Positive Ageing Reference Group (PARG)

The Positive Ageing Reference Group is made up of a cross-section of older adults in Monash. As a member, you’ll provide valuable insights, share your experiences and collaborate with like-minded individuals to influence programs and services that enhance the quality of life for older adults.

The group is interested in positive and active ageing, active retirement, healthy living and social connections.

Members provide feedback to Council on its policies, plans and services. They also provide advice to Council on communication, engagement and consultation with older people, and help Council in promoting the benefits of positive and active ageing.

The group has been involved in activities such as:

  • Seniors Festival
  • Positive Ageing Expo
  • Monash by Bike
  • Wiser Walkers Pedestrian Safety
  • Wiser Driver Program
  • Mature-age driver refresher lessons
  • Places to Rest

Terms of Reference

For more information, please read:

Positive Ageing Reference Group - Terms of Reference(PDF, 285KB)

Membership

Background

At its 10 December 2024 meeting, Council noted the resignation of Marlene Bottrell from the Positive Ageing Reference Group. Additionally, 3 members - Elaine Ford, Shi Qin Gao and Jennifer Sheppard completed their tenure. Council thanked them for their valuable contribution.

At its 22 October 2024 meeting Council:

1. Endorsed the appointment of the following individuals to the Positive Ageing Reference Group (PARG) in accordance with the current Terms of Reference:

  • Community Members – 2 years: Marged Goode, Eddie Hu, Caroline Perry, Antionette Renaut.
  • Industry Members – 1 year: Pari Balsara-Mistry, Jacinta Jarutis, Eva Kladou, Matthew Pase.

2. Extended the terms of the following community members for an additional 2 years, concluding in November 2026: 

  • Pam Brown
  • Ian Bjorkman

3. Acknowledged Annette Anakotta, Marlene Bottrell, Elaine Ford, Qin Shi Guo, Mark Learmonth, Udesh Kamher, Constantine Mandalis, Selliah Nalliah, Jennifer Shepherd, Robert Taylor, Phillip Terry, Irene Triroulis and Andrea Whitty for their contribution to the PARG.

2022 - 2023

At its 19 December 2023 meeting, Council noted the resignation of Annette Anakotta, Mark Learmonth, Phil Terry, Irene Trirouzis and Robert Taylor from the Positive Ageing Reference Group.

At its 13 December 2022 meeting, Council:

  • Noted the resignation of the following representatives and thanks them for their valuable contribution: Andrea Whitty from the Positive Ageing Reference Group and the sad passing of Betty Wilderman from the Positive Ageing Reference Group. 
  • Endorsed the appointment of Selliah Nalliah, Pam Brown, Udesh Kumar, Robert Taylor and Ian Bjorkman to the Positive Ageing Reference Group.