Life & Love - Issue 29 by Hall & Prior

Life&Love A HALL & PRIOR P U B L I C AT IO N H E A LT H & A G E D C A R E G R O U P

ISSUE 29 | 2021

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Home to our heroes Celebrating the ANZAC spirit every day

Life&Love A HALL & PRIOR PU BL IC ATION H E A LT H & A G E D C A R E G R O U P

From the Chief Executive Officer

Corporate News

Always one of our own

ANZAC Special

Meet the DON - Yvonne Wales

In Our Homes

Food and Drink

In the Pipeline

Meet the Staff

My Favourite Things: Ben Chard

Teabreak: Puzzles

EDITOR'S LETTER As temperatures cool and seasons change, some things remain the same. At Hall & Prior, we are honoured to have residents who have served during world wars, and as we approach ANZAC Day 2021, we meet Alfonso Barich, resident of Sirius Cove Aged Care Home in NSW, who fought as a teenager during the Second World War. Despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, all our homes have continued to create opportunities for our residents to live life to the fullest - you’ll see plenty of photographs of these occasions in the following pages. You’ll meet some of our hard-working personal care professionals and celebrate with us as our newest WA home - Karingal Green - scooped a major architectural design award. There’s also a movie ticket giveaway, puzzle pages to complete during your tea break and much more. Happy reading,

Gabi

Life & Love Issue 29 | 2021 EDITORS Beverly Ligman bligman@hallprior.com.au Gabi Mills gmills@hallprior.com.au DESIGNER Jennifer Mattison jmattison@hallprior.com.au CONTRIBUTOR Jacki Downs jdowns@hallprior.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY Fabrizio Lipari Ryan Ammon Liam Lim

COVER IMAGE Honouring the many veterans we care for on ANZAC Day.

Printed by VANGUARD PRESS, WA HOGAN PRINT, NSW All rights reserved. No material published in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or part without prior written authority. Every endeavour is made to ensure information contained is correct at time of going to print. ©2021 Life & Love is published by Hall & Prior Health & Aged Care Group.

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CEO Graeme Prior spends time with two of our veterans.

A WORD FROM THE

Chief Executive Officer

ere we are at the end of the first quarter of 2021.

It has been a successful start to the year and I would like to thank my staff for working hard to deliver world-class care to some of society’s most vulnerable people. Hall & Prior’s number one priority has always been keeping our residents and staff safe and well. Over the past 12 months this has become vitally important as we faced the challenges of COVID-19 in our sector. COVID-19 has changed our world and it looks as though it will remain part of it for some time. The pandemic continues to challenge aged care, but I would like to reassure you all that we have a highly skilled Pandemic Task Force in place. We remain prepared but we are also cognisant of the fact that COVID-19 can return at any time. The COVID-19 vaccination roll-out to residents in our homes is progressing very well and we are pleased with the number of residents who have been vaccinated so far. Our staff roll-out will also begin shortly. You can read about the vaccination roll-out on page six.

I believe we still have much to learn from these brave men and women who sacrificed their lives and hearts for the greater good of humanity. Recently we went to NSW to meet some veterans at our Fairfield and Sirius Cove Aged Care Homes; we share their stories with you on page 18. Telling these veterans’ stories and recording them for posterity is incredibly important to me. It is only by listening to them and learning from the past that we can move forward into the future. For many, the wars are still hard for them to talk about many years on, but we honour their memories and those whose lives were lost for this and every ANZAC Day. I hope you enjoy this issue and the wonderful stories from within our homes. Lest we forget. Yours truly,

GRAEME PRIOR Chief Executive Officer

In this issue we also celebrate our brave veterans for ANZAC Day. Veterans play a special part in our homes, and we care for more than 100 ex-servicemen and women in WA and NSW. 5

CORPORATE NEWS

COVID-19

vaccine roll-out begins

As Australia begins to administer COVID-19 vaccines to its most vulnerable communities, Hall & Prior takes its place at the forefront of this historic national vaccination drive. By Beverly Ligman. Photos by Fabrizio Lipari.

Residents were given the vaccine at a special clinic set up within the home on Tuesday, February 23. In January, the Commonwealth Government announced that aged care residents would receive the vaccine as a priority. Hall & Prior CEO Graeme Prior applauded the Government’s decision.

“Hall & Prior’s number one priority is and has always been keeping our residents and staff safe and well, and we applaud the Government’s decision.” Ever since the Commonwealth Government announced that residents in aged care were to be among the first to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, Hall & Prior has been actively engaged with GPs, residents and families about the vaccine roll-out.

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“It is wonderful that our residents at Rockingham are among the first Australian’s to receive the COVID-19 vaccination,” Mr Prior said.

“Giving our residential aged care home residents the vaccine as a priority will help protect those who are the most vulnerable in our society.

“We look forward to working closely with the WA Department of Health to help administer the vaccine across our homes and we have a dedicated team in place to support its safe and effective roll-out.

It is wonderful that our residents at Rockingham are among the first Australians to receive the COVID-19 vaccination.

Hall & Prior is an industry leader in vaccinations; championing an influenza vaccine for staff and residents for the past decade has resulted in industry-leading immunisation rates across the organisation.

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all & Prior’s Rockingham Aged Care Home in Western Australia was one of the first residential aged care homes in Australia to receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.

GOOD TO GO Rockingham resident and veteran Raymond Bartholomew, 97, receives his first COVID-19 vaccination, along with fellow residents, below.

Popular Rockingham resident and WWII Veteran Raymond Bartholomew (97, pictured above) was the first in the home to roll up his sleeve and receive the vaccine. “The kids today have their whole future ahead of them and it’s going to be hard, but if we can make it easier on them by helping reduce the risk of this virus, then that’s what matters,” Raymond said. At the time of going to press, over 700 vaccines have been administered to 535 residents and 182 staff at our WA homes in Rockingham, Clarence Estate, Tuohy, Kensington Park, Windsor Park, Mertome, Leighton, Belmont, and in NSW, Aubrey Downer, Sirius Cove, Menaville and Clover Lea, with Vaucluse lined up for April.

WINNING TEAM David Holmes, Toni Neck, David Stroud and Adam Tomasso accept the award.

Karingal Green wins major award Hall & Prior’s Karingal Green Health and Aged Care Community development in High Wycombe has been named the 2020 winner of the Seniors Living category at the annual UDIA WA awards.

he prestigious award in the Seniors Living category at the annual UDIA WA night of nights was scooped by Hall & Prior’s Karingal Green Health and Aged Care Community development.

The award, which Hall & Prior shares with the award-winning architect team at Hassell, was presented to the Karingal Green team at the WA development industry’s night of nights held at Crown Perth recently. The UDIA is the peak body representing all segments of the urban development industry and as such, winning the award for excellence

in the Seniors Living category caps an incredible journey for Karingal Green and all those who have contributed to its success. The award winners and finalists represent the very best urban development projects delivered within Western Australia, and are reflective of the growth of best practices and industry as a whole. Competition was fierce in the various categories; the prestigious awards program is widely regarded as the pinnacle for the urban development industry in terms of achievement in community creation, innovation and sustainability.

“Receiving this award is a fantastic achievement for the Karingal Green team and I congratulate them on their hard work and dedication to the project,” Mr Prior said.

City of Kalamunda, Activ Foundation Inc and the Western Australian State Government was integral to the success of this project.” “I am immensely proud of our team and a very big thank you must go to Hassell for making our vision a reality.”

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“Karingal Green is a new concept for aged care in Perth and means that Western Australians now have access to world class aged care services in their community. “I am grateful for the unwavering support that Karingal Green received from so many individuals, organisations and Government at all levels. In addition, the support of our community partners, the

with modern health and clinic facilities along with a wellness centre, heated hydrotherapy pool and gym. From the entrance café all the way through to the hair salon, no detail has been overlooked, as the project team have sought to provide

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Hall & Prior CEO Graeme Prior said the award was recognition of more than a decade of hard work.

Karingal Green is a new concept for aged care in Perth . . .

According to the judges, Karingal Green demonstrates excellence across every aspect of the facility, “truly lifting the bar for aged care”. Residents are provided unprecedented quality and amenity, as they transition to a higher care environment

their residents with an excellent quality of lifestyle. Karingal Green was designed by award-winning international architects Hassell Studio and built by Broad Construction. Visit karingalgreen.com.au

Celebrating our incredible women

International Women’s Day was marked across all our Hall & Prior homes this year, and every story shared was inspiring and uplifting. By General Manager Health and Care Services Jennifer Grieve (WA) and General Manager Kris Healy (NSW).

e are incredibly blessed at Hall & Prior to work with an inspiring group of women who don’t just go above and beyond every day to care for our residents. They also care for one another. We are an organisation that has many women in leadership roles and we are supported by our CEO Graeme Prior, who understands and supports women, fully endorsing International Women’s Day. Hall & Prior also actively encourages women who aspire to further their careers and reach their full potential. This year’s theme #ChoosetoChallenge acknowledges the strength of women around the world in the campaign for gender equality. It encourages women to speak up and find their voice, and it encourages men to support them in that endeavour. From challenge comes change, but the rise of women is not about the fall of men. Everyone has a role to play in forging gender parity. Collectively, we can all help create an inclusive world.

International Women’s Day provides an important moment to showcase our commitment to women’s equality, celebrate women’s achievements, raise awareness and challenge gender stereotypes. We are both constantly inspired by the strength, compassion and resilience of our women, which helps us to deliver exceptional care to some of the most vulnerable people in our society. At Hall & Prior we strongly believe in treating all people equally; regardless of gender or race, and showing love, mercy and care to those around us, not just today, but every day. Throughout our staff in WA and NSW, 82.3 percent of them are women. Whether they are members of our clinical, care, hospitality or administration teams, the work these women do every day improves the lives of those in our care. Thank you for the dedication and kindness you show to our families and their loved ones every day.

HANNAH TRAN, Registered Nurse, Mertome Aged Care Home What IWD means to me: It’s a day to remember and embrace women around the world for the sacrifices, losses and achievements we have made. How I #ChoosetoChallenge: By ensuring all women including staff and residents at Mertome Aged Care & Retirement Village have their voices heard and dignity respected.

DANIEL PRIOR, Senior Manager Corporate Development

JANELLE MCFARLANE, Executive Director Regional Leader

What IWD means to me:

IWD is an important day as it celebrates the achievements of women and reminds us that the battle for women’s equality is far from over and everyone has a role in making this a reality.

A chance to think about the women that have come before me and to be grateful for how they have paved the way.

How I #ChoosetoChallenge: Raising awareness and calling out unconscious bias in the workplace and socially.

How I #ChoosetoChallenge: By ensuring women of diverse backgrounds are aware of the opportunities available within Hall & Prior.

KAUSALIA APPARAO, Financial Controller WA What IWD means to me: It means acknowledging the women throughout history and diversity/ethnic/culture that have paved the way so women like me can achieve their dreams. How I #ChoosetoChallenge: The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender equality in diverse areas such as workplace, social, political and culture.

DONNA JONES, Kitchen Hand, Caroline Chisholm Aged Care Home What IWD means to me: IWD means there is some recognition for all great women out there – we do so many things! How I #ChoosetoChallenge: By helping other women to get a start, especially those women from other countries who need to build their confidence working in Australia. 12

DEB SINCLAIR-LANE, Executive Director of Care/ Regional Leader

MINA PINDOLIA, Director of Nursing, Tuohy Aged Care Home

What IWD means to me:

IWD started with a march by the women of New York protesting against exploitation and for equal working conditions and was adopted by the United Nations in 1975. We’ve come a long way. The energy from this ambitious and historic movement is inspiring!

IWD means to me that powerful women from a developing country are able to set examples and empower other women to push the boundaries.

How I #ChoosetoChallenge: Where women work makes all the difference - balance is a wonderful thing in all walks of life.

How I #ChoosetoChallenge: I choose to challenge myself physically and emotionally and I will also continuously challenge the boundaries that might restrict my development.

MEENA GURUNG, Assistant in Nursing, Sirius Cove Aged Care Home What IWD means to me: It means so much to feel supported to continue my career – encouragement is always welcomed when it comes to achieving goals. How I #ChoosetoChallenge: I will help by personally telling my female coworkers what a great job they do. Acknowledgment is a powerful tool to feeling confident in your work.

EMILY SMITH, Sous Chef, Fresh Fields Hospitality Services What IWD means to me: A powerful collaboration of women all over the world who come together united in hope and action. How I #ChoosetoChallenge: I #ChoosetoChallenge stereotypes, fight bias, broaden perceptions, improve situations and celebrate women’s achievements. To work without barriers in regards to race, ethnicity, gender, religious beliefs, physical abilities and more. Recognising the beauty in every individual. 13

ALWAYS ONE OF The team at Windsor Park Aged Care Home in Carlisle worked tirelessly to help one of their residents - Lena - return to her community over a period of several years. By Gabi Mills.

he people who pass through Hall & Prior homes’ doors come from many backgrounds, and their stories are all different. We work extremely hard to make a difference to all those who live with us, no matter how long or short their stay may be, and in the case of one of our residents - Lena - that commitment is ongoing. Lena’s story with Hall & Prior began when she was just 56 in 2019. After a stay in hospital, she was appointed a Public Advocate who was assigned to make decisions on her behalf. As such, she was admitted to our Windsor Park home after leaving hospital. Her relatively young age made Lena’s admission to our home an unusual one but nevertheless, Jayne Cummings, the home’s Executive Manager and Aboriginal Health Co-ordinator Wendy Ashwin, worked closely with Lena to improve her ability to care for herself. “The aim was that one day we would be able to return her to the community,” says

Jayne. “So we liaised with her Guardian and began to float the idea of Lena’s return.” It wasn’t an easy process, and required ongoing updates and feedback to the Guardian regarding Lena’s progress, but eventually she started to come around to the idea, says Jayne. As the year progressed, Jayne and Wendy continued to work with Lena closely, aligning different community groups and health professionals to help Lena re-integrate with her community. “Multiple organisations worked closely with Lena to arrange for her to return to her community, liaising with the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT), the mental health team, the Aboriginal Medical Health Service (Derbarl Yerrigan), Lena’s family members and the public guardian,” says Jayne. “By January 2020, Lena was placed back in the community, a huge achievement for the combined team of health workers and those who supported Lena,” says Jayne.

ONE OF THE FAMILY: Lena (above) has thrived thanks to the team at Windsor Park, and opposite, Lena with some of the Windsor Park staff and residents.

OUR OWN Unfortunately in August 2020, Lena had a lapse in her mental health which resulted in her being readmitted to hospital, before eventually being welcomed back at Windsor Park until she was in a position to once again consider going back into her community. “Over the next six months, Lena was again rehabilitated sufficiently after her admission to Windsor Park, and in February 2021 she was again returned back to her community and family,” says Jayne. “Mental health is extremely challenging, but by reaching out for help from allied organisations when we need it, strategies have been put in place for Lena to try and support her while she is in the community.”

However, Lena’s story – and others like her - doesn’t end when she leaves our doors, says Jayne. “Whatever happens, Lena will always be a part of the Hall & Prior family no matter where she is.”

FAST FACTS

About Windsor Park

Windsor Park Aged Care Home specialises in supporting people with high care requirements and is staffed round-the-clock with Registered Nurses and a team who specialise in complex medical conditions, severe cognitive impairment and responsive behaviours.

Banksia & Boronia provide specialist care programs for residents with complex care needs.

Windsor Park is comprised of three houses; Banksia & Boronia, Coolibah and the Lodge. All houses have access to large activity rooms, quiet rooms, lounge rooms plus extensive gardens and barbecue areas for residents to enjoy.

The Lodge is a small female unit and cares for those living with dementia and other mental health conditions.

Coolibah is an all-male unit and offers care for those living with dementia, behavioural needs and other mental health conditions.

Story continued overleaf . . . 15

Launched in 2006, Windsor Park’s specialised Aboriginal Cultural Care Program is continually improving the way we provide respectful care for Aboriginal people. It is based on a strong foundation of partnerships with the Dementia Training Study Centre (DTSC), which is led by researchers at Curtin University, and trust between the academic, Aboriginal and aged care communities. A key part of providing culturally appropriate care is Windsor Park’s Aboriginal Health Co-ordinator, Wendy Ashwin. She is passionate about advocating for residents’ rights and providing additional support. Wendy is well-connected to Aboriginal Health groups in both Perth and throughout Western Australia. Communication and sharing information between residents and staff is a large part of how we have been able to continually improve our care and make sure each resident and their family feel welcome and well looked after.

By using a yarning way of exchanging knowledge, our team take the time to get to know every resident individually. This helps us learn how to adapt our procedures in order to be inclusive of, and sensitive to, cultural needs and practices. We understand the impact that historic, political and social events have had on Australia’s Aboriginal communities, and we are committed to ensuring our home is culturally safe for individuals to ensure they remain connected to country and their heritage. Our Back to Country program focuses on specialised care for Aboriginal people from rural or remote communities who travel to Perth for medical care and would like to return home following treatment. Being away from country can be very difficult for everyone in the community, so we work with residents and families to maintain connections to a person’s community and work with multidisciplinary teams to support the resident while they are away from their community.

Aboriginal artwork, menus with traditionalstyle meals such as kangaroo stew, and collaborating with local community groups helps us bring a sense of country to Windsor Park. In several cases, we have been able to increase a person’s independence and health outcomes to a point where they are able to return to country. Our culturally-appropriate care program has been acknowledged nationally with three Commonwealth Better Practice Awards in 2013, 2016 and 2018. These prestigious industry awards are presented by the Aged Care Quality Agency and recognise innovative approaches to care. If you would like to find out more about Windsor Park or any of the Hall & Prior aged care homes, please visit hallprior.com.au

READER GIVEAWAY

Second chance for June New Aussie movie June Again, starring Noni Hazelhurst as a woman on a mission to make amends, is the perfect winter treat for all ages.

n the heartfelt comedy June Again, a twist of fate gives no-nonsense matriarch June the chance to bring together her estranged children, save their ailing family wallpaper business and rekindle an old flame. June (Noni Hazlehurst, pictured above) has been given a reprieve from a debilitating illness and decides to make amends for wrongs in her life. Much to their amazement, June re-enters the lives of her adult children, Ginny (Claudia Karvan) and Devon (Stephen Curry), and learns that ‘things haven’t gone according to plan’. With limited time but plenty of pluck, she sets about trying to put everything, and everyone, back on track. When her meddling backfires, June sets out on a romantic journey of her own and discovers she needs help from the very people she was trying to rescue. Directed by JJ Winlove, and with a stellar Australian cast, the movie, shot in Sydne,y is finally seeing the light of day after several years in the making.

In an interview with if.com.au, Winlove says how lucky he feels to have worked with such a beloved bunch of Aussie actors on his passion project. “I feel incredibly fortunate to be working with such a great bunch of people on both sides of the camera who’ve all come together to make this film happen,” Winlove said in the interview from 2019. “The attitude, energy and positivity of everyone on board is just incredible.” Noni Hazelhurst, one-time presenter of Play School, awardwinning star of stage and screen and true blue Australian acting legend is equally thrilled to be involved with the movie. “The whole cast really responded to JJ’s script. It’s a fabulous opportunity to play a character like June.” June Again opens on May 6 around Australia.

WIN

tickets to new movie, June Again.

Thanks to our friends at Studiocanal, we've got 20 double passes to June Again, starring Noni Hazelhurst to give away. If you’d like to go into the draw, email us at: marketing@hallprior.com.au. Good luck!

ANZAC SPECIAL

ANZAC

Special

To celebrate the ANZAC tradition of service and sacrifice, here are three stories about our brave residents who gave their all for their country.

From island life to Sirius Cove Veteran and resident of Sirius Cove Aged Care Home in Sydney, Alfonso Bosnich may be 95 but his recollections of the brutal war years in Croatia are still fresh and raw. By Gabi Mills.

t’s a long way from the Croatian island of Korcula in the warm Adriatic Sea to ˇ Sydney’s Sirius Cove aged care home in Mosman. But for 95-year old resident and Croatian army veteran Alfonso Bosnich, replacing his far away island home for Australia was a life-changing decision, made in the post-war years in 1956. The sixth largest Adriatic island is a beautiful spot, with medieval terracotta roofed villages, granite peaks, forests and the azure blue sea lapping idyllic little coves. The Old Town and its walls stem from the second half of the 13th Century and it’s laid out to resemble a fishbone. The town was built in this way to protect against sea winds, and it’s testament to this clever design that the town is still standing hundreds of years later. Said to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, it’s a beautiful place, tranquil now, which belies the conflict which would engulf it and other islands nearby. Like many other countries fringing the Adriatic, the Germans attacked, working with the Italians under Mussolini, to divide and conquer the many different ethnic groups who lived there. Resistance began almost immediately after war was declared, with Croatia’s Serbs fighting alongside the communist Partisans, led by Tito (himself a Croat) leading to eventual victory and liberation towards the end of 1944.

STILL SMILING Alfonso Bosnich, above, fought in the Second World War as a teenager in Croatia.

As a 17-year-old, Alfonso volunteered to fight with the Croatian forces against the Germans and Italians in 1943. In addition to the fascist threat, there was also a more insidious enemy – something Alfonso remembers as ‘home traitors’, led by Ante Pavelic, a Hitler-backed group, who would go on to persecute Serbs, Jews, Roma and anti-fascist Croats in 1941 and 1942. In fact as many as 450,000 of these minorities were killed in massacres and at a notorious concentration camp in Jasenovac. “They were locals who fought for the enemy,” said Alfonso, and he was most definitely on the other side. Story continued overleaf . . .

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“How can your memories of war be good when you kill a man?” he said. “I carried a German submachine gun which had a long linked chain of bullets. I knew that if I’m not quick enough, I’ll be dead, so I became a good shooter. “There’s no mercy if you miss, you’ll be too late,” he recalls. “I wouldn’t wish anybody to have to go through a war because they could end up killing you.”

One such casualty was his own older brother who didn’t make it back from the war.

Alfonso himself didn’t escape entirely unscathed from the war. “I stepped on a land mine and was hit with shrapnel on my leg, thigh and under my eye,” remembers the former sharp shooter. “They’re not good memories – I am old but I have a good mind and sharp eyes when they’re needed.

He had worked as a farmer in his home town of Blato on Korcula, growing ‘every ˇ vegetable imaginable’ as well as keeping goats, sheep and pigs. In such a self-sufficient society, it’s no surprise to learn that Alfonso was a pretty proficient butcher, curing his own prosciutto from the pigs he raised.

I wouldn’t wish anybody to have to go through a war - they could end up killing you . . . After serving a few more years in the army after the war ended, Alfonso migrated to Australia in 1956 to live with an uncle who had moved here to work. Unfortunately his uncle died before Alfonso made it to Australia, making it imperative that he find work as soon as possible.

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Born in 1926, his father moved away to Australia when he was just four months old – “I never knew him” an event which still affects him today. Nevertheless, Alfonso always worked hard and did his best – including during his war service, which at times involved some brutal interactions with the enemy.

Once on Australian soil, Alfonso headed to Cairns in Queensland to work as a sugar cane cutter for ten years, as well as stints in Broken Hill, labouring at a quarry. It was a hard life but one which Alfonso was grateful to have after his wartime experience. He was married twice, and although unable to have children of his own, his stepson Frank from his second wife ‘inherited’ Alfonso as his own. “I don’t have any children – that’s just how it is.” Alfonso moved into Sirius Cove in October 2014 and has been a resident for six and a half years. Previously he worked as a mini bus driver for elderly people, picking them up from their homes to drive them all over Sydney. It seems like a fittingly social role for this congenial gentleman and veteran who, in his 96th year, retains a philosophical approach to life. “You can’t go anywhere out of your skin – you can’t change it, so you may as well accept it.”

ANZAC SPECIAL

The army life for me Gemma Bonser lives in Fairfield Aged Care Home in NSW. She was in the Army Reserves from 1967 to 1989 and her late husband was also a Major in the Australian Defence Force who served in the Vietnam War. Gemma shares her love of the army life. By Beverly Ligman.

hen Gemma Bonser (pictured above) first laid eyes on her husband Dave, it was love at first sight.

She knew immediately that the then Warrant Officer was the man she was destined to marry. “When I first saw him in the 70s I thought, ‘what a hunk’!” Gemma said with a twinkle in her eye. “He was taking palettes off the back of a truck and I noticed his smile and his muscles instantly, and I knew there and then that he was the man for me. “When we got married, it was like a dream. We had five children together and they all moved around Australia with us, living the army life. “He was very kind and he looked after us all. He loved what he did, he was very good at it, and very proud to be in service for Australia.” Gemma, Dave and their five children lived everywhere from Alice Springs to Tasmania and Far North Queensland and she said that for them, variety was indeed the spice of life. “It might have been some families’ idea of a nightmare, but to us it was a dream come true,” Gemma said.

“We moved around a lot, but to me it felt like we were on one big working holiday. Everywhere we landed I would find a job and the kids would adjust to school. It kept life interesting and fun. “I loved every minute of army life and being an officer’s wife.” The fact that Gemma took to army life so effortlessly is no surprise when you discover that it’s actually in her blood; Gemma’s father was also a Lieutenant General Commanding Officer in the Army. “I guess it’s how I grew up too, so it’s no surprise that I loved the army lifestyle,” Gemma added. “I followed in my father’s footsteps to an extent when I joined the Army Reserves, and I really enjoyed being part of that.” Gemma became an Acting Sargent and qualified clerk for the Army Reserves during her time with them, serving in Tasmania and parts of NSW during her tenure. “Women play a very important part in the army,” she said. “Whether they’re officers or wives, women’s roles in the army are often underestimated.” 21

ANZAC SPECIAL

Mercy missions and fond memories Fairfield resident Allen Bradshaw served aboard HMAS Melbourne and saw half the world while serving in the Royal Australian Navy. By Gabi Mills.

n 1965, Allen Bradshaw left school in Fairfield, NSW, and joined the Australian Royal Navy. Aged just 16 or 17, as he recalls, Allen was sent to HMAS Leeuwin, a naval base in Fremantle, WA for 12 months, before being assigned to HMAS Melbourne for a further 12 months. It was the beginning of an exciting life on the waves for the young man, born in Fairfield hospital. “We went overseas, half way around the war,” he says. “We played war games with Japan and America, up around Shanghai.”

HMAS Melbourne was an impressive vessel – an aircraft carrier which was the Flagship of the Royal Australian Navy. During her service, the carrier was deployed overseas on 35 occasions, and visited over 22 countries. During Allen’s time aboard, the Melbourne went on several sorties into international waters, taking supplies over to south east Asia when the region was in turmoil thanks to the Vietnam war and other local disputes. “We carried a whole stack of troops, army trucks and all their gear, rifles and bullets to where the war was,” says Allen. “We offloaded it all over there and then brought troops back who were crook, replacing them with other fellas. I did two more tours, taking troops over there and bringing them back.” Describing HMAS Melbourne as ‘a bloody big ship’, Allen recalls it was so large that it could carry tanks and planes as well as cannons and ammunition. Despite its impressive size, however, he also remembers some small local fishing boats attempting to engage with the Australian aircraft carrier. “Fishing boats from local harbours in China and Singapore would come out and try to throw little bombs on us,” he laughs. “They looked like matchboxes next to the Melbourne and we’d stand on deck above them, chucking

down empty paper coffee cups on them, telling them to go away. “They must have thought we were there to hurt them but we were only there to try and help, bringing back the injured and the fellas who’d been there for quite a while.”

We carried a whole stack of troops, army trucks and all their gear, rifles and bullets to where the war was . . . His memories of shore leave remain strong, even to this day. “Even though it was a hectic job and we were often flat tack all the time, the only time you got to yourself to recuperate and enjoy yourself was when you were asked to knock off for the day,” he recalls. “If you were tied up alongside dock you could go ashore, providing the skipper let you. You had to stay within a certain area too because there were too many dubious people about, trying to get your dollars – even in peacetime.

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Allen would go on to train as a medical assistant in the Cerberus training facility in Victoria, serving over 12 years with the Royal Navy.

LIFE ON THE OCEAN WAVES Allen Bradshaw, above, salutes those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Opposite, with Hall & Prior’s CEO Graeme Prior. Below, HMAS Melbourne.

“Every part of me enjoyed it.”

MEET THE DON

Yvonne Wales Agmaroy Aged Care Home, Wilson, WA 24

MEET THE DON

vonne Wales recently made the move from Rockingham, where she was Director of Nursing, to busy Agmaroy where she takes on a new challenge.

L&L: How long have you been working in aged care, and what drew you to the profession? YW: I have been working in aged care for around 20 years. I started as a carer at Agmaroy, then proceeded to become an enrolled nurse and then a Registered Nurse with the encouragement and support from the previous owner, Alma Martin. She was a mother figure to me who always guided me in the right direction. I still seek Alma’s advice on career moves. I was drawn to the profession to promote social connectedness to the elderly, to help make our elders feel safe and comfortable. The sense of belonging and feeling at home enables a better quality of life. L&L: When did you join Hall & Prior and in what capacity? YW: I was fortunate to work at Agmaroy before Hall & Prior took over, and after that, I started working at McDougall Park Aged Care Home in 2009 as an RN before becoming a CNM. L&L: What do you particularly enjoy about your role – and what are the challenges you face? YW: I enjoy the diversity of my role, the challenges that the role brings, and the excitement of the various duties that are required to be undertaken. L&L: What made you want to move from Rockingham to Agmaroy – and so far, how do the two homes differ/what are their similarities? YW: I was looking for a new challenge and it was the right time for me to make a move and allow someone else to start their journey into management at Rockingham. I would like to thank the team at Rockingham for being so committed, dedicated and supportive.

For me, it was time for a change. Agmaroy is the home where I started my nursing career - my children also worked at Agmaroy when they were younger. You could say I have always had a soft spot for the place. L&L: On a day-to-day basis, what makes your role special and how do you plan on inspiring staff at Agmaroy? YW: I would like to provide a legacy that embeds the systems and processes required to satisfy the new face of aged care. L&L: If somebody was contemplating a career in aged care, what advice would you give them? YW: I would say to do it, it is a great area of nursing to be a part of. It’s a very challenging but rewarding profession, being able to help and assist the elderly. L&L: What kind of leader/DON are you – how do you think your colleagues would describe you? YW: I am hoping they would see me as kind, present and available to them. L&L: What makes for a good day in aged care in your chosen career path – and how do you keep smiling in the face of everyday life and death situations encountered in aged care? YW: I try not to think of life and death but be a part of the living and providing the quality of life. Although death is a part of our business, we must encourage an environment of love and belonging in order to continue keeping smiles on our faces. L&L: What plans do you have for Agmaroy – and how do you relax when you get home? YW: I have already started progressing change and will continue to implement positive changes within the home. I want Agmaroy to feel like a home where family and staff are comfortable and happy to be a part of a team. I relax at home by spending time with my grandchildren, Jakob and Korbyn, whom I adore. To find out more about Agmaroy, visit hallprior.com.au. 25

IN OUR HOMES

All the luck of the Irish

St Patrick’s Day gave many of our residents and staff the perfect excuse to go green and celebrate Ireland’s famous patron saint.

Fairfield Aged Care Home At Fairfield Aged Care Home in Sydney, the whole home went green with many a-leaping leprechaun, enjoying an Irishthemed lunch and a glass of stout or two. The biggest hit was the shamrock mega photo frame which had a line-up of people all wanting their image captured. Happy St Patrick’s Day from Fairfield Aged Care Home.

Clover Lea Aged Care Home We all enjoyed learning a bit about Ireland and the history of St Patrick’s Day. We made some crafty signage so we could decorate our home and hold it as we captured some of the moments we enjoyed during our celebration. The sign was also a prompt for our residents to put on an Irish jig when the camera comes out. 26

Leighton Aged Care Home Meanwhile in Leighton Aged Care Home in Perth, the team went all out with leprechauns, shamrocks, an Irish traditional dancing troupe and beautifully decorated cupcakes for one and all. The dancing girls thrilled the audience with their high kicks and precision steps Irish dancing is one of the hardest dancing genres to master and the young performers were very much appreciated by the residents who had dressed up in green just for the occasion.

Bexley Aged Care Home Residents celebrated on the actual day, right in the middle of our Harmony Week. It was a big day of fun activities for the residents, with St Patrick’s Bingo, some cracking jokes, green treats, a movie depicting St Patrick’s Day, some music and some resulting belly-laughing photos. A good day was had by all. Concetta even found her way to the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

Caroline Chisholm Aged Care Home St Patrick’s Day was the highlight of our month. Our residents enjoyed some Kilkenny Irish Ale instead of Guinness, which was brewed at St Francis Abbey in 1710. We were joined at lunch by two leprechaun dolls from the Celtic town of Glenn Innes.

Aubrey Downer Aged Care Home We celebrated St Patrick’s Day with an afternoon tea and a toe-tapping concert performed by Irish band, Windygigs. The band joined us in our activities hall and played singa-long Irish songs, involving the residents in their merry-making by passing them musical instruments to play with the band.

IN OUR HOMES

eggcellent Easter

HALL & PRIOR’S HOMES celebrated Easter recently with some fluffy friends spending time at our Tuohy and Concorde Aged Care Homes. Tuohy hatches its own chickens at Easter every year and Concorde had chickens come to stay for the Easter weekend.

Our residents took turns giving the adorable chicks plenty of love and attention and enjoyed hot cross buns and Easter egg hunts on Easter morning. We hope you enjoyed a wonderful Easter full of peace and love.

puppy love Bexley Aged Care Home OUR RESIDENTS at Bexley Aged Care Home in NSW were delighted to host an episode filming Channel Ten’s Pooches at Play inside the home in March. Presenter Lara Shannon enjoyed interviewing residents Betty, Ethel and David about the joy they feel when Sydney Dogs and Cats Home bring their gorgeous dogs in for a visit.

Big fans of Bexley, Sydney Dogs and Cats Home visit regularly to share the puppy love. They are a charity, volunteer animal shelter and community facility which re-homes and reunites animals with lost owners and loving new homes. Many thanks to volunteers Barbara and Kerry who brought in little Margarita, the star of the show! 29

IN OUR HOMES

LEIGHTON’S

fabulous

FRINGE FESTIVAL

Leighton Aged Care Home

eighton Aged Care Home in West Perth came to life in March with their very own version of all the colour and fun of Perth’s annual Fringe Festival. There were magicians and musicians, glitter stations and silent discos, plus food trucks and a bar for Leighton residents, their families and staff to enjoy, capturing all the fabulous frivolity of fringe on a delightful summer’s evening. It was also the perfect opportunity to celebrate the opening of the new gardens at the home, now called Florence Gardens. Manager of Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy Madelyne Glover played a big part in organising the successful event, pulling together a diverse collection of attractions and performers to make Leighton a really colourful place to be for the night.

“I’d like to thank the fantastic Fringe entertainers - Elouera Music and Cameron the Magician, and the silent disco organised by Audiovault,” said Maddy. “Thanks too to the delicious food served up by Travelling Snack Restaurant’s food truck and to Barefoot Style & Hire for the colourful neon sign and backdrop for all those fabulous photos. Finally to Koleksi Beanbag Hire for providing comfy places to sit to watch the activities.”

Love is in the air VALENTINE’S DAY was a great excuse for many of our homes to go all out for romance - and because many couples call Hall & Prior home, there was plenty of love on display in WA and NSW. Here’s a selection of photos showing that love conquers all, no matter what age you are.

VACCINATIONS

take the cake

s the song goes, a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down, and in the case of Hall & Prior’s vaccination rollout, that has certainly been the case.

At each vaccination clinic in our Western Australian homes, there was some keen rivalry as an unofficial cake competition produced some creative bakes. “Hall & Prior are very proud of the current roll-out of COVID-19 Pfizer vaccines to our residents in our homes,” says CEO Graeme Prior. “We currently have two homes in WA which are now fully vaccinated (that is, they’ve had their second dose of the vaccine administered), and we will have two homes in NSW which will be fully vacinated by Easter.”

The uptake by residents has been encouraging with a 92% consent rate. One resident in regional WA took a video of himself receiving the vaccine to send to his daughter in Canada (who is still awaiting her own dose). “The clinics are going well and the Aspen and Health Care Australia staff have been extremely easy and professional to work with,” said Mr Prior.

IN OUR HOMES

Words of

Wisdom What better pleasure in life is there than sitting down to devour a good book? Reading at any age is widely encouraged for all residents of our Hall & Prior homes.

Sirius Cove Aged Care Home PAGES FOR WISDOM is a new initiative that invites residential aged care service providers to connect with budding writers and seasoned authors from around the world.

will get exposure to a wider demographic and receive crucial feedback to develop their skills.

It’s hoped Pages for Wisdom will empower people accessing aged care services and create an opportunity for their voices to be heard and valued in the wider community.

Pages for Wisdom is now ready to expand their work through their partnership with Meaningful Ageing Australia and reach into many aged care homes to encourage the wisdom and joy of reading for as many residents as possible.

Registered psychologist, Chelsea Dynan established Pages for Wisdom when she saw an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the lives of older people. Launched in August 2020, Chelsea has received a strong positive response from service providers, older people and writers.

The team at Sirius Cove in Sydney’s lower north shore suburb of Mosman have been enjoying this new initiative which has seen Lifestyle and Wellbeing Officer Alyse to work one-on-one with residents to sit, read and then discuss the feedback/ critic that will be given back to the author.

“I am interested in the relationship between creative connection, engagement and stimulus for the wellbeing of our older population,” says Chelsea.

“One of our residents, Wendy, just loves to sit out in the garden and read,” says Alyse.

Participants have access to new pieces of writing every month which are delivered electronically. In return writers

“Doing this activity together is such a wonderful experience, as it seems to make the busy world around us stop while we contemplate the authors work and write down our feedback on the works.

PAGE TURNERS-R-US Top, Chelsea Dynan from Pages for Wisdom. Above, Sirius Cove resident Wendy is an avid book worm.

“The Pages for Wisdom staff supply us with larger font pieces – that are somewhat shorter in length, as we have found this is what works best for our residents here at Sirius Cove.” You can find out more about Pages for Wisdom on facebook.com/pagesforwisdom 33

A VISION for the future

e’re all living longer and enjoying a better quality of health. It’s estimated that more than half the babies born in wealthier countries since 2000 will reach their 100th birthdays. That’s a pretty amazing statistic. However, as we age, our vision can begin to deteriorate affecting our ability to continue to enjoy doing all the things we’ve done over the years. In Australia, eye diseases such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy can lead to sight loss. Unfortunately, there may come a time when the impact of these conditions can no longer be corrected with glasses, contact lenses or with medical interventions. That’s where VisAbility can help. VisAbility offers specialist support services to people with vision impairment and a range of

VisAbility helps people with vision issues manage their condition in their own home in conjunction with White Oak.

therapies, and can work with individuals in the comfort of their own surroundings, including seniors in the White Oak community. The not-for-profit and registered My Aged Care provider has been supporting people with low or no vision in Western Australia for more than 100 years. Its origins date back to 1913 when the Ladies’ Braille Society was formed. Seventy years ago in 1951, Australia’s first Guide Dog training school was established which had a nationwide impact. In 2013, the Association for the Blind of WA and Guide Dogs WA became known as VisAbility. Last year VisAbility received a commendation for providing an outstanding level of care and service delivery to older clients by Leading Aged Services Australia. It was also a finalist in the organisation category in the annual Excellence in Age Services Awards.

like a desktop magnifier. Screen reading software and talking devices are also making life far easier. Qualified therapists provide demonstrations, training and assessments so people can read, tell the time, cook and eat and learn how to easily use a computer, tablet or mobile phone with limited sight. There’s also the option to join VisAbility’s online digital library which has more than 70,000 talking book titles. “This recognition highlights our commitment to elderly clients,” says Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth Barnes. “In 12 months, 3,000 people with a disability have received our services, and nearly two-thirds of these are aged 65 and over.” Kate Brill is manager of VisAbility’s Therapy Services. A qualified physiotherapist, Kate has vision impairment herself, so can relate to the challenges faced by people with low vision. “I understand frustrations felt by people whose sight is not perfect, whether that be blurred vision, focusing issues or limited peripheral vision and depth perception. But there is help to support you so you can enjoy life, day-to-day,’’ Kate says. “Our qualified team of therapists can offer low vision assessments. We can visit you in your home and establish whether you need improved lighting or kitchen modifications to help you cook and find your way around.” VisAbility has offices in Perth, Bunbury and Albany and can offer support with mobility, along with assistive technology guidance. There is plenty of equipment to help people with vision impairment to lead an independent life. This includes something as basic as a plastic signature guide to something bigger,

VisAbility offers a wide selection of vision aids, equipment and supports for people living with vision impairment which can be bought from our specialist shop.

FAST FACTS

VisAbility Services include:

Occupational Therapy Orientation and Mobility Exercise Physiology Social Work Orthoptics Assistive Technology If you are interested in accessing support from VisAbility, contact 1800 847 466 or visit visability.com.au/oak. It would be helpful to provide a copy of a recent eye check report from an optometrist or ophthalmologist. You can also speak to your White Oak case service co-ordinator, so that it can be incorporated into your home care package or Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) funded services. 35

FOOD AND DRINK

Dietitians take centre stage

t was Dietitians Day at the end of March, and this important role is rightly celebrated not just at Hall & Prior, but around the world.

With an understanding of biochemistry, psychology, sociology and medical nutrition therapy, dietitians are best placed to translate nutritional science into practical

and individualised strategies that can be applied to everyday life, considering preferences and capacity. Within aged care, dietitians have a unique opportunity to support a range of clinical conditions (such as diabetes, renal disease, liver disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Dementia and wound care) and influence the food service to support the nutritional needs of such conditions. A dietitian in aged care is not isolated to one area of practice, but works within the clinical, community, public health, food service, management and operations, regulations and compliance, and quality assurance and improvement scope. All of Hall & Prior’s in-house dietitians are accredited by Dietitian’s Australia (APDs), and to maintain accreditation must undergo at least 30 hours of continuing professional development each year. So here’s to all our dieticians - and a big thank you for all their hard work across the Group.

WINTER (MENU) IS COMING THE NEW NSW WINTER MENU is about to be launched - so residents there can expect delicious comfort foods to warm them up over the coming cooler months. We’re looking forward to seeing warm and delicious seasonal dishes like soups, casseroles and filling sweet and savoury pies. Don’t worry - favourites will remain like roast dinners, fish and chips and chocolate ripple cake. Food is such a big part of every day happiness and it’s why we work so hard in consultation with our residents and families to find out what your loved ones most love to eat. Everything 36

we do is aimed at ensuring we put a smile on the plate at every meal. Our menu is developed by our chefs and dietitians and we listen very closely to the important feedback our residents provide on a daily basis, as well as through our regular food satisfaction surveys. We will also be looking for your feedback on our new menu items after their launch. We loved creating this delicious menu, we hope you love it too.

A taste of the

Swan Valley With such a beautiful, wineproducing destination right on Perth’s doorstep, it made perfect sense for residents of Tuohy Aged Care Home to head to the Swan Valley for a delicious food and drink day out.

ome lucky residents from Tuohy Aged Care Home headed to WA’s beautiful Swan Valley for a wine and cheese tour in March. On a perfect autumn day, with the sun shining, the group headed to Lancaster Wines for their first stop. There they were treated to some delicious cheese to nibble with glasses of sparkling wine, verdelho and a reserve chardonnay as well as a fruity shiraz, harvested from old vines. The cheeses included a creamy cheddar with cracked pepper, a zingy chilli and garlic cheese, Harvey Cheese’s Ash Blonde and Dellendale Creamery cheese.

The group then headed to The Henley Brook pub for lunch, a beautiful spot in the heart of Swan Valley. Fish and chips was the order of the day, served in a private shed reserved for the Tuohy team. “Feedback has been extremely positive after the day out,” said Mina Pindolia, Tuohy’s Director of Nursing. “It was lovely to see the residents sharing memories and stories and we’re keen to continue this new outdoor excursion in the future.”

CHEERS TO THE SWAN VALLEY Residents from Tuohy Aged Care Home headed to the Swan Valley for a wine tasting treat.

Get covered with Medibank Did you know Hall & Prior have partnered with Medibank, Australia’s largest health insurance provider?

upporting the health and wellness of all Hall & Prior staff is a key objective. Initiatives in the past have included a Hall & Prior City to Surf team and R U OK Day morning teas. Medibank and Hall & Prior are working together to design a corporate cover for our staff with plenty of benefits for staff and their immediate family. As a Medibank member and Hall & Prior employee, you will have access to an 8% discount each month as well as other Medibank benefits including: • A separate, flexible annual extras limit of up to $1,500 per person

• Up to 80% back on included extras at any recognised provider in Australia The partnership with Medibank extends beyond discounted health insurance. Medibank will also be able to provide tailored support to Hall & Prior’s wellbeing initiatives. Collaboration 38

between the two organisations through data and insights will also help build the employee health profile at Hall & Prior. Medibank consultants will be available soon for your free 1:1 health cover consultations. Access to the Medibank Live Better app is also a bonus, giving members the opportunity to earn Live Better Points for taking steps towards a healthier lifestyle. “Live Better members can use the Medibank Live Better app to track their goals join challenges and earn credits for healthy actions,” says Ben Carrick, Hall & Prior’s OSH manager. “Members of the scheme can work towards earning enough credits to reach new levels and gain more Live Better Points.” To find out more, please contact Benjamin Carrick at BCarrick@hallprior.com.au or Elise Rayney at ERayney@hallprior.com.au Visit corporate.medibank.com.au/hallprior

you could be better off with Medibank corporate hospital and flexi extras cover As a Medibank member, you’ll have access to: A 8% discount each month, just for being an eligible Hall & Prior Health and Aged Care Group employee, PLUS:

Extras:

Hospital:

100% back on up to two dental check-ups with a members' choice advantage dentist1 100% back on optical items, up to a $300 limit per person, per year2 A separate, flexible annual extras limit of up to $1,500 per person3 Get up to 80% back on included extras at any recognised provider in Australia3

No hospital excess for kids on a family membership4 Peace of mind that comes from knowing that your cover includes unlimited emergency ambulance5 If an Accident does happen, no matter what hospital cover you have you’ll get the benefits of our top level of hospital cover6 Our hospital cover gives you access to around-theclock advice over the phone, through our 24/7 Medibank Nurse

corporate.medibank.com.au/hallprior

131 680

wacorporate@medibank.com.au

visit a store

1. Waiting period applies. Limited to two dental check-ups on all extras annually. Maximum two bitewing x-rays per check-up where clinically needed. Not available in all areas. 2. At recognised providers. Waiting periods apply. Some lens coatings excluded. $300 annual limit on Flexi 80 extras. 3. Up to annual limits. At recognised providers. Waiting periods apply. Excludes optical. 80% back and $1500 limit with Flexi 80 extras only. 4. Other out of pocket expenses may apply. 5. Waiting periods apply. For ambulance attendance or transportation to a hospital where immediate professional attention is required and your medical condition is such that you couldn’t be transported any other way. Tasmania and Queensland have state schemes to cover ambulance services for residents of those states. 6. Cover only for Accidents that occur after join date. Excludes claims covered by third parties such as Workcover, and our Private Room Promise. Out of pockets may apply.

ROYAL COMMISSION REPORT HANDED DOWN The aged care sector awaits the Government’s response after the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety was finally received. By Daniel Hitchcock.

fter two and a half years of enquiry, submissions, hearings and enquiries, the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety has released its final report. The results provide a clear reform agenda for the sector over the next three to five years. The Commissioners had a clear vision of redesigning a sector that promotes positive ageing, placing quality services and consumer control as guiding principles across many of the 148 recommendations that were made. Hall & Prior have always been supportive of the need for a Royal Commission, as the current system of regulation, poor funding and in many cases market failure to meet the needs of the consumers is not representative of the world class aged care system that all Australian’s deserve. Not only did Hall & Prior support the Royal Commission, the Group actively participated in the process, providing a total of five submissions to the commissioners, covering areas that align with the organisation’s strategic priorities including care hours per resident, the care of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the role of Registered Nurses in care, the care of veterans, and approved provider accountability.

One of the key focuses in the final report was around staffing hours. The commissioners recommended a gradual requirement to increase care hours over the next three years to a minimum of 215 minutes per resident per day, including a minimum of 44 minutes of Registered Nurse time. Hall & Prior have been a longstanding advocate for an RN-led model of care in aged care, and this recommendation recognises this role. Another key theme of the recommendations was increasing the accountability of the sector to current and prospective consumers in regards to the clinical and quality performance of the provider. Hall & Prior are an advocate for increased transparency, as this will lead to consumers being able to make informed choices as to the provider who will best meet their clinical, emotional and spiritual care needs. The sector now awaits the Government’s response to the Commissioners’ findings - this is expected to be outlined in the May budget.

Did you know that all Hall & Prior homes have Registered Nurses on duty 24/7? This includes a wound care specialist, nurse practitioner and infection prevention control specialist. We also have Allied Health teams on staff with dietitians, speech pathologists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists, plus extensive lifestyle programs for our residents. If you'd like to find out more about accommodation available at any of our homes please contact: info@hallprior.com.au

GEORGES ESTATE PROJECT UPDATE

xcitement is building in NSW as Hall & Prior’s newest project, Georges Estate nears completion.

The 111-bed, purpose-built home in the southern Sydney suburb of Penshurst will feature Hall & Prior’s award-winning care program and provide much needed Allied Health and in-home community aged care services to people of the St George region. Interior fit-outs will commence on the project in the next couple of weeks, which is slated for opening mid-year. “Our ultimate goal is to deliver premium health outcomes for local residents and the wider community in a safe, comfortable location that remains connected to the broader community,” CEO Graeme Prior said. Practical completion is expected to occur shortly and gardening works continue to all outdoor courtyards and spaces, making them ready for Georges Estate’s new residents to enjoy. Marketing of the home is also underway and we will soon reveal the branding of Georges Estate. To find out more or to register your interest please visit: georgesestate.com.au

NEW BEGINNINGS Georges Estate is the latest addition to the growing Hall & Prior portfolio of aged care residences.

IN THE PIPELINE

Sister Kate’s project given funding boost

he McGowan Government announced a $10-million election commitment to Hall & Prior and Sister Kate’s new Aboriginal health and aged care facility in Queens Park. The West Australian reported that Hall and Prior, in partnership with Sister Kate’s would receive a $10-million boost to their plans to open an 80-bed facility with cultural and spiritual-specific programs designed for the needs of Aboriginal seniors.

Sue Gordon told The West Australian ensuring Aboriginal elders have culturally appropriate aged-care services gives the family a better piece of mind. “A cultural settle is more conduce for their (residents) wellbeing. We aim to have high Aboriginal employment rates and to work with Aboriginal service providers, who understand our corporation’s background,” she said. The commitment was made pre-election to invest $10 million into the Corporation’s development and the Commonwealth is also expcted to provide additional funding to the facility.

“Retiring Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt said Aboriginal elders deserve to have access to aged-care services that are tailored to their cultural and spiritual needs,” reported Rangi Hirini of The West Australian on March 10. “One of the biggest barriers for Aboriginal seniors accessing aged care facilities is the lack of culturally safe services, with the majority of available services provided specifically for Aboriginal people being community-based care models,” he said. “The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety recently highlighted this as a significant problem that needs to be addressed. ”Chairperson for Sister Kate’s,

CULTURALLY APPROPRIATE CARE An artist’s impression of the new Sister Kate’s Aboriginal health and aged care facility in Queen’s Park.

A Q +

2021 INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF HEALTH AND CARE WORKERS

with Grace Martino, PCAP at Leighton Aged Care Home, WA.

Caring for her grandmother at home was the spark which started Grace Martino’s career in aged care 16 years ago.

L&L: What made you want to become a care worker? GM: I was a carer for my grandmother at home for four years prior to her coming into care at which point I decided to pursue my career in aged care. L&L: What does the World Health Organisation's International Year of Health and Care Workers mean to you? GM: It’s great that we are recognised for our dedication in providing care. As care workers, we should always support, protect and work in harmony with each other. L&L: How long have you worked in aged care and when did you join Hall & Prior? GM: I started my career in aged care in 2005 and I joined Hall & Prior in 2009. L&L: What does an average day look like for you? GM: In my experience, there is no average day. We obviously do have tasks that must be completed each day but every day is very different. I love coming to work each day to a happy greeting from our residents.

MEET THE STAFF

L&L: Tell us one part of your job that makes you feel really rewarded and connected to those you care for?

L&L: What have you learned about yourself and those you care for while you’ve worked for Hall & Prior?

GM: Seeing the residents happy and contented. This makes my job worthwhile, alongside a sense of achievement within myself. It gives me great happiness and makes me proud of my job.

GM: I have experienced personal growth, both mentally and spiritually. I have noticed that I now incorporate Hall & Prior’s mission and values into my everyday life.

L&L: What is the best piece of advice you ever got about caring from others and from who? GM: You’ve got to have a heart, the patience of a saint, the ability to give a big smile and listen to residents. Also take the time to chat to them; it’s amazing what you can achieve with something as simple as a chat. L&L: What is the best thing about working at your aged care home? GM: I enjoy working at Leighton and St Lukes Aged Care Homes so much. They are like second families to me and I’m very proud of being part of Hall & Prior too.

L&L: How would others describe you, do you think? GM: Hardworking, dedicated, thinks outside the box. Puts others first, and puts her heart and soul into every shift. L&L: What qualities are required to make a great care worker? GM: I would say listening, being in tune with a resident’s needs and wants. Observant, kind and have patience (lots of patience!). Communication is very important and your approach/demeanour toward the residents and staff members has a big impact. A positive attitude is one of the key attributes you’ll need.

A Q +

2021 INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF HEALTH AND CARE WORKERS

with Yakelline Acero Gonzales, Assistant in Nursing at Fairfield Aged Care Home, NSW.

Inspired by her mother-in-law’s 30 years of service at Fairfield Aged Care Home, Yakelline Acero Gonzales has followed in her footsteps, and now wouldn’t want to work anywhere else.

L&L: What made you want to become a care worker? YAG: Before I became a carer, I was working as a cleaner in another aged care facility in West Ryde. My mother-in-law Maria was an AIN (Assistant in Nursing) here at Fairfield Aged Care Home and had been for over 30 years. After talking with Maria, I was certain that I could be of great value to the elderly in a caring capacity, so I completed my certificates and applied to work here at Fairfield as an AIN. L&L: What does the World Health Organisation's International Year of Health and Care Workers mean to you? YAG: I feel like the world is now focusing on aged care, which is a great thing. The WHO International Year of Health and Care Workers will help promote the important work we do every day to benefit the lives of the elderly and frail. I like being a part of that and think all my

fellow colleagues should be highlighted also for the great work we do at Fairfield Aged Care Home and other Hall & Prior homes. Care work can be a heavy and hard job, but the rewards are very big also, thanks to the gorgeous people we get to care for. This is a very important job to do – and a necessary one for our society to respect our elders – they raised us! L&L: How long have you worked at Hall & Prior? YAG: I have worked for Hall & Prior for nearly four years as an AIN and I love every day. Vickey, our Lifestyle Officer, tells me that I am very popular with our residents – one of their favourites in fact – but I just like to do my job and not let that praise go to my head. L&L: How long have you worked in aged care and what drew you to it? YAG: Working at Fairfield is my first role in aged care as a

MEET THE STAFF

I am a very social person and I love being around people so it’s no surprise that I love getting to know as many residents and staff here at Fairfield as well as possible. It’s that ability to communicate and have something in common with all these people that I love about this job – this gives me connection. L&L: What’s the best piece of advice you ever got about caring from others and from who? carer. I don’t want to work anywhere else as this home has such a positive and fun community feel to it. We really all get along well here and respect and admire our residents. I also feel such a part of a team here as a care worker – it is different to cleaning where you work solo. The feeling of comradeship and sharing is something that draws me to this role. I love that we are all in this together for the benefit of the residents. L&L: What does an average day look like for you? YAG: Very busy! I could be prepping, showering, making beds or simply stopping by to chat to a resident to ask them how they are feeling and if I can get them anything. We have many tasks that we need to complete in our shifts, but I always make time for the conversations with residents – I feel this is one of the parts that makes this job so fun. L&L: Tell us one part of your job that makes you feel really rewarded and connected to those you care for? YAG: For me, no task is too big or too small, as long as the outcome ends up being helping make someone smile or feel better then it’s a job well done.

YAG: My mother-in-law gives me advice all the time, even now, after retirement, including keeping things nice and clean - everything in its place and if it’s out of place, tidy it up as this is a person’s home. L&L: What’s the best thing about working at your Aged Care Home? YAG: Our staff - we really are a big family, and our residents - I think they’re the best people in the world. I also love all the celebrations we have - it usually means there will be cake! L&L: What have you learned about yourself and those you care for while you’ve worked for Hall & Prior? YAG: I would much rather be involved in the residents’ lives, hands-on caring for people than cleaning a home. L&L: How would others describe you, do you think? YAG: Caring, loving and nothing is ever too hard to do. L&L: What qualities are required to make a great careworker? YAG: Kindness, a strong work ethic, the ability to multi-task and a genuine love of people.

M Y FAVOURITE THINGS

Ben Chard Ben has been a Lifestyle Co-ordinator with Hall & Prior for two and a half years, but it’s his 19th year in the aged care sector. Here he shares his favourite things - and it’s a varied collection as you’ll see, from ham and pineapple pizza to charcoal drawings.

TEDDY AND BOO (MY DOGS) Whenever I walk through my door I am greeted by two dancing Pomeranians. Boo is three years old and Teddy is approaching his first birthday. Both are full of life and personality brightening up anyone’s day who gets to see them. Teddy and Boo have been in to visit residents in Hall & Prior homes and very much enjoy the attention and cuddles.

MUSIC I have been producing music and performing live in bands for most of my adult life. I am currently working on a solo album in my home music studio. Writing music or sitting down to play the guitar or piano makes me feel very relaxed and at peace. I have 30 different guitars in my collection - my favourite two were passed onto me from my father.

ITALIAN FOOD Italian food is at the top of my list if I am ever trying to decide what to cook or order for my dinner. Spaghetti bolognaise is a dish I have perfected over many years of trialling recipes and mastering the ingredients. Ham and pineapple pizza is a close second to this and is a must with any pizza order I make. I never understood how people could not like pineapple on pizzas.

FESTIVE HOLIDAYS I have always loved holiday seasons spent with family. My relationships with my family and close friends are very important to me. The festive seasons give me a chance to connect and share special times with these people. It also gives me a chance to dress up Teddy and Boo as Santa’s little helpers.

BARBEQUES Nothing is more welcoming at a party or event than a fired-up barbeque. My family would always have Sunday barbeques with friends over, music playing and a piece of art pavlova for dessert. I now continue the tradition with a barbeque on my balcony at home which I enjoy whenever possible. Recently I was able to take part in cooking barbeques for all the staff in all of our NSW homes.

THE OCEAN I spent my early childhood in Cronulla so I have always loved being around the beach or seeing the ocean. The sound of the waves, smell of the sea and feeling of the warm sand between your toes makes any worries melt away in seconds. Whenever I have a quiet weekend with nice weather, I pack the dogs into the car and head to the closest beach.

DRAWING I have been drawing for as long as I could hold a pencil. My favourite artistic mediums are charcoal or pencil drawing. I designed my high school year 12 jersey drawing cartoons of all the schools’ teachers to their delight. I have a very special drawing I drew when I was five years old of dinosaurs on display at home that my nan kept.

PUZZLES CROSSWORD DOWN

No. 009

DOWN

Sad Increase Cooker Girl’s name

1 2 3 4

Slob Reside Employs Gents’

QUICK QUIZ 1.

What is the national animal emblem of France?

In what year was Ruth Bader Ginsburg nominated as an associate judge of the US Supreme Court?

Timothée Charlamet plays the lead role in which upcoming sci-fi film?

Last year, Wongutha-Yamatji artist Meyne Wyatt became the first Indigenous artist to do what?

Is the GeForce RTX 3080 a car, graphics card or camera?

WORDSTEP Complete the list by changing one letter at a time to create a new word at each step. There may be more than one possible answer.

eLoPe

_ _ _ _

SHINS

SOLUTIONS

9-Letter word

ACROSS

1 5 6 7

7 4 5 8 3 1 4 5 3 7 4 2 5 9 3 1 6 2 6 5 1 9 7 6 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

APR, 2021

CroSSword

No. 009

SUdoKU

4x4

chin, chine, cine, cringe, enrich, ENRICHING, genii, grin, heir, hinge, hire, hiring, icier, icing, inch, inching, inhering, inner, neigh, nice, nicer, niche, nigh, nine, reign, rein, reining, rice, rich, ring

6 2

4 1 5 2 8 7 3 9 6

22 words: Very good

5 4

6 2 9 5 1 3 8 7 4

7 8 3 6 4 9 5 1 2

30 words: excellent

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

8 6 4 9 7 5 2 3 1

today’s Aim: 15 words: Good

No. 009

3 9 1 4 6 2 7 5 8

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and teach letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

SUDOKU

2 5 7 1 3 8 6 4 9

9-LETTER WORD

9 7 6 3 2 1 4 8 5

17 19 21 22 23

1 3 2 8 5 4 9 6 7

5 6 7 8 13 14 15

Dollars (coll) (5) Port (7) View; panorama (5) Layer that absorbs most of the sun’s UV radiation (5) Theatre practice (9) Relating to the body (9) Unwrapping (7) Strong variety of acid (9) Eager; anticipatory (9) Sluggish (9) Early Apple computer model (9) 16th US president (7) Sparkle (7) Principle; tenet (5) More recent (5) Amalgamate (5)

5 4 8 7 9 6 1 2 3

1 2 3 4

wordSteP ELOPE, SLOPE, SLOPS, SLIPS, SHIPS, SHINS

26 27

Conduct (9) Cuts (wood) (5) Explorer Columbus (10) Long fish (3) Retention (7) Ban (7) Actor, – Flynn (5) Courier; herald (9) Related to government (9) Reason (5) Hold (7) Establish truth (7) Much – About Nothing (3) Liquid present beneath the Earth’s surface (10) Loose garment (5) Impediment (9)

4x4 ACROSS: 1. Glum, 5. Rise, 6. Oven, 7. Tess DOWN: 1. Grot, 2. Live, 3. Uses, 4. Mens

ACROSS

1 6 9 10 11 12 13 15 16 18 20 21 24 25

No. 009

1. The Gallic Rooster 2. 1993 3. Dune 4. Win an Archibald Prize 5. Graphics card

QUIoCK QUIZ ANSwerS

TEABREAK

WORDFIND

CODEWORD

No. 009

Can you find all of the words listed below? The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.

oBAmA

tyler

Bush (twice) JeFFerson

PolK

usA

cArter

Kennedy

reAgAn

wAshington

clinton

lBJ

tAFt

wilson

Ford

lincoln

trumAn

hAyes

nixon

trumP

hoover

CROSS MATH

– +

= 3

= 84

B G

= 11

= 28

= 10

× ×

Can you work out what the missing letter is that spells an 8-letter word? It could read either clockwise or anti-clockwise.

= 79

EIGHT AROUND HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW...

Insert each number from 1 to 9 in the shaded squares to solve all the horizontal and vertical equations. Multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.

Each number corresponds to a letter. Can you crack the code?

No. 009

5x5

No. 009

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

T E

I A

I D

Y A E

IT'S A SIN 1. Which How I Met Your Mother star appears in the series? A. Josh Radnor B. Cobie Smulders C. Neil Patrick Harris D. Alyson Hannigan 2. Star Olly Alexander is also a musician. What’s the name of his band? A. Hours & Hours B. Days & Days C. Weeks & Weeks D. Years & Years 3. What virus runs rampant through the show? A. Coronavirus B. AIDS C. Hepatitis D. Influenza 4. Writer and creator Russell T. Davies was also involved with which shows? A. Doctor Who B. Years and Years C. Queer as Folk D. All of the above

5. Lydia West (who plays Jill) has also worked with Davies on which series? A. Years and Years B. Torchwood C. The Sarah Jane Anderson Adventures D. None. It’s their first collaboration

1c, 2d, 3B, 4d, 5A

AdAms

U E A HON P Z B C S Q Y 14

V L R I G XWT F K D J M 1

CODEWORD WORDFIND secret message: chief 9 × 8 + 7 = 79 ÷ + × 3 × 4 – 2 = 10 × × × 1 × 5 + 6 = 11 = = = 3 28 84

CROSS MATH

EIGHT AROUND Beguiled E

E T T Y E R I E R A M A

J A D

5x5

E D S D E R

OUR WA HOMES

LEIGHTON WEST PERTH

MERTOME BAYSWATER

ST LUKES & HAMERSLEY SUBIACO MOSMAN PARK & FRESHWATER BAY MOSMAN PARK

PERTH

TUOHY MIDLAND KARINGAL GREEN HIGH WYCOMBE

BELMONT RIVERVALE WINDSOR PARK CARLISLE KENSINGTON PARK KENSINGTON CONCORDE SOUTH PERTH

McDOUGALL PARK COMO

AGMAROY WILSON

ROCKINGHAM ROCKINGHAM

CLARENCE ESTATE ALBANY

FOR MORE INFORMATION Contact the WA Hall & Prior Aged Care Home of your choice AGMAROY BELMONT CLARENCE ESTATE CONCORDE FRESHWATER BAY HAMERSLEY KARINGAL GREEN KENSINGTON PARK LEIGHTON MCDOUGALL PARK MERTOME MOSMAN PARK ROCKINGHAM ST LUKES TUOHY WINDSOR PARK HEAD OFFICE

info@hallprior.com.au

115 Leach Highway, Wilson 5 Kemp Place, Rivervale 55 Hardie Road, Albany 25 Anstey Street, South Perth 67 Palmerston Street, Mosman Park 441 Rokeby Road, Subiaco 53 Hawkevale Road, High Wycombe 62 Gwenyfred Road, Kensington 40 Florence Street, West Perth 18 Ley Street, Como 30 Winifred Road, Bayswater 57 Palmerston Street, Mosman Park 14 Langley Street, Rockingham 429 Rokeby Road, Subiaco 22 Morrison Road, Midland 110 Star Street, Carlisle 16-18 Mayfair Street, West Perth

08 9458 1524 08 9277 2735 08 9841 5999 08 9367 7559 08 9384 5280 08 9381 6542 08 6372 0400 08 9367 4870 08 9328 9355 08 9313 1700 08 6462 7200 08 9384 1769 08 9527 1757 08 9381 8061 08 9274 1756 08 9472 9488 08 9321 1388 hallprior.com.au

OUR NSW HOMES

GRAFTON SOUTH GRAFTON

NEW SOUTH WALES CAROLINE CHISHOLM LANE COVE SIRIUS COVE MOSMAN GLENWOOD GREENWICH

VAUCLUSE VAUCLUSE FAIRFIELD FAIRFIELD

CLOVER LEA BURWOOD HEIGHTS

AUBREY DOWNER POINT CLARE

SYDNEY MENAVILLE ROCKDALE

SHANGRI-LA HURSTVILLE

BEXLEY BEXLEY

FOR MORE INFORMATION Contact the NSW Hall & Prior Aged Care Home of your choice AUBREY DOWNER BEXLEY CAROLINE CHISHOLM CLOVER LEA FAIRFIELD GLENWOOD GRAFTON MENAVILLE SHANGRI-LA SIRIUS COVE VAUCLUSE NSW STATE OFFICE

infoNSW@hallprior.com.au

23 Sunnyside Avenue, Point Clare 82-84 Connemarra Street, Bexley 274 Burns Bay Road, Lane Cove 14 Claremont Road, Burwood Heights 125 The Crescent, Fairfield 34 Greenwich Road, Greenwich 12 Bent Street, South Grafton 121 Frederick Street, Rockdale 107 Carrington Avenue, Hurstville 17 Clanalpine Street, Mosman 13 Young Street, Vaucluse 274 Burns Bay Road, Lane Cove

02 4324 2068 02 9587 7610 02 9428 2466 02 9747 1911 02 9728 1144 02 9436 1707 02 6642 3255 02 9567 3641 02 9580 4333 02 9960 7555 02 9337 3235 02 9427 8978 hallprior.com.au

Compassionate people, dedicated to care hallprior.com.au

info@hallprior.com.au

Life & Love - Issue 29

Articles inside

Corporate News

Food and Drink

My Favourite Things: Ben Chard

In the Pipeline

Meet the Staff

Always one of our own

Meet the DON - Yvonne Wales