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Christadelphian Aged Care S U M M E R N E W S L E T T E R
MARANATHA Address: 1582 Anzac Avenue, Kallangur QLD 4503
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Phone: (07) 3482 5333
Email: admin@chomes.com.au
Managers Message
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Welcome to Maranatha The 1st November, 2014 was the first anniversary of Maranatha becoming “Don't be afraid!" he said."I part of Christadelphian Aged Care. The 365 days since 1/11/2013 have rushed by in a blur of challenges and change. Now as 2014 draws to a close, bring you good news of great we can look back with satisfaction on the extraordinary achievements we have joy for everyone! The Saviour accomplished in often testing circumstances. I will think of 2014 at Maranatha as a year of newness; new colleagues, new systems, new paint, - yes, the Messiah, the Lord new corridors, new flooring, new policies, new faces, new rooms, new ideas… has been born tonight in With the 20/20 vision hindsight affords, we may have done some things differently but “the moving finger writes and having writ, moves on”. Time Bethlehem, the city of David! moves forward, never backward. As each second dies, the next is born. As long as we draw breath we travel forwards into the great unknown. Who knows what our next minute, week, month or year may bring? The blank canvas of the future is alive with all the possibilities we can imagine. When we consider our future path and make plans for the direction it will take, we often have the big picture view and think of the big changes we need to make to realise our plans. While this is necessary to maintain our overall course, I believe that our real direction and destination is determined by the seemingly insignificant events in our lives. It is the small day to day happenings, incidents, actions and experiences that really govern who we become and what direction our lives will take. When I was a child, in predecimal currency days, there was a saying “take care of the pennies and the pounds will take care of themselves.” While I was never very good at nnn applying this in a practical way (pocket money always burned a hole in my pocket!) the older I get, the more I agree with the sentiment of the saying. Luke 2:10-11 (NLT) The large events in our lives are the sum of many lesser events. Our successes and failures, achievements and disasters are all the result of small events which have combined, sometimes to produce the perfect triumph and sometimes the perfect storm. As we come to the end of 2014 and look into the world of possibilities that 2015 will bring lets be mindful of the small things. Let’s realise the accumulated value of smiles, considerate attitudes, simple kindness, gentle words and patience. At this time of the year the Christian world turns its attention to the most perfect embodiment of this principle. 2000 years ago in the town of Bethlehem, in the most humble of circumstances, a tiny baby was born. The greatness of the everyday was never more completely and eloquently demonstrated than in the life of this child. Every moment, every small event, every circumstance and every aspect of His life was completely permeated by kindness, gentleness, patience and love. His life changed the world forever. As we continue into the future let us remember the power and potential that can lie in the small and simple events of our lives. Let us pay attention to the seemingly insignificant aspects of our lives, then we can continue to achieve great things and the end result will be so much more wonderful than the sum of all the parts. Regards, Kathy Hallmark reassured them,
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
Message from our new CFO G’day! I’m very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with you all and am excited to be involved in the next stage for Christadelphian Homes. From day one, the management and staff have been most professional and courteous, demonstrating the true values and mission of the Homes at a practical level. From participating at the recent National Aged Care Conference it was apparent that the Homes has an excellent reputation within the Industry. This is credit to the dedication of all our staff and volunteers in providing the best possible environment and care for our residents across New South Wales and Queensland. As you are aware, the Federal Government has recently introduced its Living Longer Living Better (LLLB) legislation, effective 1 July 2014. Christadelphian Homes is well-positioned in this regard and is operating comfortably with the new framework. We have put the necessary resources in place to manage the new admissions process, providing the best range of options for our incoming residents, while ensuring the necessary levels of Government support are obtained. In light of the changing industry demands and expectations of future residents, particularly those of the “babyboomers”, we are also in the process of significantly upgrading our facilities and look for your continued co-operation as we operate our construction zones. During the past month, we’ve been busy with fiscal year-end compliance matters. I would like to thank the residents and members for your well considered questions and feedback, particularly at the AGMs held. Please continue to provide us with your input and ideas; this is essential for the ongoing improvement in our service to you and the broader community. In mid-November, we divested the Lakefront Village (NSW Central Coast) to RSL LifeCare in a transaction which settled on 17th November. RSL LifeCare has a large portfolio of Retirement Villages and the Lakefront Village will benefit from RSL’s scale and systems. We wish Geraldine, her team and the residents all the best for the future in what is a most beautiful environment. My wife Cazz is a music teacher at Mona Vale Public School and in her spare time teaches piano and violin to budding musicians within our community. Cazz is expecting our first child in March, which will no doubt prove to be a life-changing event for all concerned. We’ve found out what it’ll be (boy or girl), but remain tight-lipped until the big day! Over the next few months, I hope to get around to all our facilities to meet as many of you as possible. In the meantime, happy holidays and all the very best for the festive season. God bless, Rob Hall Living Longer Living Better graph sourced from www.health.gov.au
Upcoming Events & Birthdays UPCOMING EVENTS
DECEMBER
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
8th - Garden Club breakup and Afternoon Tea
5th - Garden Club
2nd - Birthday Party for Jan/ Feb and Concert
9th - Tea Party
6th - Tea Party
2nd - Garden Club
10th - Remembrance for Joy, Fay and Gertie
20th - Tea Party & Concert
12th - Bazaar Day
23rd - Christadelphian Kids Concert | 1.30pm-2.45pm
13th - Down Lovers Lane Morning Tea for Couples Valentines Day
16th/19th - Bus outing to see Christmas Lights
30th - Concert
17th - Residents Meeting 23rd - Tea Party with Santa
8 Delcia C
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
2 Shirley L
1 Cec W
4 Elma P
2 Beryl M
4 Nancy S
5 Audrey W
7 Richard D
9 Jean S
8 Heather K
17 Isabelle B
16 Val L
20 Vera B
17 Bob C
20 Beris B
19 Maud O 20 Betty S 20 Susan C 25 Rex B 27 Merle D
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
DECEMBER
Activity Reviews SEPTEMBER
Father’s Day - is a celebration honouring fathers, paternal
bonds and the influences of fathers in society. The men of Maranatha came together to celebrate this day with some family, staff and assistance of Dave Hallmark: enjoyed a wonderful BBQ lunch and a few cool drinks under the shade of the gazebo. Poem - Father A rock of strength to lean upon in times of joy or stress; An understanding, loyal soul. A heart of tenderness. A mind all wisdom. Knowing how justice and love blend: A teacher, loving patient, kind. My father and my friend.
Maranatha Fair
September 13 saw the Maranatha Fundraising Fair take place. The Fair is a tradition as old as Maranatha, a constant in our ever changing world that brings with it each year joy, reaffirms friendships and introduces new ones. But even the Fair for all its traditions has evolved over time, changing to the needs of the community it supports and with society. So let us go back in time and look at how things used to be – Maranatha Fair 1979 (35 years ago for those with limited numerical skills) The photo bottom right is of the “hot chip stall”. Seven items of interest: • It was an extremely hot day – hence the reason for Maurice Bailey shirtless (yes that is Maurice) • They cooked over two port-a-gas bottles • The onlookers are Brother Col Arthur and Sis Elizabeth A • The potatoes were donated by Brother Francis Villis of Gatton • The chips were prepared (cut up and pre-cooked at Maurice’s home in Nundah) • The cooking fat was collected from the local butchers by Sis Doris Baily and Sis Phyllis Crew • The price for all this effort – 30cents per carton…. Makes you think doesn’t it! However the hard work of all those involved in the day, while different is just as enthusiastic, just as heart felt. We take this time to thank the countless helpers, donators, spenders and creators for a wonderful day and a huge donation.
Activity Reviews contd SEPTEMBER
Spring Ball - The morning of September 19th saw the final
preparations of Maranatha's inaugural Spring Ball. Furnishings were moved, decorations were hung, food prepared, dresses, hair and makeup applied – all in readiness for our first ever Ball. All the senses were enlightened – the harpist, violinist and the pianist played for the edification of the ears, feet and soul, while the food and drinks tempted even the fussiest of taste buds. Soon staff, residents, volunteers, Pfizer volunteers (who made and donated all the lovely corsages) and family members took to the floor enjoying the day to the fullest.
Sam (Volunteer) with resident Kitty
Margaret (staff) and resident John
Michael (volunteer) with resident Heather
OCTOBER
Grandparents Day
October 23rd saw Maranatha’s first (of hopefully many) “Grandparents Day”. Food, fun, laughter and cheer best describe a wonderful morning that was enjoyed by residents, family, children and staff alike.
Activity Reviews contd Grandparents Day
Coach Trip to Redlands Museum
It was with happy anticipation that about thirty Maranatha residents climbed aboard the Cross Country coach on 24th October. Our coach captain, (definitely not bus driver!) Mike, steered us efficiently round the obstacles caused by the renovation work and in no time we were on our way. It was delightful to see the many Jacaranda and Silky Oak trees in full flower as we sped along the Highway. A new landmark is the bridge which will eventually carry the railway line over the highway. This new branch line was first proposed a hundred years ago, and is now finally under construction! Our morning-tea stop was at a park near the start of the Houghton Highway, which spans the mouth of the Pine River. The ocean sparkling in the Spring sunshine was lovely to see. Then on to the Museum in the suburb of Cleveland. How delightful to see such a light and airy building with well-set-out displays, and even better to find lovely staff members eager to answer all our questions. After a good look around we were all able to rest our legs and be entertained by rousing tunes from the musical Oklahoma being played on the Pianola. After Stan gave a vote of thanks to the staff, with which we all heartily agreed, off we drove to lunch. An interesting sight that we passed was the original historic homestead which we had seen in model form in the Museum. On the other hand, it was sad to see that much of the area formerly used to grow strawberries was now sprouting housing estates. Lunch was at Redlands Sporting Club and as we all queued up to sign in we thought that its motto “It’s alive” was indeed appropriate. The food was delicious and certainly abundant, a very satisfactory meal. All agreed that the Museum displays brought back many memories of earlier, sometimes happier, days – as our young helper Rebecca gleefully informed us, these things were all from before she was born! All in all, we had been blessed with a marvellous day out. By Sue Collins
Activity Reviews contd NOVEMBER
Melbourne Cup
While traditionally Melbourne Cup may be the day that stops the nation, at Maranatha it is more a case of being a very fun but busy day. Special morning tea, reasons to wear wonderful clothes and hats, fashion parades and hat competitions, games, live horses (supplied by one of our wonderful volunteers, Ellie and of course the race.
INDEPENDENT UNIT'S OUTING
Bethezer Fundraising High Tea
Held at the Malcolmson’s Home - what a Vista!
A beautiful old home nestled among the Maleny Hills. The tables were arranged in the lovely garden area under the trees and a carpet of mauve from the huge Jacaranda. Hanging from the branches of the trees were pink and white triangles of bunting. Cups on strings as a mobile were clinking in the breeze. On the tables were fine bone china cups and saucers, all different and beautiful. Interesting china teapots, pastel coloured serviettes, etc. Over 20 of us attended, plus all the helpers. Firstly we listened to two Bible readings and the welcome speech from John, our host – and by special request from someone, he told us the history of the old home. Then Karen gave us a short talk on the mission work of Bethezer and the success of their school in Vanuatu. We then enjoyed a wonderful meal of finger food dainties, presented on pastel shaded cake tiers. Our waitresses were beautiful and our tea-pourer Wayne, also looked the part. It was lovely! Thank you so much John, Barbara and Karen and family and friends for such a lovely outing. By Rosemary and Arthur
Resident Story - Marjorie B
Well, I arrived in this world on the 17th September, 1923, the second child born to Stanley William Dalton and May (nee Cox) one brother having preceded me by 15 months – 5 children, including twins (boy and girl) all born in Ipswich, Queensland. After serving in World War 1, my father went into his family grocery and hardware business in Ipswich and we lived in Kendall St, East Ipswich for the next 6 years. Due to the depression, my father had to move us all to a small country village, Mondure in the South Burnett District. Here again my Dad took over a General Country Store which sold just about everything including petrol and also took over the Postal services such as mail and the local telephone exchange. My elder brother and I had to do our share of the phone exchange during evenings. The three eldest of the family attended the local one teacher school usually in bare feet along a dusty road about half a mile (known then) unless we were able to thumb a ride on a friend’s horse or bicycle. Living in the country we had to make our fun, there was no going off to the beach for school holidays, even old fallen trees were places for swings and cubby houses. As my Mother had come from England after the war she knew nothing of Australia or its way of life so she had to employ an experienced maid well versed in country life. With 5 children to cope with the first thing she did was to purchase a milking cow and of course milking became another chore for the elder children. In 1937, my grandparents in England celebrated their Golden Wedding anniversary. They made it possible for my Mother to take one of her children with her to England for this celebration and I was fortunate enough to be the one able to go, as at age 13, I was at the stage of my schooling at Ipswich Girls Grammar School where I could continue my learning at a later date. During our stay in England, the remainder of my family moved 15 miles further on to the larger town of Wondai where my Father took up a larger business and we settled there for some years. I spent the next few years in office work there but at the age of 18, I took a position in Brisbane in an Insurance Office where I stayed for the next 6 years. These years were spent living in various boarding houses and when I met my future husband Norman who had returned from war in the middle east and was doing training to become a pilot in the air force. However, soon after the airforce was being demobbed and he was able to return to his home city of Sydney. We were married in 1948 and lived in Sydney for 2 years before Norm was offered a position as sales representative for Caterpillar tractors and we returned to living in the country, this time in NSW. We lived a short time in Grafton before moving to Inverell for 7 years. These were very happy years where we made lots of friends and our daughter Judith, born in Sydney and our son Jeffrey became our little family. Again, Norm was transferred and we came to live in Brisbane. After some years of us both working we retired and became interested in travel. Norm obtained his travel licence and from then on he organised group trips, usually of 30 to 40, including many friends, We travelled to many countries namely; the UK, USA, Europe, Philippines and Malaysia. Being members of Probus Quota; the Masonic Lodge and Bowling Clubs many doors were open to us and many friendships formed.As we came to our later years we took groups on tours through various parts of Australia, New Zealand and Tasmania and many parts of the outback. Again, we retired and moved into RSL Retirement Village “Inverpine” where we enjoyed 15 years as Independent Residents. Norm suffered a stroke in 2005 and sadly passed on 2 years later. I continued to live on there until 2011 when I moved to “Maranatha”. I had occasion to come here for respite, liked you all, and decided the low-care accommodation suited my health problems better than at Inverpine. Thank you all here for the friendships made and the care extended to me.
Staff Profile - Sue Kozlowski (EN)
Life started in a sleepy part of the UK called Cheshire which is famous for its cats and yummy cheese. I came from Liverpool and my husband Bill cam from Chester. I did my nursing training at Leighton Hospital in Crewe and qualified as a S.E.N. in 1973. I met Bob in 1972, he was an engineer and our wedding took place in 1974, in the village of Willaston which was near Nantwich. The first few years were spent setting up home and starting a family, Angela was born in Jan 1979. In the late 70’s/early 80’s in the UK there was an economic downturn which bought many industrial disputes and lots of redundancies and business closures. This was the main reason for our decision to emigrate to South Africa where work was far more plentiful and the climate a lot warmer. So, in 1982, we voted for Maggie Thatcher and left the UK. Bob got a job on a major Power Station project and we based ourselves in Johannesburg setting up a home in a place called Fourways. Steve was born in May 1983. We spent many years holidaying and exploring the rustic beauty of South Africa as well as some of the neighbouring countries such as Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Kenya and Mozambique. Bush camping and fishing the many lakes and rivers was a regular holiday. We also took in some white water rafting down the Zambezi as well as seeing the magnificent wild animals which sometimes we got too close to. Being chased by and angry elephant, roared at by lions, warned off my hippos or being eyed up by crocodiles will be long remembered. In 1992, Bob got an offer to work on a huge petro-chem project in Saudi Arabia which financially was too good to resist. The urge to travel again was also kicked in. We moved to Riyadh, the capital but first had to go via London to sort out visas etc. This gave us a chance to catch up with old friends in Cheshire. In Riyadh we were housed in a western compound. The kids went to the British school. We spent much of our weekends, which were now Thursday and Friday, exploring the many old market places as well as four wheel driving in the desert. Our holidays were spent outside Saudi Arabia and we visited the Seychelles, did safaris in Kenya, caught up with friends in Malta and did some extensive sightseeing in Rome, Italy and Athens, Greece. 2 years into the contract, an opportunity came up to move to the main contractors engineering offices in Milan, Italy and the kids enrolled in the American School in the south of Milan. We moved into an apartment in Milano 3, a residential complex near the small town of Rozzano in the Lombardy region. Being close to the Alps we was an excuse to take up skiing and many winter holidays were spent flying down the ski slopes, sometimes on our feet and most times on our backsides. The first white Christmas the kids ever had was in a ski resort in Austria called Kitzbuhel which wetted the appetite for further trips to Cortina and Marilleva in Italy and Vaal D’Isere in France. During the summer months, there were some great opportunities to visit some of the surrounding countries such as France, Spain, Switzerland and Monaco as well as the many beautiful villages and towns in Italy which included Venice. In 1996, we returned to South Africa and in 2005, due to the crime which had increased enormously, we decided to make one final move. Bob got a contract on a project for a new nickel mine in New Caledonia which had the engineering and procurement based in Brisbane. We thought this would be a perfect time to visit a part of the world that we had always wanted to see. We fell in love with Australia. We are now proud Australian Citizens and have settled down in Brisbane. The walkabouts have stopped, or have they?
Poem - Two Mother's Remembered I had two Mothers – two Mothers I claim Two different people, yet with the same name. Two separate women, diverse by design, But I loved them both because they were mine. The first was the Mother who carried me here, Gave birth and nurtured and launched my career. She was the one whose features I bear, Complete with the facial expressions I wear. She gave her love, which follows me yet, Along with examples in life she set. As I got older, she somehow younger grew, And we’d laugh as just mothers and daughters do. But then came the time that her mind clouded so, And I sensed that the Mother I knew would soon go. So quickly she changed and turned into the other, A stranger who dressed in the clothes of my Mother. Oh, she looked the same, at least at arm’s length, But now she was the child and I was her strength. We’d come full circle, we women three, My mother the first, the second, and me. And if my own children should come to a day, When a new Mother comes and the old goes away, I’d ask of them nothing that I didn’t do. Love both of your Mothers as both loved you. - Joann Snow Duncanson
Bereavements - Our deepest sympathies have gone out to the families who have lost their loved ones over the Spring period.
How Our World Looked Way Back When
NYC was a much less busy city, 1908
Roller skates were the hot new thing but still needed a bit of work, 1910
These guys unveiled their motorbikes for the first time, William Harley and Arthur Davidson, 1914
Rush hour looked a lot different than it does today, Chicago, 1909
Beach Police officers made sure no swimsuit was higher than 6 inches above the knee, 1922 The iconic London buses looked like this, 1928 A new vantage point was introduced to New York. Opening day of the Empire State Building, 1931 The Hollywood sign was still the 'Hollywoodland' sign. The last four letters were removed in 1949 The Golden Gate Bridge was still under construction and looked like this, 1937 This was the tallest building in Paris, the Eiffel Tower under construction in the 1880's
In Loving Memory Rosa Barnes 13/2/1913 -8/9/2014 Rosa was born in Glen Aplin on 13th February 1913 and married Russell Barnes, whom she met in a Café in Crows Nest, on 19th November 1936. They then went on to add to their family with the birth of Lynette on 8th December 1941 and lived in their home in Kallangur for over 72 years. They then sold some of their land to Maranatha, with Russell often coming over to mow the grounds on his ride on mower. Rosa and Russell made many friends at Maranatha during this time. Rosa loved to attend the Petrie Anglican Church every Sunday and dressed immaculately wearing jewellery to match. Rosa would never be seen in public without a clean handkerchief. She had a great love of animals and supported Russell in all his sheep dog trials at the EKKA. She loved cats, one in particular which was called Bimbo, had many throughout her life and also had a Cockatoo named Eric who lived with her for nearly 30 years. Rosa had 3 grandchildren Brett, Clay and Melissa and 3 great grandchildren, Liam, Brock and Beau. Rosa affectionately called her husband Snooks and loved to garden, delighting in showing off all the beautiful flowers that grew in garden. When Rosa was in her fifties, she became a working girl and worked in the local Kallangur Cake Shop, Newsagent, Drapery and also a TV shop near the Petrie Water Tower. She was also instrumental in getting jobs for Melissa and Brett at the local Drapery and Melissa at Maranatha assisting in the kitchen. Rosa loved to sing Amazing Grace and One Day at a Time sweet Jesus. Rosa joined the over 50’s club and often travelled throughout Queensland, enjoying bus trips and holidays. She was very proud of her family especially her daughter Lynette, who was an accomplished Ballroom Dancer and passed on her love of sewing and cooking and made the best sponge cakes and cinnamon tea cakes. Rosa always made the Christmas pudding which she boiled in the copper at the back of the house and was brilliant at needlework creating many crocheted and knitted items. Rosa loved to watch Days of Our Lives and the Bold and the Beautiful and would watch these shows religiously. Rosa loved Jersey Caramels and would devour an entire box of chocolate coated ginger in one sitting.
Fay Crew 1/3/1932 – 26/10/2014 Fay passed away on 26th October, after suffering a stroke. She was unwell with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s over the last four years. Fay is now asleep, waiting the return of our Lord, and the resurrection. We believe and have faith in God’s promise to bring this about. So this is a great consolation to her family and all those who long for Christ’s appearing. Fay had a close bond with husband Robert (Bob) and her five children. She also had a loving relationship with her siblings and lots of extended family and friends among the Christadelphians over her lifetime. We will all miss her, however we know she is resting peacefully.
In Loving Memory Rex Bolin 25/01/1940 – 19/9/2014 Rex was born in Sydney on 25th January 1940 and was the first child of Jean Smith and James Bolin. Rex grew up in Manly with his brothers and twin foster sisters where they spent many a day surfing and playing football. Rex’s first job was as a lab assistant working with his father at the Sydney University. In July 1957, Rex joined the RAAF where he trained as an instrument fitter and also did some of his training in the US. In 1967, Rex was posted to Amberley where he worked mainly on the Canberra aircraft. Rex and his friends would often visit Cloudland and this is where he met Desely, whom he proposed to after just 6 weeks. She decided to make him wait and accepted only after the third proposal. They were married on 16th November 1968 and went on to have two children, Andrew and Sheryl. Whilst in the RAAF, Rex and Desely lived in Ipswich and often liked to visit Mater Prize Homes. It was on one such trip in that they came to Strathpine and saw Bill Bowdens’ sign, Little Aspley $10 land deposit. After looking around they decided to make a deposit on some land on which the family home was built in 1971 and still is to this day. In 1972, Rex left the RAAF after 15 years of service where he earned the rank of Sergeant. He felt that this was not a way of life for marriage and children, so started a number of jobs including fixing washing machines, working for Drager (Medical and Industrial Respiratory equipment), Brisbane Fire Brigade fixing alarms and AWA Aviation, which was a long way to Archerfield. He also worked for Department of Harbours and Marine for 22 years as an electronics store man, responsible for importing and accessing components for the boating patrol. Many a family holiday was spent in Evans Heads NSW and Rex always enjoyed going for long walks there. Rex discovered the benefits of Tai Chi and this became his main hobby in later life, although he still maintained an interest in aviation and bought lots of books and DVDs on both subjects. Rex and Desely bought a dog called Lucky from a garage sale and he became Rex’s lifelong mate.
Joyce Hewitt 4/5/1918 – 25/10/2014 Joyce was born on the 4/5/1918, and together with her sister raised by loving parents together with her dear grandmother on a dairy farm in Gympie. She trained as a nurse at Gympie General Hospital, and married Ron Hewitt in 1943. They were dearly loved parents to 4 children. Kerry, Sandra, Susan and Jim. Joy was very caring and possessed a very calm and charming nature. She was widowed at a relatively early age and had two children still requiring education. She returned to full time work until 1982 when she retired and returned to her much loved sporting activities, as well as spending more time in her garden. She also enjoyed overseas holidays combined with caring for her own mother. Joy entered Maranatha 7 yrs ago. Firstly in Jacaranda wing and lately of A wing. As time went on she no longer could enjoy her indoor bowls the bus trips, or the much loved art classes due to physical decline. Joy was very happy living at Maranatha and once said if she couldn't live in her own home it was the next best thing. We were all blessed to have her in our life and was very much loved by her four children and four grandchildren.
In Loving Memory Gertraud Burger 7/2/1926 – 14/10/2014 An aged care facility was not on Gertrude's agenda but as it is for most, it was a question of necessity. So Gertrude made the most of her stay at Maranatha over the last three or more years keeping mostly to herself however enjoyed the care and attention that was given her by staff and volunteers. Some staff were able to converse with her in German which was beneficial to her well being. Born 7th February, 1926, Gertraud Franziska Josefine Burger in Leoban Austria, she was educated in Catholic convents completing her studies at 18. In 1944 Gertrude had two choices; one was to join the German armed forces or a career in nursing. She opted for nursing! She qualified as a trained nurse and so her chosen career took her to Austria, Germany and Switzerland. She was also a member of the Austrian Resistance during the Russian occupation. Gertrude met her husband and they immigrated to Australia in 1952 and not one to sit on her hands she found work as a housemaid at Lennons Hotel before resuming her career as a theatre nurse at the Royal Children's Hospital until 1992. This was a labour of love as she adored children. Gertrude lived at a property at Dakabin from the early 50's and once widowed this was becoming too much for her and so moved to a smaller block in Kallangur in 1999. Gertrude continued to remain fiercely independent; however, after falling and breaking her arm, the hard decision was made for her to enter Maranatha in February 2011 and sadly passed away on 14th October 2014 . Kentucky fried chicken was her favourite meal when she regularly went out. Animals gave Gertrude much pleasure always having dogs and even cows on her property. She loved the Delta dog visits. Gertrude now rests from all her labour and God saw that she was weary, so He closed her eyes and whispered, "Peace be thine”.
Tribute to Maranatha, Staff & Volunteers Maranatha tribute by Lucy Breusch, eldest granddaughter of Joyce Lucy Hewitt, 31/10/2014 We feel it is very important to acknowledge and show appreciation for the consistently high level of care and compassion bestowed upon Grandma in her 7 years living at Maranatha Aged Care. All of the staff and volunteers without fail gave great personal attention to Grandma. We always felt confident about and comforted by the high quality and warm hearted care that Grandma received. Maranatha had the knack of creating a welcoming, homely environment that made visiting Grandma a pleasure and Grandma came to think of Maranatha as home very quickly. The staff supported us in our care of Grandma and made it feel like a team effort and I think this contributed to the great community spirit you felt there. Maranatha always seemed to go the extra mile such as having gorgeous chicks hatching in an incubator every Easter which we all loved to hold. We really appreciated the trouble staff went to in dressing Grandma, applying her make up, choosing jewellery and generally fussing over her appearance as this was so important to her. And finally, the whole Maranatha community’s care of Auntie and Mum was exceptional during Grandma’s final days.
Pastoral Care TRYING TO UNDERSTAND OTHERS How often has there been a problem between 2 people because of a lack of understanding? We see it happen time and time again. It’s an age old problem – me not understanding you and what happens as a result. We call it a breakdown in communication. Understanding is actually one key for us to live in harmony and peace with each other. The lack of understanding can have great consequences. War happens because nations do not understand each other. Racial discrimination, broken marriages, crimes happens because people are misunderstood or people misunderstood other people. We can be so quick to jump to conclusions about other people, especially people who are a bit different in some way to ourselves. There is so much we can learn from others when we stop and take the time to really get to know and understand them. When we stop and walk alongside someone for a while we can gain a whole new understanding of them, and are able to see their gifts and talents and those things that make them unique. It was once written “Let us strive to understand others, than to be understood”. It’s a great statement, because we all have to learn how to get on with others, to understand them, even if that is difficult and challenging. One of the problems is that we don’t listen to one another carefully anymore… Listening. What a lost art. Jimmy Buffett covers a song originally released by Fred Neil in the 60’s, called “Everybody’s Talkin’”. The first line of the song is a good description of today’s society, it says “Everybody’s talkin’ at me… can’t hear a word they’re sayin only echoes of my mind” Do you agree with these words? How often do you walk away from a conversation, meeting, or phone call thinking, “why won’t they just listen to me?” Or here’s a scary thought – how often do people walk away from you wondering if you listened to a word they were saying? You see it works both ways. Maybe as we go through this life we need to slow down and listen to people’s life stories before we jump to conclusions about them. We need to try to understand people before we make judgements about them. We must hear what they’re saying – to listen carefully, Actually, listening does not come naturally to most of us – we need to work hard at it – to stop ourselves from jumping into the conversation and giving our own opinion. We all like to be listened to and understood, we feel affirmed and validated”. Jesus is a great role model as He went around listening to and caring for others. You may know the story recorded in John 4:1-27 where He met up with a Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well. It was midday, the hottest part of the day: Jesus sat down, weary, and a Samaritan woman joined I need to be heard… Him to get a drink of water from the well. Jews traditionally did not speak to a Samaritan, but Jesus broke the rule and asked her to get Please don't try to comfort me by Him a drink – He opened up a life changing conversation which led telling me, "You'll be better in time.” her to realise Jesus was the Messiah, the Christ. The disciples returned I need to be heard… to the well and were surprised to see Jesus talking to the woman. She Please don't pacify me by trying to didn’t have a good reputation – broken marriages – but Jesus didn’t "top it" with a hurt of your own. condemn her – He showed an incredible ability to look past her façade or mask, but He knew this woman. He observes her actions, her life, I need to be heard… her words, and He really hears what she is saying. Like Jesus, we really Please don't look away when need to have His eyes and ears to hear and see what people are saying. I mention that precious name! If we do carefully listen and try to understand others, we may hear I need to be heard… hurt, anger, disappointment, loneliness, longings for comfort and Can't there be anger among sadness desires for purpose in life. In what way can we give our time, words and and misery? heart to help someone else? Express empathy – this means to feel into someone’s pain – it’s I need to be heard… focused on the other person, instead of yourself. It’s deeper than Meet me where I am, and listen to me sympathy – understands feelings and tries to do something to Until I don't need to be help. In Brazil, they have a saying “if you’re stuck in a hole, a heard, anymore. sympathetic person will get into the hole with you. The empathic person will give you a rope to get out”. Source: Chris Witts
POEM I Need To Be Heard
Volunteer Tribute My name is Jenny. I was born in Newcastle NSW at the end of WWII. My parents were doing it tough, my father worked at the BHP in the coke ovens – a hot and heavy job. He died there when I was 14 years old. I had two younger sisters. My mother was a trained nurse who had looked after wounded soldiers coming back from the war. She took over the role of bread winner after my father’s passing and went to work at night while I looked after my sisters. I had to leave high school after attaining my Intermediate Certificate and I became a secretary. I married in 1965 after my mother had remarried. We had three beautiful girls; sadly my husband was to become ill with cancer and I looked after him for 2 years before he passed away in 2001, aged 59. My girls were all married; my life had no meaning, so I made a decision to go to the Sunshine State in 2004 and begin the next chapter in my life. I bought a little house in Kallangur and after I settled, I began volunteering in 2005 at Maranatha. It gave great purpose to my life and I love making a difference each day in a resident’s life. I have had opportunity to do courses, so I can feel confident in what I am doing. I love the social hub of the café, which is achieving what it was designed for. I played a large part in opening the café in May 2008 which for me was a milestone that came 7 years after the loss of my husband on Mothers Day (2001). Then came an offer of a new unit in the village in June 2007, where I now reside. At the front is a plaque that says Jenny Wren’s Nest, this was a gift from my sisters (it was a nickname they gave me growing up). So life goes on and I am very happy to be here and keep POET’S CORNER - by R Donovan busy serving my Lord each day, In our community live folk And when disasters strike at times giving love and Who have some time to spare As they do in our land, compassion, And use it to help anyone Be it storm or flood or fire emotional and Who needs some extra care They’ll rally, lend a hand spiritual support They come from many walks of life They do not look for praise or thanks and a listening ear And bring their knowledge, skills, Or any accolades to those in need at To join with those who help the aged Don’t seek rewards for time or work Maranatha. The lonely or the ill
When they’re asked for aid
One finds them in hospitals And in the nursing homes Some help the poor and needy Who have little of their own
They have a name, these folks who help Us cope with life, its fears They make our world a better place They’re known as volunteers.
This poem featured in the seniors newspaper and our resident Marjorie found it and thought it was very appropriate - thank you!
Read, Rest & Relax!
TIPS TO “BEAT THE HEAT”
• Try to plan activities that require going outside during non-peak hours when it might be a little cooler. • Move exercise indoors. Consider walking on a treadmill, or “corridor walking” instead of outdoor walks or activities. Swimming and water aerobics are good options as well. • Drink plenty of fluids (non-alcoholic, caffeine-free as these ingredients have a diuretic effect). Talk with your doctor if you take medications that affect fluid intake. • Consume food and drink with sodium and potassium to restore electrolyte balance when losing fluids and drinking a lot of water: broths or soups (contain sodium); fruit juice, soft fruits, vegetables (containing potassium); sports drinks that contain electrolytes. • Stay indoors in cooled spaces as much as possible. • Be aware of signs of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. I used to be great when it came to word play. Once a pun a time. I used to have a fear of hurdles, but I got over it. I used to be addicted to lunch meat but I quit cold turkey.
Little Gingerbread Cakes • 125g butter, chopped • 2/3 cup golden syrup • 2/3 cup dark brown sugar • 2/3 cup milk • 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda • 1 egg, lightly beaten • 1 2/3 cups plain flour, sifted • 1 tablespoon ground ginger • 1 teaspoon mixed spice • Lemon zest, to serve LEMON ICING • 2 cups icing sugar mixture, sifted • 2 tablespoons lemon juice • 2 teaspoons boiling water Makes 8
1. Preheat oven to 180°C/160°C fan-forced. Grease an 8hole, 3/4 cup-capacity mini loaf pan.
2.Place butter, golden syrup, sugar and milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring, for 4 to 5 minutes or until butter has melted and sugar dissolved (do not boil). Remove from heat. Add bicarbonate of soda. Stir to combine. Set aside to cool for 10 minutes.
3. Add egg. Whisk to combine. Add flour, ginger and mixed spice. Whisk until smooth. Spoon mixture into pan holes until half-full.
4. Bake for 25 minutes or until a skewer inserted in centre of 1 cake comes out clean. Cool in pan for 5 minutes. Turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Make icing Place icing sugar, lemon juice and boiling water in a bowl. Stir until smooth. Spoon over cakes. Stand for 5 minutes or until icing starts to set. Top with zest. Set aside until set. Serve.
Word Sudoku
18/11/2014 11:22 am
Word Sudoku adds a twist to the usual sudoku which makes the puzzle a little more interesting. 6 different letters are used instead of numbers. The basic goal remains the same: every row, column, and 2Ă—3 square has to contain one of every letter used in the puzzle.
Disclaimer: All photos and stories have been published with consent of relatives and residents involved. Thank you for your submissions. about:blank
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