Elderly take to skies at Senior Citizen Luncheon
Local seniors were treated to helicopter rides and pampering during the fourth annual Senior Citizen Luncheon in Orange Farm.
Senior citizens took to the skies for the first time when the Sekgome Resort surprised them with helicopter rides during the fourth annual senior citizen luncheon held at Doornkuil Sweet Water in Orange Farm on October 25.
The seniors were from various old-age homes and clubs in Eldorado Park, Ennerdale, Westbury, Orange Farm and surrounding areas.
The luncheon, organised by the Duze family, celebrates the wisdom and resilience of seniors. The organisers aim to offer them a day of relaxation, entertainment and appreciation.
Description: Senior citizen prepares to board the helicopter
Caption: Three seniors prepare for their first helicopter ride.
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Upon arrival, guests enjoyed breakfast before being pampered with haircuts by Eldos Legends Barber and massages by Lulama’s Beauty Spa.
The resort also served lunch and dessert, while musical mixes from Mongani Manyisa, who also donated fruit to the seniors, entertained the guests.
Catherine Kane from Eldorado Park was among the seniors who gathered for the celebration. Smiling, she shared how much the day meant to her.
“This place is nice today. It is my second time here; I came last year, and it was as lovely. The people are nice, everything is nice, and I know the food will be nice,” she said with a laugh.
Catherine said she did not go on a helicopter ride but found joy in simpler experiences.
“I cut my hair; it was so nice. The young boy who helped me was so gentle.”
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Event organiser Yolanda Duze said they partnered with various sponsors to bring something new and exciting to this year’s luncheon.
“This year, we partnered with Maziya Group Helicopter to provide free helicopter rides for our elderly guests. Some flew for the first time, and now they can tick that off their life experience list,” said Duze.
The Maziya Group sponsored half of the helicopter rides for 100 elderly people.
She added that most sponsors and volunteers were from the community and wanted to honour their seniors.
Duze thanked everyone who contributed, saying the event would not have been the same without their support.
While many seniors enjoyed their first flight, others vowed never to ride in a helicopter again, saying it was scary.
