Shedshaker Brewing is hosting a very special evening of song and art on Wednesday October 29 to raise money to help Castlemaine Safe Space address elder abuse in the region.
The night of fun and entertainment will get underway at 7pm and all money raised will go towards supporting Castlemaine Safe Space to raise awareness of the issue of elder abuse in the community.
According to Victoria Police data, elder abuse is on the rise in Victoria, with more than 6,000 reports of elder abuse in the year to March 2024. This includes a 32 per cent rise in family violence affecting those 65 and over during the last five years, with psychological and financial abuse the most common types reported.
The night will feature live entertainment by talented local Australian Folk Music Awards 2025 finalist Archer and renowned local band Crosswind.
Archer is a regionally based folk/country/blues singer who is no stranger to the Taproom. His ethereal voice and old-timey approach to songs have earned him a popular following. He enjoys playing monthly gigs at Arcare Castlemaine and various other nursing homes and helping residents relive the songs of their youth.
Crosswind is a locally based band that wanders from bluegrass to folk, classic rock‘n’roll to jazz in their musical stylings while boasting solid rhythms, tasty solos and four-part harmonies.
Local Seniors advocate and one of the event organisers, Sam Crassweller said that she was keen to celebrate the role that seniors play in our community.
“Seniors are revered in many cultures, but in Australia, there seems to have been a shift and this negativity about Seniors and their ability to embrace new technologies etc. We want to break down these stereotypes, combat ageism in the workplace and wider community, and encourage younger generations to take a fresh look at what our ageing community can offer,” she said.
The night will feature silent auctions of donated artworks, with all proceeds going to Castlemaine Safe Space.
The fundraiser will also celebrate Seniors Month, which runs all of October.
Castlemaine Safe Space working group member Helen Dewhurst said they are incredibly grateful to Shedshaker and the wonderful musicians for making the event possible.
Entry is $10 on the night or by donation.
