Kiningen
Keeping the fires burning
NAIDOC Week and what it means to be an Elder in 2024
Kiningen
EDITOR'S LETTER
For NAIDOC Week 2024, we’ve dedicated several pages to an extended collection of stories with an Aboriginal theme. You may notice a different title on the front page too: we’ve renamed for this issue to . Roughly translated from Noongar, it means ‘in my heart’ which we felt was an approximation of what means.
Our homes have been very busy over the last few months, with a visit from Superman at Georges Estate in Penshurst to unicorns being spotted at Clarence Estate in Albany. It just goes to show that no two days are the same in our aged care homes. Some of our residents at Karingal Green in WA were able to experience some cutting edge travel experiences via virtual reality, another example of how technology can enrich our elders’ lives without leaving the comfort of their favourite comfy chair.
I’ll leave the final words to our eloquent cover star, Frank. An honourary Noongar elder who lives at Tuohy Aged Care Home, Frank believes that future generations of Indigenous people have better opportunities, choices and options, but ‘the path may not have changed for many.’
Until next time.
Kiningen Issue 45 | Winter 2024
Djilba (WA) Wiritjiribin (NSW)
EDITOR
Gabi Mills Gabi.Mills@hallprior.com.au
DESIGNER
Cally Browning cally@barecreative.com.au
CONTRIBUTORS
Jacki Downs Jacki.Downs@hallprior.com.au
PHOTOGRAPHY
Ammon Creative
COVER IMAGE
Portrait of honourary Noongar Elder and resident of Tuohy Aged Care Home, Frank Lyle Bobongie by Ammon Creative.
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.
©2024 Kiningen is published by Hall & Prior Health & Aged Care Group.
Visit hallprior.com.au facebook.com/ HallandPriorAgedCare
Vision of the future: Hall & Prior and other aged care organisations signed an MOU for dedicated Aboriginal elder care in June.
A WORD FROM THE
Chief Executive Officer
As we look forward to NAIDOC Week, it’s fitting that I also share with you some news regarding a Memorandum of Understanding Hall & Prior and several other aged care providers signed in June.
Along with MercyCare, Juniper, Bethanie and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation and Stolen Generations Advocate, Yokai, the MOU represents our commitment to improve culturally appropriate services for Aboriginal consumers in WA.
It was an important step towards reconciliation and represents increased support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. From Hall & Prior’s point of view, it is a further milestone as we continue to provide compassionate care for all.
It also aligns with our partnership with Sister Kate’s to establish a 100-bed facility on Sister Kate’s land in Queens Park, WA, which will provide the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community with access to high-quality, culturally sound aged care services.
It was my great pleasure to have a yarn with one of our Aboriginal residents recently. Frank Lyle Bobongie, aged 81, lives at Tuohy Aged Care Home and although he is originally from Mackay in Queensland, he has been made an honourary elder by the Noongar people here in Perth.
Frank eloquently shared his thoughts on what NAIDOC Week means to him, what he hopes for the future, and how family, community and country are so important to him and his beloved wife Sally, who also lives at Tuohy. I hope you enjoy the video of our conversation which you can find via Hall & Prior’s Facebook page.
In August, we will be celebrating Aged Care Employee Day. This is one of the most important dates on the aged care calendar, and I always look forward to thanking our hard-working staff in WA and NSW. They consistently deliver compassionate care to residents, rain or shine. Thank you for all you do.
In the meantime, I am looking forward to NAIDOC events in our aged care homes in July, as residents and staff share this year’s theme - ‘Keep the fire burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’ - and celebrate the rich and diverse culture of Indigenous people in WA and NSW.
I hope you enjoy this edition of Kiningen Magazine.
GRAEME PRIOR Chief Executive Officer
In the Pipeline:
SISTER KATE’S ABORIGINAL HEALTH CARE AND AGED CARE COMMUNITY
A groundbreaking collaboration to revolutionise Aboriginal health and aged care in WA continues to make progress.
By Bella Matthews
Hall & Prior and Sister Kate’s have partnered to establish a 100-bed facility on Sister Kate’s land in Queens Park, WA, aiming to provide the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community with access to high-quality, culturally sound aged care services. This collaboration seeks to create a space where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people receive the respect, dignity, and specialised care they need.
Design
Kerry Hill Architects (KHA) have translated this vision into the initial concept designs, showcasing a facility that combines functionality and cultural sensitivity.
The plans feature a wellness centre with a hydrotherapy pool, social spaces for residents and families, multipurpose areas for training and education, and a renal dialysis unit on the second floor. The 100bed facility will offer single rooms and double rooms to accommodate couples or those wishing to share. Each room will have an outdoor balcony and access to secure outdoor walking loops, promoting connection with nature and enhancing residents’ well-being.
A First of Its Kind: A Centre of Excellence
This facility is set to become a “centre of excellence” for health and aged care services tailored to the Aboriginal community. Beyond providing care, the centre will support research and policy development initiatives in collaboration with various organisations and community stakeholders. A key aspect of the facility’s mission is to empower the Aboriginal community by providing education and training opportunities in the health and aged care sector. This initiative aims to improve the quality of care and foster employment and professional growth within the community.
Addressing a Critical Gap
Dedicated Aboriginal
residential aged care facilities are limited across Australia. Despite Perth having a substantial older Aboriginal population, the metropolitan area lacks such a facility. The 2021 Census showed Western Australia had the third-largest Aboriginal population aged 50+ nationally, with around 16,000 people (10.5% of the national total). The Greater Perth area accounted for over 40% of WA’s total of Aboriginal people aged 50+. The absence of a dedicated, culturally secure aged care facility for First Nations people in Perth is a critical gap that needs to be addressed urgently.
Financial Backing and Future Goals
The project has already secured $10 million from the state government to build the facility. To bring this vision to life and meet the aged care needs of Indigenous elders in Perth, an additional $20 million is being sought from
the federal government. This funding is crucial to bridging the existing gap and providing a purposebuilt, culturally secure aged care environment for First Australians in WA.
A Hub for Comprehensive Services
The long-term goal for the facility is to evolve into a hub for comprehensive health and aged care services in the Perth metro area. With an outreach care service, the facility plans to extend its impact to northern WA, the NT, and other remote and rural areas across Australia, ensuring that more First Nations Peoples have access to the care they need.
This project represents a significant step towards equity in aged care, ensuring that older Aboriginal people receive the care and support they need, grounded in respect, cultural understanding, and community collaboration.
One Fire pays homage to Deb’s people
This year’s official NAIDOC Week poster - Urapun Muy by artist Deb Belyea - is a visual depiction of her people’s passion for their culture.
Deb Belyea is a proud member of the Samuawgadhalgal
Cassowary Clan, an artist from the Torres Strait has created a vibrant and colourful visualisation of her interpretation of this year’s NAIDOC Week’s themes.
Currently living on the lands of the Juru people in Bowen, North Queensland, Deb is an educator, curriculum writer
NAIDOC WEEK
#NAIDOC2024
#BLAKLOUDPROUD
@naidocweek
@naidocweek
facebook.com/NAIDOC
Urapun Muy by Deb Belyea
SAMUAWGADHALGAL, TORRES STRAIT
‘Urapun Muy’, from the Kalaw Kawaw Ya dialect of the Top Western Islands of the Torres Strait, means ‘One Fire’. The title of this work pays homage to Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal people everywhere, as we all have that one fire: our passion for our culture. In this work, I have depicted the hands of our ancestors that have carefully dropped a burning ember on to a fire. This ember burns hot with intensity, stoking the flames, as it combines with the new fire. The linear detail shows the energy and power as cultural knowledge is transferred from our ancestors to us today. Culture is the fire that gives us knowledge, wisdom and purpose. It is our responsibility to maintain, practice, and pass on our fire to our future generations. Afterall, Culture keeps us Blak, Loud and Proud.
naidoc.org.au
and practising artist.
“When I saw that the NAIDOC theme for this year was Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud, I wanted to create an art piece that reflected our First Nations cultures”, said Deb.
‘Urapun Muy’ depicts the rich, multifaceted tapestry that makes up who we are as Blak, Loud and Proud mob,” said
Deb as reported on naidoc.org.au.
“The artwork shows ancestors hands placing an ember into a burning fire. This ember, and the fire, represents the sharing of cultural knowledge from one generation to the next.
“Culture is the fire that burns within all of us. It is essential to us when we talk about our people, identity, and spirituality.
“Throughout our lives, culture is taught to us by our Elders in our rich heritage languages, which have sprouted from our homelands. It shows us our roads to one another and how we belong to our Place or Country. As First Nations mob, it is our lifelong responsibility of learning, teaching and practising culture.”
Deb’s work was announced as the winner of the annual competition to create a unique artwork to honour NAIDOC Week in July.
“We saw tremendous talent in this year’s NAIDOC poster competition. We knew the theme would inspire mob and Deb’s work was exceptional,” explained National NAIDOC Committee Co-Chair Steven Satour.
“Deb’s artwork is extremely powerful; it features unique cultural elements that tell the story of the Cassowary Clan passing on knowledge. The NAIDOC Committee is very proud to have a Torres Strait Islander artist as the 2024 winner,” shared National NAIDOC Committee CoChair Dr Aunty Lynette Riley.
The NAIDOC poster competition, a cornerstone
‘Urapun Muy’ depicts the rich, multifaceted tapestry that makes up who we are as Blak, Loud and Proud mob
~ Deb Belyea
event since 1967, plays a significant role in educating and connecting the broader Australian community with the rich traditions of its Indigenous peoples.
With the posters set to be distributed nationwide in Kmart, K hub, and Target stores from early June, Belyea’s ‘Urapun Muy’ serves as a beacon of cultural pride and an invitation to all Australians to engage with and appreciate the vibrant cultures of First Nations communities.
The National NAIDOC Poster competition is an iconic feature of National NAIDOC Week and has a rich and significant history beginning in 1967 when the National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) first began producing posters. National NAIDOC Week Posters distributed across all Kmart, K hub and Target stores nationwide from early June.
Aboriginal Flag designed by Mr Harold Thomas. Torres Strait Islander Flag reproduced by kind permission of the Torres Strait Island Regional Council, designed by the late Mr Bernard Namok
Keeping culture alive and well
To celebrate NAIDOC Week 2024, we meet one of Hall & Prior’s Indigenous staff – Anett Burgess – who works at Grafton Aged Care Home in NSW as an AIN.
My mob is Kamilaro and Garnilaraay is our language. My mother was Indigenous, and my father was Scottish/Irish.
For me, NAIDOC Week means embracing our culture, dancing, storytelling, and community involvement.
This year the theme is ‘Keep the fire burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’ and it gives me the opportunity to be proud to be Indigenous, including the continuation of teaching culture, language, and storytelling.
For example, in our area Uncle Milton still takes the young Indigenous males for “walk about” or “man business” to preserve our heritage and ‘keeping the fire burning”.
Living at Grafton, I enjoy how close the Aboriginal community are, and how everyone just “gets everyone”.
At work I get to talk the lingo with our resident Indigenous Elder, Uncle Rob. We enjoy this on a regular basis.
Mum was from the Stolen Generation, and she lived in Moree. I grew up all around Queensland, and when I was younger, I was home schooled until 13 and then went to a normal school, Tara High School.
I have always helped care for my mother as she was an amputee as well as caring for my disabled sister who is nonverbal with cerebral palsy. I learned Aslan (Australian
sign language) to be able to communicate with her.
I love dancing and I learned Scottish and Irish dancing in honour of my father’s heritage and Aboriginal dance for my mother’s heritage.
For the last 16 months I have been with Grafton Aged Care Home as an AIN which I love doing, I especially enjoy the challenges of caring for many different personalities.
I am also a volunteer with Grafton City SES for the last six years and have also shared my Auslan skills with the team.
My husband’s mob is Biripi and I am learning Gathang (the dialect of Biripi) every Sunday as we need to keep
Living at Grafton, I enjoy how close the Aboriginal community are, and how everyone just “gets everyone”
~ Anett Burgess
our culture and language alive for our children.
What would I like to say to the younger generations of Indigenous Australians? I would say to not forget where you come from, or what our people have been through. If you have the chance to learn the lingo, then jump at that opportunity. Listen to the Elders when they are talking about the Dreamtime.
Also learn or ask an Elder to teach you any of the diverse kinds of dances. I still go to Saltwater in Biripi Country (my husband’s people) to dance with them during NAIDOC week every year, as my way to keep culture alive.
A match made in heaven
Frank Lyle Bobongie thanks a higher power for bringing his beloved wife Sally to him – and is ever optimistic that the lot of his fellow Aboriginal people will improve over time.
By GABI MILLS
Portrait by AMMON PHOTOGRAPHY
Resident of Tuohy Aged Care Home Frank Lyle Bobongie may have called Perth home for the past 38 years, but his roots are to be found on the other side of the country in Queensland.
Born in Mackay, Frank is a member of the Kuku Yalanji people from the Palmer River region although he has never visited the traditional homeland on his mother’s side, he says it’s always in his mind to visit one day if possible.
Frank moved to WA in 1986 and moved into Tuohy in 2023 to be with his wife Sally, who he has been married to for 50 years. The pair met when Sally, who was originally from South Africa, crossed paths
in Queensland. From Frank’s point of view, he believed it was a match made in heaven – literally.
“I believe in arranged marriages – not by man but by a higher power,” he says.
“That’s why I say my wife came looking for me.
Sally is a retired qualified nurse and trained in South Africa in the hospital where they carried out the first heart transplant.
“After that she went out into Central Africa to work at some remote mission hospitals where there were limited resources.”
She eventually ended up working in a Sydney hospital, filling in for senior nurses.
“We met a year later when
I was up in Kuranda in the rainforest in Queensland, practicing as a minister. I believe she came to me through divine guidance.
Frank worked as an education officer and likes to read and in the past, play sport.
He continues to be involved in community work and particularly enjoys interacting with staff and other residents at Tuohy.
“I enjoy life, respect family, myself and the community,” says Frank. “I like building good relationships.”
As far as being an Indigenous elder is concerned for Frank it means being a proud First Australian.
“For me it feels like there are
better opportunities, choices and options but the path may not have changed for many,” he says.
“I have been given the title of an honourary elder, it makes me feel very proud. I’m here to help my people, this is their land and I respect that.”
He has carefully considered views on the part colonization played in the story of Aboriginal people – often to the detriment of the Indigenous people of Australia.
“Colonization started on the wrong foot,” says Frank. “Calling this place Terra Nullius when it was inhabited by people was wrong. What can I say? It was nothing more than a big lie. We were here. We were considered inhuman, as flora and fauna so the whole start of modern Australia got off on the wrong foot.”
The term terra nullius was used when white settlers arrived on the shores of Australia, meaning ‘nobody’s land’ or ‘land belonging to nobody. ‘
In legal jargon, terra nullius means ‘land over which no previous sovereignty has been exercised. It was a term that was clearly incorrect as Australia has been continuously inhabited for the past 60,000 years by multiple Indigenous tribes around the country.
Despite this egregious attitude on the part of white settlers, Frank remains optimistic and hopes future generations will have
We can become one. We can heal.
~ Frank Lyle Bobongie
more advantages than his ancestors.
“Truth telling is a process where we don’t look to place shame or guilt on anybody, but to tell the truth about what has happened in the past because intergenerational trauma still exists today.
“The biggest thing we can do to help close the gap is to get their ears to listen to the elders, to learn how to reconstruct the concept of respect, not only for themselves but for the family and community too.”
Frank and Sally are the proud parents to five children as well as ten grandchildren and a great grandson.
“For young Aboriginal people, my advice would be to look for a better connection between all Australians. We can become one. We can heal – let’s help everyone heal and manage the process through the heart, positively and powerfully. Collaboration and working together is the name of the game,” says Frank.
“We don’t live in a perfect world but we’re progressing to that end where everything will be satisfactory and there are services to help those who are disadvantaged. I believe that closing the gap for our people is a step in the right direction, but there’s always room for improvement.”
Strawberry Gum and Lemon Myrtle Poppy Seed Cake
This tasty cake is delicious with a cuppa.
Ingredients
Cake
250g unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
Grated zest of 2 lemons
¾ cup of granulated sugar
2 cups of plain flour, sifted
11/2 teaspoons baking powder
15g strawberry gum
Pinch of salt
50g poppy seeds
400ml milk
Icing
500g of Greek natural yogurt
½ tsp salt
125g softened butter
1 cup of icing sugar, sifted
1 tablespoon of honey
1 teaspoon of lemon myrtle power
Method
Preheat the oven to 180C or 160C fan forced. Grease and line a sheet pan.
Add the butter, grated lemon zest and sugar into a bowl and beat until pale and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the sifted flour and baking powder along with the salt and strawberry gum powder to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. While mixing on low, add the poppy seeds and milk. Continue to mix until combined. Spoon the mixture onto your pre-prepared sheet and bake for 35 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the middle of the cake comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack. Start the yoghurt icing the day before, making sure to use a thick Greek yoghurt for a firm frosting. Sit the strainer over a deep
These zesty little cookies are perfect as an after dinner treat with coffee.
Ingredients
115g butter, room temperature
¾ cups of white sugar
Zest of one or two large lemons
1 egg
1 teaspoon of vanilla
2 tablespoons of lemon juice
¼ teaspoon of salt
1 ¾ cup of plain white flour
1 teaspoon of baking powder
1 cup of coconut
1 tsp of lemon myrtle powder
Method
Cream together the sugar and butter, then add the eggs, one at a time. Mix together the sifted flour, lemon myrtle and lemon zest. Once the eggs are combined, stir in the flour and lemon myrtle mix until combined. Do not over mix the dough. Roll the dough mixture into small balls, about the size of a walnut. Place on to a greased baking tray. With a floured fork, press each ball slightly. Bake in a moderate oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Cool and store in an airtight container.
bowl and after straining it through muslin over night, add sifted icing sugar and butter to the yogurt and whip at high speed until smooth. Add honey and lemon myrtle and whip one last time. Decorate the cake with the honey yoghurt icing and garnish with strawberries and a sprinkle of poppy seeds.
Lemon Myrtle Coconut Cookies
The fire in this year’s NAIDOC Week theme represents the enduring strength and vitality of Indigenous cultures, passed down through generations despite the challenges faced. It is a symbol of connection to the land, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
NAIDOC Week stokes the fires
This year’s theme – Keep the fire burning! Blak, Loud and Proud – celebrates the unyielding spirit of our Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander communities and invites all to stand in solidarity, amplifying the voices that have long been silenced.
“Blak, Loud and Proud” encapsulates the unapologetic celebration of Indigenous identity, empowering the First Nation people of Australia and the Torres Islands to stand tall in their heritage and assert their place in the modern world. It’s a theme that calls for a reclamation of narratives, an amplification of voices, and an unwavering commitment to justice and equality, according to naidoc.org.au
It invites all Australians to listen, learn, and engage in meaningful dialogue, fostering a society where the
communities are cherished and celebrated, enriching the fabric of the nation with the oldest living culture in the world.
Do you know what NAIDOC stands for?
On 26 January 1938, while many Australians celebrated the 150th anniversary of the landing of the First Fleet, a group of over 1000 Aboriginal people gathered at Australia Hall in Sydney to call for full citizenship status and laws to improve the lives of First Nations people.
As one of the first major civil rights gatherings in the world, this day became known as the Day of Mourning.
Since then, NAIDOC Week has grown to become both a commemoration of the first Day of Mourning as well as a celebration of the history, culture and excellence of First Nations people. National NAIDOC Week is observed annually from the first Sunday in July until the following Sunday.
TIMELINE TO NAIDOC WEEK
From 1940 until 1955, the Day of Mourning was held annually on the Sunday before Australia Day and was known as ‘Aborigines Day’.
In 1955 ‘Aborigines Day’ was shifted to the first Sunday in July when it was decided that
the day should also become a celebration of Aboriginal culture as well as a day of protest.
Major Aboriginal organisations, as well as state and federal governments, all supported the formation of the National Aborigines Day Observance Committee (NADOC).
In 1974, for the first time, the NADOC committee was composed entirely of Aboriginal representatives.
The following year, it was decided that NADOC be expanded to become a week of celebrations, from the first to the second Sunday in July.
In 1984, NADOC asked that National Aborigines Day be made a national public holiday to help celebrate and recognise the rich cultural history that makes Australia unique. While this has not happened (yet!), other groups have echoed the Committee’s call.
As awareness of the distinct cultural histories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples grew, NADOC was expanded to recognise Torres Strait
Islander people and culture.
The committee then became known as the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC).
The National NAIDOC Committee makes key decisions regarding national celebrations each year as stewards of National NAIDOC Week events on behalf of all First Nations people.
Find out more
To find out more about the Day of Mourning visit the AIATSIS website. To find out more about the National NAIDOC Committee visit the NAIDOC website.
Flying foxes, acacias and grass trees flourish
IT’S THE TIME OF DJILBA –the growing season (or season of conception) between August and September in WA.
Djilba season is a time to look for the yellow and cream flowers starting on mass. It’s also a transitional time of the year, with some very cold and clear days combining with warmer, rainy and windy days mixing with the occasional sunny day or two.
This is the start of the massive flowering explosion that happens in the south west. This starts with the yellow flowering plants such as the acacias. Also colours that are around at this time of year are creams, combined with some vivid and striking blues.
Traditionally, the main food sources included many of the
land-based grazing animals as in the season before. These included the Yongar (kangaroo), the Waitj (emu) and the Koomal (possum).
As the days start to warm up, we start to see and hear the first of the newborns with their proud parent out and about providing them food, guiding them through foraging tasks and protecting their family units from much bigger animals, including people.
The woodland birds will still be nest bound, hence the swooping protective behaviour of the Koolbardi (Magpie) starts to ramp up and if watched closely, so to do the Djidi Djidi (Willy Wag Tails) and the Chuck-a-luck (Wattle Birds) to name a couple of others.
As the season progresses and
the temperatures continue to rise, we’ll start to see the flower stalks of the Balgas (Grass Trees) emerging in preparation for the coming Kambarang season.
Meanwhile in NSW, it’s a time of transition between Wiritjiribin – Tugarah Gunya’marri and Ngoonungi – Murrai’yunggory. As the weather warms up and the cold winds go, the buds of the waratah swell and redden. The Ngoonungi (flying foxes) gather in vast numbers over D’harawal Lands as the sun sinks below the horizon and dusk falls.
Gentle rains fall during this time, and the flowers bloom heavy with nectar. It is a time for ceremony, and the clans gather to celebrate a time of plenty.
ELDERS AND FRIENDS
Murray Eades (left), Bevan Lane (now back in the community) and Josie Morrison.
A home that respects elders
Windsor Park in Carlisle, Perth has a very special reputation for caring for some of the most vulnerable Aboriginal elders in the WA community. Murray Eades and Bevan Turner are two residents who call Windsor Park home.
Windsor Park Aged Care Home has an excellent reputation for good reason. The team at Windsor Park Aged Care Home have won three Commonwealth Better Practice Awards from the Australian Aged Care Quality Agency. This prestigious national award recognises outstanding innovations in care.
The 2018 Better Practice Award celebrated the Back to Country Program, which assists Aboriginal care recipients to return to their regional and desert communities. Working with the home’s Aboriginal Health Coordinator Wendy Ashwin, the program has assisted 12 Aboriginal people to return to their communities throughout Western Australia. The program consists of evaluating whether the person’s health condition can be stabilised and rehabilitated to a level of fitness and independence where they would
be able to return to their home.
Two residents - Murray Eades and Bevan Turner - share their thoughts about what makes Windsor Park so special.
Murray Eades
Murray Eades, 71, is from Katanning and has been living at Hall & Prior’s Windsor Park Aged Care Home for the past six months.
“The people at Hall & Prior treat me well,” he says. “I have a good relationship with everybody; they respect me as an Aboriginal person and it makes me proud as an Aboriginal elder.”
Murray likes to keep busy around the home and lends a hand when and where he can.
“I enjoy helping the cleaning ladies with different chores to do,” he says.
“I also like going to the shops, buying clothes and meeting other Aboriginal people in the community.”
During his shopping trips and visits outside of Windsor Park, Murray enjoys the company of Carl and Wendy, who both work at the home, saying they’re happy to take him around the community.
He derives great pride in being a respected Aboriginal elder and believes the staff at Windsor Park encourage this self-confidence.
“I’ve always recognised myself as a proud Aboriginal man who believes in my spiritual beliefs, and am proud of my Aboriginal people.”
He’s an advocate for the Windsor Park approach to offering residential aged care options for Aboriginal people - and would recommend the home to his friends and relatives.
“My relatives would benefit greatly if they were to live at Windsor Park because of the care they would receive from staff and management,” he says.
I’ve always been a proud Aboriginal person and being respected in the community makes me a proud Aboriginal man.
~ Murray Eades, 71
His only quibble is the food which he finds a little bland on occasion. However, his favourite mealanything cooked on the BBQis an option on sunnier days.
Bevan Turner
Bevan Turner, 58 was born in Warburton, an Aboriginal community in WA, just to the south of the Gibson Desert with a small population of around 600 people.
He has lived at Windsor Park for the past three months and describes the experience of ‘fitting back into society’ at the home as ‘special’.
“For me, being respected as an Aboriginal person is very personal,” says Bevan.
Like Murray, he enjoys trips to the shops and seeing other Aboriginal people in the community.
“I also like having visits from my family which is quite special for me.”
Murray’s sense of self-worth is strong and at Windsor Park, his
identity as an Aboriginal elder is nurtured and valued.
“I’ve always been a proud Aboriginal person and being respected in the community makes me a proud Aboriginal man.”
He has built up a good relationship over a relatively short period of time with Wendy and Carl, Windsor Park’s Aboriginal staff.
“They take me out into the community to buy clothes and other odds and ends,” he says.
He’s keen to encourage his family and friends to consider moving to Windsor Park too.
“I would recommend any of them who need help at Windsor Park to come here,” says Bevan. “The staff are kind and considerate who care for those who they look after.”
And like Murray, he loves nothing better than tucking into a BBQ with his new mates at Windsor Park.
IN GOOD HANDS
Grafton resident, Nicholas Hamilton, right, is a proud Wiradjuri man.
Room for all at Grafton
Aboriginal residents Nicholas Hamilton and Uncle Rob are able to pursue their own interests at Grafton Aged Care Home, a NSW Hall & Prior facility with a proud history of honouring its residents’ history and hobbies.
Grafton Aged Care Home is located in one of north eastern NSW’s most picturesque cities. Towards the end of each year, the town is blanketed in stunning purple flowers when the jacaranda trees bloom. It overlooks the Clarence River and is home to two of our residents - Nicholas Hamilton and Uncle Rob.
Nicholas Hamilton
Grafton resident Nicholas is a 66-year old proud Wiradjuri man.
“I am from Narrandera (in south west NSW), and have lived in the Grafton area for 20 years, moving into Grafton Aged Care Home just over two years ago.”
For Nicholas, being a proud Aboriginal man has not come without its challenges.
“In the past we were made to feel like nothing because of our colour,”
he says. “It took us a long time to fight for better conditions. Now conditions in Australia are getting better with more recognition and recognition improving.”
Grafton Aged Care Home goes some way in playing its part in this improvement of recognition of Aboriginal people, believes Nicholas - particularly the staff who respect his wishes, even when he’s feeling ‘antisocial at times’.
“The staff here know you and stop to listen to you,” he says. “I prefer to not attend the group activities and events in the home some times. I prefer to spend time on my own during the day.”
On other occasions, Nicholas enjoys interacting with staff, telling jokes and laughing with his fellow residents.
“The staff here give you time, like Louise, Amy and Maria have good little talks with me most days. I enjoy the conversations with them,” he says.
For any of his friends and family who may be considering making the move to Grafton Aged Care Home, Nicholas has some simple advice.
“I’d say; go for it!” he says.
He has high praise too for the food at Grafton.
“I love spaghetti bolognaise,” he says. “I’d love to learn how the Italians make it. They make it well here at Grafton.
“I also enjoy an occasional beer - my favourites are either Iron Jack or Victoria Bitter from the can.”
Uncle Rob is 75, and a Gumbaynggirr elder of the Nambucca Valley (on the north coast of New South Wales). A resident of Grafton Aged Care Home in Grafton for the past year, he originally got his name from his sister.
“We loved telling the tale of Robin Hood as children,” he says.
He recalls a happy childhood, with his mother working hard and looking after eight children.
“She ensured we had a good education,” he says. “Every night after dinner, instead of having entertainment, she would educate us and this was to be our social justice, ensuring we had strong successful futures.”
The family lived in an old house with a simple kerosene lamp, a battery-charged radio and no running water.
“To get fresh water, we would have to walk 500m to the well,” he remembers.
“As kids we would work on picking peas; we loved it as it felt like an exciting adventure watching the mail trains go past us.”
The young siblings would play a game seeing how close they could get to the loud trains as they travelled past them.
Uncle Rob’s first trip to Sydney left the young man in awe of the size of the city.
“I was shocked at how big Central Station was, and I could see all the big trains up close.”
MAKING MEMORIES
Uncle Rob is writing his own memoirs to tell his story to the next generation.
In retrospect, he has nothing but respect for his mother, father and other ancestors, for all they did to ensure his and his siblings’ future.
“Thinking of what my mother, father, grandparents and great grandparents had done in their time breaking a lot of barriers. They forged a better life for us and for social justice,” says Uncle Rob.
Now that he lives at Grafton, Uncle Rob believes that he has found a place where he truly can treat it as his home after some years of discomfort.
“Through my experiences with hospitals, I felt like I was on a production line being rushed out once I was at a certain level of
recovery,” says Uncle Rob.
“I was able to be brought to Grafton Aged Care Home in which I was told by staff to “remember that this is my home. This meant a lot to me.”
When other Aboriginal people come to the home, Uncle Rob likes to welcome them and help them feel connected and at home too.
The home’s observance and respect for important national days – like ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day – are also of importance to Uncle Rob.
“As a veteran serving in the Royal Australian Airforce, I am also able to take part in ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services as
Uncle Rob
a dignitary which brings me great honour and joy.”
Uncle Rob derives pleasure from helping organise and discuss Aboriginal cultural events and ceremonies in the home too, and takes pride in the close relationships he has with all the staff at Grafton.
“I also attend local community Elder luncheons; it means a lot to me to have strong community connections.”
When it comes to a good feed, he loves scallops with fish and chips, cold meat sandwiches, and local snapper and mullet.
Asked if he would recommend family and friends coming to Grafton to live, he doesn’t hesitate.
“I’d tell them to come and see me when you get here and I will welcome you,” he says. “I would introduce you to the home and make you feel connected here socially and culturally.”
Uncle Rob enjoys making use of the home’s facilities and allied health services, including IT equipment to further his own knowledge as he writes memoirs of his life and family history.
“I enjoy using my computer to research, learn and write important correspondences. I have assistance from Grafton Aged Care Home staff and my speech therapist with this.
“I am writing memoirs to tell my story and also help the next generations of my family learn about their culture and heritage,” he says.
“It’s important to know who you are (your heritage) and where you come from. I feel this is the work I need to complete to honour my elders and the Gumbaynggirr people.”
Uncle Rob believes that he has found a place where he truly can treat it as his home after some years of discomfort . . .
ENJOYING LIFE AGAIN
As an ex-veteran, Uncle Rob values Grafton’s observance of days like ANZAC Day.
River Country
Artist Deborah Taylor draws on the inspiration from the Clarence Valley, her family straddling two nations with her work reflecting the fauna and flora of this fertile spot.
MY NAME IS DEBORAH TAYLOR and I live in South Grafton in the Clarence Valley. We are on the border of the Bunjalung nation with Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl. My affiliation is to both nations - my father for Gumbaynggirr and my mum for Bundjalung. My mum was born in Box Ridge Coraki and descended from the Olive/Cowan families and was one of seven sisters and one brother. The Clarence Valley is where she married my dad (Albert Taylor) and they reared their family Grafton.
I grew up around rivers, fishing and catching turtles in country creeks, swimming in the Clarence, fishing and foraging in the ocean. My dad shot kangaroos and that’s what we ate as well as bush foods in season - these were treats.
There were days we went as family just us or our extended family to the bush or seaside to practice hunting and gathering, and even then, the places to go were limited. Now it is more restricted and to me, those are precious memories of different times.
FIGTREE MAAGUNDA
This artwork is of the fig tree and its importance in Gumbaynggirr stories and landscape. The word “maagunda” means to celebrate.
The painting is a celebration of the depth of colour in the leaves and fruit of the foliage and the shape and different textures of the trunk and branches and also the curves and bends of the large roots above ground. I have shown dragonflies in the artwork to represent the insects and other wildlife (reptiles, birds, mammals and insects) that use the trees. The blue colours are the water taken up by the fig especially near the Clarence River.
Traditionally the different varieties of fig trees were used as medicine, food and technology eg. sandpaper fig; the fruit that grew on the trunk was eaten; the bark and leaves were used to sand off timber implements and also were crushed into a salve for use on skin irritations and the bark was stripped to be used as a weaving fibre.
Figs are special and need to be celebrated. They are also just beautiful and as well as being useful are a feast for the eyes.
My works are of landscapes and I want to depict that these were created long ago, and th that the Bundjalung peoples have always been a part of the land and are imprinted in its core.
No matter what layers, like structures, arenas, houses etc. are put on the land, it is still Bundjalung and always will be.
FIGTREE MAAGUNDA
This ain’t Texas ... Fairfield
The team at Fairfield Aged Care Home decided to jazz up their regular exercise session with a spot of coordinated dancing to Beyonce’s catchy ‘Texas Hold Em’ song.
Dressing up in cowboy costumes to get into the Beyonce/Cowboy vibe, our residents had a blast moving their bodies and singing along to this well-known pop song.
Physio Sharn and physio aid Koula were also up for a bit of line dancing, as they took the residents through some clever movements for a healthy body.
If you would like to see a video of this awesome performance, head to Hall & Prior’s Facebook page.
Making the most of sunny days
Braemar Cooinda
The residents of Braemar Cooinda in WA are keen to make the most of their home’s lovely outdoor space while they still can. As WA’s neverending summery weather finally came to an end, winter finally arrived and the days are getting colder.
As you can see from the photos, some of the residents recently took advantage of the weather to make the most of these warmer days and sat outdoors or took a walk in
the park. As a bonus, Casper the dog accompanied them which the residents took great delight in.
Roll on spring . . .
Filipino culture celebrated at Concorde
Concorde Aged Care Home
June 12 marked a pivotal moment in history in a collection of islands to the north of Australia. It’s Philippines Independence Day, commemorating liberation from Spanish rule.
Our residents at Concorde Aged Care Home in WA joined in a vibrant celebration of Filipino culture to mark the occasion. The festivities kicked off with a colourful traditional performance by our staff, setting the stage for a sumptuous feast of Filipino cuisine.
Chopsticks time at Agmaroy
AChinese takeaway is one of the world’s favourite foodie treats, and the residents of Agmaroy Aged Care Home in WA were very excited to enjoy their very own feast recently.
“We are proud to introduce our first successful Chinese Take Away Day for all our residents,” said Director of Nursing, Aisle Batucan.
“I would like to thank our Agmaroy team for their support - our chef, Tom Marshall and Melissa Trinca, SP and Beatrice Torres for their unwavering support.”
And what did the residents think of this tasty treat? Here’s just a
selection of their rave reviews:
“Good idea, good food and I loved it, looking forward to the next take away day”, “the food is absolutely delicious”, the meal is tasty”, “I love the sweet and sour pork”, and “thank you for granting my request to add prawns to my noodles”
Staff joined in the first ever Take Away Day too, enjoying a serving of the delicious Chinese food.
“We just loved seeing smiles from the residents faces,” said Aisle.
Watch out for Agmaroy’s next Take Away Day . . . where in the world will they eat next?
Un-BeeLievable Time at Grafton
Grafton Aged Care Home
We had an un-bee-lievable time this morning at Grafton Aged Care home.
The courtyard was a hive of activity as the home celebrated World Bee Day. We didn’t even need a Plan Bee as the weather was perfect! David from Boylie’s Bees bought in his beehives to demonstrate how the bees work together within the hive to produce honey. The demonstration was very interesting and informative and the residents learned all about the inner workings of the hive and the role different types of bees play in the hive.
We could not “Bee-lieve” the selection of products that David makes from the wax and honey. Some of the products included honey and oatmeal soap, timber polish,heel cream, hand cream, lip balm, insect repellent, stop itch, wax wraps to cover food and wax melts. David also extracted the honey from the hive for us to sample, unfortunately we were not very well “bee-haved” and couldn’t wait for the honey to filter “bee-fore”we tasted it.
All agreed that the fresh honey was the “bees knees”!
Agmaroy Aged Care Home
STOP PRESS: Unicorn spotted in Albany
Clarence Estate
Avery unusual visitor brought lots of smiles to Clarence Estate in Albany recently.
After a period of lock-down, residents and staff were thrilled to welcome a unicorn into their midst, and as you can see from the photos, this was one fairy tale with a very happy ending. The mythical creature brought along an extra friend - Dr Seuss’s Colourful Thing - and the pair dispensed much happiness and joy during their time at Clarence.
A magical morning indeed.
Fairfield Aged Care Home
Best Day Out for Fairfield Residents to Pioneer Village
Residents of Fairfield recently enjoyed a wonderful day trip to Pioneer Village at Windsor where they jumped back in time to ye olde Sydney Town to experience the atmosphere and activities of life over 100 years ago.
Residents were amazed at the old homes, cinemas, post office, banks and the sweet shop. Some of our residents even enjoyed drawing water up from the hand well. The group rode on tractors, train and hay rides, loving every minute of this colonial adventure.
Some of the ladies dressed up in old clothes and had their picture taken. They enjoyed a lovely picnic lunch while mixing with the locals as they told them about their wonderful stories and how hard life was back then.
Delicious dairy celebrated at Grafton
Grafton Aged Care
Home
Residents at Grafton Aged Care Home in NSW enjoyed a milk and cheese tasting morning on June 3 to acknowledge World Milk Day (which fell on June 1).
The day aims to highlight the importance of milk as a global food and celebrates the dairy sector and, being a regional home, Grafton supports all our primary producers and their products.
This year’s theme focused on celebrating the vital role dairy plays in delivering quality nutrition to nourish the world. To mark the occasion, Grafton’s residents tasted chocolate, strawberry and banana milk shakes, with four different cheeses with crackers including camembert, gouda, cheddar and spring onion and chive cream cheese.
The banana milkshake and the spring onion and chive cream cheese were voted most popular by our Grafton residents, who took their judging roles very seriously. After feeding the cow (throwing the sandbag in the bucket) we posed for a group photo with Daisy the Dairy cow who spent the morning overseeing our activities.
Mooo-re milk please, Daisy!
Georges Estate
Georges Goes Large for The Biggest Morning Tea
Afund-raising favourite was a delicious treat for all at Georges Estate recently.
Ever conscious of health and generosity, the team at Georges Estate in Penshurst, NSW, put together a wonderful Big Morning Tea for the residents and their families to show support to the Cancer Councils ‘The Biggest Morning Tea’ campaign during May.
Celebrating on May 9 in the serene surroundings of the beautiful home’s Wellness Centre, the team were delighted to host special guests from Oatley public school, with an attending senior teacher and some senior students who played the perfect guests and chatted happily to everyone present.
The wonderful turn out from local community organisations saw members from the District Singers Choir, members from Activist, members from St Declan’s Catholic Parish in Penshurst as well as some members from the Australian Gardening Club attend this lovely
morning tea event. Everybody felt so blessed to have such wonderful community support.
The food, prepared by the talented resident chef delivered a selection of gourmet sandwiches, homemade scones with jam and cream, homemade custard tarts, party pies, sausage Rolls and spinach and ricotta triangles.
“To date, we are very proud to have raised over $350 to donate to this very worthy cause, however our collection is still open, so drop by and speak to our AIN/Wellbeing staff if you would like to donate to the Cancer Council,” said Sarah Riach, Executive Director of Georges Estate.
Finally, what would a party be without music? For something different, everybody was entertained by the district singers who played ukuleles and sang the most wonderful melodies for the well-fed group.
It was a lovely morning enjoyed by all.
Grafton Aged Care Home
Happy birthday Pegg!
It was a very special day for Grafton Aged Care Home resident Pegg Burnell in May.
Pegg celebrated her 100thbirthday enjoying a morning tea with residents and staff and her many relatives who had travelled from as far away as Townsville and Melbourne to mark the occasion.
Her room at the home resembled a florist shop on her big day, with vases adorning every available space and in between the vases were all the cards wishing her the best. In the lead-up to her birthday celebrations,
Pegg has a cheerful disposition and a welcoming smile for everyone. She is a much loved resident of the home.
Pegg and a group of residents were treated to a pamper morning where in between facials, having their nails done and drinking cups of tea, they discussed the many changes in fashion, beauty and lifestyles over the past100 years.
Pegg is the poster girl for a healthy lifestyle at the home and is the first to attend daily exercises despite having mobility problems. She doesn’t let her low vision get in the way of her playing Bingo and loves socialising, bus outings and spending time with close friends at the home.
When the home decided to offer volunteers at Mend and Make Doin South Grafton, Pegg’s compassionate nature shone through and she was ready to help by packing essentials for those less fortunate. She may not be able to see well but she does a fantastic job counting the items to go into bags.
Pegg has a cheerful disposition and a welcoming smile for everyone. She is a much loved resident of the home.
Congratulations, Pegg!
Getting into the swing of World Music Day
Karringal Green
Karingal Green residents had a great time celebrating World Music Day towards the end of June. They kicked off the day with a vibrant jam session, featuring various musical instruments and lively dancing to popular tunes. The festivities continued into the afternoon with a lovely concert, where residents took centre stage, dancing and enjoying the music.
It was a joyous occasion filled with melody, movement, and lots of smiles!
Meanwhile at Fairfield, patriotic residents followed suit They had a right royal time on June 10 to celebrate the King’s Birthday long weekend.
With some special guests - the Duke & Duchess of Wales and the King himself -residents and staff all took a moment to pose for photographs with them after they had enjoyed a cup of good Olde English tea and of course some rather posh cakes. What a jolly nice way to enjoy each other’s company, one thinks!
Belmont Transitional Care
TCP folk tuck in at Belmont
Our Belmont Transitional Care consumers were spoilt by the therapy team, and enjoyed heir lunch outside on a beautiful sunny day. These consumers are here on the Transition Care Program (TCP), designed to provide older adults slow stream rehabilitation following on from a stay in hospital.
It gives them more time and care in a non-hospital environment to improve or maintain their level of independence, while helping them and their family to make longer term care arrangements.
They each set goals with our Allied Health Team and work closely with our Therapy Assistants to improve across multiple areas, from meal prep to improving balance. Mercy and the team created a special space for them to come together, share a meal and provide a social atmosphere while they stay with us at Belmont.
It gives them more time and care in a nonhospital environment to improve or maintain their level of independence
Menaville Aged Care Home
Viva
Italia!
Festa della Repubblica Italiana (or Republic Day), is the Italian National Day and Republic Day, which is celebrated in early June each year, so to get our Italian residents at Menaville Aged Care Home in NSW connected we had a marvellous celebration of all things Italy.
With our clever Italian lane backdrop, we dined on spaghetti bolognese and tucked into some special Italian sweets while enjoying some Italian music.
Multo bene!
Tuia
Autumn leaves at Golden Valley Park
Here in WA, we have been so fortunate with the weather over these last few weeks in May and June, and the summer-like sun, despite it being winter just keeps on giving.
A group of residents from Tuia Lodge and staff decided to hop on the bus and take a trip to Golden Valley Tree Park in Balingup.
Autumn colours were still in all their glory with such a variety of gorgeous russet and golden hues.
“We sat under an 80-year-old oak tree and enjoyed sandwiches and tea in the shade, and as we sat quietly, we could hear the leaves gently falling from the tree to settle on the brown carpet underfoot,” said Jane Goff, Tuia Lodge’s Director of Nursing.
“Geraldine looked up into the canopy admiring the magnificence of the oak above us and we all felt thankful to live in such a beautiful part of the world.”
Lodge
MEET the DON
Raj Bhattarai
Clinical Nurse Manager, Acting DON of Sirius Cove Aged Care Home
L&L: Please tell me how long you’ve been working in aged care, and what drew you to the profession?
RB I’ve been working in aged care since 2020. My journey into this profession was deeply influenced by my personal experiences, particularly caring for my own grandmother as she grew older. Being there for her taught me first-hand about the unique care needs and vulnerabilities that elderly individuals face, often
compounded by challenges in expressing their needs.
Unfortunately, my grandmother passed away during the COVID lockdown, and I wasn’t able to bid her a final goodbye. However, working in aged care and caring for elderly Australians has provided me with solace during this time of grief.
Each day in aged care is an opportunity to make a positive impact and to Honour the memory of my grandmother by ensuring others receive the care and compassion they deserve.
L&L How has your career journey with Hall & Prior progressed so far?
RB I began my journey with Hall & Prior as an Assistant in Nursing at Sirius Cove Nursing Home during the beginning of the COVID pandemic, a critical period of global healthcare manpower crisis.
Subsequently, I chose to work in regional Australia where healthcare resources were strained. However, I missed the close-knit community of Sirius Cove – the residents, staff, and families - which prompted my return to apply my enhanced expertise for their benefit.
After a year of dedicated service, I was honoured with the opportunity to assume the CNM position. Eager to further contribute in a management capacity, I accepted and have since received encouraging feedback from the entire team. Recently, I transitioned into the role of Acting Director of Nursing, where the positive reception has continued to grow.
I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of the entire Hall & Prior teamoperations, resources, clinical, and non-clinical alike. Their collaboration has been instrumental in achieving the satisfaction and success I have experienced thus far in my career.
L&L What do you particularly enjoy about your role – and what are the challenges you face?
RB I enjoy the ability to create work and service environment to make a positive impact on individuals’ lives. Creating a welcoming and comfortable
environment and contributing to the smiles on the faces of residents, staff, and families, are the moments I cherish most in my job.
Working in healthcare inevitably comes with challenges. Witnessing consumers who we have cared for over the years nearing the end of life can be particularly difficult. However, ensuring a safe, supportive, and dignified environment, adequate staffing levels, and facilitating a comfortable transition for them to the next phase in the most dignified way helps to balance these challenges.
L&L On a day-to-day basis, what makes your role special and how do you plan on inspiring staff at your home?
RB It’s the opportunity to positively impact the lives of individuals within our care community. Whether it’s ensuring the highest standards of care, fostering a welcoming environment, or supporting our residents, staff, and families, each day presents a chance to make a meaningful difference.
To inspire staff at our home, I believe in leading by example and promoting a culture of compassion, professionalism, and excellence. It starts with clear communication and setting achievable goals aligned with our commitment to exceptional care. Regular feedback, recognition of achievements, and ongoing professional development opportunities are crucial to motivating and empowering our team.
L&L If somebody was contemplating a career in aged care, what advice would you give them?
RB My advice would be to be prepared for a deeply fulfilling role where you can positively impact the lives of elderly individuals and their families daily. At the same time, understand there will be challenges in various expects of job that you’ll need to face. However, you need to
stay committed to ongoing learning and development to keep up with best practices and evolving healthcare need.
A career in aged care offers a noble opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, where dedication and compassion are valued traits.
L&L What kind of leader are you and how do you think your colleagues would describe you?
RB I consider myself a leader who fosters an approachable, supportive, and transformative environment for my staff. In the realm of aged care, where we care for elderly residents who may struggle to express their needs, I believe in a leadership style that is not autocratic but rather fair yet firm when necessary to uphold the highest standards of care.
My colleagues would likely describe me as a supportive leader who enhances both the working environment for our team and the service environment for our residents.
A career in aged care offers a noble opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, where dedication and compassion are valued traits.”
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?
RB A good day in aged care, for me, is when I witness residents receiving the services and support they need, and when my staff have the work environment necessary to provide safe and compassionate care. It’s also a good day when I see smiles on the faces of our residents, their families, and our staff members. These moments of happiness and contentment among those we care for and work alongside are truly rewarding and affirming, and I have been fortunate enough to have good days so far.
Yes, dealing end of life of the consumer is emotionally challenging, I would say the most challenging aspect of working in aged care; However, creating the better life environment during their stay at Sirius cove home and letting them transition to the end of life in comfortable and dignified way keep me from smiling in the face of life and death situation encountered in aged care. Ensuring they transition to the end of life in
a comfortable and dignified manner is essential to me and my team. It’s about maintaining a focus on providing quality care and support throughout every stage of life.
L&L What plans do you have for your home – and how do you relax when you have finished work for the day?
RB My plans for our home revolve around sustaining and enhancing the exceptional care we currently provide. We’re committed to maintaining optimal standards while embracing advancements in technology and approaches to aged care. Keeping our facility and team updated with these developments is crucial to ensuring we continue to offer the best possible care for our residents and foster an ideal work environment for our staff.
After work, I enjoy spending time with my partner, engaging in hobbies like playing online games, reading or exercise, and practicing mindfulness help me recharge and maintain a healthy worklife balance. Me and my partner usually enjoy driving to our favourite restaurant and enjoying our favourite
Nepalese dish after shift. These moments of relaxation are essential for rejuvenating my energy and enthusiasm for the challenges and rewards of the next day in aged care.
L&L Tell us something we don’t know about you?
RB One thing that you may not know about me is my deep passion for soccer and cricket. From spending countless hours playing with friends in my younger days to now following and enjoying these sports online, they’ve remained a significant part of my life. Beyond sports, one of my favourite indulgences is Thai cuisine. My partner and I travelled to Thailand primarily to experience authentic Thai food.
L&L Do you have an affirmation that you like to work to or that shapes the way you lead?
RB I lead with compassion and dedication, striving to create a supportive and transformative environment for my team and the residents we serve. My commitment to excellence in both staff development and resident well-being guides my actions every day.
Meet Therapist
Karen Watkin, Massage Therapist at Karingal Green Wellness Centre
KAREN WATKIN joined the Karingal Green team in early 2024. SHARON KOON finds out more about her journey and what makes her passion for massage therapy shine.
SK Can you tell us a bit about what drew you to become a massage therapist?
KW Well, becoming a massage therapist was a decision deeply rooted in my desire to balance my career with raising my child. The flexibility of choosing my hours was a big factor. But beyond that, I’ve always been fascinated by the power of touch and its ability to heal. It’s not just a luxury; it’s an integral part of healthcare that I believe everyone should prioritise.
SK That’s a wonderful perspective. What do you enjoy most about being a massage therapist?
KW The trust my clients place in me is truly special. Knowing that they rely on me to be a part of their healthcare journey is incredibly rewarding. Massage allows us to tap into a deeper understanding of our bodies - how they function, how they respond, and how they heal. It’s a privilege to guide people through that process.
Passion is key; you have to truly love what you do to thrive in this field.
SK What advice would you give to someone considering a career in massage therapy?
KW Firstly, I’d say it’s a fulfilling career, but it’s not without its challenges. It’s important to understand the dynamics of the body to prevent injuries and provide effective treatment. Passion is key; you have to truly love what you do to thrive in this field.
SK Outside of work, we hear you’re quite the sports enthusiast. Could you tell us a bit about your hobbies?
KW I’m a big fan of Krav Maga, an Israeli self-defence system (Shield Academy), as well as MMA (Mixed Martial Arts), weight training, and running. Staying active is a big part of my life. And of course, I can’t forget about my adorable dog, Kevin. He’s a bit of a wuss, but his cuddles make up for it. I’m an animal lover through and through, though I must admit, worms aren’t exactly my favourite!
Q A+
with Kabita Acharya, nurse, Sirius Cove Aged Care Home, NSW
Kabita Acharya takes her nursing duties at Sirius Cove to another level and aims to ensure the residents under her care feel supported and live enriched lives.
L&L What made you want to become an aged care worker?
KA: I’ve always had a passion for helping others, especially those in need. Becoming an aged care worker allows me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of elderly individuals who deserve the best care and companionship.
L&L How long have you worked in aged care and when did you join Hall & Prior?
KA I’ve been working in aged care for five years, and I joined Hall & Prior two years ago. I was drawn to Hall & Prior’s commitment to providing exceptional care and support to residents, which aligns perfectly with my values.
L&L What does an average day look like for you?
KA An average day for me involves assisting residents with their daily activities such as personal care, medication management, and meal assistance. I also engage in social activities and meaningful interactions
to ensure residents feel supported and valued throughout the day.
L&L Tell us about one part of your job that makes you feel really rewarded and connected to those you work with?
KA One aspect of my job that truly fills my
heart is forming genuine connections not only with the residents but also with my workmates. Collaborating with my colleagues, sharing experiences, and supporting each other through the highs and lows of caregiving creates a strong sense of teamwork and camaraderie that enriches both our professional and personal lives. Knowing that we’re all in this together, striving to provide the best possible care for our residents, makes every day meaningful and rewarding.
L&L What is the best piece of advice you ever got about working from others and from who?
KA The best advice I received was from a fellow colleague who emphasized the importance of empathy and active listening in this field. Understanding the unique needs and perspectives of each resident allows me to provide tailored care and support that truly makes a difference in their lives.
L&L What is the best thing about working at an aged care home?
KA: The best thing about working at an aged care home is the sense of community and camaraderie among staff and residents. It feels like one big family, where everyone supports each other and shares moments of joy and laughter amidst the challenges.
L&L What have you learned about yourself while you’ve worked for Hall & Prior?
KA Working for Hall & Prior has taught me resilience, patience, and the importance
of adaptability. I’ve discovered my capacity to overcome obstacles and grow personally and professionally through continuous learning and self-reflection.
L&L How would others describe you?
KA Others would likely describe me as compassionate, reliable, and dedicated. I strive to always go above and beyond in my role, ensuring that residents receive the highest quality of care and support possible.
L&L What qualities are required to make a great worker in your opinion?
KA: In my opinion, great aged care workers possess empathy, patience, excellent communication skills, and a genuine passion
Fast Facts:
If I wasn’t an care worker ... pursue a career in social work or counselling. My favourite movie is ... Titanic
My favourite song is ... Lover by Taylor Swift
When I’m not at work you’ll often find me ... spending quality time with my family and friends.
for helping others. Being adaptable, respectful, and having a positive attitude are also essential qualities that contribute to providing exceptional care and support.
Virtual Reality adventures at Karingal Green
The SilVR Adventures team met Kylie Choong, Senior Occupational Therapist for Hall & Prior at Karingal Green in June, to introduce the features of our virtual reality product to her team and some residents. This magnificent, state-of-the-art residential aged care home offers specialist care and wellbeing services, including dementia and Parkinson’sspecific care.
Kylie excitedly shared insights on Karingal Green’s Companions Program, through which residents spend one-on-one time with a staff member each week. This program aims to build stronger ties within
the community, allowing residents to explore new (or revisit old) interests and share their history, culture, and passions. It’s an ideal platform for the aged care home’s new partnership with SilVR Adventures, which takes residents on virtual reality journeys that lead to reminiscence, hope, and a renewed sense of adventure.
Kylie emphasized the importance of truly knowing each person and building relationships. It was this insight and connection that allows the team to tailor experiences to each resident’s dreams, passions, and curiosities.
Studies have shown that immersive VR reminiscence
therapy can significantly reduce depressive symptoms immediately after the intervention in elderly patients with dementia and help maintain cognitive function over time. Taking a trip into the past and sharing experiences with others can help build and keep synapses in the brain strong, which is imperative as we age.
In the past few months, the Companions Program, hand in hand with SilVR Adventures, has seen new residents ease into the community. Staff members encourage a stronger sense of belonging through activities tailored to various personalities and shared histories, as well as engagement in VR programs
The team from SilVR Adventures took some Karingal Green residents on the trip of a lifetime recently – without leaving the comfort of their chairs. By COLIN PUDSEY
that generate such excitement among residents that they can’t help but encourage each other to join in.
One example of the power of virtual reality story involved the touching story of a resident, who had always dreamed of visiting the Eiffel Tower but never had the opportunity. Through SilVR Adventures, she was able to experience the breathtaking views from the top of the Eiffel Tower, bringing tears to her eyes and a renewed sense of wonder. This virtual trip sparked conversations among other residents about their travel dreams and memories, creating a lively atmosphere of shared experiences and bonding.
The impact of VR on residents goes beyond mere entertainment.
One of the most notable benefits has been the significant improvement in residents’ mental health and cognitive functions. The immersive nature of VR helps to stimulate memories and emotions,
providing a powerful tool for therapy. Residents who were previously withdrawn or suffering from depression have shown remarkable improvements in their mood and engagement levels.
Hall & Prior’s staff have also noticed an improvement in behaviours among residents with dementia. The calming and engaging VR experiences
We’re not just caring for our residents; we’re enriching their lives and creating moments of magic every day.”
offer a welcome distraction and provide residents with a sense of control and accomplishment. These moments of clarity and joy are invaluable and highlight the profound impact of VR therapy.
The success of the partnership at Karingal Green
continues to demonstrate the potential of VR to transform aged care and enhance the quality of life for residents.
“I’m excited about future possibilities, including incorporating more culturally diverse content and developing programs tailored to specific therapeutic needs,” said Kylie.
The companionship program at Hall & Prior, combined with SilVR Adventures’ VR solutions, is ensuring that residents continue to live lives filled with joy and contentment.
“The innovative use of VR not only enriches the daily experiences of residents but also supports their mental and cognitive health, fostering a vibrant and supportive community,” said Kylie.
“We’re not just caring for our residents; we’re enriching their lives and creating moments of magic every day.”
To find out more about SilVR Adventures, visit silvradventures.com.au
Superhero drops by Georges Estate
It was a red letter day for the residents of Georges Estate when a very famous guy wearing a cape zoomed in to spread smiles to all he met.
Is it a bird, is it a plane - no, it’s SUPERMAN!
And so it was, on an ordinary day in June, a very special visitor from the pages of a comic book paid Georges Estate a visit.
Staff and residents of the aged care home in Penshurst, NSW couldn’t believe their luck when they realised that they were in the presence of the Man of Steel himself, Superman.
Everybody agreed that the man of mystery was such a great guy, as he made sure to visit every resident in their rooms to ensure everyone got to meet their favourite superhero.
His superpowers seemed to ensure the whole building was filled with laughter as residents and staff rushed to have a photo taken with this very handsome Superman.
“We topped off the day by watching ‘Superman’ the movie in our inhouse cinema in the afternoon,” said Sarah Riach, Director of Nursing at Georges Estate.
It just goes to show you never know who will turn up to visit us at Georges Estate.
Compassionate people dedicated to care
Georges Estate is a remarkable care community that supports residents to live a vibrant and connected life.
• Enjoy our Wellness Centre’s hydrotherapy pool and other facilities;
• Relax knowing you have 24-hour care and support; and
• Splash out on life’s luxuries with our package of extra services. For an exclusive tour in person or a virtual tour online, book through our website: www.georgesestate.com.au/bookatour/
Brush up on dental health
Maintaining good dental health becomes increasingly crucial as we age. For elderly individuals in Australia, taking proactive steps can significantly enhance overall well-being and quality of life. Here are ten top tips for dental health in the elderly:
1 Regular Dental Check-ups
Schedule regular visits to the dentist, ideally every six months or as recommended by your dental professional. These check-ups help in early detection and management of dental issues.
2 Brushing Twice Daily
Brushing Twice Daily: Adopt the habit of brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride
toothpaste. Use a soft-bristled brush and pay attention to cleaning each tooth and the gumline thoroughly.
Flossing Daily
Regular flossing is essential to remove food particles and plaque from between teeth and along the gumline. This practice helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
4 Denture Care
If you wear dentures, clean them daily as instructed by your dentist. Proper denture care includes brushing them and soaking them in a denture cleanser to remove stains and bacteria.
5 Healthy Diet
Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages, which can contribute to tooth decay and erosion.
6 Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease..
7 Quit Smoking
If you smoke or use tobacco products, quitting can significantly improve your oral health. Smoking increases the risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancers.
8 Use of Fluoride
Consider using fluoride mouthwash or rinse as recommended by your dentist. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and can prevent cavities.
9 Address Dry Mouth
Dry mouth (xerostomia) is common in older adults and can contribute to dental problems. Stay hydrated, use saliva substitutes if needed, and talk to your dentist about possible causes and solutions.
10 Stay Informed
eep yourself informed about oral health issues specific to seniors. Discuss any concerns or changes in your oral health with your dentist promptly.
In Australia, seniors can access dental care through various avenues, including public dental services and private practitioners. It’s essential to make use of
these resources to maintain optimal dental health as you age. If you or your loved one has any concerns about their dental health, please also talk to your home’s Director of Nursing.
By incorporating these practices into daily routines and seeking regular professional dental care, elderly individuals can enjoy better oral health, improved overall health, and a higher quality of life. Taking care of your teeth and gums is an investment in your wellbeing that pays off in the long run.
Taking care of your teeth and gums is an investment in your well-being that pays off in the long run.
Early improvesintervention injury outcomes
Responsible for the coordination of injury management services for employees of Hall & Prior with work related and non-work related injuries, Hana Grant ensures our team feel supported and ‘looked after’ when injury occurs.
The safety, health and wellbeing of our workforce is a business priority for a service industry such as Aged Care.
There are times when injuries occur early, supportive intervention has shown that when our staff experience these events, it helps to establish rehabilitation practices that will allow them to safely find their way back to pre-injured duties.
By HANA GRANT Injury Management Coordinator
My role plays an integral part in supporting the wider Hall & Prior WHS strategy and aims to truly help our staff feel ‘in good hands’ when it comes to any sustained injury.
Early
intervention and the positive outcomes
All Hall & Prior aged care homes work together like a close-knit family. When that culture is set in place, we see the home staff as a collective that ensures every employee from the cleaner to the Director of Nursing look out for each other. The positive outcome of this global approach is that staff feel supported through the home by their colleagues and management.
The guiding principles of working in this field
Teamwork is a first point of call when dealing with workrelated injuries with the overarching goal of ensuring that every employee returns home safe to their families at the end of each shift.
The three guiding principles I use to manage a successful return to work outcome are the following:
1. Early reporting
2. Rehabilitation
3. A safe return to work plan
Strategies to enhance both physical and mental wellbeing across our organisation
During orientation of new staff members, I talk about how staff turn up to work each day. Are we tired, grumpy, hungry, or late? Often these feelings can contribute to staff members making mistakes and eventually causing injury. Therefore, it is important to always be prepared and fit for your shift each time you step into your role.
How does a staff member reach out if they feel they require support?
As a first point of contact, staff should always speak to their direct manager to discuss their case. The home manager will then make contact with me to see what strategies will be best to assist and support each individual case.
NOTE:
Hall & Prior provides access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all staff. This service provides experienced professionals who will listen and assist in times of duress covering feelings of anxiousness or depression through to financial burden or family issues. This is a free and confidential service.
Call EAP TELUS Health on 1300 361 008.
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 each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.
E
the Sydney 2000 Olympics?
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.
Can you find all of the words listed below? The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.
CROSS MATH
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.
EIGHT AROUND
Can you work out what the missing letter is that spells an 8-letter word? It could read either clockwise or anti-clockwise.
Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.
HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW...
NAIDOC WEEK
1. NAIDOC stands for National Aboriginal and Islander Day what?
A. Commemoration
B. Celebration
C. Observance Committee
D. Community
2. What is the theme of this year's NAIDOC celebration?
A. Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud
B. For Our Elders
C. Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up!
D. Heal Country Heal Country!
3. In which year was NAIDOC Week first officially commemorated?
A. 1938
B. 1957
C. 1975
D. 1984
4. In which month is NAIDOC Week typically held?
A. January
B. April
C. May
D. July
5. Which of the following is not one of the official NAIDOC Awards categories?
A. Creative Talent Award
B. Lifetime Achievement Award
C. Scholar of the Year
D. Person of the Year
MY Favourite THINGS
Noelle Loyzaga
Operations Support Officer, NSW Hall & Prior State Office
Noelle Loyzaga loves nothing more than spending time with her family - when she’s not at work at the State Office in Sydney ensuring everything runs smoothly.
MY FAMILY’S CULTURE My heritage is Spanish, Filipino and Australian. I have two brothers and one sister. I’ve been working in aged care since 2021 when I started with Hall & Prior. Previously I worked in property and travel.
I LOVE TO TRAVEL: I love travelling and have travelled to many countries in Europe and Asia. I’ve travelled around Australia and did a campervan trip through New Zealand in 2019. I love to explore new places. We’re heading to the UK and Ireland in August and I can’t wait.
MY FAMILY: We are three - my fiancé Ben and our son, who turned one in the month of June. I love spending time with my boys, and we all love being outdoors and enjoy having a meal at the pub from time to time.
I LOVE TO TAKE PHOTOGRAPHS:
My hobby is photography. My favourite thing to photograph is the beach, and I love to capture a sunrise. More recently I have also enjoyed doing some portrait photography.
I LOVE TO COOK: enjoy cooking and exploring different cuisines. I like to cook savoury dishes, especially Filipino foods.
GO THE BUNNIES! – I love sports – I love watching sport and played soccer when I was younger. I am a proud South Sydney Rabbitohs fan. My grandfather Les ‘Chicka’ Cowie played rugby league for the Rabbitohs and represented Australia in the late 1940s and 1950s. He put his age up to join the army in 1942 and he joined Souths after playing in the Service teams during the war. His greatest moment came against Great Britain in 1950 when he was a member of Australia’s Third Test team that recaptured the Ashes after 30 years. Souths also won the premiership that year and my grandfather went on to play an integral role in the great Rabbitohs teams of the 1950s – 1970s as a coach and selector.
OUR WA HOMES
9527 1757
9472 9488
OUR NSW HOMES
AUBREY
Muy by Deb Belyea
Urapun
TORRES STRAIT
SAMUAWGADHALGAL,
‘Urapun
Muy’, from the Kalaw Kawaw Ya dialect of the Top Western Islands of the Torres Strait, means ‘One Fire’. The title of this work pays homage to Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal people everywhere, as we all have that one fire: our passion for our culture. In this work, have depicted the hands of our ancestors that have carefully dropped a burning ember on to a fire. This ember burns hot with intensity, stoking the flames, as it combines with the new fire. The linear detail shows the energy and power as cultural knowledge is transferred from our ancestors to us today. Culture is the fire that gives us knowledge, wisdom and purpose. It is our responsibility to maintain, practice, and pass on our fire to our future generations. Afterall, Culture keeps us Blak, Loud and Proud.
Aboriginal Flag designed by Mr Harold Thomas. Torres Strait Islander Flag reproduced by kind permission of the Torres Strait Island Regional Council, designed by the late Mr Bernard Namok
