THE ANZAC SPIRIT A different view told by Anthony French
Find your Pose Gailene Wester talks about the benefits of Yoga
Memories in the Making Christopher Mann shares his passion for photography
EXPERT EXERCISE ADVICE Getting to know our Exercise Physiologists
INSIDE THIS ISSUE CEO’S COLUMN | GENERAL NEWS | RESIDENT STORIES
DECEMBER/JANUARY APRIL / MAY 2021 2018
tidings
26 Plantation Dr Bentley WA 6102 Phone: (08) 6250 0000 Fax: (08) 9470 2017 www.swancare.com.au twitter.com/swancare
Out & About - Page 26
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Tidings Magazine is a bi-monthly publication produced and printed on behalf of the residents at SwanCare. Material deadline for advertising is the 7th of the month preceding each bi-monthly edition.
Gardens Interest Group - Page 19
Jim Leavy - Page 12
To book advertising or for information regarding rates please contact SwanCare on 6250 0032. Please supply editorial contributions as a Word document electronically to tidings@swancare.com.au. Hard copies of articles can be handed to reception in the Administration offices at Bentley Park and Australind Rise.
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Any supporting photographs may be supplied electronically or as hard-copy prints.
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NEW AT SWANCARE
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MEET THE STAFF
Tidings Audio CD A spoken audio CD of Tidings is produced for vision-impaired residents and can be requested by emailing tidings@swancare.com.au Disclaimer In good faith SwanCare accepts articles, a small selection of advertisements, and other content for Tidings. However, the opinions and claims expressed in articles and advertising materials presented in Tidings are those of the authors and the advertisers respectively, and do not necessarily reflect the views of SwanCare, unless stated. No responsibility is accepted by SwanCare for the accuracy of information contained in the articles or advertisements. Cover image: SwanCare Bentley Park resident Chris Mann.
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SWANCARE NEWS CEO column and news from SwanCare
Meet Aaron and Meg, Exercise Physiologists from Curtin University
Daniel Smith, Manager Operations - Corporate Hospitality
VILLAGE NEWS Club & Group updates
RESIDENT STORY Jim Leavy
Date & Walnut Loaf - Page 25
Gailene Wester - Page 14
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Exercise Physiologists - Page 8
RESIDENT STORY Gailene Wester
RESIDENT STORY Anthony French
GARDENS INTEREST GROUP Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstoemia)
PASSIONS & PASTIMES Christopher Mann: Photography
VALUABLE VOLUNTEERS Christopher Simms
Christopher Simms - Page 22
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PENNY’S BOOK REVIEW
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ART TIME
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LEGENDARY RECIPES
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'The Collaborator' by Diane Armstrong
Mindful Colouring
Date & Walnut Loaf by Pat Wells
OUT & ABOUT Photos from across the Village
WHAT'S ON Events happening in the local area
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SwanCare News
CEO'S Column Welcome to Autumn - haven’t we been experiencing some great warm weather! It is nice to see that we have gone back to our ‘new normal’ after the February COVID-19 lock down, with residents getting out and enjoying the facilities once again. We have had a successful role out of the COVID-19 vaccines at the majority of our SwanCare aged care facilities, with an uptake rate of 97% at SwanCare Waminda and 95% at SwanCare Kingia/Tandara. We are currently awaiting the government to give us a date for our SwanCare Ningana residents, but rest assured we are working closely with them on this. The COVID-19 vaccine will soon be available for all residents. I encourage you to speak to your doctor and get vaccinated if you can. Whilst this is a step in the right direction, as a business we cannot afford to drop our guard on safety. We are doing everything that we can day in and day out to ensure our infection prevention and control protocols remain strong. Did you know that our board has had a change? Etta Palumbo, the Chairman of the Board, has stepped down from her position due to a career change. In her time here she has made a fantastic contribution to SwanCare and will be sorely missed. In the interim our Deputy Chair, Kim Hocking, will step up while a new chairperson is found. And lastly… isn’t it fantastic to have AFL footy back and to be able to see games in person this year. I can’t wait to see my team kick some goals. Go Eagles! Graham Francis SwanCare CEO
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Harmony Day On Friday 19th of March, staff in our care centres were encouraged to dress in traditional or orange clothing to celebrate Harmony Day! This day celebrates Australia’s cultural diversity encouraging inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone. Many of our staff enjoyed showing off their traditional wear with a great array of bright coloured clothing sparking many conversations about culture. SwanCare Ningana even enjoyed traditional food between staff members as some brought a plate to share.
Admin staff at Line Dancing In March SwanCare Admin staff joined in the fun at our resident’s line dancing group! Many laughs were had by staff and residents alike, with staff trying their best to keep up and learn the fit and fun steps. Special thanks to Pam, our resident line dancing coach, for allowing and encouraging staff to be part of the class. We also spotted Dianne in the class, who dances with blind resident Jenny, both of whom had some great moves too!
Richard & Mavis Cleaver Memorial
Window of Love Flash back to the government mandated aged care lockdown in February, when SwanCare Ningana created a 'Window of Love'! Staff enabled face to face conversation through a closed window by decorating a dedicated space and supplying a cordless phone to those that needed a device. Manager Care Services Ningana, Sharleen Mann, wanted to create a communication method with a face to face component.
A memorial plaque has been placed within the Rose Garden in the Leisure Precinct to honour the founders of SwanCare, Richard and Mavis Cleaver. For those of you who are unaware of SwanCare’s history, Richard Cleaver was a politician who acquired the fire-stricken pine plantation 60 years ago to build and create a community for widows of war. Swan Cottage Homes eventually evolved into SwanCare, which is now one of Western Australia’s leading providers of quality retirement living, aged care and home care services.
"Nothing replaces physical connection, but it was our vision to create something that could be as close as possible whilst still keeping our residents safe," said Sharleen. "When you physically see a loved one you can see the full picture and it provides clarity that the person is doing ok." There were many heart-warming moments for staff, but there was one particular visit that touched the staff involved. "There was an occasion where a resident's wife visited the window of love for their wedding anniversary, she dropped off a present and brought their children along, which brought everyone to tears. It was very touching that they could celebrate together, although it was a little different to usual," said Sharleen. Amazing work, SwanCare Ningana staff!
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SwanCare News Talented Handicraft Meet Silvia Walton, a SwanCare resident who is a part of the Handicraft Group. Silvia makes many beautiful items, but something she is most proud of creating lately are these beautiful dolls clothes! Originally made for a granddaughter, she enjoyed making them so much she thought she'd make some for others to give as presents too. These beautiful dolls are just one of the many items that will be available to purchase at the Mother's Day Handicraft stall - date and information coming soon.
Containers for Change
1. SwanCare Auditorium Foyer & Administration Basement – 26 Plantation Drive, Bentley Park
We have now collected 2344 aluminium cans, 641 glass bottles, 31 liquid paperboard, and 691 2. Leisure Building – Behind Mavis Cleaver plastic containers. That means that so far, we Court – 14 Wootliff Way, Bentley Park have donated $92.70 to Scouts WA and raised $370.70 for SwanCare. Keep your bottles coming 3. SwanCare Ningana Basement to raise much needed funds for additional solar – 3 Allen Court, Bentley Park lighting along Le Breton Lane. 4. Akora Apartments Basement Congratulations to all who used the Containers – 2 Adie Ct, Bentley Park for Change bins. Keep up the great work! 5. Drummond Apartments For those unsure the blue ‘Containers for – 9 Drummond Way, Bentley Park Change’ bins can be found in the following locations:
Cycling without age Our Aged Care facilities have started trialling a fortnightly activity of 'Cycling Without Age'. "The team chose this activity as we feel experiences are the keys to a good life," said Carla Roncati, SwanCare's Coordinator Social Engagement. "One of our main goals as a team is to spread joy and provide meaningful experiences to our SwanCare family members." This movement was created by a volunteerbased company who wanted to help elders get back on their bicycles at a local nursing home, which has now spread worldwide.
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Joy Sullivan 40th Anniversary with SwanCare
BlazeAid Fundraiser Thank you to everyone who supported the BlazeAid Wooroloo Sausage Sizzle Fundraiser on the 12th of March. We are very pleased to advise that the grand total raised for BlazeAid is $3,039.50. It was a well-supported event and we are very grateful to our residents and staff for donating their time and money to this great cause!
Joy with SwanCare CFO Garry Black
In February we celebrated another staff member, Joy Sullivan, for 40 years of outstanding work at SwanCare! Joy is a very knowledgeable team member who works hard behind the scenes to ensure our finances are correct, specialising in funding and government subsidies. Thank you for your hard work throughout the last 40 years Joy, and here's to many more!
Ballet Group Introducing a new group that has formed recently here at SwanCare - ballet! These lovely ladies were elated to receive free ballet shoes thanks to a kind donation from a dance store. The group can't wait to put them to good use! Some members have prior knowledge of ballet and some are there with no experience, all residents are welcome to this class. Contact Satima Flavell on 0435 743 361 if you wish to join in the fun.
New at SwanCare Exercise Physiologists SwanCare is truly committed to the health and wellbeing of its residents. Classes are now running in the state of the art leisure precinct which cater for all needs and abilities - there is quite simply something for everyone. The new classes on offer are run by Exercise Physiologists from Curtin University. We spoke to one of the physiologists, Aaron Franse, to find out what they’re all about, plus we dig deeper to get to know him a little before you attend one of the classes! Tell us a little about the new programs you have on offer for SwanCare residents. We have completed assessments on the interested residents to see what their goals are, to work out how we can best help. The health and fitness programs we run are group-based but we can adjust exercises to suit each person.
Meg Heavey and Aaron Franse from Curtin University
We also run many other programs like an afterschool kids program, diabetes program, breast cancer program and a fit and able program. What would surprise people to learn about you? People are always surprised to hear that I listen to Curtin FM! My favourite sport is basketball, unfortunately I’m not the right stature at 5’7, but I enjoy the sport! And I support the Eagles (will that get me fans or enemies?!) What is your favourite exercise to teach? I really enjoy getting people of all ages into weight training. A lot of people think it’s off the table as they are too old or too young, yet weights can be very beneficial for all generations.
What do you hope SwanCare residents will gain from attending your classes? We aim to educate residents on how to get the best from the gym, so that they feel comfortable exercising in classes or on their own. We Do you have a message for residents that are encourage residents to learn about their body and exercise within their individual capabilities. considering giving your classes a go? Have a go! I understand it can be intimidating attending a new class, but we are fortunate that What’s your background? Meg and I have both completed a Post Graduate residents are very friendly. SwanCare have degree in Exercise Physiology which gave us the excellent facilities and we want to empower knowledge and understanding to be able to cater residents to be able to use them and make the most of what SwanCare has to offer. to all ages and backgrounds. Personally, I have been working at the clinic for six years now and Thanks for sharing with us, Aaron. If you wish to Meg has been here for two years. participate in classes please contact Ashleigh Fitzgerald.
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Meet the Staff Meet Daniel Smith Born in the USA, life brought Daniel to Australia when his wife was offered a job at Murdoch University. Australia is now home for Daniel and his family personally becoming a citizen 4 years ago. Daniel studied Hotel Management at university setting himself up for a 15year career within the hotel hospitality industry across the USA and Australia. His first step outside of the hotel industry was when he joined St John of God Health Care giving him a foot into the health care setting. After redundancy, Daniel pursued a new position in aged care where he gained valuable insight into our industry. Having developed a real passion for bringing joy to others, he was successful in joining the SwanCare team as Manager Operations - Corporate Hospitality, in December 2020. Driven by his own continuous improvement, Daniel enjoys the challenge of his new role because of its diversity. “I love having multiple balls in the air, finding ways of providing better services and uncovering new ways to make our residents and patrons happy. Ultimately, it’s all about providing good hospitality experiences,” said Daniel. For a large portion of his customer base at SwanCare, mealtime is far more than just supplying their nutrition and hydration. “We often establish meaningful relationships with our customers, and we know a wonderful dining experience can be the highlight of a resident’s day,” said Daniel.
Daniel Smith at Spritz Cafe
In addition to catering for aged care residents and patrons of Spritz Café, the team provide laundry services as well as the Village Meals service. Daniel’s vision for the kitchen is to develop this service to a full-fledged catering department to allow for event and function catering. There is also excitement around with SwanCare’s latest café, Jarrah, set to open its doors to residents, staff and members of the public in June. “There’s nothing quite like building something from the ground up. Working in a hospitality role within aged care provides a real opportunity to make a difference in the community,” said Daniel. Since being at SwanCare, Daniel is most proud of the way he has connected with his staff which is the first thing he set out to achieve. “Often understanding your staff, knowing what motivates them and allowing them to find the right spot within the team allows them to be successful, which ultimately means I am successful. I think I’m off to a good start with that,” said Daniel. Thanks for having a chat with us, Daniel Welcome to the team!
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Village News SwanCare Centres Auxiliary
Swan Village Bowling Club
The April meeting of the Auxiliary is Tuesday April 27th at 1.30pm in the Auditorium. We will be entertained by the Bush Poets. All welcome - $2 fee for non-members. Raffle and Lucky Numbers available.
After two years of interrupted bowling 2021 looks like returning to a ‘normal’ year with regular outings and gala days. Our first gala day was held in March and the next one is scheduled for April.
Prior notice for the May meeting. Instead of a meeting we are having an outing to Maxies Fashion in the Armadale Shopping Centre. Further information will be given at our meeting and notices will be put up.
Check our noticeboard for details for both gala days and a return to day bowls. All village residents are invited to come and try their hand at lawn bowls on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 6pm.
Phyl Leavy
Jim Leavy
Fish N Chips on Stratton As our February luncheon was cancelled, at our March luncheon, we had a combined celebration for Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day. Everyone enjoyed themselves. Please note: Our April luncheon will be held on the second Friday in April, which will be the 9th of April. As we will be celebrating Easter, don’t forget to wear your 'bunny ears' and yellow. The Entertainers will be 'Bling'.
ANZAC Eve Service - External Victoria Park/South Perth & Districts RSL sub-branch invites you to an ANZAC eve service on Saturday 24th April at 6:00pm sharp. The SwanCare bus leaves admin at 5:15pm for all points around the village. For more information please contact Jack Matthews on 08 9361 9793.
Mother’s Day celebrations will be held on Friday the 7th of May. Jay Weston will be the entertainer. Due to limited seating, bookings can be made by contacting Lesley on 6250 0590. If call is not answered, please leave a message and your call will be returned. Lesley Foster
Jack Matthews
ANZAC Day Service - SwanCare A dawn service will be held on Anzac Day 25th April at 6am at the Bowling Club area. A flyer will be sent out at a later date. Phyl Leavy
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Bentley Park Show Planning is underway for the 2021 SwanCare Bentley Park Show. There have been some changes made to bring the Show up to date. The main change made is the date; Friday October 1st will be judging and Saturday 2nd October 2021 will be show day. This change has been made by popular demand - we have been asked many times to have show earlier to accommodate the Fruit Flowers and vegetables etc. We are hoping this will make a difference. All other sections will be the same Knitting, Sewing Cooking etc. Hopefully this will be a bigger better show this year, after the disappointment of 2020. Also, there will be a change of venue this year we will have the Show in the magnificent Leisure Precinct and surrounds. All gardens will be judged this year so there is no need to apply. Judging will be earlier in the year when the gardens are at their best. Winners will be presented at the Show. There is such a lot of work in presenting this event we have to thank the Show Committee for all their valiant efforts. Now it will be up to Residents to make the Show a big success. There is no doubt our Residents will rally to the cause with their Art, Hobbies, Cooking abilities etc. We have such a wealth of talent here at SwanCare Bentley Park, it is a privilege to showcase this at the Bentley Park Show. So in anticipation we say Thank you. Maureen Grickage
Village Residents Advisory Council (VRAC) The years activities are well under way with a noticeable sense of energy and enthusiasm in the Village. The council have started preliminary discussions to develop a comprehensive survey of village residents. We will aim to have it ready for distribution later in the year. The program of speakers for our Coffee Morning meetings is settled for the first half of the year. We have arranged for Colin Manes to come and talk to us about the village ICT services.
In May we are hoping to have Daniel Smith, the new SwanCare Manager Operations Corporate Hospitality (i.e. Catering), will come to tell us about the new café and other food service innovations planned for the village. For the longer Thursday talks we are planning to have a “Morning Tea with the Mayor”, with Karen Vernon giving us news from the Town of Victoria Park, and talks from Arthritis and Osteoporosis WA and from the Ear Science Institute Australia (Lions’ Hearing). If you would like a talk on a particular topic, or you know of someone who is an interesting speaker please tell a member of the Council and we can follow up. Ellen Clair
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Resident Story
Decades of Jim Leavy We love getting to know our residents at SwanCare - we have people from all walks of life, each with their own unique life story. This month we spent some time talking to Jim Leavy, an example of how with hard work and commitment, anything is possible. Jim was born and raised in Perth attending Richmond Primary School and Fremantle Boys High School. Upon further education and training, Jim went to TAFE and studied Carpentry and Joinery, then completed a certificate to become a Builder. Throughout his career, Jim taught apprentices the theory behind carpentry and joinery. He joined TAFE as a lecturer in Leederville and then transferred to Geraldton and worked there for three years, before seizing the opportunity to move to Christmas Island to continue teaching. What was supposed to be a one-year stint turned into three! “I wanted to stay longer but they wouldn’t extend it - I loved living on Christmas Island!” said Jim. “It was a very different place to live, it was a community of only about 2,500 people of different races. It was a great lifestyle, and taxfree back then! There was no television (which wasn’t a bad thing) and no phones. Most of the contact we had was by mail.” Jim still enjoys woodwork now and makes use of the machinery available for use at SwanCare.
A sporting life Jim had a successful working career, but he was also a very talented sportsman. In the early days, he spent three seasons playing lacrosse and at the same time played under-age football for the Melville Football Club. He played for the under 16’s and under 18’s and was Captain of the under 18’s combined team in East Fremantle
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Jim Leavy outside his Bentley Park home
– sounds tiring! And all that training paid off as during his time playing for East Fremantle, they won the Championship! Most people stick to one sport, but not Jim. As well as playing lacrosse and football, it transpired that he also had a natural talent for tennis, which he played throughout his teenage years. It was only later in his adult life that he gave up tennis. His football career also came to a stop in 1958 after a bad traffic accident which left him injured. But that didn’t stop Jim, he turned to another sport – water polo! Water polo seems to be a far cry from the likes of football or tennis; however, Jim says there are similarities. “People don’t realise, but you need really strong legs,” explains Jim. “You don’t actually need to be a strong swimmer.” Not one to do anything by halves, Jim went on to represent the state in 1962, retiring at age
64, then coming back in 2008 in the world masters water polo winning a gold medal with the team. He is still involved as a life member of the club now, as well as being a founding member of the Melville Water Polo Club pool in Bicton. Jim’s love of the water must be in his genes, as two of his grandchildren play at the very same club!
Jim Leavy (far left) with the Swan Village Bowling Club in January 2020
It was through water polo that Jim met his lovely wife Phyllis, at the Three Springs Ball. After keeping in touch, the pair came together and have been happily married for nearly 58 years. Now having 4 sons, 11 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren between them.
Jim and Phyl also enrolled three of their sons into cadet training at a young age at the Canning Naval Reserve Cadets. This saw Jim become a committee member for several years and was awarded a life membership in 1988.
SwanCare Living Jim and Phyl moved to SwanCare in 2010, it was a special day when signing the contract as it was also their wedding anniversary! "It was the best decision we ever made,” said Jim.
Jim & Phyl Leavy
And it’s the question we all like to ask – ‘what’s the secret to a long, happy marriage?!’ “Being complimentary of one another,” reveals Jim. “You also need to have similar interests. Phyllis is really involved with The Red Cross, which I also support. We are both very community minded.
Jim is an active member of our community, being President of the Swan Village Bowling Club, a member of the Social Committee, volunteering as a bus driver, as well as driving the buggy. And if that wasn’t enough to keep him busy, he also plays golf regularly outside of SwanCare and is a member of the Canning Community Men’s Shed. From prefect duties at high school, to sporting championships and a successful career, Jim’s dedicated work ethic means that when he puts his mind to it, he can turn his hand to anything. He’s a positive role model and we’re proud to have him within the SwanCare family!
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Resident Story
Our Yoga Guru Do you know your downward dog from your locust? 83-year-old Gailene Wester has brought a sense of spirituality to the SwanCare family through yoga classes that she established when moving in a few short weeks ago. Age is but a number when witnessing the flexing powers of Gailene, who is quite possibly the most flexible 83 year old you will ever meet! Gailene has been practicing the art of yoga since she was 30, and has knowledge and great understanding of how the practice can help the mind and body. “It’s not just physical,” explains Gailene. “The mind comes into it too. During the relaxation bit I try to teach a little of the spiritual aspect. That’s the part that attracted me to yoga.”
A life-long passion Gailene began practicing yoga due to a visit from a neighbour who brought her an advert for a yoga class. She tried it and found that it helped manage her asthma. Her passion grew and she has now practised yoga on and off for 30 years. Gailene has taught in various locations such as Murdoch University and Perth Yoga School. “It’s a lifetime study, a spiritual practice outside of religion. I enjoy it as I’m always learning – and I’m probably more flexible than your average SwanCare resident!”
A more flexible SwanCare Despite yoga being a new addition to SwanCare’s activities, Gailene has received very positive feedback. “The feedback has been good; residents have loosened up and freed up their joints. Most people have a problem area of the body, I teach mindfulness to allow students to understand how far they can take their body safely.
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Gailene has been practising yoga for 30 years
And I want to help them learn how to breathe properly, breathing properly can help improve energy levels.”
What does it take to practice yoga? Gailene emphasises that everyone can take part in some aspect of yoga, the best part is that it is adaptable to the individual. “It helps if you can stand up from a sitting position on the floor, although some people have walking frames to help. Most poses can be adapted, you just have to work with your own body – it’s your own journey”. Good on you, Gailene! Here’s to many flexible years to come. If you fancy trying the plough or peacock pose, you can find Gailene and her yogis every Tuesday at 9.30am or 6pm in The Swan Centre.
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Resident Story
The Untold War ANZAC day is around the corner, a special time of remembrance for those who served and died during warfare. We are lucky that there are still survivors who live to share their stories and help bring the past to the present for younger generations to learn from.
working in the horses regiment. But I went on to drive tanks and other armoured vehicles. We fought in ‘Noddy cars’, small armoured vehicles that we modified to suit the conditions. We could drive at speed through the bush so the enemy couldn’t catch us. I crashed a few in my time!”
War Stories Tony has many stories from his time in the army, and it is quite incredible that he lives to tell the tales – this is a man who survived running over two mines…! “The one time I hit a mine, I split my head open,” said Tony. “I was unconscious and lucky to survive. The other time I ran over one I have a photo (below) of me sat in a crater afterwards.
Tony French in his military uniform
SwanCare resident of five years, Anthony ‘Tony’ French, grew up in South Africa and in 1964 was called up to National Service at the ripe age of 19. This was actually considered old since he deferred two years while completing his university degree in veterinary science. His country was facing a war against Angola, with Nelson Mandela at the helm. “When I was called up, no one knew our government was preparing an invasion on Angola,” explains Tony. “They were building a huge army and manufacturing weapons. I was living in ‘Zulu land’ as they called it at the time,
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It’s great actually because now all these old photos are emerging on Facebook, hundreds of them. They were taken privately by some of the guys fighting, they were not supposed to have a camera of course. But now I keep finding pictures of myself, some of them really funny ones.” ‘War’ and ‘funny’ are not two words you’d expect to see together, however there were moments that Tony still laughs about now… “There was one good experience I had,” says Tony in reflection. “We found a big lake where
we decided to bathe, these being rare moments as we never got to wash. Two of us stayed guard while the others swam. Then out of nowhere a lion came out of the bush! It walked up to the clothes and sat down watching the others swim.
training he got his pilot’s licence, he was put on reconnaissance where they’d be sent out to look for the enemy, then report back to ground. “I enjoy flying, but it was a scary job,” says Tony. “They could have shot us down anytime – the planes were all canvas and wood, even a pellet gun could penetrate the plane. But I’d do U-turns and moved quickly - they couldn’t find me. You had to be a good pilot not to be seen by the enemy.”
Australia-bound Tony eventually left South Africa, after hearing about the opportunities in Australia by a friend. But he couldn’t get a passport while committed to National service, so he found a way. “I married an Australian girl which got me here,” laughs Tony. “They couldn’t touch me then. You were supposed to go back to fight every three months till you turned 55. I was sad to leave South Africa, but I loved Australia. My sister moved over, and my parents too when they retired. My brother is still in South Africa though.” Sergeant Major with the orphan lion
I had my gun out ready to shoot but he didn’t look aggressive. So, I told the others to get out of the water slowly and get their clothes on. The lion approached them and just snuggled up! Turns out it was an orphan lion that was brought up by a local family. This often happened in the area, then they’d get released back into the wild when they were older. This lion wouldn’t leave us alone, it followed us back to the camp. It slept with us and ate with us. We had fresh meat as we had to catch it ourselves, deer and the like. We’d put it on the barbecue and he’d have some too! He stayed with us about seven months.” Tony is not only an expert driver on the ground, but he has skills in the air. After six weeks of
Tony has had many great opportunities since coming to Australia. “I got a job at the Royal Flying Doctors based in Meekatharra. It was a little town of about five or six hundred people. It had an international runway, but there was nothing there - it was just a tin shed. It was a nice community; the ladies would hear me coming home after picking up a patient and they’d be there waiting for me with breakfast on the ground.” Tony later moved to Perth and learned how to fly bigger planes. He worked for various companies, including Qantas. Flying continues to be a passion. “You should see my unit, it’s like the flight centre!” exclaims Tony. “I haven’t got a licence now, but I’ve got a simulator – I can fly wherever I want in the world, whatever the weather.”
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Resident Story "I can go to about 25,000 airports around the world. It must be in my blood as my youngest son is in the Australian Air Force," said Tony. "He got his license in Jandakot when he was 15, but he actually taught himself using the simulator - he used to sit on my lap as a kid. Flying isn’t really that complicated, and planes these days fly themselves.”
ANZAC Day Tony is an active member of the Victoria Park RSL club and explains how they’ll be remembering the past within their community. “For ANZAC, we have a march in the evening at the Memoria,” said Tony. “I also spend a lot of time collecting money for poppies. It’s a very special day for me, but I also think about all the friends I’ve lost, I’ve been to around 14 funerals”. “ANZAC day is so important,” said Tony. “We wouldn't have the freedom we have today without the sacrifices these people made.” Tony also has some ideas around service duties for upcoming generations. “I would like to see a national service here, it would solve a lot of problems - I learned to cook, sew, make a bed, look after myself. I still do it now. For years I couldn’t stand having things lying around untidy. But it scares me to think of young people today hooning around in tanks!” Tony served his country off and on for two years, and during that time experienced more death and tragedy than anyone should face in a lifetime, yet he remains positive.
Tony French outside his Bentley Park home
“I’ve seen a lot of sadness, so if anyone complains to me I tell them they’ve seen nothing; but I have had a good life. I’ve got old injuries, but I can still use a mobility scooter. I’m happy at SwanCare and I love the village. I now do a lot of painting – usually landscape and birds. I think my experiences have made me a better person.” Such an incredible life and an inspiring man, thank you Tony for sharing your story. Do you know a resident with an interesting story worth sharing? Contact the Marketing Team via phone on 6250 0000 or email: tidings@swancare.com.au
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Gardens Interest Group
Crepe Myrtle by Noelene Barnes Did you know that many of the street trees around Bentley Park are varieties of Crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia)! A lovely small shade tree, their beautiful frilly white, pink, mauve and coral coloured flowers show at the tips of the new green growth from spring through to summer above interesting mottled trunks.
Crepe myrtle flower
If you trim the spent flower heads before the seeds develop, they will provide a second or even third flush of blooms. Being deciduous, in autumn they continue the colour display as the foliage turns to stunning red and orange as the cold weather begins. The leaves make excellent mulch and the bare winter limbs allow light and winter sun into your home. Out in the garden, continue to dead head roses and spent annuals. If the autumn showers come on time you can still sow everlastings.
Crepe myrtle shrub
ANZAC Day is traditionally time to plant garlic and, as the cooler weather comes in, broad beans, cabbage, lettuce, onion, silver beet and spinach, also broccoli seedlings. Plant peas, leeks and turnips in May. For those who love sweet peas prepare the soil by adding lime, compost, cow manure and a heaped tablespoon of completed fertiliser per meter along the row in a sunny position. Dig in to loosen the soil, water and leave to settle a week or two before planting seeds direct. Provide wire netting as a trellis for them to climb. Dwarf varieties are great for small gardens. Flower seedlings to consider include alyssum, cineraria, pansy, perennial salvia, petunia, stock, viola and wall flower. Continue planting bulbs. Keep an eye out for snails and keep weeds under control before they go to seed.
Crepe myrtle folliage
Gardens Interest Group meetings for 2021 will be held 2pm in the Swan Centre on the following Sundays: 18 April – Ferns 20 June – Native bees (we hope to have a speaker for this meeting) 15 August – Bee “Hotels” 17 October – Native orchids 21 November – Christmas meeting (topic TBA)
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Passions & Pastimes
Chris Mann with his macro photo of a rose
Picture Perfect Moments It was a golfer named Walter Hagen who apparently coined the phrase ‘stop and smell the roses’, but for SwanCare resident Christopher Mann, he goes a step further and takes a photograph too!
your own photographic negatives. It came with a printing frame, dishes, chemicals and paper. And by chance it happened to cost five shillings! So, I bought it and was hooked from there on.”
Chris runs the Photography club at SwanCare, with the aged care facility and surroundings starring in much of his work. His artistic talents stretch back to childhood, where he accidently stumbled upon photography while perusing the shops in London.
Chris went on to work as a wedding photograph editor on weekends, that was until he was called up for National Service and posted to Malta where he worked in the Airforce. By chance this became a very useful trip for Chris because Malta had duty free. They had a good stock of cameras available at a far cheaper price than in the UK, of which they were also in short supply. This meant that Chris could afford decent cameras for the foreseeable future.
Early Beginnings “A kind uncle gave me a birthday present of five shillings (the equivalent of about $25 today),” said Chris. “It was burning a hole in my pocket, I didn’t know what to do with it. One day I was passing a bric-à-brac type shop and in the corner of the window was a kit for printing
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Chris met his lovely wife Joan, a Bicton lady on a working holiday visa in the UK. They decided to get married, on the pretence that they moved to Fremantle. Like many others before him, Chris made the move to Australia, settled down and had a family.
Photography took a backseat for a while (apart from the many snaps of the kids), and Chris didn’t get seriously into it again until the later part of his working life when he had more time and expendable income, i.e. when the children left home! Although he loved photography, Chris had quite a different career. He worked for the BBC for five years as a radio engineer in the UK and spent 33 years working as a computer hardware engineer. Chris has been running the Photography Club for nearly four years now. He owns a couple of Nikon cameras and a smaller Canon. He gives up his time generously to share his knowledge with others in the community. “I find one of the biggest issues with photography for the older generation is that people will take photos but then do nothing with them, so as well as teaching photography I try to educate others to be more computer literate so that they can store their work and know how to print them for display,” said Chris.
Local Beauty Chris dreams of travelling to New Zealand to capture the phenomenal landscapes there. But for now, he is happy taking the group on outings locally, with his favourite photo being from Lesmurdie Falls. “I love capturing landscapes,” said Chris, “but they usually mean a lot of walking and at the age of 85, I can’t get as far as I’d like. These days I tend to take a lot of photos of bees, flowers and butterflies. There’s some good spots around SwanCare too, one place for example is
Photo of Lesmurdie Falls by Chris Mann
opposite the shop down through the laneway to the leisure centre – there’s numerous plants and gardens around there.”
Photography Tips Photography is a skill and an art that takes time and a lot of practice. We asked Chris for his top tips…! “Don’t go out without your camera!” laughs Chris. “So many people tell me that they see things out and about but don’t have a camera or phone on them to take a photo. Also, it’s best to go out later in the day around 4pm when the sun isn’t so high – it’s better lighting. And finally, take the time to really look at things properly – we miss so much of what is around us.” Thanks for chatting with us Chris! Christopher and the photography club can be found at The Club inside the Leisure Centre every Tuesday at 2pm. All are welcome! Do you have a passion worth sharing too? Contact the Marketing Team via phone on 6250 0000 or email: tidings@swancare.com.au
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Valuable Volunteers
Christopher Simms For SwanCare resident and volunteer Christopher Simms, he’s not looking for a pat on the back - but that’s exactly what he got when he won the ‘Villager of the Year’ award at the volunteer’s lunch last year! “I was surprised that I was nominated by separate people,” said Christopher. “It was nice to win. I just like to contribute to society and pay it forward, I’m nothing special. It keeps me busy now I’m retired as well”. Christopher drives the SwanMobile and minibus, but he is probably most known for his work at the bowling club. He is the Club Secretary as well as volunteering his time at club events. Outside of SwanCare, he volunteers for Bush Heritage Australia, an initiative founded by parliamentarian Bob Brown. The organisation buys properties and renovates them back to their original state, converting them into eco accommodation. The bush land is used as a rehabilitation site. Not only does Christopher find volunteering rewarding, but it has opened up a whole new network. “I’ve found that I have more friends than ever before,” said Christopher. “SwanCare has its own little community of volunteers, but volunteering hasn’t been my only interest, I’ve done a lot in the past. I like to keep active, and have rock climbed, abseiled and been a keen scuba diver. I am still active now, mostly cycling, bowling, swimming and using the gym at SwanCare”.
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Villager of the Year Christopher Simms
Christopher has a great way of explaining what it means to be a volunteer and why he does it, which no doubt will inspire others to get involved too. “It’s hard to explain, you don’t feel like you’re doing anything special, but when you know you are - it’s a feeling of self-worth. I don’t consider myself to be anything out of the ordinary, it’s just what I do - it’s nice that I can do things some that others can’t.” We hope to see Christopher continue his work for many years to come. Thank you, Christopher, you are a most valuable asset to the SwanCare community, and we appreciate everything you do! If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, please get in contact with Karen Parker on 6250 0010 or email karen.parker@swancare.com.au
Penny’s Book Review
'The Collaborator' by Diane Armstrong Author Diane Armstrong is a child Holocaust survivor who arrived in Australia from Poland in 1948. She is an award-winning journalist and has written five previous books, all which have done well in literary awards. Her latest book is now available in the Bentley Park library! ‘The Collaborator’ is an enthralling story of heroism, passion and betrayal based on true events set in the darkest days of WWII in Budapest. In 1944 Germany invaded Budapest and a Jewish journalist risks his life in an attempt to save thousands from the death camps.
In 2005 a journalist, Anika Barnett, sets out on a journey that takes her from Sydney to Budapest and Tel Aviv to discover the truth about the mysterious man who rescued her grandmother in 1944. A secret that has poisoned the lives of three generations is finally revealed in a shocking climax that holds the key to their redemption. Readers interested in the history of Jewish people and have read the ‘Tattooist Of Auschwitz’ and its sequel ‘Cilka’s Journey’, may like this book. While it is based on facts, it does include a romance and omits the specific details of the camps. I found it interesting and I learnt more of the history of the war, which shaped our world. Penny Felder, SwanCare Bentley Park Librarian
Photos: 2-bed apartment in Mavis Cleaver Court
Welcome to Apartment Living
Retirement. Reimagined.
Ask about our flexible pricing options - we can help!
SwanCare Bentley Park’s non-profit community offers many types of accommodation and provides continuity of care in a central location. Apartment style living will surprise you with comfort, space and amenities! Here you can also enjoy access to the award-winning leisure precinct featuring heated swimming pool, gymnasium and more. Contact us today for a private tour. Call Matt on (08) 6250 0016 or email retire@swancare.com.au Retirement Living • Home Care • Residential Care
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Art Time
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Take a mindful moment to colour me in.
Legendary Recipes
Date and Walnut Loaf by Patricia Wells
Thank you to SwanCare Resident, Patricia (Pat) Wells, for the recipe and the yarn behind it.
This simple and easy delight was originally adapted from the ‘Guide to Healthy Eating’ by The Heart Foundation, first published in 1982. Pat first bought the now well-used cookbook because her and husband, Jon, were trying to lose some weight. When Pat stumbled across the loaf, it was a pleasant and easy surprise! “I made it first of all as it was quick and easy, and also contained no eggs,” said Pat. “It is simple to put together and very tasty, yet not too bad for your health! That’s what I liked about it. Now I make it when family is coming around at short notice or if I’m going somewhere and need to take a plate.”
Ingredients • • • • • • • • • •
1 tbsp sugar 1 cup dates 2 tbsp polyunsaturated oil ½ tsp mixed spice ½ tsp cinnamon 1 level tsp bicarb 1 cup boiling water 1½ cups self-raising flour ¼ cup wheat germ ½ cup walnut pieces
Method 1. 2. 3. 4.
Put sugar, dates, oil and spices into a bowl. Sprinkle bicarb over mixture. Pour over boiling water and mix well. Sift in self raising flour, add wheat germ and nuts and mix through. 5. Place in a non-stick loaf tin and bake at 180°C for 30-45 mins (or until skewer comes out clean).
“This loaf is tied to many happy memories with family and friends coming around,” beamed Pat. However, she also makes it for her and Jon to enjoy together too. “I made it only a week ago and shared it between Jon and I as a treat with a cup of tea, while we were watching TV at night-time,” said Pat. Pat doesn’t stop at loafs - you’ll often find Pat in the kitchen! “Cooking is a part of my life – I’ve spent the past 63 years cooking for my 4 children, 8 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren. I enjoy being in the kitchen,” said Pat. Good on you, Pat! Thanks for sharing your story and recipe.
Do you have a recipe and story to share? We’d love to hear from you! Email tidings@swancare.com.au or drop off to SwanCare administration - thank you.
Tip: Pat and Jon enjoy this with dairy free butter.
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Out & About
Residents and Admin staff enjoying line dancing
Residents at the BlazeAid fundraiser
Residents participating in water aerobics
Girl Guides marching at SwanCare's Australia Day ceremony
Aged care residents enjoying Cycling Without Age
New ballet students pointing their toes
Michelle from Curtin showing residents how to use the exercise park
What’s On: Local Area Vic Park Street Art Walking Tour
Alfresco Fridays at Hawaiian's Park Centre
Join Adie from Oh Hey WA on a walking tour highlighting some of Vic Park's best street art including sculptures and amazing murals by many iconic WA artists. You will explore laneways and car parks to discover some hidden gems and hear the stories behind the artwork.
There are new tastes to share in the open air at Hawaiian’s Park Centre. Relaunching the new and revamped alfresco precinct with special weekly events for food lovers on Friday nights this April. Featuring live music, RTRFM DJs, food trucks, free samples and tastes, limitedtime only items, and more.
When: Sunday 18th April, 2:30pm- 4:00pm
When: Friday 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th April, 5pm – 8pm
Where: Meet at Social Manna - 253 Albany Hwy, Victoria Park (Finishing at Art in the Park Market or Dutch Trading Co.)
Where: The Park Centre, 789 Albany Hwy, East Victoria Park
Book: www.ohheywa.com.au
Perth Garden Festival Bursting with colour, the Perth Garden Festival delights visitors with stunning garden concepts, landscape show gardens, breath taking floral displays, sustainable living ideas, garden trends, innovative products and abundance of information on outdoor living. When: Thursday 29th April to Sunday 2nd May 2021, 10am – 4pm Where: Langley Park, Perth
Rob's YODyssey: Living well with Younger Onset Dementia
Cost: From $15 Book: www.perthgardenfestival.com
This art exhibition is a collection of abstract and vivid paintings that have emerged since Rob Anson's diagnosis of Younger Onset Dementia in 2018. The body of work seeks to highlight the life of people living with Younger Onset Dementia (under 65 years at the time of diagnosis) and the struggles that both the person and their carers go through. When: 10am-2:30pm Mondays & 10am-4pm Tuesdays to Fridays Where: Victoria Park Centre for the Arts 12 Kent Street, East Victoria Park
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SwanCare Bentley Park's award-winning Leisure Precinct
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