November 13, 2025A celebration of light, healing, and community took centre stage at the second WellAhead Open Day, held at Whittlesea U3A and funded by Whittlesea Council. The event, themed around Deepavali, welcomed 18 participants to a half-day program of free wellness activities designed to support cancer patients, individuals facing mental health challenges, those living with chronic conditions, and their carers.
The day was officially opened by Cr. Martin Taylor, Mayor of Whittlesea, who was joined by health and community leaders including Associate Professor Angela Yang (RMIT), Glen Wall (Chair, U3A Australia), and senior representatives from Northern Health, GenesisCare and DPV Health.
Participants engaged in a series of restorative sessions including sound bath therapy, chair yoga, card making, qigong, and guided meditation, each aimed at promoting relaxation, emotional resilience, and social connection.
The incorporation of Deepawali into the activities created a serene atmosphere, allowing participants to begin the day in a peaceful state. The day allowed participants to connect with others and the activities provided were an excellent way to relax and unwind.
“It was soothing and inspiring—quite transformative,” said one participant after the sound bath session.
“I truly appreciated the time spent and the opportunity to learn practical techniques we can integrate into our daily lives,” added a third.
“Meeting other people was the highlight of my day,” shared another.
The WellAhead program, co-designed with consumers, is part of a broader initiative to bring holistic care into the community. It aligns with the City of Whittlesea’s 2040 Vision, supporting goals of social cohesion, health, and active participation.
Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the activities as “very relevant” and expressing a strong desire to recommend the program to others. As one participant said, ” I feel hope for our consumers that they will be able to access such nurturing and self-compassionate support through the Wellahead offerings.”
By partnering with organisations like Whittlesea U3A, the program ensures inclusive outreach to seniors and culturally diverse communities, making wellness accessible beyond hospital walls.
For more information about the WellAhead program, visit https://www.nh.org.au/wellahead
Main image shows participants embracing the calming flow of Qigong at the WellAhead Open Day. Qigong is a gentle practice that nurtures mind-body balance, reduces stress, and supports wellbeing for those navigating cancer recovery and mental health challenges.
