Ageing Well Positive living & DEC 2025
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The newsletter contains information on ageing positively including care in general wellbeing, tips on setting retirement goals, up-coming events and stories that celebrate the contributions of the ageing community.
Depending on the level of your Home Care Package you can use your Package to get assistance with services such as: stay living at home, independently, for longer
What can you use your Package for?
MHA Care is a Not for Profit organisation and your local provider of Home Care Packages.
We have been supporting individuals with their Home Care Packages since 2016 and now employ 7 Home CarePackage - Care Managers and support 260 individuals across the Moira Shire, City of Greater Shepparton and surrounds.
How does it work?
At MHA Care our Home Care Package - Care Managers work with you to understand your needs and identify your goals, including the most appropriate way to support you to live a more active and independent life. Your Home Care Package funds can be used on a range of services, support and equipment that relate to your health care needs.
Is there a cost?
MHA care does not charge start up or exit fees. Instead, a flat fee is charged to cover our costs. By keeping our fees as low as possible, we ensure you are able to maximise the funding available to purchase the services you need or want.
What do you need to do?
The first step to access government-funded aged care services is to check your eligibility for a face-to-face assessment. You can call the friendly and knowledgeable My Aged Care contact centre staff to talk about your needs on 1800 200 422. Or you can apply online at www.myagedcare.gov.au/assessment/apply-online. Further information can be found at www.myagedcare.gov.au/assessment. You can also call MHA Care directly on (03) 5742 1111 and ask for assistance from one of our Home Care Package - Care Managers.
Services to keep you well and independent:
✓ Personal care (Showering, Grooming)
✓ Nursing and Allied Health (Assistance with medicines, physiotherapy, podiatry)
✓ Meals preparation and diet (help with feeding and meal preparation)
Services that keep you safe:
✓ Household jobs (assistance with cleaning, Laundry and other basic Domestic chores)
✓ Home maintenance (Help with keeping your home and garden safe)
✓ Home modifications (minor modifications to your home to improve safety and access (ramps and rails)
✓ Assistive equipment and technology (walking frame, shower chair)
Services that allow you to interact with your community:
✓ Transport (Community transport, transport to your GP)
✓ Social support (Social activities in a community-based group setting or accompanied activities)
FESTIVE CHEERS… Greater Shepparton
getting into the Christmas spirit. Pictured are GV Health Extended Care Auxiliary members at their Christmas lunch, held at the Sherbourne Terrace. From left: Merle, Norma, Jen, Heather, Jen, Pam and Caroline. Photo: Emma Harrop
Brought to you by
Keep moving forward with Aquamoves
AQUAMOVES supports mature adults to stay active, healthy and connected in a welcoming environment.
For long-time member Wendy Elliot, fitness is an essential part of living well. She attends Aquamoves four to six times each week and loves the variety of circuit classes. Every session feels fresh and di erent, and she enjoys the camaraderie with others training alongside her. She also values aqua classes as active recovery because the buoyancy supports movement without strain.
something you enjoy, whether that is a walk or a class, and set small goals you can stick to. The key is to begin and keep going.
At Aquamoves you can move your way with access to gym and pool facilities, group fitness options and supportive programs tailored to different needs and abilities.
Wendy says she has noticed both physical and mental benefits. She feels stronger and fitter, and everyday tasks like gardening and carrying groceries have become much easier. Just as importantly, she feels clearer, more positive and empowered to age well. For her, exercise is therapy and a way to stay capable and confident.
Her advice to anyone who is unsure where to begin is simple. Just start moving. Choose
Wendy has always been passionate about staying active. Years of playing tennis and a career in nursing shaped her belief in looking after her health. She enjoys the structure that group classes bring to her day and values feeling strong, supported and part of a community.
At Aquamoves you can move your way with access to gym and pool facilities, group fitness options and supportive programs tailored to di erent needs and abilities. Whether you are building confidence, staying active or looking to connect with others, there is something to suit everyone.
Experience the benefits for yourself: visit Aquamoves, call 03 5832 9400 or email CustomerService@aquamoves.com.au
Goulburn Valley Hearing Clinic
Providing Cochlear Services for Adults
Struggling to hear clearly, even with hearing aids?
You’re not alone. Sometimes the inner ear is so damaged that clarity just doesn’t improve, no matter how loud things are.
A cochlear implant may offer new hope. It works by gently bypassing the damaged part of the inner ear to help you reconnect with the sounds and voices that matter most.
We’d love to help you explore whether this could be right for you. Join us at one of our friendly cochlear implant information sessions. Call 5821 6600 to save your spot – we’re here to support you.
Various village amenities including swimming pool Peaceful setting, close to Lake Nagambie
ACTIVE AT ANY AGE... Long-time member Wendy Elliot (pictured) says staying strong, connected and confident is easy with Aquamove’s supportive classes and welcoming community. Photo: Supplied
Aged care reforms welcomed, but critics warn gaps remain
MAJOR changes to Australia’s aged care system came into effect on November 1, 2025, with the new Aged Care Act and Support at Home program ushering in a rights-based approach, stronger safeguards, and clearer rules for both residential and home care.
The reforms introduce a strengthened Statement of Rights, a unified home-care program replacing existing packages, and new standards for providers, including mandatory 24/7 registered nurse coverage in residential aged care.
While widely regarded as long overdue, agencies warn the reforms may still fall short of addressing longstanding issues raised by the Aged Care Royal Commission. The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation says workforce shortages remain a major barrier to achieving promised care standards.
A Senate Community A airs References Committee inquiry, which released its report in October 2025, also warned that care continues to be rationed, with thousands still waiting for
services. The committee described current delays as a “calculated denial of service” without further investment and a move toward an entitlement-based model.
No system is perfect from day one, and change of this scale takes time, but this Act gives us the tools to create a care system that truly supports older Australians
PATRICIA SPARROW
COTA Australia chief executive
Advocates further caution that some older people may pay more under the new system, with higher hourly rates in home care leading to reduced service hours for some clients.
Overall, the reforms mark an important step, but critics argue more investment, more sta , and a stronger home-care system are needed to deliver the safe,
Ageing
accessible, and genuinely personcentred care older Australians were promised.
COTA (Council on the Ageing) Australia chief executive Patricia Sparrow said the new Act is a foundation, not a finish line.
“No system is perfect from day one, and change of this scale takes time, but this Act gives us the tools to create a care system that truly supports older Australians,” Ms Sparrow said. “We will be monitoring the changes closely to ensure the new system delivers on its promise.
“Older Australians need confidence
that the Government’s commitment –that no one will be worse o – will be honoured,” she said. “The Government has a clear mandate to ensure the new system delivers care that is accessible, a ordable, and equitable for every older Australian – regardless of background or postcode.
“We remain deeply concerned that showering has been excluded from clinical care under the new Support at Home program. We’ve raised this directly with Government and will continue to advocate strongly for this to be addressed.”
Older Australians, carers and families can find more information at www. myagedcare.gov.au, through the My Aged Care Contact Centre on 1800 200 422, or by speaking directly with aged-care providers, care finders, or local support organisations.
Photo: Supplied
Showtime in Shepparton
REJOICE, be merry and entertained as Riverlinks dances into December with a packed calendar across its Shepparton and Mooroopna venues.
UCANDANCE Studio kicks o celebrations this weekend, marking 25 years with its junior concert on Saturday, December 6 (10.30am–11.45am). From 4pm on December 6 and 7, dancers from Grade 2 and above take the stage for Legacy, a milestone performance honouring the studio’s proud history.
On Saturday night, Total Ballet presents From Stage and Screen at Riverlinks Westside; an energetic 60-minute showcase featuring dancers aged 5 to 21. Expect a blend of ballet, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, acrobatics and cirque, all inspired by iconic films and musicals.
The celebrations continue Saturday, December 13, when Amy Newton Dance Studios transports audiences through their favourite movie moments with a vibrant mix of hip hop, jazz, ballet, contemporary and more.
Prefer strings over spins? Don’t miss the Itet Strings Celebration 2025 on Sunday, December 14, 2pm to 4.30pm, also at Westside. Ten ensembles from across Victoria perform alongside their professional mentors, from a grand string orchestra opener to intimate quartet sets and a special finale from the mentor artists. To wind up a fantastic year of afternoon shows, Riverlinks Eastbank hosts Promac Productions’ acclaimed production Rejoice and be merry... It's Christmas '25, featuring funnyman Chris McKenna, star tenor Roy Best, singer-actress Alison Jones and pianist William Schmidt. Expect classic carols, contemporary favourites and plenty of laughs to get you into the Christmas spirit. For tickets and details, call the Riverlinks Box O ce on 03 5832 9511 or visit riverlinksvenues.com.au/whats-on.
music and Christmas entertainment across Shepparton and Mooroopna. Photo: Supplied
All I want for
THERE’S no taste quite like summer, and Finer Fruit brings it straight to your table. Bursting with freshness, flavour, and vibrant colour, nothing delights a festive table, family gathering, or thoughtful gift more than an abundance of seasonal fruit. Think glossy cherries, baskets of sweet nectarines, juicy peaches, refreshing melons, golden mangoes and a tempting array of berries, each one packed with natural goodness.
Perfect for the holidays and a refreshing antidote to the summer heat, Finer Fruit’s selection of berries and stone fruits is simply unmissable. From new-season peaches
and mouthwatering nectarines to succulent cherries, your festive spread will never look or taste better.
And don’t miss Santa Sam’s Christmas Hampers,
Downsizing?
festively presented and overflowing with freshness, flavour, and health. They’re the perfect way to celebrate Christmas or enjoy a wholesome alternative during the holidays.
Proudly 100 per cent locally owned and operated, Finer Fruit is committed to supporting local growers and businesses. Owned by Carmel and Don, with friendly service from Sam, the team is also excited to introduce Fresho.com.au, a new online ordering system that makes shopping simple and stress-free. Choose convenient delivery by Donny Jr. and Jordan or opt for quick and easy in-store pickup. All you have to do is order from the website or scan the QR Code in Finer Fruits ad in this edition of The Adviser.
Committed to bringing the community the freshest wholesale and retail fruit and vegetables, you simply can't do finer than Finer Fruits this festive season.
Blindsided in Greater Shepparton
By Aaron Cordy
THE Living Blind forum held at the Mooroopna Education and Activity Centre (MEAC) on Thursday, October 16, left the community seeing a genuine need for better services and advocacy for seniors suffering from low vision and blindness in the region.
The event, hosted by Dr Peter Eastaugh, with guest speaker, Optometrist and former board member of the Shepparton Blind Association, Graham Hill, allowed locals to share the challenges they faced every day while living with low vision and blindness.
Greater Shepparton had excellent local services for people with vision
impairment, but the withdrawal of Vision Australia (VA) services from Shepparton has left a significant void.
People with NDIS support find it easier to navigate this space, but for seniors attending the forum, it was clear there is no regular access to occupational therapy, mobility training, transport assistance, or basic living support.
Locals trying to access support were met with bureaucratic roadblocks, leaving individuals feeling isolated and unsupported. There was a lack of awareness and training around assistive technologies that could help improve the quality of life.
“The need is there. And it’s a growing need as we’re an aging population. There are things available now to help, but nobody knows about them. Some of it is high-tech stu , which is again a di culty because of the aging population,” said Graham Hill.
“To think that people who are visually impaired could have a much better life, but they're not given the access to it, is just a disgrace.
“Vision Australia, as it's called, is not providing the service. It's supposed to be. And people think they’re providing service, but it's not.
Despite scaling back local operations, VA still has a presence in the region.
“While Vision Australia’s operating model in Shepparton has changed in recent years, we continue to provide specialist blindness and low vision services in the region. Vision Australia has an orientation and mobility specialist based permanently in Shepparton. Typically, a Vision Australia occupational
therapist is also based permanently in Shepparton, however this role is currently on parental leave,” said VA Chief Client O cer Tania Hobson.
“Vision Australia has met with members of the blind and low vision community in Shepparton in the past to understand concerns they may have, and while we are proud of the work we do in the region, we are always open to feedback about how we can continue to meet the needs of our clients and their support networks.”
It is the shift in local services from VA that has left many local elderly people feeling vulnerable and unable to access the help they need. To continue advocating in this space, Dr Peter Eastaugh has formalised a petition signed by attendees, which was submitted to local, state, and federal government bodies. He has also asked for funding to hold regular meetings where people can find the help they need.
“I meet a lot of brick walls when I try to raise these issues. The bottom line is, as you can see, most of these people get very little support. I get the support because I buy it, a lot of these people can’t a ord it,” said Dr Eastaugh.
LIVING BLIND FORUM... A Living Blind forum was held at MEAC in October, hosted by Dr Peter (right) Eastaugh, with Optometrist and former board member of the Shepparton Blind Association, Graham Hill (left) as a guest speaker. The forum found that there is a lack of local services for elderly people who have low vision or blindness in the region. Photo: Aaron Cordy
Stage 7 selling – with limited sites left. STAGE 8 TO COMMENCE IN 2026
When you visit Kensington Gardens Shepparton, you’ll immediately notice the strong sense of community. With almost 80% of our 300 house lots already built, our houses are situated on wide streets, that help to give you the impression that you aren’t in a retirement village at all. In fact, you’ll find our lifestyle village feels just like a normal suburb anywhere in Australia – except that the lawns and gardens are maintained so much better! At Kensington Gardens Shepparton we’re often told “nothing else compares”. And when you visit us, you’ll see why.
Plenty of social activities & events to enjoy with friends & family
Enjoy the luxury clubhouse with cinema, bar, pool, gym, library, craft room, residents shed & more
Have the FREEDOM to travel knowing your home is cared for
Secure lockup RV / Caravan parking including washbay
Hassle-free, comfortable and secure living all year round
Multiple exit fee options available
Enjoy freedom of doing as much or as little as you like
Get in early to secure one of the remaining lots!
Too many assets for the Age Pension? You might still have options
Are you 67+ and missing out on the Age Pension because of your assets? You might be eligible for more than you think.
At MB+M, our OzPlan Financial Services team can help you explore strategies to restructure your finances, potentially making you eligible for the pension and other benefits.
How does Centrelink assess you for the Age Pension?
Centrelink applies two tests, income and assets. If your combined income and assets exceed certain limits, you may not qualify. But that’s not the end of the story.
What are my options if I am above the limits?
Our team has strategies that may be able to help you re-structure your assets, allowing you to be eligible for the pension.
What about Concession Cards?
If you qualify for the Age Pension, you automatically receive a Pensioner Concession Card from Services Australia. This card provides a range of benefits, including cheaper medicines, bulk-billed doctor visits, and discounts on utilities and transport in Victoria. Even if you don't qualify for the pension, you might still be eligible for other cards like the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card or Victorian Seniors Card.
This column contains general advice only and does not take into account the needs, objectives and situation of any individual. You should consult with a licensed financial advisor and consider obtaining personal financial advice prior to making any decisions about your assets.
SUPPORT TO STAY HOME... With the
Photo:
Older Australians embrace new Support at Home Program
OLDER Australians have embraced the Stay at Home Longer message that has been shouted from the roof tops by the Federal Government following the November 1 arrival of the new Aged Care Act and Support at Home program.
This is a new era in aged care and Warramunda Community Care Director Leah Konings is encouraging people to do their research and reach out to the experts.
“There are so many messages out there and it can sometimes be overwhelming. Our administration team and case managers have all the answers people need and we’d really love the chance to talk to people about their needs.
“People will be hearing about the new packages that are now available, but might not know the right steps to take,” she said.
From November 1 the Support at Home program replaces the Home Care Packages (HCP) program and the ShortTerm Restorative Care (STRC) program. It has three major goals:
• Keep people living at home longer
• Ensure people remain connected to their community
• Provide health and wellbeing support.
People will be hearing about the new packages that are now available, but might not know the right steps to take
LEAH KONINGS
Warramunda Community Care Director
“Without getting bogged down in all the details, I encourage people to reach out. While we are based at Kyabram our reach covers everywhere from Bendigo to Rochester, Echuca to Cobram and Shepparton to Seymour – and beyond.
“There have been some important changes to aged care services, so calling us to find out more is my recommendation. If you like what you hear the great thing is we can take it from there – delivering on two of our promises, ‘We Care’ and ‘we will do all the heavy lifting,” Mrs Konings said.
RUMBALARA
A COMMUNITY OF CARE & CULTURE
Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative is more than just a service provider, it is a vital part of the community, built on the strength, resilience, and traditions of First Nations people. For generations, Rumbalara has been a place of belonging, offering culturally safe support that uplifts and empowers our people. From health services to housing, justice programs and aged care, Rumbalara ensures that community members receive the support they need in a way that respects their culture and identity. And as of November 1st, we are also part of the new Support at Home Program which is a new aged care funding system.
At the heart of our aged care services is the Rumbalara Elders Facility, a place where our Elders receive high-quality care while remaining connected to culture, community and Country. The facility is more than just a home, it is a place where Elders can share their knowledge, be surrounded by familiar faces, and receive care that honours their individual stories and traditions.
Honouring Our Elders with Quality Care
Our dedicated team works every day to provide compassionate, culturally safe care. This includes personal and clinical support, as well as activities that promote wellbeing and connection. A key focus this year has been cultural care planning, ensuring that each Elder’s journey is respected and recorded in a way that reflects their identity and heritage.
Our kitchen staff play a crucial role in this care, preparing healthy meals with love and dedication every single day of the year. Even during major upgrades to our kitchen facilities, they ensured that Elders never went without, demonstrating the resilience and commitment that define Rumbalara.
Investing in the Future of Aged Care
We have secured funding for programs like the Elder Care Support Program and a First Nations-specific aged care assessment initiative, allowing us to better meet the needs of our community.
A Legacy of Strength and Longevity
The impact of Rumbalara’s care is evident in the lives of our Elders. While the government estimates First Nations life expectancy at 71 years, we proudly support community members who are thriving well beyond this. Among those in our care, eight Elders are over 90, 40 are over 80, and 109 are over 70 which is testament to the power of culturally safe and community-driven care.
Advocating for Change and Better Support
Despite our successes, we continue to navigate challenges. Government aged care standards often lack flexibility, making it difficult to provide the personalised, culturally safe care our Elders deserve. Funding limitations also impact the level of support available.
The new Support-At-Home Program started on 1st November. This change presents both challenges and opportunities to help community members stay at home as they age. It aims to improve access, secure more appropriate funding, and create a more responsive aged care system. Rumbalara will continue to advocate for a system that promotes self-determination, supports choice, and understands the unique needs of First Nations elders.
Join Us in Celebrating and Supporting Our Elders
Rumbalara is more than a service, it is a home, a family and a place where culture and care come together. To those who may not know about our work, we invite you to learn more, celebrate our Elders, and stand with us as we continue to provide the best possible care for our community.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aged Care Assessment Organisations
A small number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations are delivering culturally safe, trauma-aware aged care assessments. This is part of a pilot to better support Elders and older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to access aged care services that meet their needs and Rumbalara is proud to say that we are one of these three pilot sites!
Another successful Seniors Month reached a notable milestone
THE Elvis & Marilyn Concert sold out, marking a bright highlight of this year’s Seniors Month. Presented by Get Rhythm, the show captured the essence of iconic stars Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe, delivering a lineup that included Suspicious Minds, Viva Las Vegas, Hound Dog, I Wanna Be Loved by You, and Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.
Organisers anticipated welcoming 656 or more seniors and noted the attendance of the Mayor and Councillors in a show of strong community support. The event also featured an Information Sharing Zone, where attendees connected with local services and support providers.
Alongside the concert, the Greater Shepparton Seniors Festival delivered a full program of events across the month of October 2025. The Seniors Guide was distributed through The Shepparton Adviser and the Shepparton News, and hard copies were available at Council’s
Customer Service, the Riverlinks Box O ce, and the GV Library. It was also shared online through Access and Positive Ageing networks and Council’s website.
The 2025 festival theme Connect Create Celebrate encouraged older Victorians to
stay curious, stay active and explore new opportunities.
With more than 100 events held across Greater Shepparton there was something for everyone in the program.
COUNCIL has appointed nine new members to the Positive Ageing Advisory Committee for a two-year term, reinforcing its commitment to supporting elderly residents in Greater Shepparton and strengthening community engagement in positive ageing.
The newly formed committee was welcomed with enthusiasm as it prepares to work collaboratively on key projects and programs that support older residents in the community.
Purpose of the Positive Ageing Advisory Committee (PAAC)
The Positive Ageing Advisory Committee (PAAC) was established to provide a dedicated platform for representatives of the ageing community to discuss and advise Council on opportunities and challenges related
to positive ageing in Greater Shepparton. It plays an active role in shaping and formalising the Positive Ageing Strategy for 2023 -2027, which aligns with the Council Plan 2021 -2025, the Greater Shepparton Public Health Strategic Plan 2018 -2028, and other relevant aged care sector documents.
Key areas of focus include but are not limited to:
• The Positive Ageing Newsletter - Ageing Well
• Coordinating events for the Victorian Senior’s Festival
• Contributing to the recognition of World Elder Abuse
Awareness Day and other important observances.
The Action Plan guiding the PAAC will steer portfolio activities, with ongoing support from Council to ensure initiatives are e ectively implemented. As the new term unfolds, the committee is expected to bring fresh insight and collaboration to programs that promote active, engaged, and healthy ageing within the community.
For more information and feedback, please reach out to PositiveAgeing@shepparton.vic.gov.au
SENIORS MONTH SHINES... A sell-out Elvis & Marilyn Concert helped celebrate a vibrant October program of more than 100 events across Greater Shepparton. Photo: Supplied