In “the ultimate intergenerational collaboration”, the Alexandra Blossom Festival is inviting mobility scooter riders to ride their scooters - decorated by teenagers - in the Contact Alexandra Blossom Festival Grand Parade on September 27.

Even seniors without a mobility scooter can join the fun, as festival organisers have partnered with Ted Clouston, a 92-year-old local scooter business owner, to help provide a small fleet of wheels for the occasion.

Ted - who attended the first Blossom Festival in 1957 - said he already had a group of scooter enthusiasts ready to go.

“Everyone I’ve spoken to is dead keen,’ he said.

It was over a decade since Ted last took part in the Grand Parade, and he was looking forward to cruising the street again - albeit on a very different ride to previous years, he said.

Festival event manager Martin McPherson said the idea was about community, creativity and bringing the generations together - as well as “a bit of fun’’.

“Imagine a squad of mobility scooters driving in a flying ‘V’ formation down Centennial Ave, all decked out in blossoms thanks to the youngsters - it will be magnificent,’’ he said.

Martin was keen to hear from rest homes and senior clubs, as well as students, keen to get involved.

“Whether you're a senior keen to cruise or a student with a bit of flair, this is your chance to roll through Alexandra in style,” he said.

Students would be rewarded with free entry to the Contact Party in the Park, and festival organisers will shout them lunch, Martin said. 

Contact Martin ([email protected]) to get rolling or decorating.  

Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]