Michael Costanzo and his friends have been playing cards in the base of the rotunda at Edinburgh Gardens 6 days a week for over 40 years.

"We have a great time. We don't play for money, we just like to play cards and spend time together."

The card group was started in Fitzroy North by Michael's late father, Giovanni, who lived on Reid Street.

This year, the group has been relocated from the rotunda to the Emely Baker Centre in the gardens.

"The rotunda is made of solid concrete – it is cold, dusty and has no running water. Our new room is much better – it is warm in the winter and it's much easier to sweep and keep clean. We have a bathroom to use now instead of walking to the public toilets in the gardens. We can even make a hot coffee or tea which we couldn't do before!"

Read more about community activities we provide for older people in Yarra.