April/May 2015
Community News is a bi-monthly newsletter published by the management of several aged care facilities in the Newcastle region, to promote communication with residents, their families, staff and the wider community.
Residents: have you seen a photo of yourself in Community News that you’d love to get your hands on? Families: would you love to have copies of all the photos of your loved one that have appeared in the magazine?
In February, the lovely Clarice Curd of Waterview celebrated the amazing milestone of her 100th birthday. Here she is holding a day-old baby chick - what a gorgeous moment.
If so, please get in touch with us and we can provide you with digital copies of photos from our Community News archives! Just send an email to kate@hvcare.com.au.
Turn to page 24 to read Clarice’s profile, and page 32 to see more great photos of the recent chicken hatching program.
Chaplaincy Services
The management of Hunter Valley Care and Empowered Living Support Services actively seek feedback from residents as well as their families. This is a fundamental element that drives ongoing improvement to the quality of the services they offer. For feedback contact: Head Office Street: 78 York Street, Teralba NSW 2284 Post: PO Box 3310 Glendale NSW 2285 Phone: (02) 4955 6400 Fax: (02) 4955 6411 Email: claire@hvcare.com.au
Chaplains play an integral role in our communities. They visit each facility on a weekly basis, assisting with the pastoral and emotional needs of residents, families and staff. If you would like a Chaplain or other minister to visit you or a loved one, contact: Rev. Delma Geary on 0412 684 698 or Pastor Sue Jenkins on 0422 086 760 chaplain@huntervalleycare.com.au Special Services: All facilities will hold ANZAC Day services – please check with your facility for dates and times. Regular interfaith church services are held by Chaplains on a weekly or fortnightly basis. These services are open to people of all faith backgrounds, and family members and visitors are welcome to attend. Anglican, Catholic and Uniting Church services are also held regularly. Ministers from other denominations will visit on request – contact your Chaplain if you wish to organise this. 2
Editorial
SPOTLIGHT ON ACTIVITIES
Welcome to the April/May edition of Community News. We hope you enjoyed the bumper February/March magazine… and that you’re ready for even more pages this time around! From this issue forwards, we will be merging both Hunter Valley Care and Empowered Living Support Services Community News magazines into one.
April Amaroo 2nd Easter High Tea 14th Concert – Steven Holiday 24th Cooking – Anzac Biscuits Bethel 15th Italian Luncheon 24th Concert/Anzac Morning Tea 29th Movie Morning
And that’s not all: staff and resident profiles will also be expanding! Every edition, you’ll meet a resident and a staff member from each of the four residential facilities – Amaroo, Bethel, Fig Tree Point and Waterview – with special profiles from The Sanctuary Independent Living Facility every few issues. That’s at least eight profiles every month, so you’d better get reading!
Fig Tree Point 13th All Day Bus Trip – Starship Cruises 14th Mexican Theme Day 25th History of the Anzacs Waterview 7th Poetry/Storytelling 16th Lost History 23rd Anzac Service & Reminiscing
As well as all the news from February and March, inside this issue you’ll find: • An update on HVC and ELSS’s popular pain clinics/pampering sessions; • Some gorgeous photos from the chicken hatching programs at all facilities; • Updates on new ECMs and the progress of Bethel’s Registered Training students; • A look at what everyone got up to on Saint Patrick’s Day; • Some general news from around the local community.
May Amaroo 8th Mother’s Day Concert & High Tea 22nd Concert – Adam Price 26th Armchair Travel Bethel 8th Mother’s Day High Tea 13th Lawn Bowls 25th AM/PM Bus Trip
s always, we hope you enjoy A perusing your copies of Community News, and we look forward to hearing any feedback you may have on our latest expansion. Until next issue – happy reading!
Fig Tree Point 5th Polynesian Theme Day 11th All Day Bus Trip – Monarchs in the Hunter 22nd Dance Exhibition – New Vogue Waterview 6th Priceline Stall 23rd Fashion Parade 28th Biggest Morning Tea Theme Party
Community News Editors
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HVC Resident Profile
The lovely Pat Holt has been at Amaroo for over two years now, so we thought it was high time to sit down and find out what makes her one of Charlestown’s favourite residents. Pat was born and raised in England and has some amazing stories from her childhood. Growing up in Essex, she recalls being evacuated during World War II along with hundreds of thousands of other children, leaving areas determined to be at high risk from aerial bombings to head to safer locations. Saying goodbye to her parents in Essex, Pat was bundled onto a train with many other schoolchildren and one teacher per carriage to travel to Nottinghamshire. When the war was over, Pat married a man named Edmund, who was already booked on a ship to Australia. By the time they left England, Pat had a six-month old
daughter – whom she suspects is the reason they were allocated a first-class cabin on the boat! Like many other British migrants, Pat and her small family travelled to Australia aboard the SS Otranto, a ship owned by the Orient Line, which mainly carried migrants between 1949 and 1957 (see picture inset). Pat recalls that she liked to get out on deck as much as possible during the voyage to give herself and the baby some fresh air. (As an interesting aside: having completed an amazing sixtyfour round trips to Australia in peacetime, the SS Otranto was decommissioned and sold to ship-breakers in 1957.) It must have been very difficult moving to a new country halfway around the world with a young family, but Pat says it was made much easier when her family was billeted with a lovely lady named Mrs Davis in Newcastle. While her husband Edmund went off to work in the mines, Pat slowly settled into her strange new Australian life. She recalls some funny stories from this time. Her new friend had a cow called Betsy that used to wander – a habit that Pat’s young toddler shared. 4
They were always searching through the bush for one or the other, but on one memorable occasion, both cow and child went missing at the same time! There was a group of people searching in one direction for Betsy the cow, and another group on the lookout for Pat’s daughter – thankfully, they were both located unharmed! When it came time to buy their own property, Pat and her husband decided to purchase the block of land just across the road – but to do so, Pat and Mrs Davis had to take the long train journey all the way to the Crown Lands Board in Maitland! It was worth it, though: that block of land is where Pat and Edmund built their house and raised their six children. To this day Pat still owns that same house and land, and her lovely son (who visits her every evening) still resides there. While Pat Holt is certainly not the only migrant to build a new life in a new land, her experiences, courage and great spirit are indicative of the valuable contribution migrants make to our vibrant Australian culture. We are so glad this lovely lady is a part of the community at Amaroo as well!
Five Minutes with a Staff Member
Don Meloche is a bus driver for ELSS and HVC, and a great favourite with staff and residents alike. Community News recently had a chat with Don to find out what makes him tick! Tell us a bit about yourself. I was born in a town called Chatham, which is in Ontario, Canada. It’s in the Great Lakes area, and actually our closest big town is Detroit, across the U.S. border. When I was young, I was working in British Columbia (on the west coast of Canada) as a teacher, and had got to know some Australians. Then, around 1970, I was planning to spend a month at the World Fair in Japan and decided I would go visit Australia afterwards, since I would already be halfway there. When I said goodbye to my dad at Vancouver Airport, I said I would be gone for two years. I had no idea I would never move back. I think Sydney is the best city in the world, but back then, in the 1970s, it was even better! What does your job involve? I work part-time driving the bus, taking residents on outings. I have been working here for two and a half years now. I worked for many years as a primary and special education teacher, but had to retire a bit early, as I had cancer. I have been given the all-clear now though. What do you like best about your job? I enjoy meeting the residents. They are quite brave, some of them. Age isn’t kind to any of us, but there is a kind of beauty there. I feel blessed that I get to know the residents and become a part of their lives. I also like this job as it is handy, and gives me time to follow up on one of my other loves… Which brings us to our last question: what do you like to do outside of work? My hobby – well, it’s a love – is writing children’s stories. I send them off to a children’s magazine, and not all of them get accepted, but enough do. I am thrilled to have the time to do it. I have five kids; one is in Byron Bay but the others are still in Newcastle. I am hoping they will get their travelling out of the way, then come home. I’m hoping they won’t do to me what I did to my parents!
Facility statistics on hand All HVC and ELSS facilities endeavour to provide families with as much information as possible on the provision of their services. If, at any time, family members would like to access monthly statistics on falls, skin tears, medication errors or infections, feel free to make an appointment with management staff at your facility, who will be happy to assist in interpreting the information presented. 5
Doreen Sheedy with a beautiful smile on Saint Patrick’s Day.
Residents and staff at Amaroo have had a busy couple of months, kicking off in February with a lovely Valentine’s Daythemed afternoon tea. This was followed closely by a twelve-day visit from those famous fluffy little chickens, which everyone enjoyed (even Bella – see page 32 for photos!). On the 17th of March, Saint Patrick’s Day was celebrated in the traditional style (you know – homemade Irish Cream, green decorations and food, Irish music and a quiz!). Amaroo was pleased to host a group of visitors from centre-based day care for the activities, and everyone had fun getting dressed up and trying out their best Irish accent. Apparently some singing was enjoyed throughout the morning as well, with residents commandeering the microphone at random intervals to join in!
The following day, Amaroo had a scheduled partial power outage (due to construction of the new wing), so residents decided to enjoy a big day out. Four buses carrying forty-four residents travelled down to Halekulani Bowling Club at Budgewoi for a day of concerts and lunch. It was a huge day, but everyone agreed that both the entertainment and food were excellent! Staff would also like to offer special thanks to our awesome bus driver, Don Meloche (see Don’s profile on the previous page), who went above and beyond to make the day a successful and safe one for all involved. In other news, Amaroo has had a host of great performers visiting over the last eight weeks, including Sam Franze, Peter Cosimo, Ron and the Redbacks, Kelvin Roberts, Suzi J, Adam Price, Friends for Life and Mel Summers. ‘The MerryWeathers’ 6
(Merewether Ladies’ Probus Choir) also gave a very entertaining performance in March. The MerryWeathers have been voluntarily visiting Amaroo for over thirteen years now, and residents are always so glad to see their lovely smiling faces and watch their fantastic performances! Coming up in the next two months, there will be an ANZAC Day centenary commemorative service and a special Mother’s Day High Tea in appreciation of all the mums out there! (See calendars on page 36 and 37 for details.) All of this, combined with regular activities such as chockie pong, balloon tennis, bus trips, pamper clinics, gardening, foot baths, nail treatments, quiz mornings and more, will mean residents at Amaroo have no shortage of activities to keep them entertained over the coming weeks!
The ever-smiling Ray Taylor.
Margaret Moxey recently celebrated her eightieth birthday surrounded by friends and family.
Staff member Kath Stuart loves a surprise photo!
The MerryWeathers serenading Amaroo’s lucky residents.
Nola Toms enjoying St Patrick’s Day, along with...
Barry McDonald.
Frances Bush.
Clare Wiggins.
Neva Wilson.
John Keys. 7
Marjorie Birt.
Kath Blackmore.
Jean Sinclair.
Mollie Clewett.
Deborah Sharp.
June Faulder.
Vikki Atanassoff.
Bobby Botham.
Mario Santarelli.
Mary Murray.
Saint Paddy’s Day treats! 8
Best activities for mental health
2015 Senior Australian of the Year: Jackie French
Practising tai chi, playing computer games, reminiscing about overcoming life’s challenges and spending time with animals are just some of the activities identified as improving and protecting the mental health of older Australians. ‘What works to promote emotional wellbeing in older people’, a new booklet developed by La Trobe University and Beyond Blue, is aimed specifically at aged care workers, and identifies and rates the activities best suited for improving the emotional wellbeing of older people. Other highly rated activities are gardening, singing in a choir and relaxation activities like meditation. Suggested activities range to suit people of all physical and cognitive capabilities, including those with memory problems or dementia. This fantastic resource is freely available and can be downloaded from: www.beyondblue.org.au
Earlier this year, the annual Australian of the Year Awards were held in Canberra. The 2015 award for Senior Australian of the Year went to Jackie French, wellknown and loved author of over 100 books for both children and adults. Having won over sixty literary prizes for children’s classics such as Diary of a Wombat, Jackie has overcome struggles with dyslexia and is a passionate advocate for children with learning difficulties. As well as being the current national Children’s Laureate, Jackie is a director of The Wombat Foundation, which contributes to research into the preservation of the endangered northern hairy-nosed wombat. What an inspiring senior!
Hunter Nature
Cracticus tibicen The Australian Magpie is an iconic bird found across many parts of Australia. They are large, black birds with splashes of white on the wings, lower back, tail and back of the head. www.camdenadvertiser.com.au/ Many readers will have had encounters with Australian story/2555241 Magpies during the breeding season, which falls between August and October. Generally well-behaved throughout the rest of the year, for a few weeks in spring some individuals will become aggressive towards any pets or humans silly enough to venture too close to their nests. When they feel threatened during this time, they will swoop down with a fast warning flight and a clacking of the beak. While this is mainly for show, occasionally they do make contact, so any type of head protection is recommended! In many springtime Australian cities, it is not unusual to see people commuting to work in flash business suits while also sporting highly unusual headgear, ranging from ice-cream containers and cardboard boxes to helmets decorated with cable ties. If you are the type to take these attacks personally, you are probably right. An intelligent species, some birds will only swoop on particular people! While they may occasionally be cursed for their bad behaviour during the breeding season, Magpies more than make up for it during the rest of the year, with their gregarious nature and beautiful family carolling. 9
ELSS Resident Profile
One of Bethel’s loveliest residents, Colleen Northam, recently sat down with Community News to share some tales of her wonderful family life – and what a family she has! Growing up on Ash Island in the Hunter River estuary near Hexham, Colleen shared her childhood with not one… not two…but thirteen brothers and sisters! Ten girls and four boys were brought up in the Ash Island home, mostly by Colleen’s father; sadly, her mother passed away very young after giving birth one final time to a set of twins. Colleen recalls that her father did extremely well with what was obviously a very tough job – and the children respected him for it, always trying to be on their best behaviour. ‘We were all good kids,’ she reflects. ‘We never really got into trouble.’ Colleen fondly reminisces about a wonderful childhood spent by the river, with cows roaming around the
property and plenty of time spent frolicking in the water. Household chores were divvied up between the kids, and their father grew a garden full of veggies for their table. ‘We had nothing, really,’ remembers Colleen, ‘but we did have each other.’ Between fourteen kids, we’re sure there was never any shortage of entertainment or things to do! As the years passed and the children grew up, the older girls began one by one to get married. Each young lady got dressed at the family home before a ceremony at the Ash Island church. Colleen’s own wedding was no different, with over a hundred guests in attendance and her father giving her away somewhat reluctantly (as he did with all his daughters!). Colleen and her husband went on to have two sons and moved to a house on two acres at Williamtown. The generoussized backyard was definitely put to good use: dogs, chooks and ducks roamed freely and games of football and cricket took place on the regular. It was also a popular party house – the family hosted many high-spirited gatherings, including the boys’ eighteenth and twenty-first birthday celebrations. ‘Oh, we had some fabulous times,’ Colleen smiles – such good times that even the dreaded next-day clean-up was always worth it in the end!
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Throughout the years, Colleen and her siblings have remained very close, with most settling around the Beresfield and Hexham areas – close to where they grew up. Having all started families around the same time as well, the siblings have plenty of children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews between them, making for some large and lively family get-togethers! As you might guess, it’s always a lot of fun whenever Colleen and her siblings get together, with lots of shared memories, reminiscing and laughs. Colleen is even still affectionately referred to by her childhood nickname, ‘Ginge’, which she attained due to her lovely red locks! Colleen first came to Bethel after suffering a stroke four years ago. She undertook the arduous process of relearning how to walk and talk in hospital, then came to our Waratah facility to continue her rehabilitation and recovery. While it’s been a tough journey for Colleen, both physically and emotionally, she has improved steadily and is retaining the hope of one day returning to her beloved home in Williamtown. With that positive attitude – and not to mention that gorgeous winning smile! – we think Bethel is privileged to have Colleen while she continues her recovery, and we wish her all the best.
Five Minutes with a Staff Member
A friendly face you may have seen around all five facilities, Sue Jenkins has been a Chaplain with HVC and ELSS for three years after thirty years in early childhood teaching. We thought you’d like to hear a little more about this lovely lady! Tell us a bit about yourself. I’m a Newcastle girl – I was born in Western Suburbs Maternity Hospital in Waratah, and I went to a few schools around the area. I have four kids – two girls and two boys – and one husband, because that’s all I can handle! What does your job involve? My job is to provide spiritual and emotional support for residents and relatives if they need it. It basically involves caring for people and listening to their stories. I also do church services and special services for Easter, Anzac Day – those sort of occasions. I’m also a school chaplain two days a week and I run playgroups – I love the diversity between the two jobs! One week I’ll be at a first birthday party and the next I’ll be at a one hundredth birthday! What do you like best about your job? Hearing people’s stories – they all have such interesting lives. I love the cheeky residents too! I get to meet the residents at all five facilities, which is great. It also means that I get invited to all the Christmas parties! What do you like to do outside of work? [Fellow HVC/ELSS Chaplain] Delma Geary, my son David and I work with Corinthian Ministries and the Global Development Group to raise money for clean water in remote African communities. Our second bore has just gone in at a place called Senga in Zimbabwe, which is very exciting! It will provide clean, disease-free water for the community, and water for planting more crops. Other than those projects, I like going to Merewether Surfhouse – I often meet my girlfriends there for breakfast. It’s my favourite spot on earth!
Happy Mother’s Day! Ahead of Mother’s Day on May 10th, we’d like to express our appreciation of all the mothers, grandmothers, great-grandmothers (and so on!) in our communites. Mother’s Day is a great opportunity to acknowledge the fundamental contributions made by these wonderful women, both in their own families and in society at large. HVC and ELSS facilities will be celebrating the special occasion with high teas, concerts and gift-giving, to name a few things – but the best type of celebration is spending some quality time with family, so we’re sure a lot of that will be happening, too! We hope everyone enjoys a lovely, relaxing day. 11
A gorgeous ‘selfie’ from Beverley Young and AIN Wendy Lowe!
Waratah facility Bethel has had an exciting couple of months, with fresh faces, graduating students and lots of excuses for throwing parties and morning teas! As with all other facilities, the Henny Penny Hatching chickens were a great hit at Bethel. All the baby chicks were taken home by various staff members, with AO Maryanne finding homes for the majority of them on her son’s farm. Alongside all the hatching
program fun, there’s been plenty going on as 2015 starts to warm up with occasions and events. Residents have enjoyed a Valentine’s Day morning tea, as well as a concert with Peter Stefanson at Kotara Bowling Club to celebrate Seniors Week in March. The usual Saint Patrick’s Day shenanigans were also held in March, including Irish dressups and some tasty green treats. See below for some great snaps of everyone
Enjoying a concert and singing along! 12
enjoying the celebrations! In staff news, Bethel has recently welcomed new ECM Mark Bramble – find out more about him on page 29. Bethel’s Activities team has also gained a new addition: AIN Wendy Lowe has taken on an Activities role alongside her usual duties. Wendy will be helping out AOs Neenie, Maryanne and Claire as she works towards a Leisure and Lifestyle Certificate. We hear she’s already been a big hit as an AO!
Catherine Austin and Kathleen Young sharing a laugh.
Peter Stefanson helping celebrate Seniors Week!
Lovely in blue - Zuna Vrtkovska and her son.
Kathleen Young, Wendy and Noel Landenberger having a giggle!
Frances Webb and her husband.
Marion Clement and Patricia Meek with their lucky coins.
Raymond Parkinson sporting some new eyewear!
Frank the physiotherapist gets into the Saint Pat’s Day spirit.
Chaplain’s assistant Dawn (L) posing with Pastor Sue.
Colin Moore taking Wendy for a spin on the dancefloor.
Neenie Andrews and Peter Stefanson.
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Feel-Good Corner: Penguin the magpie It can be all too easy to get caught up in the everyday doom and gloom of today’s world. With the news often dominated by heavy political issues and scenes of crime or tragedy, we could all do with something to warm our hearts every now and then. To this end, we’d like to introduce a new Community News segment: Feel-Good Corner, which will feature a light-hearted snippet every issue to bring a smile to your face! This issue’s feel-good story comes from the Bloom family in Newport, NSW, who have
fostered a very special guest at their home since late 2013…a guest who has become a true part of the family! ‘Penguin’ is a young magpie who was rescued and hand-reared by the Bloom family after falling out of a tree as a baby. Free to fly as she likes, Penguin comes and goes but always seems to return to the Bloom household, where she plays with the family’s three boys, sings from her favourite tree in the garden and even cuddles up in bed! Just looking at these beautiful photos, you can tell what an important part of the family this special magpie has become. There is no easy way around grief... it is the natural response to the loss of someone special. Likewise, major life events such as change of circumstance or illness can leave you distressed. HVC and ELSS have Chaplains available for the support of residents and their families. Should you feel you need some help in these times, do not hesitate to contact a Chaplain.
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What’s happening in our local area! What’s coming up at the Event: Exhibition – Opening Bodywork: Australian Civic Theatre? Jewellery 1970–2012 Date: 19th April Description: From the collection of the National Gallery of Australia, this exhibition includes the work of 42 Australian jewellers exploring jewellery from a number of viewpoints within broad themes. The opening event includes forums, a jewellery fair and optional gourmet BBQ. Cost: FREE
Event: Where Late the Songbird Date: 22nd, 24th, 25th, 29th April; 1st & 2nd May Cost: Concession from $30 Description: ‘Where Late the Songbird is the latest play from Newcastle’s award-winning playwright, Carl Caulfield. It’s 1613 and William Shakespeare has retired from the London stage and returned to the family mansion in Stratford, hoping for a quiet, pleasant life as a gentleman. But all is not well at home; Shakespeare is under pressure from his London players to write a new comedy; his health is rapidly declining; and The Fool keeps appearing in his fevered sleep, reminding him of his mortality and the urgent need to sort his life out.’
Event: Art Bazaar Lake Macquarie Date: 3rd May Location: Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery Description: Artisans from the Hunter carefully hand-pick stallholders to present an array of local, handmade, unique, original and quality products. There’s also demonstrations, entertainment, food and drinks, and children’s art activities. Cost: FREE Event: Lake to Harbour (Day Trip) Date: 15th May Description: Join the Gallery Society for a funfilled day beginning with a tour of the exhibition (in)visible: The First Peoples and War, morning tea, then a bus trip to Fort Scratchley and a visit to Newcastle Art Gallery. All welcome. Bookings essential. Cost: TBA
Event: Moscow Ballet: La Classique Sleeping Beauty Date: 23rd April Cost: From $50 Description: ‘Tchaikovsky’s classic Sleeping Beauty will capture the imagination, the passion and the magic of ballet’s fairytale masterpiece, brought to life by the world-renowned Moscow Ballet.’
Event: ANZAC Illustrated Date: Now until 2nd May Location: Lovett Gallery, Newcastle Region Library Description: This exhibition celebrates unique approaches to creating illustrated books for children. The exhibition uses a range of mediums and styles from picture books for young and old, graphic novel, illustrated fiction, famous illustrated songs and an illustrated journal. Cost: GOLD COIN DONATION
Event: The Importance of Being Miriam Date: 15th May Cost: From $89 Description: ‘On this world premiere Australian tour, internationally renowned actress Miriam Margoyles brings to the stage some of literature’s best known characters. Lady Bracknell, Mrs Malaprop, Lady Catherine de Burgh and Mrs Corney and Mr Bumble are amongst the unforgettable figures brought vividly to life by the awardwinning star of stage and screen in The Importance of Being Miriam.’
Event: Looking Down Watt Street Date: Now until 25th April Location: Local Studies Lounge, Newcastle Region Library Description: Take a tour of historical Watt Street and other significant locations in Newcastle East. You will discover the people, places and events from the past through photographs, maps and stories. Cost: FREE
For more information call the Civic Theatre: 02 4929 1977. 15
HVC Resident Profile
The delightful Mary Wukowic has been living at Fig Tree Point for six years now, so this edition we thought it was time we got to know her a little better. Mary first came to Fig Tree Point with chronic ulcers on both her legs; according to doctors, she was in danger of losing the limbs. However, Mary says that due to the dedication and hard work of the FTP staff who took over her treatment, her ulcers actually healed! She adds that she will never forget what the staff did for her – two lovely ladies in particular: Karen and Hayley. The story of Mary’s early life is truly interesting. She was born in Aachen, a town in West Germany, and was raised in the lead-up to and throughout World War II. After the war she met her husband, Michael
Wukowic, a Serbian who had been relocated in wartime by the Germans. After they married, Mary and Michael could have gone to America to settle, but Michael had always wanted to come to Australia. And so it was in 1950 that Mary, Michael and their two-year-old son (also named Michael) boarded an old passenger ship called the Oxfordshire and travelled to the Great Southern Land. Mary recalls that the trip was memorable...for all the wrong reasons! Not only was she upset over having to leave everyone she knew – particularly her mother, who was now alone – but the Oxfordshire was not a particularly nice ship, and everyone was sick during the voyage. ‘It’s amazing, though, what you can bear if you have to,’ says Mary. After a brief stop at Fremantle, Mary and Michael finally made it to Newcastle. Michael got a job as a bricklayer and they initially lived in a hotel in Teralba. Soon after, they moved to a flat in Blackalls Park, and eventually were able to buy the adjacent block of land, upon which they built a garage where they would live while building their house. During this time, Mary was writing weekly letters
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to her mother in Germany, and could make out her tear marks on the letters she received in response. But despite her tears, her mother would surely have been proud of her daughter’s courageous spirit and pleased that she had settled safely into her new life and country. Mary’s husband eventually opened his own barber shop in Toronto, and over the years it has become a bit of a star feature of the town. Nowadays the ninety-five-year-old still works two days a week, and is the longest-serving barber in Toronto (and quite a bit further afield too, we suspect)! It’s Michael Wukowic Jr. who runs the business these days, and from what we hear, he is no less of a local feature than his father! As for Mary, she is happy to have both husband and son living close by. Although her husband doesn’t drive any more, he still comes to visit every Sunday. Mary and Michael also have two grandchildren, both of whom are well on the way to making their own mark on the world. Mary loves Fig Tree Point; she is very social and likes to mix, but she does miss her beloved Mick sometimes! However, as with all her other experiences in life, this amazing lady is making the most of her situation – and it goes without saying that everyone at Fig Tree Point is grateful she is part of their community.
Five Minutes with a Staff Member
The gregarious Jennifer White has been at Fig Tree Point for an impressive thirteen years now, and still loves her job! Community News recently sat down with her to find out what makes this well-loved lady so special. Tell us a bit about yourself. I was born in Waratah and grew up in Warners Bay. Warners Bay has changed a lot – I have seen it grow from somewhere people considered to be in the sticks, to somewhere everybody wants to live. What does your job involve? I work in Extra Services as a cleaner and doing laundry. I am also studying for my Certificate III in Aged Care Nursing. I am almost finished – one month to go! The training has been organised through Fig Tree Point, and a lady comes here once a fortnight. The management here are very supportive – they encourage training. What do you like best about your job? The people I work with! They are a great band of girls here at Fig Tree Point, and I have the best work partner at the moment. I have been working with her for eight years, and we get on really well. You spend more time with the people you work with than your family, so it makes such a difference. And the residents – I love the residents. We don’t work with them in a clinical capacity, so we have a different relationship with them. What do you like to do outside of work? Spend time with the grandkids! There are three of them: five, eight and eleven years old. And I love going for rides on our Oztrike [three-wheeled motorbike]. We go anywhere and everywhere! My husband drives, and I sit up the back. I have driven it a couple of times, but he thinks I go too fast!
Anzac Day Centenary In April all facilities will observe Anzac Day traditions and commemorate all Australian and New Zealand citizens who have served and died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. Anzac Day services each year ensure that the bravery and sacrifice of all our troops will never be forgotten. This year’s services will be particularly special, as 2015 marks one hundred years since the fateful landing on Gallipoli in 1915. Along with holding their usual services and ceremonies, all facilities will be partaking in some related activities leading up to the day, including themed craft projects, Anzac biscuit-baking, Anzac history sessions, special concerts and morning teas. 17
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.
The beautiful Margaret Sneddon from Fig Tree Point, celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day in March.
It’s been a jam-packed February and March at Fig Tree Point, with a lot of exciting things planned for the next few months as well, so let’s find out what’s been going on and what’s to come! On the 17th of March residents enjoyed a fun-filled Saint Patrick’s Day, celebrating all things Irish with green food, green decorations and even green wigs! Of all things, the green balloons seemed to be the most valuable decoration. As well as giving the residents a bit of fun on the day (see pics on page 20 and 21), the balloons were later papier-mâchéd and decorated to make eggs for Easter celebrations! Looks like Saint Pat’s celebrations were green in more ways than one – how’s that for reusing and recycling? Speaking of green, you may remember a few issues back that we mentioned residents had been doing some sunflower seed-planting outside the upstairs activities room and on the balcony. Well, we can confirm that the seeds all grew and
bloomed into gorgeously bright sunflowers, much to the delight of residents – and a few cheeky birds as well! There are some exciting activities coming up on the culinary front in the next couple of months: Fig Tree’s famous ‘cook-offs’, in which a staff member (usually AO Greg) cooks up some delicious food for residents, will continue with some special ‘guest chefs’! AO Yvonne has volunteered herself for the next cook-off, and we hear the menu will include bulgogi, a delicioussounding Korean dish of grilled marinated beef strips. Yvonne has also convinced her son Wayne, who is a chef at the popular Toronto Yacht Club, to come along for a cook-off as well. We’re already hungry just thinking about it! In more activities news, the next few months will see the introduction of the long-awaited Shopping Trolley. Already a popular concept at a few of our other facilities, the trolley will soon make its debut at Fig Tree and come around once or 18
twice a week. It’s rather like a little corner store on wheels, stocking all sorts of items that residents might want to purchase, with all proceeds going back into activities funds. Examples of some items you’ll find on the Shopping Trolley include mints, chocolates, chips, condiments, stockings, toiletries, hair products and small gifts. As you’ll read on page 23 of this issue, regular pampering clinics have been a great success at all facilities. It seems our Toronto residents in particular can’t get enough – jumping on the beautyspa bandwagon, Fig Tree will be having a ‘face mask day’ in April! Organised by AO Yvonne, the day will feature homemade face masks whipped up using all-natural ingredients like avocado, oatmeal, egg whites and lemon. The masks will be followed by a relaxing facial massage for each lucky resident participating. Where do we sign up?! It really does seem like Fig Tree Point is the place to be at the moment!
Delta Dogs visit Fig Tree regularly...
...and are always greeted eagerly. With Allan Wrigley.
Kit McMullen and Eleanor Emmerson.
Betty Anderson.
Dolly Platt.
Showing off special tricks!
Douglas Whiting recently celebrated his 90th birthday with a surprise captionn visit from friends at the Newcastle Vintage Motorcycle Club. The visit was organised by his daughter Lynne, and friend John Archer.
Bill Mullins in his favourite spot on Chinese New Year.
ECM Nila (L) with staff members Elizabeth, Yvonne and Sandy.
Olive Denney looking forward to a Chinese-themed lunch.
Dolly Platt ready to enjoy a Chinese feast.
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Amy Burns with her daughter Tania.
Mario Gasparotto gives us a smile.
Dorothy Lucas McMillan enjoys a cuppa at Fig Tree Point.
Some beautiful artworks in progress by FTP residents.
FTP residents have been making their own placemats with Yvonne.
Pauline Black knows how to dress for the occasion - Saint Pat’s!
Staff members Marsha, Greg and Sharon get ready to peel potatoes!
Sharon and Margaret Murray all in green.
Win and Muriel having a laugh with the Saint Pat’s Day balloons!
Sheila Venables’ family recently helped celebrate her birthday. 20
Mina O’Sullivan doing an Irish version of Elton John.
Best Dressed winner, Dolly Platt.
Fig Tree’s resident Irishwoman, Kit McMullen.
Kit and Eleanor fight it out in the Gold Coin Toss game!
Marsha and Sharon get serious about peeling potatoes!
Fig Tree Point had a visit from some belly dancers in March.
Grandparents make happy grandchildren!
Staff Updates
You have probably suspected it all along – that grandparents are key to the happiness of their grandchildren – but now a study from Brigham Young University in the USA has confirmed it. Without the daily pressures of parenting, grandparents have special opportunities to form close bonds with their grandchildren, and these emotional relationships can significantly affect the children’s academic, psychological, and social development. In the Brigham Young study, over 400 Year Five students were asked questions about their grandparents, including if they felt they could ask them for advice or come to them with their problems. The questions were followed up a year later, and the results were overwhelmingly positive, regardless of socio-economics. Surprisingly, grandparents who didn’t live with their grandchildren had the strongest bond, perhaps providing secure, non-disciplinary allies – an especially important requirement for young adolescents. The study concluded that ‘children have a higher level of self-confidence when grandparents give more affection’. So the take-home message? Keep on giving those cuddles and listening – you’re doing more good than you know! 21
Introducing Sharon Brodie We’d like to welcome a new team member: Sharon Brodie. Sharon is a Newcastle girl born and bred, and has recently come on board as our Work Health and Safety Officer. Sharon brings with her many years of experience working in a similar position for a large national manufacturing company. As part of her role she will be visiting all five facilities, so if you happen to come across this new face wandering the halls, give her a wave and introduce yourself.
What’s on at the Movies: April/May The Longest Ride ‘Former bull-riding champion Luke and college student Sophia are in love, but conflicting paths and ideals threaten to tear them apart. As the couple ponder their romantic future, they find inspiration in Ira, an elderly man whose decades-long romance with his beloved wife withstood the test of time.’ Alan Alda, Melissa Benoist, Scott Eastwood. 9th April The Age of Adaline ‘A romantic drama that tells of the miraculous life of Adaline Bowman, who remains 29 years old for over six decades following a near-death experience. Over the course of the 20th century, Adaline leads a solitary existence, never revealing her secret to anyone. But a chance encounter with a charismatic philanthropist reignites her passion for life & romance.’ Blake Lively, Harrison Ford, Angela Lansbury. 16th April Woman in Gold ‘The incredible story of Maria Altmann, a Jewish refugee who is forced to flee Vienna during World War II. Decades later, Maria has taken on a mission to reclaim a painting the Nazis stole from her family: the famous Woman In Gold, a portrait of her beloved Aunt Adele.’ Helen Mirren, Ryan Reynolds, Katie Holmes. 16th April Testament of Youth ‘The story of Vera Brittain, who postponed her studies at Oxford University during World War I to serve as a Voluntary Aid Detachment nurse in London, Malta and France, and later became a writer and a pacifist.’ Alicia Vikander, Kit Harington, Taron Egerton. 23rd April Far from the Madding Crowd ‘The story of independent, beautiful and headstrong Bathsheba Everdene, who attracts three very different suitors: a sheep farmer, captivated by her fetching willfulness; a handsome and reckless Sergeant; and a prosperous and mature bachelor.’ Carey Mulligan, Michael Sheen, Matthias Schoenaerts. 28th May
Seniors’ discounts at the movies For seniors who love catching a movie every now and then, several local cinemas have some great deals, discounts and events!
you earn free tickets – and it’s free to join! Event Cinemas are located in Newcastle and Glendale.
For just $8 per year, Reading Cinemas invites you to purchase a special Senior’s Discount Card, which allows you to buy 2D movie tickets for $8 each – and also to buy choc-tops at a discounted price! Reading Cinemas are located in Charlestown and Maitland.
The beautifully refurbished Hoyts Cinemas, located in Charlestown, offers $9 tickets for all seniors, all the time. You can also purchase a book of six Senior CineVouchers for $48, saving you $1 per movie.
Event Cinemas’ ‘CineBuzz for Seniors’ club offers $8 standard tickets, special Morning Tea screenings, and a points system to help 22
Lake Cinema, an independent cinema in Boolaroo, offers all tickets at a low price of $7, as well as a free tea, coffee or Milo on arrival! Only open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Pain clinic and pamper sessions Who doesn’t love a relaxing spa morning at least once a week? Massages, aromatherapy, soft music...sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? Well, not for residents of HVC and ELSS facilities, who now enjoy pampering and pain clinic services on a regular basis! Each week at Amaroo, Bethel, Fig Tree Point, Waterview and The Sanctuary, residents have access to a range of pampering services and targeted pain relief treatments. Remedial massages, circulation TENS machines, vibration plates and heat packs are all available, as well as aromatherapy masks, hand waxes and relaxation massages for shoulders, heads, arms, hands and feet. Add some relaxing background music
and great conversation with the lovely ladies leading the sessions, and you’ve got a weekly activity that has residents lining up out the door! As well as providing obvious physical benefits, the pain clinic and pamper sessions are a great opportunity for residents and staff to have a chat and a laugh in a social setting. With many residents reporting that they enjoy the company as much as the therapy, it looks like these sessions are sure to keep growing in popularity and attendance! If any residents have questions or wish to attend a session, please see your Activities Officer or flag down one of the clinic ladies, who are easily differentiated from other staff by their purpleaccented uniforms (see photo above).
Never too old to learn: University of the Third Age You may not know it, residents, but you’re now in the ‘third age’ of your lives. According to sociologists, the first age of life is childhood and youth; the second age is the time to work and raise a family; and the third age is your period of retirement and leisure, where you are free to pursue ambitions and interests for which you may not have had time until now. This is where the University of the Third Age comes in. A concept introduced to Australian shores in 1985, U3A is a non-profit community that aims to provide low-cost educational and social opportunities for older people. For those who have a lifelong love of learning, or who just want an interesting activity to occupy some time, a U3A membership entitles you to attend as many courses as you wish throughout the year for an affordable annual fee. With local branches in Toronto, Belmont and Newcastle, U3A offers a huge variety of programs encompassing a wide range of topics. Tai chi, computer skills, history, card games, creative writing, foreign languages, current affairs, astronomy and dancing are just a few of the options to choose from! 23
Why not embrace your third age? For more information and to view the full range of courses, contact: Lake Macquarie U3A (Toronto) PH: 0490 367 591 (Mon–Fri only) WEB: www.u3alm.org.au EMAIL: secretary@u3alm.org.au Eastlakes U3A (Belmont) PH: 4946 6389 WEB: eastlakes.u3anet.org.au EMAIL: info@eastlakes.u3anet.org.au Newcastle U3A PH: 4955 5444 WEB: www.hunter.u3anet.org.au EMAIL: newcastleu3a.au@gmail.com
HVC Resident Profile
It’s not every day that someone reaches a milestone as impressive as the one Clarice Curd has recently achieved. Read on for a brief history of Clarice’s life in her home state of Queensland – and to find out which very special occasion she has celebrated this year! Clarice Isabel Curd (née Bosel) was born in Maryborough, Queensland, in 1915. Her family soon moved to Fraser Island, where her father had a job working with bullock teams to pull timber for a sawmill in Maryborough. Around 1919, Clarice and her mother and siblings headed back to the mainland and travelled by boat to Flat Top Island, just outside of Mackay, where her father was soon to meet
them to work with his bullock team on the Eungella Range. Clarice then began school at Netherdale, as there was no school yet built at Eungella! The family remained here for around ten years before heading back south to the little town of Gin Gin. At that time, jobs tended to be few and far between, but Clarice was able to pick up some domestic duties at a hotel. Her work then took her to a cattle station outside Gin Gin called ‘Kolonga’, which was a touch of fate – for it was here that she met her future husband, Jim! At the tender age of twenty, Clarice married Jim at the Bundaberg Church of England. After their wedding, Clarice and Jim moved to another small town, Miles, where for a time they lived in a tent in the bush where Jim was working! Their first daughter, Lavinia, was born shortly after, with a son, Ron, to follow quickly on her heels. Another move was then on the cards, this time to Jackson, where Jim found work on the railway links. With only one shop to be found and no cars yet, life in the little township of Jackson was what you made it! Clarice spent most of her time knitting, sewing and making woollen rugs, and the family spent time together fishing and going on walks 24
or picnics on the weekends. What a novelty it must have been when the family all got bicycles – Clarice and her daughter Lavinia recall doing a lot of riding! A few more relocations followed – to Marlborough, where the family lived in a railway house and knew Rod Laver’s father as their local butcher; then to Sarina, where Clarice and Jim settled for more than forty years. Their retirement was spent fishing, fossicking for sapphires and other stones at The Willows Gemfields, and travelling south to visit relatives. The pair eventually decided to move to Newcastle to be closer to their family. After Jim passed away, Clarice lived at Speers Point until 2013, when she moved into Waterview. This February, Waterview was lucky enough to host the momentous celebration of Clarice’s one hundredth birthday! Surrounded by family, friends, residents and staff, Clarice had her centenary honoured with a concert, cake and gifts, including a lovely photo collage full of memories. We are so pleased we could share Clarice’s special birthday with her and her family. We feel privileged to have been able to share a little of her story with our Community News readers.
Five Minutes with a Staff Member
This issue, we meet the lovely Marianne Melville, an Activities Helper who is into her third year at Waterview. Tell us a bit about yourself. I was born in Germany and came out here when I was seven. It was daunting – there weren’t a lot of migrants here at the time – but I enjoyed school. I have two daughters, and my mother used to reside at Waterview. That’s how I started working here – one of the nurses said I should apply! Before that I worked in retail for thirty-two years. What does your job involve? I help out during activities with residents, and I also do patient transport – helping residents get around, and on and off buses. What do you like best about your job? Definitely being with the residents. I enjoy the one-on-one time with them – I think that’s the most important part of the job. I also love being with the girls I work with. What do you like to do outside of work? I read, and I like animals. I help out at a cattery in Belmont – feeding and cleaning up after the cats. It’s not a glamorous job, but I love the animals! I guess I am a bit of an all-rounder.
Staff Updates
Introducing Nila Smith In this edition of Community News we are pleased to introduce you to Nila Smith, Fig Tree Point’s new ECM and captain at the helm of clinical care. Nila has been at Fig Tree for just over two months now and is loving her new role. She says that she felt genuinely welcomed by staff and residents on her arrival, which was a great introduction to the company. She has also received a lot of support from management, and feels she has already been able to achieve some positive outcomes in her short time. Originally from the Philippines, Nila has been in Australia for eighteen years now – and a Registered Nurse for twenty-four years! Prior to joining the team at Fig Tree Point, Nila worked for four and a half years as a clinical manager at a Cameron Park aged care facility. We take this opportunity to give Nila a warm welcome. We are so happy to have her on board at Fig Tree Point and look forward to getting to know her better! 25
Daphne Nicholson and Olive Carr with their new friend, Wayne Rogers!
Waterview news It’s been a great couple of months at Waterview with lots going on, including plenty of bus trips for some wonderful sightseeing. Residents have been day-tripping all over, taking in a diverse array of views from places like Pelican, Stockton, Black Hill and Ash Island. We hear AO Tracey has been a very informative tour guide on some of these trips, thanks to her good friend Google… (Don’t worry, Tour Guide Tracey, your secret is safe with us!) Back home at Waterview, residents had a return visit from a certain popular performer in February...none other than last issue’s cover star, Wayne Rogers! Having been such a hit after his first concert, Wayne was back with another set of classic tunes – and, of course, a fabulous new outfit. He even took time out after his performance
and happy birthday to to snap some photos with everyone who has celebrated individual residents, as you a milestone recently, can see over the page. especially Clarice! Just look at those smiles! We think it’s safe to say Wayne delighted his audience once again at Waterview. (By the way, we’ve also discovered a family connection between Wayne and staff member Leisa, pictured right. Leisa and Wayne’s grandfathers were brothers, making them second cousins!) In other news, Leisa Woolnough and secondWaterview has been cousin, Wayne. celebrating a lot of birthdays recently – including a one hundredth! In case you missed it, flick back to page 24 to read the Resident Profile on the birthday girl, Clarice Curd. Clare Cosentino and her son, John. captionn Congratulations 26
June Purvis on Valentine’s Day.
Tracey Watt and Peter Stefanson.
Peter Stefanson entertains on Valentine’s Day.
Shirley Parker with a precious newborn addition to her family.
Elaine Lilley.
A souvenir from the show!
Barbara Greentree.
Fran Pointon.
Ken Harvey.
Ella Campbell.
Mary Rutherford. 27
What a cheeky pair!
Waterview ECM Phil Ayre.
Barb Napier.
Bob Booth taking to the floor!
Bob Booth.
Looking fab in feathers!
Flo Hingston.
Coral Bland (L) and Dulcie Jones.
Doreen Hill.
Yvonne and Don Thompson. 28
Inaugural training class graduates! On the 16th of March, Bethel held a graduation for fourteen students who have recently completed their Certificate III in Aged Care. These students were the first cohort to graduate from what is a special arrangement between Bethel and ET Australia, a Central Coast Registered Training Organisation. The course, which commenced on the 7th of October last year and finished on the 23rd of January, had a wide range of students and was taught by Mary Seeto, from ET Australia, and Bethel’s own Chris Botham. Graduating students were congratulated in a lovely ceremony, where they received certificates and badges from Mary and Chris and enjoyed a fully catered morning tea together afterwards. The success of this first training program has been astounding, with at least ten of the fourteen students now already employed, and the others either undertaking further training or well on the way to careers in the aged care sector. A second class of Certificate III students is already well underway at Bethel, with many more planned for the future. The partnership between Bethel and ET Australia aims to lead the way in education and in-house workforce training in the region. As well as creating opportunities for new students to commence their nursing education, the new plan ensures that our current staff members are constantly updating their skills. We congratulate all graduating students from this inaugural training class, and look forward to watching their success as they embark on their new careers!
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Staff Updates
Introducing Mark Bramble Lisa Balazsik, former ECM at Bethel, has recently decided to step back into an RN role. This means we have another new staff member for you to meet: Mark Bramble, Bethel’s new Executive Care Manager! A hospital-trained RN with thirty years of experience, Mark has taken on various nursing and clinical management roles throughout his career. He has worked across multiple areas of nursing, including mental health and medical wards, and has pioneered projects such as a Future Leaders program for nursing students with great potential. Having most recently spent seven years with a large multinational healthcare group, Mark comes to us with a wealth of knowledge, experience and innovative ideas. Mark was born and bred in Merewether, and recalls spending the majority of his childhood on Bar Beach! To this day he still enjoys regular surfing and beach walks, and is also an avid fan of netball. We’d like to officially welcome Mark to Bethel’s team. We’re looking forward to learning more about him and seeing what great things he has to bring to the table!
Easter celebrations It’s that time of year again where we get together with family, spend time reflecting – and perhaps indulge in a bit too much chocolate! As usual, HVC and ELSS facilities put on some great Easter activities and celebrations, including raffles with fantastic prizes – congratulations to the lucky winners! There have also been high teas, concerts, church services and egg hunts, and we’ve heard rumours that some Easter Bunnies visited certain facilities – looking suspiciously like a few staff members, mind you… Stay tuned next issue for Easter photos from all facilities! • Perhaps the most luxurious Easter gifts ever given are the famous Fabergé eggs, commissioned for members of the Russian Imperial family. Lavishly decorated with decadent gold and jewels, each of the eggs had a ‘surprise’ worked into its design, opening to reveal miniature wonders such as golden hens, tiny portraits and replicas of palaces and coaches. • An Easter staple almost as popular as chocolate eggs, hot cross buns are surrounded by some strange superstitions in English folklore. One such notion claims that hot cross buns taken on a sea voyage will protect against shipwreck; another insists that any buns baked on Good Friday will not grow mouldy for a whole year afterwards! Sailors and bakers, we’d recommend taking these claims with a grain of salt… • In Poland, Easter Monday is celebrated in a rather unusual way: by having all-day water fights! Dyngus Day, as it is known to the Polish, gives boys an excuse to sneak into girls’ homes at daybreak and douse them with buckets of water…and the girls get their own back by drenching the boys in the afternoon! The water fights are said to ensure a successful harvest for the year by evoking spring rains.
Dementia therapies: new insights from film, poetry and clinical studies Dementia therapy is an area of constantly evolving and improving methods and ideas. Three subjects that have recently received renewed attention are music therapy, poetry and speech pathology. While music has long been recognised as a successful method of dementia therapy, a recent documentary film has provided unprecedented insight into the true benefits of musical engagement. Alive Inside, which follows the efforts of American non-profit organisation Music & Memory, demonstrates the profoundly positive effects music can have on people living with dementia, including memory improvement, the restoration of a sense of self and significantly heightened spirits. Another creative pursuit shedding new light is poetry. Various projects conducted throughout the USA have revealed that techniques such as collective poetry writing, where each person contributes a line to a group poem, can stimulate the brain in ways regular communication does not. Poetry recitation, listening and writing activities can tap into areas 30
of memory and creative expression and create meaningful, enjoyable experiences for those with dementia. A new study involving speech pathology has also provided fresh insight into the communication processes of people with Alzheimer’s. The study shows that people with dementia are able to re-learn words, and that encouraging the use of these words can improve communication and diminish the sense of frustration felt by people who have lost the ability to converse. At HVC and ELSS we are proud to be working with the University of Newcastle on an innovative scholarship project, which invites students to design a creative dementia therapy program to be implemented in our facilities. We expect to receive a diverse range of entries, focusing on therapies involving anything from music or art to communicative activities such as those mentioned above. The scholarship competition closes on 30th April, so keep an eye out in future issues for details about the winning program.
Fancy a dip? The heated pool at The Sanctuary will soon be ready for residents and guests.
Over the last few months, the close-knit community at Tingira Heights has been all abuzz with new resident arrivals, continuing renovations and a plethora of outings and activities! A monthly trip to the movies is now a permanent addition to The Sanctuary’s social calendar. Residents enjoyed a screening of The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel in March, and they’re all set to see Disney’s live-action Cinderella on the 15th of April! Another monthly outing that has proven popular is a visit to the local library. Looks like we have some pretty avid book and movie buffs at The Sanctuary! Regular visits to Charlestown’s Amaroo facility have also been a great success, with residents from both facilities coming together to socialise, watch performers and participate in activities such as housie. The
Sanctuary’s residents have also been getting out and about around the lake: Lena’s Lakeside Café at Warners Bay looks set to become a favourite spot for enjoying coffee and cake. Residents who like a little light exercise (or who want to work off that slice of cake!) can also take a stroll along the foreshore on the Esplanade’s lovely walking paths. Sounds like a perfect morning out to us! Back at home, The Sanctuary’s four newest residents have settled in well, and everyone is eagerly awaiting the opening of the heated pool and adjoining outdoor sitting areas – both of which will be available to residents soon. The end of April will also see preparations completed for up to seven new residents to move into the top house. We can’t wait to get to know all these new people calling The Sanctuary home! In other news, February’s 31
Henny Penny Hatching program was a roaring (or should that be chirping?) success, and we’re sure The Sanctuary’s residents would agree with all other facilities that a return visit would be unanimously enjoyed. And finally, two residents have recently celebrated 90th birthdays – what a milestone! Phew... our Independent Living residents have sure been busy lately, but we think that’s rather the way they like it!
Morning tea by the lake, anyone?
After several months of anticipation, to the delight of residents, staff and families alike, chicken hatching programs arrived at all HVC and ELSS facilities in February! Over a twelve-day period, onlookers watched eagerly as hatchlings began to emerge and transform into fluffy, chirpy chicks. The incubator and brooding pen became the centre of attention in all facilities, with people stopping by for a look (and a cuddle) whenever they could.
The gorgeous photos that follow really speak for themselves – there were smiles and looks of delight on every face, and the chicks seemed to heighten spirits in a way only animals can. With the program complete, many chicks have gone off to new homes with staff and family members, but it’s clear that residents would love to see this popular instalment again at some stage… Stay tuned!
Baby chicks gathered around the feeder.
Bethel’s Dianne Steele.
Bethel’s George Brown.
Bethel’s Katalin Klement.
Bethel’s Marion Clement.
Waterview’s Eyvonne Browne.
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Amaroo staff member Miles with Bella and Peter Peterson.
FTP staff member Hannah with Don Watson.
Amaroo staff member Bettina.
FTP’s Joan Russell.
FTP’s June Tayler.
FTP’s Margaret Murray.
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Amaroo’s Mario Ermer.
Waterview’s Maisie Denney.
Waterview’s Doreen Fraser.
Amaroo’s Yvonne Younger.
Mario Ermer keeping an eye on the hatchlings at Amaroo.
Waterview’s Clarice Curd.
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FTP’s Amy Crocker.
We don’t think they can get much cuter!
FTP’s Dorothy Lucas McMillan.
Waterview’s Jessie Lindenberg.
FTP’s Millie Moulton.
FTP’s Enid Cox.
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Amaroo Aged Care Facility
The Sanctuary
Fig Tree Point Aged Care Facility
Waterview Aged Care Facility
Street: 66 Dudley Road, Charlestown NSW 2290 Post: PO Box 3310 Glendale NSW 2285 Phone: (02) 4943 3675 Fax: (02) 4942 3075
Bethel Aged Care Facility
30 Lorna Street,Waratah NSW 2298 Post: PO Box 3310 Glendale NSW 2285 Phone: (02) 4967 7665 Fax: (02) 4967 7553
Street: 7 Harris Street, Toronto NSW 2283 Post: PO Box 3310 Glendale NSW 2285 Phone: (02) 4950 4133 Fax: (02) 4950 5078
Our favourite bus-driving boys, Don and Scott!
Catherine Austin and Barbara Clerke getting green and giggly at Bethel!
Street: 31 Tinglewood Close, Tingira Heights NSW 2290 Post: PO Box 3310 Glendale NSW 2285 Phone: (02) 4947 1010 Fax: (02) 4914 8704 Street: 16 Cumberland Street, Teralba NSW 2284 Post: PO Box 3310 Glendale NSW 2285 Phone: (02) 4941 7000 Fax: (02) 4958 5276
Waterview ECM Phil Ayre holds a baby chicken for resident Joan Powell.
Fig Tree Point staff member Sharon poses with Saint Pat’s Day Best Dressed winner, Dolly Platt.