The Elders Olympics works towards uniting indigenous, and non-indigenous elders from the surrounding Wiradjuri country, and is aimed at athletes over 50 years of age.

The games will feature age and disability inclusive events, modified sporting activities and traditional Aboriginal hunting activities.

Central West Aboriginal Home and Community Care development officer Sandra Kilby said nerves had started to kick in. 

“It’s only the first one, so we’re pretty anxious to see how it will go,” she laughed.

“We’re very excited, though, we’d love to eventually have a games against the more northern competition, which gets upward of 500 people.”

Ms Kilby said the games were about more than fun and good natured competition.

“With teams coming from Mt Druitt all the way to Orange it’s a great opportunity to get together, socialise and have some fun, but also to talk about the real issues of health and respect within our communities,” she said.

Throughout the day Orange Aboriginal Medical Service will be taking elders’ blood pressures and talking about the importance of keeping healthy and active as they get older.

Ms Kilby also believes the elders of the region have a lot to offer the community and, as such, the theme for the games is “Teaching Respect”.

“We can all learn from their experiences,” Ms Kilby said.

“The health aspect is also very important. It gives everyone the chance to learn a bit more about getting that bit of exercise in each day, and keeping fit and healthy. We can’t wait.”