worthwhile to note that BAV Seniors is not a separate organisation. It is guided and governed by the RULES FOR THE BENGALI ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA. The activities and priorities of this group are deliberated by a BAV sub-committee (known as BAV Seniors Core-Group) chaired by the Senior Citizen Convener, a member of the BAV Executive Committee.

Currently, BAV Seniors manage to meet every fortnight with a presentation on a specific topic by either a guest or member speaker; and sometimes just for adda, garam cha and snacks. These activities are communicated though various channels, namely, WhatsApp group for seniors, BAV website, and at times via emails.

Please come along and make it a wonderful platform to meet !