Teddy bears picnics

l CAIRNS REGION loved Fitzroy, Green and Moore islands,” she said. “We’ve really enjoyed it here. It’s been amazing and (this exercise) is a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

THREE Infinite Care homes in the Cairns region – Edge Hill Orchards, Caravonica Waters and Edmonton Gardens – joined 14 others across Australia celebrating Teddy Bears’ Picnic Day last week.

Infinite Care joint managing director Chris Stride said the homes invited families, playgroups, kindergarten and school children to join the homes and residents in bear-based activities and festivities.

“Each home went all out to bring their communities together with several facility managers even dressing up as giant bears for the occasion,” he said.

“Many attendees entered their favourite teddy bears into various competitions, which included prizes of over 170 handknitted mini-bears donated by talented and crazy residents and volunteers over the last few weeks.

Sgt Webster said they had built a great relationship with Cairns Airport and associated entities.

He has also enjoyed being in the Cairns CBD and walking around meeting people. “It’s been wonderful. The people are incredibly nice,” Sgt Webster said.

“The aim of this national event was to further build on existing intergenerational relationships and initiatives in Infinite Care homes.

“Intergenerational opportunities in aged care provide immeasurable benefits to both the elderly residents and the younger participants. They share stories, skills and knowledge to enrich each other’s lives and in turn reduce loneliness and isolaton for our older generations.”