The dust has just settled on an excellent and exciting event where 76 seniors (participants) were invited to #try1thing at the SRCWA Seniors Tech Expo Friday 18th October 2019, part of the world wide movement “Get on Line Week” 14-20 October, held in the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries building in Leederville Western Australia.
Through the Good Things Foundation we were fortunate enough to secure a Be Connected Grant which enabled SRCWA to run a very successful event.
The Expo was officially opened at 10.00am by Hon Pierre Yang MLC Legislative Council Government Whip and Labor Member for South Metro. Thank You for your support Pierre
There were 12 exhibitors on hand to help and advise those in attendance, they included:
• Telstra – 5g what it means and Telstra Platinum 24 x 7 support for your device.
• Camera Electronic – Cameras, accessories and options for seniors planning a trip, why cameras may be a better option than mobile phones
• Trails WA – How to digitally plan your trips to and along one of the many trails throughout Western Australia.
• Be Connected Network Partner SRCWA TSS – log on and learn more about using the Be Connected free learning resources.
• Independent Living Centre WA – Technology Advice, Aids, and Options for seniors with a disability.
• Consumer Protection WA – your rights with electronic items SCAMS and how to avoid them.
• Guardian Safety Pendants – Pendants with a built-in mobile phone and fall detection to help elderly stay at home longer
• NBN Australia – What is the state of the internet infrastructure at your address what are the options.
• Robot Buddy – how robots are helping people in care and supported care at home remain active.
• Have a Go News – Digital editions and how to view them.
• Silver Chain Group VR – Google Earth VR demo and virtual experiences.
• Wikimedia Australia – How seniors can contribute to and be a part of the world largest online encyclopedia.
In addition to the above statics we had Luke Walsh from Bank West who was on hand to talk to seniors about the merits and issue of online banking.
Each exhibitor gave a short presentation on their products and services and how they help seniors in their day to day life, then participants were invited to #try1thing. On trying one thing participants received an entry into the draw to win a $100 gift card. The winner Renate was very appreciative of her prize and had visited the Smart Care Silver Chain stand where she was able to visit her childhood home in Meriden via Google Earth in a virtual environment.
Participants were treated to a healthy and delicious lunch as well as tea coffee and water at the event.
Our grateful thanks go to the organisations and government departments who supported this event which helped introduce and encouraged the participants to the wonders of being online.
A big thank you to the SRCWA staff and volunteers who worked very hard to facilitate this event.
This event would not have been possible without the support we received from Be Connected and the Good Things Foundation Australia.