Cowboy hats, scarves and guitars: seniors get groove on at music festival

The Sambell Singers belted out a rousing rendition of ‘These Boots Are Made for Walking’ when they took to the stage at the Melba Spiegeltent in Collingwood during the recent Leaps and Bounds Music Festival.

Residents of the Brotherhood’s residential care homes– Sumner House and Sambell Lodge – joined seniors from all over the City of Yarra in Melbourne at the event.

The revellers enjoyed a free concert by crooners Rob Snarski and Mikelangelo. Seniors were invited to take to the stage, and ours were among those who eagerly accepted the chance to perform under lights of the historic and spectacular venue. The Sambell Singers, formed especially for the occasion, include Sambell Lodge residents, staff and volunteers.

On guitar and lead vocals was Beth Barker, a local musician who volunteers in our recreation program. Backing her up on vocals were fellow rec team volunteer Rebecca, and rec staffer Corinna, as well as residents Olive and Beverley, donning cowboy hats, scarves and even a lei (Hawaiian garland of flowers).

Resident Graeme showed off his musical talents, singing an original tune he wrote with another local musician, Tim Haines. The pair go by the name The Darbies and they did a haunting tune called The Outsider. And everyone took part in singalongs throughout the afternoon and enjoyed a scone or two.

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