Vera Cook

You would be hard pressed to believe Vera Cook is a day over 60. Yet, not so long ago this vibrant lady turned 90 years old.

Vera is held in high esteem at YMCA Northcote and Aquatic Centre, holding the title of the centre’s oldest member. In celebration of her wonderful achievement, the Centre Manager, Ashley Bartholomew, presented Vera with beautiful pink orchids.

A keen swimmer and walker throughout her teenage years, Vera attends the YMCA twice a week to participate in PrYme Aqua. PrYme Aqua is a gentle aqua aerobics class for people over 50 years of age seeking to maintain fitness, strength and enhance joint mobility.

The classes, accompanied by music and an enthusiastic instructor, include a range of movements that assist with daily functional living tasks. Vera is a firm believer that regular attendance at aqua aerobics increases her ability to get more out of life and retain her independence. This includes spending quality time with her 2 grandchildren and great grandchild, walking, gardening, and housework.

Not only do the classes help Vera to stay fit and mobile, she also enjoys catching up for with instructor Frances Scarrott-Goold and her large group of fellow exercise buddies. PrYme Aqua is very well attended, with more than 30 participants per class.

Vera, who has been attending the centre for the past 15 years, always looks forward to the aqua aerobics classes on a Monday and Friday.

"The people in the class are so lovely, we really get along and support one another," she said.

The YMCA Northcote and Aquatic Centre has a comprehensive fitness program for people over 50. The affordable PrYme membership entitles older adults to a range of specialised classes and gym workouts, together with the opportunity to make new friends. Interested PrYme members can get involved in programs for the disadvantaged, by helping out with activities such as bus trips, sports days, sausage sizzles and stalls.

For more information about PrYme, please contact Frances Scarrot-Goold, PrYme Program Coordinator, on 9486 7200 or visit YMCA Northcote and Aquatic Centre