What is BSOL?
Brisbane Seniors OnLine (BSOL) is a voluntary, not-for-profit organisation set up to help the over fifties navigate the maze of computers and the internet.Organisational Structure
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide seniors of the Greater Brisbane area with training and support in using computers and related digital technologies.
The Hubs
To simplify the administration of mentors and learners, we have divided our coverage area into ten geographical areas (hubs), each of them under the control of a hub coordinator. To see a list of the hubs, or to contact a particular hub coordinator, please visit the Contact page. Within each hub, we cater both for PC and Apple Mac users. The map below shows the approximate hub boundaries. Note that in a recent change, the Central Hub no longer administers any home learners but purely covers our City Training Centre.
If you would like to download a more detailed pdf version of the map, please click here.
How It Started
The establishment of Brisbane Seniors Online Inc. is a great example of how, with the energy and enthusiasm of dedicated people, a very appropriate solution can be found to an important issue.The issue of computerisation and the pace of technological change is making life increasingly difficult for many older adults. Many older people found that existing computer courses were not suitable for them, particularly when they found themselves in classes filled with younger people.
In February 2000, a group of older people met in Mt Gravatt, some with computers skills, and others who wanted to learn. Over the next year, individuals and government workers worked hard to develop the group into a viable organisation with a legal entity.
In May 2001, a small newspaper article in the Courier Mail attracted 50 new mentors and extra assistance for the Committee. Brisbane City Council provided funds to conduct training for BSOL mentors and a facilitator to assist the preparatory Management Committee in getting organised.
On the 28 July 2001, BSOL held its first AGM and the management committee was formalised. Centrelink kindly donated money to purchase office equipment and the Brisbane City Council agreed to give BSOL office space in the City Hall. From there we have grown into a major computer training facility with over 3,500 seniors having benefited from the scheme.
The History of Brisbane Seniors OnLine
