Party bus full of aged care residents steals the show at Cairns festival

Cairns residents proved age is no barrier to fun when they joined the Cairns Festival Grand Street Parade on 30 August – making history as the first aged care float in the region’s biggest community event.

General Manager Fiona Lawson wanted to find a bold and creative way to showcase the vibrant spirit of her home. Her idea was to transform the Cairns Party Bus into a colourful float, branded with the slogan “Never Too Old to Party” in line with this year’s festival theme, “Young at Heart.”

“Last year I noticed floats from disability services and NDIS providers, but none from aged care,” said Fiona. “I knew our residents would love being part of the fun, and what better way to challenge perceptions of aged care than by getting out and dancing in the streets!”

The Party Bus pumped out golden oldies as residents, team members and their families danced in branded party shirts. Children joined in the fun dressed up as ‘little oldies,’ bringing plenty of laughter from the crowd. The float’s energy and cheeky party spirit made it one of the most talked-about highlights of the night.

Resident Hana summed up her participation best: “It made me feel alive!”

The Cairns Festival, founded in 1962 and delivered annually by Cairns Regional Council, is renowned for its dazzling display of music, colour and community spirit. The Grand Parade lights up the Esplanade with floats, dancers, marching bands, giant puppets and fireworks, drawing thousands of spectators each year.

“The response from the crowd to our float was incredible – so many cheers!” Ms Lawson added. “To be the first ever aged care float in the parade was truly amazing – and I think we definitely gave aged care a new look when the song ‘Sex Bomb’ started playing!”

By stepping outside the box, Edge Hill Orchards not only brought joy to residents but also helped reshape the community’s view of aged care – proving once again that you are never too old to party.