Finding Friendship, Fun, and Connection: Join the Tuesday Club in 2026

At The Place: Charlestown Community Centre, there’s always room at the table and it’s never too late to make new friends.

Every Tuesday morning, laughter fills the air at The Place Charlestown Community Centre. Inside the hall, conversations flow easily as friends catch up over morning tea, music hums in the background, and the sound of cheerful chatter signals that the Tuesday Club: Inclusive Connections is in full swing.

For more than four decades, the Tuesday Club has been a cornerstone of community life in Charlestown: a welcoming, social group for seniors who want to stay active, connected, and involved. What began as a small gathering of women has grown into a vibrant, inclusive program that now embraces men, gender-diverse, culturally diverse, and intergenerational participants thanks to a grant from the NSW Government.

More than just a club, it’s a community.

At its heart, the Tuesday Club is about friendship and belonging. Each week offers something new: from creative workshops, guest speakers, and live entertainment to trivia, cultural days, and wellbeing activities. Members share stories, learn together, and support one another through the ups and downs of life.

“Tuesday Club is the highlight of my week,” says Janet, who has been attending for many years. “It’s more than a social group; it’s a real friendship. We laugh, we learn, and we look out for each other.”

For many participants, especially those living alone or adjusting to changes later in life, the club provides an important anchor; a reason to get out of the house, connect with others, and stay engaged. Research shows that regular social interaction can help reduce isolation, support mental health, and even improve memory and overall wellbeing.

Staying active and involved

In 2025, more than 40 activities were delivered through the Tuesday Club. Sessions have included everything from cultural appreciation days and intergenerational digital trivia with local students, to talks from community organisations such as Hunter Women’s Centre and Lake Macquarie Marine Rescue.

Members also give back to the wider community through small fundraising projects and charity drives supporting Nova for Women and Children, the Cancer Council, and The Place’s own Kindness Cupboard. As one member put it, “It feels good to still be part of something and to make a difference, even in small ways.”

A space for everyone

The beauty of the Tuesday Club lies in its diversity. Whether you’re new to the area, recently retired, or simply looking for companionship, there’s a place for you. The group welcomes all seniors who want to stay socially connected and enjoy a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

“We’ve seen people come in feeling nervous or shy at first,” says coordinator Zoe Newman. “But within a few weeks, they’re laughing, sharing stories, and enjoying their time with new friends. It’s amazing how quickly friendships form when people feel welcomed and valued.”

Looking ahead to 2026

The club’s plans for 2026 include new guest speakers, creative workshops, and wellbeing sessions focused on keeping both mind and body active. There’s also growing collaboration with local schools and community groups to bring younger and older generations together, sharing skills, wisdom, and plenty of laughter along the way.

If you’re looking to make new friends, try something different, and stay active in a warm, supportive environment, the Tuesday Club is the perfect place to start.

Come for the cuppa, stay for the company and discover how connection can brighten every Tuesday.

Charlestown Square Tuesday Club: Inclusive Connections

📅 Every Tuesday morning during school terms

📍 The Place: Charlestown Community Centre

☎️ For details or to join: (02) 40325500 or visit www.theplacecharlestown.org.au