Mannix House students from Salesian College took to the stage, staff and family members at the Sunbury aged care home showed off their singing and dancing, and residents shared their creative talents.

With a string of awards, including People’s Choice and Rising Star, up for grabs, there was also plenty of friendly competition, home manager Michelle Magundayao said.

“It was a lovely opportunity for all the generations to get together, have fun, and for our residents to connect with their local community and show themselves and others that they have talents they can contribute too.”

“Everyone was so excited and had such a good time.”

Resident Jack, who delivered a standup comedy routine from his wheelchair, won the Rising Star award; Mannix House picked up the solo award as well as the group award for their sing-along rendition of Sweet Caroline; and a staff member’s daughter was the overall winner and People’s Choice with a stunning jazz dance routine.

Mannix House Coordinator Bethany Lapsley said it was also special occasion for the students, who arrived with letters, friendship bracelets and other gifts for residents.

“Mannix House has adopted Calvary Goonawarra as its house charity,” Ms Lapsley said. “This week the house has been celebrating Feast Week, which is dedicated to imbuing personal and community spirit in the students and providing the opportunity to reach out to connect with others.”

This is the second year of the burgeoning partnership which sees students visiting the home to spend time with residents, and residents visiting the school.