CARER CONNECTIONS Edition 37 - July 2021
CARING FOR CARERS HIGH TEA Afford is a proud platinum sponsor of the Caring for Carers Australia (CCA) High Tea, which was recently held on the Sunshine Coast. Representatives from the Sunshine Coast customer care team and Lifestyle Assistant, Emma and her client, Carrissa attended the event and had the chance to unwind for a day. “Even if it’s only for a couple of hours, these events give our carers some time to think about themselves and breathe. It’s a chance for us to show our carers that they also have people to lean on,” said Customer Care Manager, Jillian Sellwood. The event brings together multiple organisations and carers for a day of pampering, education, prizes, socialising and recharging. The guest speakers and raffles were a hit as always, and getting to know other people in the industry made it a great day. Carissa was excited to attend the event as she is a carer herself. Two of her four children also attend Caboolture Day Program with her. In every aspect of her life, Carrissa dedicates her time, energy and soul to helping others. She is also a volunteer firefighter with the Rural Fire Service and works in operations of State Emergency Services. “The day reminded me to take a breath. All carers need to remember that you can’t care for someone else if you aren’t at your best. I love my jobs and being able to give back to the community that has helped me. It makes everything all worthwhile,” said Carrissa. She was also lucky enough to walk away with two prizes on the day, one yoga and meditation voucher and a family trip to Maleny Dairy farm and factory. Carrissa is looking forward to spending a day at the farm with her family and booking another day of much deserved yoga relaxation. The event was the third time Afford had attended a CCA High Tea, previously having attended the Brisbane and Gold Coast events. We are looking forward to the next one!
For more information please call 1300 233 673 or email info@afford.com.au
CARER CONNECTIONS Edition 37
Zlike us on facebookZ share your thoughts and ask other carers for advice Did you know Afford has a Facebook page dedicated to our carers? It’s your go to for connecting with other carers in the Afford community. Head over and give our page a like! www.facebook.com/AffordCarers
BOLOGNESE PASTA BAKE A bolognese pasta bake is the perfect blend between a spaghetti bolognese and a lasagne. Even though our mum’s make the ultimate spaghetti, this one will be in close second place! INGREDIENTS: • 1 medium brown onion, finely chopped • 2 cloves garlic, crushed • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 500g beef mince • 1/2 cup tomato paste • 700g bottle passata • 250f large spiral pasta • 1 and 1/3 cup mozzarella cheese, grated METHOD: 1. Preheat oven to 220°C (200°C fan forced). Grease and line a 22cm (base measurement) round pan with baking paper. 2. Heat tablespoon of oil in a saucepan over moderately high heat. Add onion, garlic and mince. Cook and stir with a wooden spoon until browned. 3. Add tomato paste and passata then simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 12-15 minutes. 4. Cook pasta in a large saucepan of boiling salted water for 1012 minutes or until tender. 5. Add mince mixture and 1 cup of mozzarella to pasta and mix well. 6. Transfer mixture to prepared pan. Press mixture firmly into pan and smooth surface. 7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted. Stand in pan for 15 minutes. Cut into wedges and serve. This recipe is thanks to Women’s Weekly www.womensweeklyfood.com.au/recipes/bolognese-pasta-
For more information please call 1300 233 673 or email info@afford.com.au
CARER CONNECTIONS Edition 37
RESPITE, RELAXATION AND ADVENTURE Jamie recently had an adventurous stay at his home away from home, the Banksia Beach Respite. The short-term accommodation in the Moreton Bay Region of Queensland, opened in early May and is surrounded by an abundance of activities to explore during your stay. Afford’s respite services are comfortable and fun environments where your loved one is welcome to stay for a weekend or a few weeks whenever they or carers need a well-earned break. A significant highlight of Jamie’s stay was visiting Gardner Falls and going for a tranquil walk along the bush track. He also visited the Redcliffe waterfront, where he shared lunch on the pier with his lifestyle assistant and saw the local shops and waterfall. “At Gardner Falls, Jamie enjoyed the scenic view and small bush track to get there. He had a great time and told staff he would love to come back again soon. Walking along the pier was also a great day out,” said Team Leader, Donna Teichmann. At Afford respites, no two days are the same, so staff also decided to take Jamie out to the local bowling alley. It’s a great activity do to in your spare time and was right up Jamie’s alley. Like a true pro, Jamie got to show off his skills by winning both rounds and bowled multiple strikes. Banksia Beach respite has many stand-out features with clients such as Jamie, just as excited to head back to the home after their day out for a fun night. “We have fun features such as a large media room and an in ground pool as well as practical renovations such as a wet room for our clients in wheelchairs. Our team are warm, friendly and keen to assist all clients so they can have a great time away from home,” said Donna. On one of his nights, Jamie relaxed with a movie and some delicious homemade tacos. There is no better way to spend a relaxing night than enjoying a great meal and a movie. Afford Respites provide a fun, relaxed experience for our clients staying in our homes, giving carers downtime for some self-care.
For more information please call 1300 233 673 or email info@afford.com.au
CARER CONNECTIONS Edition 37
check out these upcoming events Events give carers the opportunity to connect with each other and find support!
QLD EVENTS Event
DETAILS
Source Kids Disability Expo Brisbane
By Source Kids
Saturday 31st July & Sunday 1st Aug 9:00 AM 4:00 PM
Cost - FREE
Focused on children, youth and young adults up to the age of 25, this two-day event will bring together the latest disability products, services and technology all under one roof. For more information: https://fb.me/e/ DCPdkdOy
NSW EVENTS Event
DETAILS
Sydney Disability Expo
By Social Impact
Friday 6th Aug & Saturday 7th Aug 9:00 AM 3:00 PM
Cost - FREE
The Sydney Disability Expo will link thousands of people with disability with hundreds of product and service providers as well as presenting a range of informative and interactive presentations delivered by industry experts.
QLD EVENTS Event
DETAILS
Sunshine Coast Disability Expo
By Regional Disability Expo
Thursday 16th Sep 9:30 AM 4:00 PM
Cost - FREE
Attendance is free for anyone wishing to find more information about products, services, and activities available in your region. For more information: https://fb.me/ e/8iY67sIDv
For more information: https://fb.me/ e/3gtq8YzoG
words of wisdom
For more information please call 1300 233 673 or email info@afford.com.au