Hello!
As the festive season approaches, it’s a wonderful time to reflect, reconnect with loved ones and enjoy the beauty of summer. In this edition, we share heartwarming stories and valuable advice from across our ECH community.
You’ll meet Dave, an ECH client who fondly recalls summers spent swimming at Brighton Beach and picking apricots from the family orchard. Ros Werner returns with insightful tips on communicating with loved ones when hearing loss becomes a challenge. Prue, director of Tree and Tribe, a partner to our retirement living team, offers her tips on downsizing.
We are also thankful for your contributions to our consumer forums and for other ideas and suggestions throughout the year. Many of you expressed interest in seeing the traditional Christmas gift, a year-long calendar, return. We listened and we hope you enjoy this year’s calendar. It features creativity and talent from across our ECH community.
We are privileged to share Franca’s story. A visionimpaired volunteer, Franca finds joy in ECH’s bus trips and encourages others to get involved. Volunteer Sue Wainwright also reflects on her dual role as a member of the ECH Consumer Advisory Board and the satisfaction that comes with giving back to the community.
You’ll also step inside our special celebration! On Monday, 11 November, ECH proudly marked its 60th Anniversary with a beautiful garden party at the Adelaide Botanic Gardens. Held on Remembrance Day, the event honoured ECH’s founding mission of supporting war widows and paid tribute to the legacy of our founder, Garnet Rundle.
We’ve included top tips on staying healthy, safe and active to help you get more out of the holiday season.
From all of us at ECH, we wish you a joyful festive season and a wonderful summer ahead!
Claire Scapinello
ECH Chief Executive
Want to discover more about what is happening in the ECH Community?
Get out more, and get more out of life with ECH. Visit the Community section of our website and search ECH events and programs near you: ech.asn.au/community-connect/
Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/ ECH.Inc.au and Instagram: instagram.com/ ask_ech to see the wonderful stories from our community.
Be the first to know the latest news, learn more about exciting group activities, bus trips and events near you. Don't forget we include all of this content on our website: ech.asn.au
On Monday, 11 November 2024, ECH marked its 60th Anniversary with a garden party at the Adelaide Botanic Gardens.
Guests arrived at the Rose Garden Pavilion and were welcomed with a glass of champagne. The celebratory mood was set, with attendees sharing smiles and stories, many reflecting on their longstanding connections to ECH. Among the guests were village residents, clients, community group members, dignataries and dedicated team members.
As high tea was served in the pavilion, the event transitioned into a relection of ECH’s purpose. Rosina Hislop, Chair of the ECH Board, and Claire Scapinello spoke about the organisation's roots, tracing back to 1964 when veteran Garnet Rundle recognised the urgent need for housing and community support for ageing citizens, particularly war widows. Rundle’s modest beginning, purchasing land in Prospect with just a fivepound deposit, laid the foundation for what would become one of South Australia’s most trusted organisations, dedicated to helping older people to get more out of life. They also looked to the future, excited by possibilities in medical and technological advancements.
After the formalities, guests made their way to the Bicentennial Conservatory for an exclusive viewing of ‘In Full Colour’, a striking exhibition by renowned artist Dale Chihuly. The vibrant glasswork seemed symbolic of ECH’s journey - constantly evolving and reshaping itself to meet the changing needs of the community, much like the art before them.
ECH Celebrates 60 Years
Scan to watch highlights of the event and hear more stories from the ECH community
Dave's Summer Memories
Apricots, Music and the Beach
Want to enjoy life by the beach like Dave? Search available units via region on the ECH website.
Growing up in the heart of Westbourne Park, Dave’s summers were idyllic. The youngest of five, lovingly dubbed “the last of the Mohicans” by his father, Dave recalls his childhood with fondness. “I had a labrador, and we’d spend entire days diving and swimming off Brighton Jetty.”
Music was an integral part of Dave’s upbringing. “Mum took me everywhere, singing ‘Danny Boy’ and all the old classics. That was entertainment back then - no TV, just music.” His sister continued the family’s musical legacy, performing for her local community until her passing. Dave has kept the melody alive with his own keyboard.
The family’s backyard orchard provided some of his most cherished memories. “I spent summer holidays cutting apricots, drying them on the lawn and helping Mum make the best dried apricot pies you’ve ever tasted, served with scalded cream.”
The positive influence of his father, a World War I veteran, prevailed over Dave’s childhood. “Dad was my hero. He came home with a military medal and did a lot of service with Westbourne Park Primary School and Mitcham Council, ending with a term as mayor. People used to come to him from all around the district for advice and friendship.”
Following in his father’s footsteps, Dave has led a life of contribution. He joined the Army, served in the police force and now actively participates in several clubs. But it’s the Brighton Surf Life Saving Club where he feels most at home. “I moved into the ECH Village at Brighton and by Friday, I was signed up and given a list of duties!” Dave laughs. He has been a dedicated volunteer at the club for 14 years, training bar staff and helping with the weekly banking.
Now 80, Dave’s secret to getting more out of life is simple: regular exercise, good friends and the company of a dog. Dave walks his neighbour’s dog, Sandy, along Brighton Beach every day. “Life here is perfect,” he says. Whether it’s the surf club, the restaurants of Jetty Road, the convenience of Brighton Road or the quick train ride into the city, Dave has found a community that continues to enrich his life.
Scan for more stories from the ECH community
Communication and hearing loss
By Ros Werner, ECH volunteer, writer and former workplace trainer in
communication, hearing loss and speech-reading skills.
How to improve your communication with a hearing-impaired person
• Face the person when speaking.
• Speak clearly but don’t over-exaggerate.
• Speak marginally slower than usual.
• Pause before and after keywords or phrases.
• Keep one idea to one sentence.
• Use common words – they’re easier to anticipate.
• Never assume the person understands you; beware of the smile and the nod as people with poor hearing can be good at pretending to hear.
• If giving instructions, ask the person to repeat them back to you, for confirmation.
• Rephrase your words if not understood.
• Avoid repeating the same points at increasing volumes.
• Above all, don’t shout!
• If necessary, write things down.
Please note that this information is of a general nature only. You are advised to seek a professional medical opinion should you or someone you know have concerns about hearing issues. Top Tip: Visit theambientmenu.com.au for local restaurants with quiet noise levels, great food and service.
How common is hearing loss?
• Hearing loss is experienced by 50% of people aged between 60-70 years, more than 70% of people over 70 years and more than 80% of people over 80 years.
• Although 10% of the population could wear a hearing aid, less than 3% do. A major reason for this is denial of hearing loss.
Concerned about your hearing?
• Did you know you can check your hearing online? Answer a few short questions and take a 5-10 minute audio test. You might be surprised at the results.
• Pensioners may qualify for free hearing aids through Hearing Australia.
Why not keep this article to share or cut out this box below and keep it with you?
I have a hearing loss
• Please face me when speaking
• Speak clearly, don’t over-exaggerate
• Check I understood what you said
• Write things down if need be
• Please don’t shout
Thank you
Meet Franca, ECH Volunteer & Travel PlanningExtraordinaire
Franca puts her excellent research skills to good use in her role as an ECH bus trip volunteer. Liasing with Trevor Martin, ECH Bus Trips Coordinator, she plans day trips to interesting local destinations, incorporating history, nature and delicious meals with great company.
As a vision-impaired ECH client, Franca draws on her personal experiences to curate trips that are both varied and accessible for all clients. She compiles destination ideas and plans the quarterly trip schedule with Trevor, making the most of what’s on offer in and around Adelaide.
Franca says, “I really love researching and planning, as well as going on the tours myself. I think everyone enjoys themselves. It's great to meet new people. There are some regulars and some new and everyone's just made to feel welcome.”
Franca keeps abreast of the latest destinations and events by researching online and being on many mailing lists.
The bus trips celebrate the best of the season, such as visiting cherry farms or cruising the Torrens on Popeye during spring, and they often include time to chat over morning tea and lunch.
Find out more about upcoming bus trips here: ech.asn.au/community-hub/bus-trips/
Become a bus trip volunteer and join Franca in helping people to get more out of life. ECH is currently looking for volunteer bus drivers and bus assistant helpers. Contact us at volunteering@ech.asn.au or call 1300 275 324 to register your interest.
Your VoiceMatters
At ECH, we appreciate what you have to say and enjoy listening to you, whether we meet with you in person, read your comments online, or collect your thoughts via one of our research surveys. We also listen through several dedicated platforms, including the Consumer Advisory Body, Quality Improvement Committee, and Resident Advisory Group. Through these forums, consumers representing our community share their ideas and feedback. All of this helps us shape the quality of the accommodation and services we provide.
The Consumer Advisory Body (CAB) comprises up to 20 members representing clients, carers, and their families. The body meets six times a year to discuss ideas for continuous improvement based on their lived experience. This year, they provided feedback on several projects, including a new communication and phone system and scheduling improvements. Their input helped drive a recent decrease in call wait times, a positive change acknowledged by ECH. One member, Sue Wainwright, also participates in ECH’s Diversity Reference Group.
Chair of the CAB, Helen Walker, former Director of General Nursing at Cabrini Health and Deputy Presiding Officer of South Australia’s Voluntary Assisted Dying Review Board, emphasises, “Any forum that enables the consumer voice is a very good one and a very important one.”
Darryl Cotter, ECH’s Head of Home and Community Services and Chair of the Quality Improvement Committee, shares this perspective. He says, “It’s extremely worthwhile having people who receive our services participate in discussions because they offer valuable ideas based on their own experiences.”
The Quality Improvement Committee includes two consumer representatives and several ECH clinicians. It meets to discuss matters focused on excellence in clinical practices, risk assessment, and incident evaluation to inform continual improvements in our services.
The Resident Advisory Group usually includes 21 residents as well as ECH team members. It meets to represent the voices of people living in our retirement communities. Deanne Bock, an ECH resident and group member, shares, “I wanted to understand how things operate and to provide input on how changes impact residents.”
Fellow resident and group member, Carmel Fuller, adds, “My role allows me to provide feedback from other residents in my village, and I'm proud that our collective input has made the ECH app more user-friendly for everyone.”
Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to speak with us this year. Your ideas and shared experiences have been invaluable.
Volunteering Sue’s Passion for and Discovery
Sue Wainwright’s life has been defined by a commitment to helping others, shaped by her upbringing. From a young age, Sue was immersed in a culture of giving back, “We did everything for the church," she explains. "I grew up being sent to wash the dishes for the lady next door or sweep for the nuns. It’s part of my DNA."
This strong sense of duty has been a guiding force throughout Sue’s life, including her impactful role on the ECH Consumer Advisory Body (CAB). Her journey with ECH began through their wellness program, eventually leading to her serving on the board.
As a CAB member, Sue provides valuable feedback and ensures that ECH residents, clients and their loved ones have a voice in tailoring services.
"What I really love about it is the learning," she says. "We meet all the managers from different areas and hear about what they're doing. The knowledge you gain and the opportunity for advocacy is fantastic."
Sue’s volunteer work extends to involvement with St. Vincent de Paul Society and her weekly shifts at the Capri Theatre.
Sue’s curiosity and passion for learning recently led her to explore her heritage, uncovering a fascinating aspect of her family history. After noticing intriguing details in old family photos, she began a journey with the South Australian Museum. To her surprise, she discovered a connection to the Aboriginal community.
"I was always intrigued by my dad’s family. Then I learned through research and a distant relative that we have Aboriginal ancestry," she explains. This revelation has sparked further investigation, and Sue is now delving deeper into her heritage with the museum's help.
In every aspect of her life, Sue’s dedication to helping others shines through. "I feel like you should use your life for the betterment of others.”
Discover the many benefits of Tai Chi!
Every Tuesday morning, a dedicated group descends upon the ECH Henley Beach
Wellness Centre to limber up for Tai Chi with their beloved instructor, Li.
Tai Chi combines breathing, posture, movement and meditation to promote a sense of wellbeing while also improving coordination, balance and awareness of weight transference.
Li is an ECH Physiotherapy Assistant in the first year of her physiotherapy degree. She explains that Tai Chi is not like traditional exercise:
“You don't need equipment and you don't necessarily have to be in great condition. Everybody can do Tai Chi, no matter who you are, if you can stand, walk or if you are in a wheelchair, even lying on a bed, we still encourage people to do some gentle stretches."
For the ladies in the class, Tai Chi is one of the highlights of each week. Helena explains, “I try never to miss it because it’s just so wonderful.”
For fellow participant, Shirley, the class has a special impact, “There’s an energy … and the energy that we get when we're all together doing it, it's different to when you're doing it by yourself. You feel inner peace - for the body and the mind.”
Li explains the benefits, “This age group focuses on maintaining their health, improving balance and strength, and, most importantly, social interaction. They’ve become very close. After each session, they often grab
coffee together and they look out for one another. One client, going through a tough time, couldn’t attend, and the whole group reached out, offering support and asking if she needed help. "This group is very supportive of each other.”
Discover the benefits of Tai Chi for yourself. Classes are available at Henley Beach, Morphett Vale and Modbury, Encore, and are open to all abilities.
Scan to view ECH Group Program
Timetables
5 Reasons to Practise Tai Chi
1. Improves balance and coordination
Helps maintain stability and prevent falls.
2. Boosts mental wellbeing
Promotes inner peace through mindfulness and relaxation.
3. Accessible to all Suitable for all fitness levels, including those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility.
4. Enhances social connections
Encourages friendships and support within the group.
5. No equipment needed Easy to practice anywhere, anytime.
The
Honour to Represent Share
ECH Senior Podiatrist Amy Bryans will represent Australia at the 2024 World Cup in Auckland, having been selected for the national women’s masters hockey team (age 45-49). A dedicated athlete, Amy has represented South Australia five times and continues to excel in the sport she loves. "I’m here because my weapon is my speed and fitness.”
Amy’s journey with hockey began after a junior career in badminton. Driven by a love for competition and the team aspect of hockey, she has risen through the ranks to the premier level. "If I want to do something, I want to do it well," Amy says, explaining her competitive nature.
your story about what you’ve represented
We want to hear your story of representation across sports, hobbies, community and more.
Amy’s dedication extends to her role at the ECH Wellness Centre in Henley Beach, where she has been a valued team member since 2007, with breaks to raise her children and a brief stint in Canberra. Over the years, she’s built lasting connections with her podiatry clients. "I’ve seen many of my clients for so long – they’ve known me through having kids. It’s rewarding to brighten someone’s day and know they leave feeling better than when they arrived.”
ECH is proud to sponsor Amy’s leave as she competes on the world stage, as part of their commitment to helping team members achieve personal and professional fulfilment. "It's incredible. I never thought I’d be able to represent Australia and I’m so grateful to Claire Scapinello and the ECH team for their generous support,” said Amy.
Amy encourages the ECH community to keep moving, "It's all about getting more out of life, so you can be your best self for as long as possible."
Tips for Downsizing with Prue of Tree and Tribe
Moving from a large family home to a smaller retirement living space can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it can also be liberating. Prue, director of Tree and Tribe, works closely with the ECH team to style homes for sale. She shares her top tips for making downsizing easier.
Start with the Right Mindset
Downsizing can feel daunting, especially when faced with years of accumulated belongings. "The first thing we always talk about is mindset," says Prue. "You have to approach the process positively, and sometimes that means chatting with family or friends for support."
Break it Down
Prue recommends starting small to avoid becoming overwhelmed. "Begin with one room or even just one section, like your study or a wardrobe," she suggests. You’re not going to downsize in a day."
Sorting items into three categories – keep, donate, or discard – can help with decision-making. “Get some colourful post-it notes and label each pile to keep yourself organised,” Prue adds.
Maximise Storage in Your New Home
Select furniture that offers storage or a dual purpose. “Look for furniture that has built-in storage, like a TV cabinet with drawers or a coffee table with storage space,” advises Prue. A bench at the end of the bed, which can store blankets or shoes, is another clever solution for small spaces.
Be Ruthless, But Thoughtful
Not everything from your family home will fit in your new space. Prue emphasises the importance of being selective: “If it doesn’t bring you joy or fit your new lifestyle, it might be time to let it go.”
Downsizing is a journey, but with these practical steps, you can create a beautiful, functional space in your new home while still celebrating the pieces that matter most.
Stay Safe This Summer: Heat and
Bushfire Advice
As summer approaches, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks posed by extreme heat. These include risks to your wellbeing, as well as the danger of bushfires. Read on to learn some helpful tips and contacts to stay prepared during the warmer months to ensure you can enjoy the season safely.
Be Bushfire Smart
If you live in, visit, or travel through bushfire-prone areas, make sure you stay informed about the Fire Danger Rating each day. You can check updates on the CFS website at cfs.sa.gov.au or by listening to ABC Adelaide.
In case of a Catastrophic Fire Danger Rating, ECH will contact you to reschedule any services to another day when conditions are safer.
Make sure you have a bushfire plan in place and follow direction from local authorities. If you're unsure, call the CFS Information Hotline at 1800 362 361 for further guidance.
Safety During Heatwaves
Heatwaves can pose a significant risk, particularly for those with medical conditions. It is important to stay hydrated and avoid excessive time outdoors during peak heat. If extreme temperatures are forecast, ECH may reschedule your services and will contact you in advance if changes are necessary.
The Telecross REDi service by the Australian Red Cross offers free daily check-in calls during heatwaves for people who may be vulnerable or isolated. You can register by calling 1800 188 071.
Know Where to Get Health Advice
Dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke can be serious, especially during summer. If you're feeling unwell and can't reach your regular GP, you can call Healthdirect at 1800 022 222 for 24/7 health advice.
Power Outages
In the event of power outages during heatwaves, visit sapowernetworks.com.au/ outages or call 13 13 66 for updates. You can sign up for SMS alerts notifying you of any outages in your area. During power cuts, especially on very hot days, it’s crucial to stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities. If you need to seek airconditioned relief, local libraries or shopping centres are great options.
Stay Active and Engaged
Despite the heat, summer is a wonderful time to enjoy outdoor activities. Just remember to take breaks, hydrate, and protect yourself from the sun. ECH recommends joining community activities like bocce and craft workshops to stay connected and active during the summer months.
Remember To:
• Keep your home cool by using fans or air conditioning.
• Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day.
• Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty.
• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
By taking these precautions, you can enjoy a safe and healthy summer.
If you have any concerns or need to reschedule ECH services during extreme weather, contact 1300 275 324.
Summer Sunshine:
Join Your ECH
Community Garden!
Summer is the perfect time to dive into the joys of gardening with your ECH community garden at your retirement village. As the days grow warmer and longer, it’s an ideal season for everyone to get involved, no matter your gardening experience or physical abilities.
Gardening offers a multitude of benefits. It encourages physical activity, helping to improve mobility, strength and flexibility, while also enhancing mental wellbeing. Being outdoors in the fresh air and sunshine can lift your spirits and reduce stress, making summer gardening a delightful way to nurture both body and mind.
Getting involved in a community garden provides a wonderful opportunity to socialise and form connections with fellow residents. Whether you’re planting summer vegetables, tending to blooming flowers, or simply enjoying the beauty of the garden, you’ll find joy in shared experiences and the camaraderie that develops.
meet dean
ECH Social and Therapeutic Horticulturist
Born with a green thumb and a lifelong fondness for gardening, ECH Social and Therapeutic Horticulturist Dean was destined to become a horticulturist. He works to assist clients and residents with their gardening and outdoor needs while incorporating the therapeutic benefits.
One of the best features of your community garden is its adaptability. Activities can be tailored to suit individual abilities, ensuring everyone can participate comfortably. Whether you enjoy light tasks like watering and pruning or want to take on more hands-on roles like planting and harvesting, there’s something for everyone. For those with mobility concerns, raised beds and seating areas make gardening accessible and enjoyable.
This summer, embrace the warmth and vitality of the season by joining your ECH community garden. Not only will you nurture plants, but you’ll also grow friendships and a sense of purpose. Come join us to get more out of life!
'Tis the Season to be Wary
As the Festive Season is upon us, many are choosing the convenience of shopping online for food and gifts, and paying for a lot of things in a short period of time. Unfortunately there are some Grinches out there, looking to ruin the holiday season! Here’s some suggestions for how you can better protect yourself online…
What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
Multi-factor authentication, or MFA, is an extra layer of security that helps protect your online accounts. Normally, when you log into a website or app, you enter your username and password. With MFA, you add two or more steps after entering your password to make sure only you can access your account.
Why is Multi-Factor Authentication Important?
Passwords can be guessed or stolen, which might allow strangers to access your personal information. MFA adds extra steps, making it harder for anyone who isn't you to get into your accounts, even if they know your password. This makes your online activities, like banking, shopping or emailing, much safer.
As online shopping and digital transactions tend to surge this time of year, so too does the risk
of cybercrime. Implementing MFA is crucial to safeguard your sensitive information during this busy time of year.
How Does Multi-Factor Authentication Work?
With MFA, after you enter your password, you’re asked for a second form of identification.
Step 1: You start by entering your username and password, like you normally would.
Step 2: After that, the system will ask for a second piece of information to confirm your identity.
Types of Secondary Information
• A code sent to your mobile phone via text message.
• An email with a special code.
• A fingerprint scan on your smartphone or tablet.
• Using an Authenticator app that generates a code.
meet sharon ECH Head of Digital Workplace Services
With a wealth of 25 years experience in the fields of education, aged care, and disability, Sharon possesses extensive knowledge in Information and Communication Technologies. Sharon is deeply passionate about harnessing the power of technology for the betterment of our community.
You only get the second piece of information, so without it, no one else can log into your accounts.
Where Can You Use
Multi-Factor Authentication?
Many websites and apps now offer MFA, including:
Online Banking: To protect your financial information.
Email Accounts: To keep your personal communications safe. Social Media: To prevent hackers from accessing your profile.
Shopping Websites: To safeguard your payment details. By using MFA, you're adding a little more time to the login process but gaining a lot more security in return - especially important as we approach the festive season!
Making Healthy Choices during the Festive Season
Many of us face a Yuletide conundrum: avoiding overindulgence when faced with lashings of gravy-anointed roast meat and vegetables, platters groaning under the weight of cheese and crackers, fresh seafood and luscious sweets. Let’s take a look at how you can enjoy your favourite festive fare while keeping your health on track.
Low Glycemic Index (GI) Foods
Low-GI foods help maintain steady blood sugar levels. Easy swaps at the Christmas table can make a difference: choose grainy bread, leafy salads that include legumes, and non-starchy steamed vegetables.
Safe Serving Temperatures
With hot weather, be mindful of food safety. To prevent foodborne illnesses, ensure hot foods are served above 60°C and cold foods below 5°C. If you’re hosting, keep food covered and serve it in smaller portions to minimise time out of temperature control.
Hydration is Key
Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily and enjoy fruits and vegetables with a high water content. Infuse water with strawberries, blueberries, orange slices and mint leaves to make your own tasty and refreshing beverage.
Portion Control
Practising portion control allows you to enjoy your favourite foods without overdoing it. Use smaller plates to help manage your servings and avoid overeating.
Choose Wisely
Limit processed foods that are high in unhealthy fats, sodium and sugar. Instead, bring healthy options to celebrations, such as a platter of hummus, unsalted nuts, dark chocolate, and fresh fruit and veggie sticks.
Easy Does It
If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Opt for lowercalorie options and alternate with water to stay hydrated. The quality of non-alcoholic beer and wine has significantly improved, so ask your local bottle shop attendant for recommendations.
meet deepti Accredited Practising Dietician & Accredited Nutritionist
Committed to evidencebased practice, Deepti assists clients in achieving realistic health goals, working effectively with diverse cultural backgrounds. She is passionate about optimising health outcomes and specialises in personalised dietetic interventions and counselling.
Stay Active
Enjoy light exercises or walks after meals to boost your energy, aid digestion and lower your blood sugar levels.
White Christmas Rocky Road
What You'll Need
1 1/2 cups
1 cup (90g) desiccated
Rice Bubbles
100g raspberry lollies, halved
50g unsalted pistachios
160g almonds, roasted, halved
coconut
1 tsp vanilla extract
500g white chocolate melts
Watch & Make
Scan to watch how to make this recipe
How To Make
1
Line a 27.5cm x 17.5cm (base) baking pan with baking paper.
4 Pour mixture into the prepared pan, pressing down with a large metal spoon.
2 Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (don't let bowl touch the water).
5 Refrigerate for 4 hours or until set.
Tips
Storage Instructions
You can store this recipe for up to two months. For optimal freshness, keep your White Christmas Rocky Road in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, as it can cause the fat and sugar molecules to separate, resulting in a grainy and greasy appearance.
Gift Idea
This treat makes a delightful gift! Simply place it in a cellophane bag and tie it with a festive ribbon. You can find cellophane bags at Woolworths, Kmart, The Reject Shop, Cheap as Chips, and Spotlight.
3 Fold in the remaining ingredients.
6
Turn slice onto a chopping board. Using a knife that has been dipped in hot water and dried, cut into squares. Serve.
Come and Try Walking Basketball 2025
Thursday 30 January 2025, 10 – 11am (arrive 9:45am for check-in), Wayville Sports Centre, 142 Rose Tce, Wayville.
Looking for a fresh idea to keep active in the New Year? Join Basketball South Australia and ECH for a fun, social and FREE game of WALKING basketball! Easy to play, normal basketball rules apply, mixed teams, indoors and all ability levels welcome. Bring comfortable clothes / shoes and a drink bottle. Refreshments tea / coffee and biscuits available after the game. FREE Parking.
Grandfriends – Intergenerational Play
Current Locations: Bowden, Modbury, Newton, Unley, Victor Harbor and West Lakes.
Coming in 2025: New locations in southern suburbs
Experience the joy of connecting with young minds! 'Grandfriends' participate with children in activities at Green Leaves, SA Montessori and Investigator College early learning centres. Share your passions like clay sculpting, construction, and literacy while enjoying the creativity and curiosity of children. As one participant shares: "This brings me joy. It makes me laugh. It's the highlight of my week, playing here."
Bus Trips
Join us for exciting journeys throughout the year! Regular trips to various destinations, with comfortable transport and great company.
MORE to do
Scan to see the ECH Community Events calendar
For more information on our Community Events and to register, email communityengagement@ech.asn.au
MARCH
AFL Footy Tipping 2025
FREE to join for all ECH clients and residents. Begins March 2025.
Join our first-ever AFL footy tipping competition! Create your account at tipping.afl.com.au before the season starts. Keep an eye out on ECH socials for further instructions on how to join the ECH competition. Prizes for top three winners plus surprise rewards throughout the season. Watch this space! Note: please use your real name when registering to be eligible for prizes.
New Lunch Clubs coming in 2025
We’re thrilled to see so much enthusiasm to join the Western, Northern, and Southern Lunch Clubs, which have been a huge success! We’re excited to be introducing additional events within these areas beginning in 2025. This way, we can keep the groups to an ideal size for meaningful, social connections.
To register your interest please contact communityengagement@ech.asn.au
Bruce and the Young at Heart Walking Group
Bruce, a dedicated ECH Victor Harbor community member, organises the Young at Heart walking group. The group meets twice weekly and takes to picturesque trails between Goolwa and Myponga. “We like to mix it up with new walking spots. It keeps things fresh and gives us all something to look forward to,” said Bruce.
The group is affiliated with the Heart Foundation and promotes fitness, friendship and a shared appreciation for the outdoors. With a regular group of 14 walkers and 40 members overall, there is a tempo to suit everyone, “Everybody just walks at their own pace and we meet up at the end because we tend to go out and back on the same path” explained Bruce.
Each walk concludes at a local cafe, "The coffee at the end is vitally important, that's where everybody goes to chat."
Bruce is an avid and experienced walker, having undertaken a five-day trail in Chile and an eventful two-week trek through the South Island of New Zealand. Closer to home, Bruce has recently returned from a six-day walking tour of the northern Heysen Trail and the Flinders Ranges.
Bruce enjoys the ECH Strength for Life and circuit classes. " They're really good fun down here with the ladies, but we’d love to have more men join in.”
Get more out of life!
Bruce recommends joining an ECH walking group to stay active, meet new people, and improve your heart health, all while being part of Australia’s largest community-based walking network, coordinated with the Heart Foundation and available across metropolitan Adelaide and Victor Harbor.
Scan to discover the joy of ECH Walking Groups
The Year that was
This year we have continued partnering with a number of leading South Australian organisations including the State Theatre Company of South Australia, Adelaide Festival, FEAST, COTA SA, SANFL and the Adelaide Botanical Gardens. These partnerships enable us to create opportunities for our community to connect with one another through music, horticulture, theatre, dance and sport. Some of the highlights from this year include:
Walking Footy
In 2024, the partnership between the SANFL and ECH continued, with the Walking Footy season taking place between May and November. In addition to our regular games at Unley Oval on Wednesday mornings, teams played an exhibition match at the Woodville-West Torrens Football Club at halftime during the SANFL men's regular match. We appreciate the enthusiasm and support of our foundational members of the game for showcasing this great sport to others and look forward to this continuing in the 2025 season.
Time Machine
In partnership with the iconic Adelaide Festival, our community were treated to a thrilling performance of dance, physics, and extreme action in "Time Machine”. Produced by Arts Projects Australia, the show captivated audiences with its exhilarating exploration of movement and force.
Feast Festival
ECH was a proud sponsor of the FEAST Festival and a participant at Picnic in the Park, with passionate support from our LBGTQI+ Connect team. At ECH we champion diversity every day, creating welcoming communities where everyone can thrive.
Rose Garden
In April, clients, residents, and ECH team members came together to enjoy the stunning Adelaide Botanic Gardens, exploring its rich biodiversity and world-renowned collection of roses. During the autumn rose show, attendees heard from Senior Horticultural Curator Andrew Hart, followed by a walk through the International Rose Garden. It was a beautiful opportunity to enjoy nature, foster connections, and celebrate the ongoing partnership between ECH and the Botanic Gardens.
Dr Libby WeaverLive Longer Stronger
Daylight Express
In an unforgettable performance, Grammy Award-winning contralto Meredith Arwady treated ECH clients to the vibrant "Daylight Express." Accompanied by pianist Michael Ierace, Meredith's powerful vocals brought to life a diverse program with a charming avian theme. The concert was a celebration of life, creativity, and the joy of music, taking audiences on a journey from Adelaide’s own Elder Hall.
Our community were invited to an inspiring presentation by Dr Libby Weaver, a leading biochemist. She shared knowledge based on scientific research, about nutrition guidance and lifestyle practices, aimed at helping people to regain their energy and vitality.
Scan to view the 2025 event calendar
Win!
Once you have found all the words in the word search, use all the remaining letters in the order they appear to discover the secret sentence. Send this sentence to keepconnected@ech.asn.au or call 1300 275 324 by 31/12/24 and two winners will be drawn at random, each win a $50 EFTPOS gift card.
Winners will be announced in the next issue. Last issue's winners were Graham Donald and Irene Jacques.
Spot the 10 Differences
Towel colour, headlight colour, umbrella colours, clouds, boat, mountain, no suitcase on camper, picnic basket strap colour, foreground rock, missing leaves, coconuts
Pass Me On
At ECH, we are committed to reducing our ecological footprint. Once you've enjoyed this magazine, please pass it on to a friend, family member, or even your local café to extend its
Afterward,