Positive Living and Ageing Well June/July 2024 by The Adviser

QUALITY TIME… Pictured is Bernie Dullard of Shepparton East with his grandson Levi Williamson at Orrvale Auskick enjoying a kick of the footy. Photo: Emma Harrop

Our Community

Ageing Well

Older People in Greater Shepparton

LIVING WELL, EVERY SEASON PAGE 25

LIFE BEGINS AT 50! PAGE 26

WINTER CLASSIC BEEF STEW PAGE 27

It is estimated that by 2036 the number of people aged over 60 will increase to 21,785, accounting for 26% of the total population in Greater Shepparton.

Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2016 and 2021

Older person households (aged 65 years or older)

EMPOWERMENT THROUGH REPAIR AT LOCAL COMMUNITY HUB PAGE 28

SENIOR LIVING PAGE 36

THE DISCOUNT PHARMACY WITH A FRIENDLY FEEL PAGE 32

AGED CARE SERVICES PAGE 34

HOW DO I LIVE AN ACTIVE, FULFILLING + FINANCIALLY SECURE LIFE IN RETIREMENT? PAGE 30

OPEN PAGE 40+41 DON’T LET LOVED ONES WALK ALONE PAGE 38 FROM ELDERS’ HANDS TO FUTURE HEARTS PAGE 42 A BOND BEYOND SIGHT PAGE 43

WELL AND GET MOVING PAGE 39

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2016 and 2021. .id (informed decisions)

In Victoria, individuals aged 60 years and above are recognised as ‘seniors,’ while First Nations People are considered seniors from the age of 50 and above.

Our Community

Living well, every season: A guide to health, happiness, and connection

Older People in Greater Shepparton

IT IS estimated that by 2036 the number of people aged over 60 will increase to 21,785, accounting for 26% of the total population in Greater Shepparton.

SOURCE: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2016 and 2021. .id (informed decisions) Community People in Greater Shepparton

people are over 60

It is estimated that by 2036 the number of people aged over 60 will increase to 21,785, accounting for 26% of the total population in Greater Shepparton.

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2016 and 2021 .id (informed decisions)

Older person households (aged 65 years or older)

to disability

estimated that by 2036 the number of people aged over 60 will increase to 21,785, accounting the total population in Greater Shepparton.

Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2016 and 2021 decisions)

person households (aged 65 years or older)

WINTER’S frosty touch might have arrived, but your zest for life doesn’t have to follow suit. This special winter edition of the Living & Ageing Well newsletter is your personal guide to a season brimming with possibilities.

We’ll equip you with strategies to

stay active and engaged, untangle the intricacies of aged care options and where to turn if you have concerns, and even share tips for creating unforgettable memories with grandchildren these winter school holidays and beyond. Let’s turn those shorter days into a chance to connect, explore and rediscover the joy of winter living.

Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2016 and 2021. decisions)

individuals aged 60 years and above are recognised as ‘seniors,’ while First Nations considered seniors from the age of 50 and above.

Victorian Ageing Well Action Plan

Various

With your local Finer Fruit fresh fruit & vegetable savings.

SAVE a further 10% off already great prices 7 days (excludes specials) You are what you eat!

Just present your seniors card for great savings!

OPEN 7 DAYS

35 Vaughan Street, SHEPPARTON P: 5831 1378

of Greater Shepparton households speak a language other than English

Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2016 and 2021. In Victoria, individuals aged 60 years and above are recognised as ‘seniors,’ while

YouWedreamcreate

Stephens Jewellers are proud to be celebrating our 30th year of serving the community of Greater Shepparton.

Over that time, we have helped many generations of families find the perfect solution for their unique Jewellery needs be that the creation of special milestone pieces or careful restoration of a treasured family heirlooms.

We live in a very dynamic global environment where communication and technology advances enable us to access innovation and inspiration at the touch of a button.

Stephens Jewellers design team combine our Global resources with the latest CAD technology to produce the finest Diamond and Precious Stone set jewellery. However, our attention to detail and working with you to bring your dreams to life will always remain the focus of what we create for you our valued clients. Please contact us today to arrange an obligation free consultation for your jewellery repair, restoration, or remodelling needs.

Australian

Life begins at 50!

EMBRACE a new chapter at Lifestyle Shepparton, where life is lived on your terms, filled with unparalleled joy and fulfilment. This welcoming community feels like a luxurious retreat, making every day feel like a holiday.

Imagine making a tree change to this rural haven, nestled near the scenic Goulburn River. This safe and secure community for the over-50s offers homeowners a serene lifestyle with everything at their doorstep. Picture waking up each day in a picturesque setting with the freedom to enjoy social connections, pursue new hobbies, and live without the burdens of a highmaintenance home.

Since the first home was sold nearly 12 years ago, Lifestyle Shepparton has become a highly sought-after place to live. The community features an indoor and outdoor pool, a tennis court, croquet and bowling greens, a cinema, and abundant hobby spaces. These amenities provide the perfect backdrop for an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Homes are competitively priced for both singles and couples, and

the land-lease arrangement means no stamp duty, council, or water rates – just a weekly resort fee to maintain these fabulous resort-style facilities.

Beyond our luxurious community, Shepparton itself offers a vibrant array of attractions and activities. Enjoy the local arts and culture scene with galleries and theatres, explore the beautiful natural parks and river trails, or indulge in the fresh produce and culinary delights at the farmers' markets and local eateries. Shepparton offers the perfect blend of urban amenities and country charm, making it an ideal place to call home.

Discover how you can start living life unlimited at Lifestyle Shepparton – where life truly begins at 50. For more information or to arrange a private tour, contact Lifestyle Communities on 1300 50 55 60.

have plenty of time

simply embrace all of your new

enjoy our fabulous

Empowerment through repair at

IN the heart of the community, Mooroopna Education & Activity Centre (MEAC) and its dedicated volunteers are on a mission to infuse joy and purpose into the lives of our residents. From invigorating health and wellness sessions to the rhythm of dance, social gatherings, crafty endeavours, and more, MEAC is a vibrant hub where friendships flourish and new experiences await.

MEAC is currently striving to establish a Repair

local community hub

Cafe, offering locals the opportunity to enjoy a cup of coffee while having their broken items—items they might otherwise discard or leave unused— repaired, all while gaining new skills along the way.

In a world where throwaway culture prevails, Repair Cafes offer a beacon of sustainability and community spirit.

Are you a master of mending? Whether you can stitch up a storm, breathe life back into a tired bicycle, or coax a broken clock back to tick-tocking,

exceptional care at AMCAL Shepparton

MEAC would love to hear from you.

Together, you’ll not only mend items, but also pass on the joy of craftsmanship to people in the community and future generations.

To become part of this heartwarming initiative or to discover more about the countless delights MEAC has to offer, visit their website meac.com.au, like them on Facebook or Instagram, phone (03) 5825 1774, or simply drop by 23 Alexandra St, Mooroopna, any weekday from 9am to 3pm.

CONNECT, GROW, LEARN... Mooroopna Education & Activity Centre is a hub where locals thrive, learn new skills and connect with the community in enjoyable and uplifting ways. It runs various programs, such as the 9.30am Thursday art class, and MEAC’s

Kim, Jane, Robyn, Evelyn, Lesley

Mel. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

Heather Dunn

valued volunteers

The discount pharmacy with a friendly feel

A DISCOUNT pharmacy doesn’t have to mean a discount on personal service. That is the belief of Anwar Ahmad and his friendly team at Direct Chemist Outlet (DCO).

Even though they have a discount model DCO, is a communityoriented pharmacy where staff know customers by name and greet them with smiling faces. Patients don't need to wait for hours for their scripts to be filled, they are quick and get the job done in a few minutes. Customers get quick service with discounted prices in a friendly environment.

DCO offers walk-in vaccinations, Webster packs, free delivery and a senior discount of 5 per cent. With two hours parking out the back and an abundance of space, they are the perfect location for senior members of the community to fill their scripts and save on cosmetics, skincare, perfumes, vitamins, and gift lines. Come and experience their personalised service at 248-250 Wyndham Street, Shepparton, open 9am – 6pm Monday to Friday and Saturday 9am – 2pm, or call them at (03) 5822 2000.

Owner Anwar and Di. Photo by: Emma Harrop

Your libraries are located in Avenel, Cobram, Euroa, Mooroopna, Nagambie, Nathalia, Numurkah, Shepparton, Tatura, Violet Town and Yarrawonga, and the Mobile Library visiting our smaller communities.

Juno Massage Chair | Harvey Norman Furniture Indulge

Driving safely?

Do you struggle to see while driving, especially at night?

Have you had your Macular checked?

Ageing Well

Navigating aged care services

Q&A with Jacinta Kennedy, Aged Care Coordinator at Wyndham House Clinic

Q. I'm looking at aged care services for myself or someone else. What are some things I need to consider?

the patient, collecting information to manage the appropriate care of residents.

Q. How does your role work in the broader scheme of aged care services?

According to Optometry Australia's 2020 Vision Index, 20% of drivers find themselves squinting while driving during the day, increasing to 27% at night. This is a large concern as throughout the winter months, we spend an increased amount of time in the dark.

22% of Australians stated they squint to see better while driving at night. Don’t let poor eye sight get in the way of your safety on the road. Get your eyes checked today.

Early diagnosis is crucial to the success of age-related Macular Degeneration. Call us to book an appointment today.

Book an appointment by phone or online.

First you need to register with My Aged Care. Consider the level of care needed and specific health and personal needs. It's also essential to understand the services available for the resident and their family. Wyndham House Clinic provides care for over 200 residents across Greater Shepparton and Karinya Aged Care in Numurkah, with the added benefit of my role as Aged Care Coordinator, helping people and their families navigate this chapter and making it a smooth transition.

Q. How can an Aged Care Coordinator assist those looking at aged care?

Early diagnosis is crucial to the success of age-related Macular Degeneration. Call us to book an appointment today.

Talk to the team at Graham Hill Eyecare to discuss options that can help you see clearly whilst driving, no matter the season.

Book an appointment by phone or online.

98 Maude St Shepparton | 5821 2811 www.hilleyecare.com

hilleyecare.com.au

98 Maude St Shepparton | 5821 2811 www.hilleyecare.com

hilleyecare.com.au

I assist with registration, including documentation, which is often complicated and confronting, easing some of the angst caused by these requirements. I explain information, helping patients and families understand conditions, investigations, treatments, and decision-making. I also work with GPs, acting as a channel between the aged care facility, GPs, and

I am able to connect people with specific aged care services that meet their needs, including Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS), Transition Care Program (TCP), Residential In-Reach (RIR) Shepparton, and many others. I assist new GPs joining our clinic who are unfamiliar with the Australian healthcare system, guiding them through working in this sector to create better outcomes. I can also facilitate telehealth reviews through the Visionflex carts, which helps reduce emergency admissions by allowing GPs to review patients faceto-face and assess them physically by monitoring vitals like pulse and blood pressure.

Q. Why do you think having a role like yours in aged care is necessary?

My role is supported by funding from Murray Primary Health Network, designed to provide support to improve outcomes for people in aged care services. My mission

is to make aged care a positive experience, ensuring that the transition into care is dignified and comfortable. I have worked in aged care for 17 years and have seen and experienced the challenges of the system up close. I hope to see this role available at all GP clinics, not just Wyndham House Clinic, so that people transitioning into care feel well-supported.

care

PEACE OF MIND... Jacinta Kennedy, Aged Care Coordinator at Wyndham House Clinic, guides people through transitioning into aged care and navigating the services available. Photo: Emma Harrop

Have issues with your aged care?

IF you support someone receiving aged care services, are receiving care yourself, or thinking about your aged care options, it is essential to know your aged care rights.

The team at Elder Rights Advocacy is here to ensure that you and your families and representatives know your aged care rights and how to assert them. We support you to make sure that your voice and opinion are heard.

We have dedicated staff across Victoria, and our service is free, confidential and independent of the government and aged care providers.

Our Intake Team can provide you with information over the phone. If your issue is more complex, we will connect you with a professional advocate who will support you in reaching an outcome that meets your needs.

We deliver free information sessions across Victoria to people receiving aged care services, their families or representatives, and the wider community, including retirement villages and seniors groups. Our group of professional advocates deliver them.

During these sessions, you will learn how to address any issues you may have

so that your care is safe, high-quality, and meets your individual needs. You'll also understand your right to quality aged care, to live without abuse and neglect, and how to access Elder Rights Advocacy support if needed.

Remember that knowledge is power. By understanding your rights and how the aged care system works, you can make informed decisions about your aged care needs and feel empowered to speak up when your rights are not being met.

Elder Rights Advocacy also provides sessions specifically for aged care workers in residential and community care. These sessions cover how to support clients and residents to access services and raise any concerns they may have. We bring the Charter of Aged Care Rights to life with practical examples of what this looks like in your daily work. We also touch on the topic of elder abuse prevention and response.

Lastly, we can connect older people receiving aged care with caring, friendly volunteers from the community for friendship and companionship.

To learn more about Elder Rights Advocacy’s services, please visit www. era.asn.au or call us on 1800 700 600.

Affordable senior living

EXCITING news from Park Lane Living retirement communities. They are thrilled to be offering their existing display home stock at ex-display prices!

This is a rare chance to purchase a virtually brand-new home at a significantly reduced price. Their ex-display homes are in Shepparton, Bendigo and Wonthaggi. Buying an ex-display home means getting a near-new residence with premium features at an unbeatable price. These homes have been meticulously maintained and showcase top-tier designs and finishes. There’s no better opportunity to secure a stunning lifestyle home affordably. Plus, with no exit or deferred management fees, it’s a win-win!

Park Lane Living, like many other communities for over 55s, follow the landlease lifestyle model of home ownership. It is a modern housing approach that challenges conventional homeownership that entails owning a unit while leasing the land it occupies, providing financial relief by exempting residents from council rates and water usage costs.

While the weekly site fee may seem daunting at first, factoring in rate and water

MHA Care is a Not for Profit organisation and your local provider of Home Care Packages.

We have been supporting individuals with their Home Care Packages since 2016 and now employ 6 Care Managers and support 230 individuals across the Moira Shire and surrounds to access services and supports through their Home Care Package.

How does it work?

At MHA Care we work with you to understand your needs and identify your goals, including the most appropriate way to support you to live a more active and independent life. Your Home Care Package funds can be used on a range of services, support and equipment that relate to your health care needs. Is there a cost?

MHA care does not charge start up or exit fees. Instead, a flat fee is charged to cover our costs. By keeping our fees as low as possible, we ensure you are able to maximise the funding available to purchase the services you need or want.

What do you need to do?

savings and potential rent assistance, the cost becomes more manageable. This stability contrasts sharply with fluctuating utility costs in traditional housing, often proving more economical than independent accommodation.

And remember, with no Deferred Management Fee (DMF), Park Lane Living doesn’t take a percentage of the sale price when homeowners decide to move. In some competing communities, a 20 per cent DMF on a $450,000 sale price would mean $90,000 deducted from the sale. At Park Lane Living, we save you this amount, ensuring all capital growth remains with the homeowner.

Affordability and transparency are core to their philosophy. Total understanding of their agreements and fees allows individuals to make informed decisions aligning with their lifestyle and financial goals, enriching their quality of life.

For more information, visit www. parklaneliving.com.au or call Donna now on 1300 300 425.

The first step to access government-funded aged care services is to check your eligibility for a face-to-face assessment. You can call the friendly and knowledgeable My Aged Care contact centre staff to talk about your needs on 1800 200 422. Or you can apply online at www.myagedcare.gov.au/assessment/apply-online. Further information can be found at www.myagedcare.gov.au/assessment. You can also call MHA Care directly on (03) 5742 1111 and ask for assistance from one of our Home Care Package Coordinators. If you would like further information on Home Care Packages please visit My Age Care

NEW HOME, NO FEES... Park Lane Living is offering stunning ex-display homes in Shepparton, Bendigo, and Wonthaggi at significantly reduced prices. This is your chance to own a practically brand-new residence with top-of-the-line features for much less. Photo: Supplied

Embrace the cold together

Winter activities for active grandparents and grandkids

WHILE supporting your children with parenting is a natural part of being a grandparent, the true magic lies in the deeper bond you can build. A relationship with your grandchildren, nurtured through communication, trust, and shared experiences, can be uniquely rewarding.

With the winter chill setting in and school holidays starting on July 1, grandparents have a fantastic opportunity to create lasting memories with their grandkids. Let's turn these frosty months into a wonderland of quality time! Here are some ideas to get you started:

Embrace the season: Embrace the crisp air and unique beauty of winter! Bundle up for an outdoor adventure together. Rug up and play a fun game in the park, go for a scenic hike and admire the changing landscapes, or explore a local nature reserve. Back home, warm up with hot drink and share stories.

Creative culinary adventures: Pass down family recipes and try baking together. This is a perfect opportunity to learn about each other's favourite sweets and create new traditions together.

Indoor fun zones: Build a blanket fort

and have a movie marathon with popcorn and hot chocolate. Unleash your creativity with arts and crafts projects or challenge each other to board games and puzzles.

Explore and learn: Plan a visit to a museum or art gallery to spark new interests. Local winter festivals and light displays offer another magical way to spend time together. You could even have a themed movie night based on a particular culture or theme the grandkids are interested in.

Remember, the most important ingredient is spending quality time together. Plan activities that both you and your grandchildren enjoy, whether it's baking, fishing, playing games, or simply cheering them on at their sports events. These shared experiences will strengthen your bond and create memories that will last a lifetime.

LiveUp is a free healthy ageing guide funded by the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care, designed to help you stay independent and socially connected as you get older.

There are lots of myths and stereotypes when it comes to getting older, but it’s proven that how we age is mostly determined by the lifestyle choices we make each day.

LiveUp is packed with impartial information and resources, helpful product suggestions, and local activities and groups to help you take charge of how you’re ageing.

AGEING with peace of mind whether it is for yourself, or a loved one is paramount. Knowing that if there is trouble, help can be on the way with the push of a button.

Empowering In-Home Care

Standby Security’s Personal Safety Devices are intelligent 4G personal alarms with GPS trackers, fall detection and two-way communication. Whether you or your loved one is at home or out and about, the PSD are small and mobile, which can be used for personal and medical help, the simple-to-use pendant with a lanyard or keyring works anywhere you are.

It is the same peace of mind Standby Security offer with all their services, from business and home alarms and patrols, or looking after you with 24/7 around-the-clock care so you have quality protection if something unfortunate happens.

To learn more about how Standby Security can protect you and your family phone 1800 809 579 or visit www.standbysecurity.com.au.

FIT AND FABULOUS... If you would like some extra motivation to get moving or some company when exercising, then the PuFF Walking Group is for you. This program facilitates a 45-minute walk around the Victoria Park Lake pathways. There is no cost involved and a qualified Aquamoves fitness instructor will help guide the walks, ensuring it is suitable for all walking levels. Photo:

Live well and get moving

STAYING fit, active and engaged in the community does not have to cost a lot. Aquamoves provide a range of opportunities to stay active and make new friends that are free or low cost, in addition to gym, group fitness and swimming facilities and classes. PUFF WALKING GROUP – Weekly, every Wednesday at 9am / FREE AQUAMOVES BEHIND THE SCENES

TOUR & COFFEE – Friday, June 20 at 9am / FREE MEN’S HEALTH PROGRAM, DISCUSSION AND CUPPA – Weekly, every Wednesday at 10am / FREE THIS GIRL CAN WOMEN’S ONLY SWIM SESSIONS – Held the first and third Sunday of the month, from 5.30pm / MEMBERS: FREE. NON-MEMBERS: ADULT $7, CONCESSION $4.30.

Aaron Cordy

Where carers can find support

The Guide has a range of useful information including healthcare options, income and asset tests, payments and allowances. Drop past my Shepparton office to grab a copy or give my office a call and I can post one to you.

Nominations open for communityfocused Senior Awards!

IT is time to recognise the contributions of older Victorians by submitting nominations for the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards, celebrating senior Victorians who share their skills, experience, time and energy with our community.

“The vast majority of older people give back to their community without asking for any accolades – but this is their time to shine,” said Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt, opening nominations this month. “I encourage Victorians to identify the inspiring older people in their lives and put them forward for well-deserved recognition.”

The vast majority of older people give back to their community without asking for any accolades – but this is their time to shine

Ingrid Stitt

There are six categories, including:Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year for outstanding contribution to local community and Victoria Promotion of Multiculturalism Award for promoting the benefits of cultural diversity

• Healthy and Active Living Award for helping create active and healthy communities

• Veteran Community Award for exceptional contributions to the

Authorised by S.Birrell, National Party of Australia, 426 Wyndham

HONOURED... Ms Robbie Rae, 71 of Violet Town in the Strathbogie Shire, was a 2023 Victorian Seniors Award recipient. Robbie is a highly respected and dedicated community member, known for her extensive volunteer work spanning over three decades. She has served as the VICSWIM Regional Coordinator for 32 years, actively supporting the Friends of the Pool Committee and promoting water safety. Robbie is also a dedicated judge for Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria (Tidy Town) and a member of various groups, including Victoria Volunteers and the CFA. Her involvement in the Violet Town Bowling Club includes organising fun and educational lawn bowls events for children. Robbie has also contributed to environmental projects, supported community festivals, and played a significant role in the Violet Town Hall Committee. Her commitment, awards, and enthusiasm for nurturing community spirit and reducing isolation make her a cherished community leader. Pictured is Victorian Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt, 2023 Victorian Seniors Award recipient Robbie Rae, and Governor of Victoria Margaret Gardner AC. Photo: Supplied

MORE THAN A GOLF CLUB

KEEP ACTIVE WHILE CATCHING UP WITH FRIENDS & FAMILY IN OUR BISTRO, BAR OR ON THE GREEN

Great holiday fun with the grandkids

Menu catering to all tastes

6 days a week for Lunch Tuesday - Sunday 12noon to 2pm

6 days a week for

Tuesday - Saturday 5.30pm to 8pm

OPEN 7 DAYS

Golf Bistro Bowls Fairway Dr, Mooroopna 5825 4135 www.mooroopnagolfclub.com.au

Golf Bistro Bowls Fairway Dr, Mooroopna 5825 4135 www.mooroopnagolfclub.com

From Elders’ hands to future hearts

A HEART-WARMING collaboration has bloomed between Rumbalara Elders Facility (REF) and Kaiela Arts. This isn’t your typical art program, but a bridge between generations weaving together stories and cultures, all fuelled by the vibrant spirit of creativity. Lyn Thorpe, a Yorta Yorta Elder and artist at Kaiela Arts, spearheaded this initiative. Her vision was to create a space where Elders could share their wisdom, laughter and life experiences with younger generations. Elders are the backbone of Indigenous communities, they are cultural knowledge keepers, grandparents, activists and leaders whose strength has ensured First Nation’s survival over many generations. Elders keep culture, Country, language, and family, strong and connected. They nurture identity, pride, wellbeing and belonging and encourage intergenerational learning. Weekly sessions at REF and visits to Kaiela Arts provide time and space for

Elders to connect, yarn, reminisce, share stories and self-determine expression through different creative mediums including painting, drawing, ceramics, crafts, photography, digital recordings, music and language. Kaiela Arts are working with the Elders to develop legacy creative works that capture

Elders are the backbone of Indigenous communities, they are cultural knowledge keepers, grandparents, activists and leaders whose strength has ensured First Nation’s survival over many generations

their important memories and stories for future generations – honouring, celebrating and expressing pride in their lives and contributions. To learn

more about Rumbalara Aboriginal CoOperative, and their services including the Elders Facility, visit rumbalara.org. au/ or phone 5820 0000.

WEAVING STORIES... Rumbalara Elders and Kaiela Arts have united, bridging generations through weekly creative sessions, sharing wisdom and preserving cultural heritage. Pictured is Aunty Doris Atkinson creating her mixed media collage artwork. Photo: Supplied

A bond beyond sight

THEY say dogs are a man’s best friend, but for Shepparton’s Peter O’Conner, who was born with Bilateral Optic Nerve Hypoplasia causing a gradual decline in eyesight, his two companion dogs provided by Guide Dogs Victoria have been more than a friend, but a lifeline with transformative impact.

In 2006, recognising the need for assistance, Peter reached out to Guide Dogs Victoria for White Cane training. However, it was in 2008, when he was paired with his first guide dog, Granville, that Peter truly began to experience newfound freedom and independence.

Granville became more than a guide; he was Peter's loyal companion helping him to navigate the world around him. After eight years of unwavering support, Granville's health required retirement, marking a poignant transition in Peter's life. In 2013, Jimy, a loyal black lab, entered Peter's world, bringing not just guidance but also emotional support during challenging times, including the pandemic.

“The difficulty of adapting to a new dog can only be compared to that of losing my sight. Like people, dogs are different to one another – they have different ways of working, living and functioning in general. And adapting to this was extremely

LOST SIGHT, NOT HOPE... Shepparton’s Peter O’Conner found sight and freedom with Guide Dogs Victoria. His second dog provided by the organisation, Jimy, has been his hero, providing companionship and helping him navigate the world around him. Photo: Emma Harrop

difficult – but Guide Dogs Victoria remain with you, at every stage, and are there for support and guidance,” said Peter.

The bond between Peter and Jimy transcends mere companionship; it represents resilience, adaptability and the impact Guide Dogs Victoria have had on Peter’s life. Jimy has been a dependable ally offering not only physical guidance but emotional support as well. Peter said, “Donating to Guide Dogs would have to be the most important thing you can do. Speaking as someone who is positively impacted by any contribution made, big or small, it makes a life-changing impact. Without your help, there would be no Jimy, or Granville and no support services whatsoever.”

To learn more about Guide Dogs Victoria, or to donate, go to https://vic. guidedogs.com.au/