MORE than 70 seniors converged on the Dubbo City Council building to hear tips on how to stay safe on the roads and in their own homes.
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Visitors from as far as Gilgandra and Wellington were among those who attended yesterday's Safe Seniors Forum, organised by Dubbo City Council road safety officer Jayne Bleechmore.
Mrs Bleechmore, who presented an address on pedestrian safety, said she was "ecstatic" at the large turnout.
"Despite it being a miserable day weatherwise, people obviously realise it's a huge opportunity to catch up with so many experts in one place," she said.
Wellington resident Robyn Hubbard said the forum was an ideal refresher on road safety, and she was looking forward to the section about roundabouts.
Orana Local Area Command Crime Prevention Officer Ian Burns spoke about safety in the home, imparting some useful tips.
"Things such as installing sensor lights, reducing the vegetation around your home so intruders can't hide in it, putting deadlocks on front and back doors and using security screens," he said.
Police also did presentations on the legalities of gopher use and the top 10 misunderstood road rules.
Meanwhile visitor Frank Shea put his gopher through its paces on an obstacle course made up of witches' hats.
Also included in the line-up to deliver presentations were Gary Carter from sponsor NRMA Motoring and Services and Lourdes Hospital and Community Health representatives who spoke about the Stepping On program.
Dubbo City Council staff also delivered presentations on disability permits and road environment management, while exercise advocate Kathy Furney was also called on to speak to participants.
A representative from Service NSW offered advice on older driver licensing and other services.
Community Services Coordinator Christy White from Wellington Council said the day was a wonderful opportunity for seniors to access a wealth of strategies to help themselves stay safe.
"Knowledge is power," she said.