connected keep
Hello!
It is my privilege as the recently appointed Interim Chief Executive to present this Winter 2025 edition of Keep Connected. Some of you may remember me from my time as Interim Chief Executive in 2022, and I am really pleased to be back working with the ECH community.
This edition highlights the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards taking effect on 1 July 2025. These standards cover vital areas including dementia care, diversity, governance, and clinical care. We embrace these standards as they align with our commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
For those clients receiving home care, 1 July 2025 also marks the launch of Support at Home. Support at Home is a new program introduced by the Australian Government, replacing the current Home Care Packages Program and Short-Term Restorative Care Programme.
At ECH we have been working hard behind the scenes in getting ready for these changes. ECH Care Partners are working closely with impacted clients to ensure a smooth transition. If you are yet to hear from your Care Partner, do not worry, as we will be in touch soon. If you do have any questions about your home care, we encourage you to contact your ECH Care Partner to discuss. Or for more information, please visit the Support at Home page on our website: ech.asn.au/support-at-home.
I continue to remain inspired by the resilience and connection within our ECH community. We hope this edition sparks inspiration, offers support, and reminds you of the strength we find in one another. Here's to discovering new possibilities and getting MORE out of life.
Mark Watson
ECH Interim Chief Executive
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ECH Community members enjoyed a delightful morning of artistic expression at the Relax and Create free art workshop held on 8 April at the Minor Works Building Community Centre.
The event, part of ECH's ongoing partnership with State Theatre Company South Australia, brought together participants of all skill levels for a hands-on exploration of water-based painting techniques.
Led by State Theatre's accomplished scenic artist Sandra Anderson, whose work has graced productions like the Dictionary of Lost Words, attendees were guided through the processes of layering, blending, and creating unique effects. Anderson provided beautiful design templates that inspired participants while allowing room for personal creativity.
"It was wonderful to see everyone so engaged and proud of their creations," remarked Lara Sluczanowski, ECH Senior Marketing Coordinator. "The workshop created a warm atmosphere where people could connect through art."
The event followed a successful session held the previous day with ECH Day Program participants at Henley Beach. “They were so engaged and committed to finishing their beautiful works of art”, said Michelle Stevens, Social Programs Team Lead. “We are appreciative of the State Theatre for providing this experience to our participants. Everyone had a great time”.
Both workshops featured a delicious morning tea and all necessary art supplies, creating a complete experience where creativity and connection flourished. This event exemplifies how ECH's partnership with State Theatre brings unique artistic opportunities to our community.
Expression Artist Shines
at ECH Community Art Workshop
When Sandie began working as a Home Support Team Member for ECH, she never imagined that one of her clients, Judith, had played such a pivotal role in her past. It wasn’t until nearly 18 months after they first met, that an old photograph revealed an astonishing connection: Judith had been Sandie’s primary school teacher more than three decades ago.
Sandie vividly recalls the moment of realisation. “Judith showed me a photo of her and her children on horses in front of stables. I recognised the background immediately. That’s when it hit me! Judith was my teacher in Year Three and Year Four, back in 1990 and 1991!”
For Judith, the discovery was equally surprising. “I never really think of children as growing up,” she says with a chuckle. “But here we are, and it’s just wonderful to reconnect.”
Judith spent years teaching at schools across Adelaide and the surrounding areas, including Greenock Primary School, where she taught Sandie. Before her teaching career, she trained as a nurse in South Australia and Tasmania and worked in a child welfare clinic. She later earned a Bachelor of Education and transitioned to teaching.
Sandie remembers Judith as “always gentle and supportive.” Judith recalls Sandie as a bright and imaginative student. “I keep teasing her by pretending she was naughty, but she was actually a lovely student … she tries to tell me she wasn’t creative, but I remember her being very imaginative!”
Sandie laughs, recalling a childhood newspaper clipping. “Whether Judith submitted it to the newspaper or not, I’m not sure, but I do remember her encouraging us to write and share our stories.”
Their connection extended beyond school. After primary school, Sandie’s family moved to Kapunda and discovered Judith lived nearby. “I remember knocking on Judith’s door and saying, ‘Hi, Mrs. Clothier! Do you remember me?’”
Judith fondly recalls the stone house where she raised her family. “It was a wonderful home,” she says. “We had horses, pigs and a lovely neighbour who helped us with the garden.”
Now, as Judith’s carer, Sandie says, “Judith has been more engaged, more talkative. It’s been great for her social and mental well-being.”
“It’s lovely to see Sandie again after all these years,” Judith says. “Life has come full circle in a very special way.”
Rediscover your strength and confidence with fitness and therapeutic programs designed to keep you independent and energised. Scan below to learn more.
ech.asn.au
Just
Give it a Go!
Getting back on track with John.
John’s journey to recovery following multiple surgeries has been nothing short of inspiring. After years of caring for his late wife, who suffered from various health challenges, John was left with his own set of health concerns, including debilitating knee pain. When he made the decision to address his knee issues, he reached out to ECH for support.
John’s first knee replacement surgery was in November 2023, followed by a second one in October 2024, and in between, he underwent hernia repair surgery. Despite the physical setbacks, John’s determination and strength, both mentally and physically, have helped him not only recover but come back stronger than before.
With the guidance of his physiotherapist, Emily, at the ECH Wellness Centre at Encore (Modbury), John quickly transitioned from one-on-one rehabilitation to the weekly Conditioning Groups, where he is now thriving. His dedication to his rehab exercises, including leg presses and squats, has led him to surpass his pre-surgery strength levels. He now pushes 52kg on the leg press machine with ease and no discomfort.
Emily admires John’s drive: “One of the best things about John, I've never met anyone like him. He's very motivated, really, really motivated, determined. He will get there. He'll put his mind to it and he'll get there."
John’s progress helps him to get more out of life. Outside of his rehabilitation, he enjoys racing pigeons. His passion for pigeons began when he was a child, and despite the challenges of ageing and surgery, John continues to care for and race his pigeons. He has a collection of several hundred pigeons in his backyard, which requires daily upkeep and care. This hobby has kept him engaged and motivated, giving him something to look forward to each day. His dedication to the pigeons has kept
him physically active, as he spends hours feeding, cleaning and breeding them.
"Keeping up with my pigeons is a huge part of my day. It’s fulfilling, and it’s what keeps me going," says John. "I’ve had to give up going to the football because of the difficulty with stairs, but my pigeons are always there to keep me busy."
While John’s physical health has improved significantly, it’s the mental and social aspects of recovery that have truly helped him. His experience at ECH has not only helped him regain mobility and strength but has also allowed him to form meaningful connections with others in the group. "I enjoy it. The group down here at Encore is fantastic. I love coming here."
Today, John continues to attend two fitness classes a week at ECH, where he is consistently challenged and supported.
John’s advice to others going through similar recovery journeys is simple: “If you push yourself, you never know what you can achieve. Even if you feel nervous or uncertain, just give it a go. You’ll surprise yourself.”
Gordon’s 39-Year Journey with ECH
In April, Gordon celebrated 39 years at Howard Court Village, making him the longest-standing resident in an ECH village. He and his late wife, Stella, made the move from their Meningie farm in 1986 after registering a decade earlier. “We put our names down, got a call, had a look and said, ‘No need to wait, we’ll take it!’” Gordon recalls. “It's a lovely location, beautiful garden too, and close to the shops.”
Gordon has seen many changes in the village, from new garages to shifts in the resident community, but the friendly atmosphere has remained. “Lovely people, that’s what’s kept me here,” he says.
A passionate Australian Rules football supporter, Gordon has been a life member and former president of the Meningie Football Club and the River Murray Football League.
ECH’s services have helped Gordon maintain his independence. He has a Home Care Package and enjoys outings every fortnight. “My drivers are thorough gentlemen; they are beautiful men who look after me so well. We go to the beach or the Hills, finish with coffee - it’s the best,” he says. He’s also built a strong bond with ECH Resident Liaison Officer, Shylie Jeffrey. “I wouldn’t be without her.”
When asked what advice he’d give to someone considering an ECH village, Gordon doesn’t hesitate: “Listen to my old words! Certainly do it. The service is wonderful and it’s great living, knowing that ECH is behind you.”
Meet your Resident Liaison Officer Team
Supporting Independence and Connection
Resident Liaison Officers (RLOs) play a vital role in ECH villages, ensuring residents feel supported, connected and empowered to maintain their independence. Whether offering guidance on services, facilitating social interactions or lending an ear, RLOs are dedicated to getting more out of life for all residents.
Julie Roberts, Team Leader, describes the role as both challenging and deeply rewarding. “When I started doing this role, I felt like it was my calling,” she shares. “You meet incredible people, and being able to make a real difference in their lives is what drives us.”
RLOs assist residents in navigating support services such as My Aged Care, organising mobility aids, arranging cleaning and personal care, and addressing concerns about changing needs. They also help new residents settle into village life, offering guidance and fostering a welcoming community.
Beyond practical assistance, RLOs provide social connection through initiatives like Connection Corners and home visits. They are often the first to notice when a resident’s needs change, whether it’s mobility challenges, social isolation or health concerns. “Residents don’t always realise they need help,” Julie explains. “We observe, listen and gently guide them towards the right support.”
Despite the challenges the positive impact of an RLO is undeniable.
To connect with an RLO, residents can call 8159 4700 or email residentliaison@ech.asn.au.
“The most challenging situations are often the most rewarding,” Julie reflects. “Helping someone regain their independence or feel less alone - that’s why we do what we do.”
No matter the need, ECH RLOs are here to support residents every step of the way.
Shylie Jeffrey North Region
David Smith Inner South Region
Brenton Pope Central Region
Adrian Johnson Eastern Region
Liz Greenham Western Region
Julie Roberts Team Leader
Lorraine Wilkin Outer South and Hills Region
Striking the Right Chord
The Incredible Story of Rob Snider’s Return to Music
Music has always been at the heart of Rob Snider’s life. From picking up a banjo as a boy to building guitars and recording songs today, Rob’s journey through music has been shaped by passion, persistence and resilience.
Rob's love of music began at 14 when his aunt gave him a banjo. After hearing a guitarist perform The Shadows, he was inspired to buy a cheap guitar and enrol at Adelaide College of Music. Soon after, he joined his first band, The Bar Tones, a group of local musicians from Thebarton. “We played at places like the Bridgeway Hotel, Rosewater Hotel and the Italian Club in the city,” he recalls. Their setlists included Elvis, The Beatles, Dire Straits and dinner dance favourites.
Later, while working as a truck driver and living in the Riverland, Rob re-entered the music scene at the Paringa Orange Festival. When his wife told a
country band he could play, they invited him on stage. That led to nine years with The Silhouettes, a Shadows-inspired band with a 400-song repertoire, performing regularly at the Berri Hotel. Rob was also a founding committee member of the Riverland Country Music Festival in Barmera, which still runs each June.
But everything changed in 2006. Rob suffered four strokes and two heart attacks, which robbed him of his ability to play guitar. “I couldn’t read chord charts or control my hands,” he says. “So I stopped playing altogether.”
For the next 15 years, music fell by the wayside whilst Rob focused on his health and helped raise his nieces and nephews.
During the COVID lockdown, Rob began building guitars from kits he’d stored for years. “I made five guitars in two months,” he says. “Cutting, shaping, doing the electronics - I had to learn it all.” Musicians were amazed by the quality of his work. Since then,
he has built 14 guitars and has more on the way. Rob generously donated some of his handcrafted guitars to young musicians from disadvantaged backgrounds.
While his hands were busy crafting, Rob’s heart still longed to play. That’s when he reconnected with the music scene through ECH, where he began music therapy with Bec, a Registered Music Therapist. Her support helped Rob rebuild his confidence and discover his voice. “I didn’t know I could sing,” Rob laughs. “Now I love it. I can't believe I've come this far, because I thought it was over.”
He also shares a deep musical bond with his son, a performer in Japan. They formed a band called Generation Gap when his son was eight. Reuniting on stage recently, his son proudly told him, “You were so intense, Dad. It was like I saw you for the first time.”
Rob has recently teamed up with guitarist Patrick Regan, whom he met at the Gaslight Tavern. The two have started recording tracks together - a new chapter in a remarkable musical life.
"Now I love it. I can't believe I've come this far, because I thought it was over.”
Could you benefit from music therapy? No musical ability required! As an allied health profession, music therapy effectively supports physical, cognitive, social, and emotional needs across many conditions including dementia, stroke, Parkinson's disease, PTSD, anxiety, and sleep difficulties.
Services available through Home Care Packages (HCP), Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), or private funding options.
For general enquiries, call 1300 275 324.
Strengthening Aged Care Quality Standards:
What are they and why are they important to you?
At ECH, we are governed not only by our own promise to help you get more out of life, but also guided by a set of Aged Care Quality Standards. These standards are a set of guidelines aimed at improving the quality and safety of aged care services in Australia.
As part of the new Aged Care Act and regulatory model, coming into effect on 1 July 2025, the existing standards have been further strengthened. These updated standards were developed following the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, which highlighted the need for significant improvements in the sector.
ECH is committed to quality and supports the strengthening of the standards to inform the way we provide our service and engage with you, based on your needs and preferences.
The revised standards cover several vital areas, including dementia care, diversity, governance, and clinical care.
The standards emphasise a human rights-based approach to care, focusing on consumer dignity, choice, and respect.
The strengthened standards support continuous improvement and best practices. By setting clear
expectations and providing guidance, the standards encourage providers like ECH to strive for excellence and innovate in our delivery of care services.
In summary, the strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards are essential for improving the quality, safety, and effectiveness of aged care services in Australia. They promote consumer dignity and choice, enhance transparency and accountability, and support continuous improvement in the sector.
Here you can see a summary of the standards, and a link to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission website, where you can read more detail.
Scan the QR Code to learn more about the Aged Care Quality Standards agedcarequality.gov.au
Want to know more about Support at Home?
The Support at Home program comes into effect on 1 July this year. If you want to know more about the program and read some FAQs, please visit our website at ech.asn.au/support-at-home.
If you are wondering what it means for your current funding, we are here to help. Please reach out to your Care Partner today or one of our friendly team members on 1300 275 324.
Living Well with ECH Your Pathway to Social Connection
Maintaining social connections is vital at any age, and ECH's Living Well Program makes it easier than ever for older adults to stay engaged with their communities.
The program centres on a simple but powerful approach: connecting seniors with activities that match their personal interests while supporting their overall wellbeing. Whether you're looking to revive past hobbies or explore new ones, Living Well offers a pathway to greater social engagement.
The process begins with a personalised consultation. A dedicated Living Well Consultant works with you to understand your preferences and goals, then helps identify appropriate activities to enrich your life. These might include community groups, social events like lunch clubs or movie outings, volunteering opportunities, or exercise groups tailored to seniors.
What sets the Living Well Program apart is its holistic approach. Rather than focusing solely on physical health, it addresses the full spectrum of wellbeing—emotional, social, and mental—creating opportunities for meaningful connection and purposeful engagement.
The program is especially valuable for those who may have become socially isolated, helping rebuild confidence in social settings and fostering new friendships. Activities are designed to be welcoming and accessible, with support available every step of the way.
As part of ECH's broader commitment to supporting independent living, the Living Well Program complements its other services including Home Care, Wellness, and Retirement Living options.
To explore how the Living Well Program could enhance your social wellbeing, contact ECH at 1300 275 324 or visit ech.asn.au.
During the Cooler Months Staying Active
As the temperatures drop and the days shorten, it can be tempting to swap outdoor activities for a warm cup of tea indoors. However, staying active in the cooler months is essential for getting more out of life by maintaining mobility, boosting mood and keeping warm! Here are some simple ways to keep moving, no matter the weather:
1 Layer Up and Step Outside: Fresh air is great for your health, and crisp mornings can be invigorating. Dress in layers, wear gloves and a beanie, and take a brisk walk around your local park or neighbourhood.
2 Try Indoor Exercises:
On particularly chilly days, bring your workout indoors. Chair yoga, stretching or gentle strength exercises using resistance bands are all great options to keep your body moving.
3 Get Personalised Support: Consider booking a one-on-one consultation with an ECH Exercise Physiologist, who can develop a tailored fitness or therapeutic exercise program designed to meet your goals and keep you moving during the cooler months.
4
Join a Group Class: Join a fitness class at a local ECH Wellness Centre, where supported group sessions and fully equipped gyms offer safe and effective workouts under the guidance of our qualified Allied Health Professionals or Fitness Leaders. Alternatively, head to a local indoor pool for a warm and low-impact workout.
5
Make Movement Part of Your Routine: Exercise doesn’t have to mean structured workouts. Simple activities like marching in place while watching TV, dancing to your favourite songs or taking the stairs instead of the lift all add up.
6
Warm Up Properly: Cold muscles are more prone to injury, so take a few extra minutes to warm up before exercising. Gentle stretches and slow movements will help prepare your body and reduce stiffness.
Staying active through winter doesn’t have to be difficult - just find what works for you and enjoy the benefits of movement all year round!
Before starting any new exercise routine, consult with a medical professional to ensure it's safe for you.
Jacob brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to his practice. Known for his patient-centered approach, Jacob is committed to empowering his clients on their journey to recovery, ensuring they regain strength, mobility, and overall well-being under his thoughtful care.
Explore The World Virtually
Free Travel Adventures from Home
Are you ready to explore the wonders of the world without leaving the comfort of your home? With virtual travel adventures, you can experience some of the world's most iconic sites right from your living room.
Here are a few exciting destinations to get you started:
1 Great Barrier Reef: Dive into the stunning underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef with a virtual tour narrated by David Attenborough. Explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life at David Attenborough's Great Barrier Reef - An Interactive Journey.
2
The Twelve Apostles: Take a virtual walk along the breathtaking coastline of the Twelve Apostles in Victoria. Enjoy incredible 360-degree views of the majestic limestone stacks rising from the ocean.
3
The Great Pyramids: Experience the grandeur of the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx with a virtual tour that offers panoramic views and fascinating historical information.
4
The Louvre, Paris: Take a virtual tour of the world's largest art museum and historic monument. Explore famous exhibits like the Mona Lisa and
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 Technology. Sharon is deeply passionate about harnessing the power of technology for the betterment of our community.
Online Security Reminder
While enjoying these virtual travel adventures, it's important to stay safe online. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Start exploring these free virtual travel adventures today! Scan the QR codes below.
Use strong passwords: Ensure that your passwords are strong and unique for each account. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or common words.
Be cautious of phishing Scams: Be wary of emails or messages that ask for personal information or direct you to suspicious websites. Always verify the source before clicking on any links.
Happy virtual travels! 1 2 3 4
Keep software updated: Regularly update your devices and software to protect against security vulnerabilities. Use secure connections: When accessing virtual tours or any online content, make sure you are using a secure and trusted internet connection.
Eating Well in Winter Seasonal Nutrition for Older Adults
As the colder months settle in, it’s more important than ever to nourish our bodies with seasonal, nutrient-rich foods. Winter brings an abundance of affordable and locally available produce that can support overall health and help ward off seasonal viruses.
Winter’s Best for Wellness
Fresh fruits like apples, pears, mandarins and navel oranges are packed with vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and helps fight colds and flu.
Citrus fruits such as grapefruits and lemons also provide antioxidants that support healthy skin and digestion.
Leafy greens, including kale, spinach, and silverbeet, are high in vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and fibre, which help maintain energy levels and gut health.
Root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes and parsnips are not only affordable but also rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health and immune function.
Warming and Wholesome Choices
Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower are excellent sources of fibre and anti-inflammatory compounds that promote heart and brain health. Meanwhile, garlic and onions contain natural antibacterial properties that can help fight infections and improve circulation.
Nuts such as walnuts, pecans and hazelnuts provide healthy fats that support brain function and joint health, while chestnuts offer a good source of fibre and vitamin C.
Simple Ways to Enjoy Seasonal Produce
Start the day with a warming bowl of porridge topped with stewed apples and walnuts.
Make hearty vegetable soups with pumpkin, potatoes and leafy greens.
Roast sweet potatoes, parsnips and carrots for a comforting side dish.
Enjoy a citrus salad with mandarins, grapefruit and a drizzle of olive oil.
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.
Eating seasonally benefits health, supports local farmers and reduces grocery costs. Incorporating these nutrient-rich foods into daily meals can help you to feel energised, boost immunity and enjoy delicious, wholesome food throughout winter.
What You'll Need
1 tbsp olive oil
1 brown onion, cut into 1cm dice
1 large carrot, peeled, cut into 1cm dice
1 celery stalk, cut into 1cm slices
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 tbsp tomato paste
400g can lentils, drained, rinsed
400g can diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken or vegetable liquid stock
450g savoy cabbage, thickly shredded
To Serve
Shaved parmesan, to serve
Crusty bread, to serve
How To Make
Serves: 4
1
Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, celery and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until softened.
2
Add tomato paste. Stir to coat. Add lentils, tomatoes, stock, cabbage and 1 cup cold water. Cover. Simmer for 40 minutes or until cabbage is tender. Season with salt and pepper.
3
Divide soup between bowls. Top with parmesan and your choice of our suggestions to amp up the flavour. Serve with bread.
Want to amp up the flavour?
Aromatics & Spices
1 tsp smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness.
½ tsp ground cumin for warmth and depth.
½ tsp dried oregano or thyme to complement the vegetables.
½ tsp chilli flakes for a touch of heat.
Boosting Umami & Depth
½ tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for depth and umami.
½ tsp sugar or honey to balance the acidity from the tomatoes.
A Parmesan rind (if not strictly vegetarian) for a rich, savoury undertone while simmering.
Additional Texture & Protein
½ cup cooked quinoa or pearl barley for a heartier meal.
½ cup canned chickpeas or cannellini beans for protein and creaminess.
Finishing Touches
Fresh parsley or basil to add freshness.
Toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nutty crunch.
A squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness.
Tuesday Tune-ups Lunch Club*
4th Tuesday monthly, 10:30am | Windsor Hotel | 410 North East Road, Windsor Gardens
Lift your spirits with community singing and then enjoy a delicious lunch complete with a main meal, unlimited salad and vegetable buffet, and a coffee or soft drink.
Intergenerational Activity Groups
Once, monthly | New grand friends are welcome to join our regulars in Bowden, Newton, Modbury, Unley, West Lakes, Woodcroft, Victor Harbor.
"It's nice to be with the young ones. I love spending time with the littlies - their curiosity is amazing and they don't have a care in the world. It's great to be around their innocence. They love listening to stories being read and the adult sized chairs make it easy! Once a month I get to 'just' have fun.” (Sandy, regular grand friend at West Lakes)
Cost: Free
Enjoy Coffee Club
Every Thursday, 10:30am | Enjoy Cafe Bakery | 112
The Parade, Norwood
Connect with a friendly group who are passionate about sharing conversations on travel, history, social topics, and current news. A perfect opportunity to meet new people over a warm cuppa!
Cost: Participation is free, just purchase your own coffee and treats.
*To come along to any of these events you are welcome to use your own funds. For people who have been assessed and approved for Government funding through the Home Care Packages Program or the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) you can use available funds.
If you are over 65 and currently have no approved care funding, email us at communityengagement@ech.asn.au and we can help you get started.Bookings are essential.
Get Connected* Mitcham Social Group
Every Tuesday, 1.30 – 3.30pm | Cumberland Park Community Centre, 388-390 Goodwood Road
A fun afternoon of boardgames, jigsaws and bingo with an amazing afternoon tea prepared by our volunteer kitchen crew.
Cumby Crew on Wednesdays
9.30am – 12.30pm | Cumberland Park Community Centre, 388-390 Goodwood Road
Come along to this very social morning with something for everyone! Activities include art, craft, knitting, crochet, games, puzzles, movement to music, guest speakers, pottering in the community garden, and weekly special events. With a delicious morning tea cooked by our volunteer team, and a light lunch.
This wonderful community initiative is presented in partnership with the City of Mitcham.
Cost: Gold coin/$5 contribution
Exciting news!
We've added ECH Day Program Smithfield as a new departure location for our bus trips! Keep an eye out for our upcoming trips this season!
ECH Vibrant Cultural
Partnerships
JULY
SANFL
Coming soon! Walking Footy at two new locations!
Looking for a fun, low-impact way to stay active? Walking Footy is expanding across Adelaide! In addition to our regular Unley location, Walking Footy will be coming to Salisbury North and Prospect from June onwards.
No experience needed - just enthusiasm and a willingness to have fun! Sessions include basic skills training, rules overview, and friendly games in a supportive environment.
Keep an eye on your emails and follow our social media channels for upcoming announcements.
Free SANFL Match Tickets
The SANFL Footy Season is in full swing and we've got a number of free tickets to share!
Don't miss out! Register your interest to get up-to-date information and for the chance to receive complimentary tickets. ech.asn.au
Exciting Events this Season
ECH continues to strengthen community bonds, providing our clients and residents with 'money can't buy' experiences through partnerships with Adelaide's premier cultural organisations.
Our collaborations with State Theatre Company South Australia and the SANFL take centre stage in Winter 2025, offering our community exclusive access to some of the city's most enriching cultural experiences. Through these cultural connections, we aim to enrich lives and foster a sense of belonging that extends beyond our everyday programs and services.
State Theatre Company South Australia
ECH proudly presents Kimberly Akimbo
In partnership with State Theatre Company South Australia, ECH will have 30x tickets to the Tony Award winning show Kimberly Akimbo for Wednesday 16 July at 1pm.
To be considered for complimentary tickets, make sure you have registered through the QR code below to be notified first when tickets become available.
If you are interested in receiving a free double pass, please register your details with marketing@ech.asn.au.
Don't miss these fantastic opportunities to get involved with South Australian football!
What's next?
ECH remains committed to expanding cultural experiences throughout 2025. New experiences are already in development for the coming months, promising even more diverse and engaging events for our community.
Community In Action
Bus Trip to the Government House with Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC
Mount Lofty Autumn Bus Tour
Daylight Express Series
Victor Harbor Lunch Club
Walking Basketball
Victor Harbor
Locals Celebrate Neighbour Day with Community Spirit
Every day at 11 a.m., Gail, Dianne and their neighbours gather under the pergola at ECH’s Mervyn Graham Lodge for a daily morning tea. For these Victor Harbor residents, it’s more than just a social event; it’s about creating a strong sense of community
“When I moved into the village 12 years ago, I knew I wanted to have more interactions with my neighbours,” says Gail, 75. “There’s now only one married couple in our village, while everyone else lives on their own. We are all around the same age and stage of life, so it was important we got to know each other and feel part of a community.” This led to the creation of the daily morning tea tradition, with everyone invited to bring a plate to share.
Dianne, 72, adds her love of cooking to the mix, often preparing special dishes like Brazilian cheese puffs. “Cooking is a real passion for me,” she says. “I love the atmosphere of just sitting around, chatting with each other and seeing our friends enjoy what we’ve all made.”
To celebrate Neighbour Day on Sunday, 30 March, the residents enjoyed a sausage sizzle, straying from their usual baked treats. Neighbour Day, celebrated annually on the last Sunday of March, aims to strengthen community ties and foster a sense of belonging.
“It is the interaction, the time spent being together, that’s very special to us,” says Gail. “We feel like we’ve been put here for a reason.”
Carolyn Dawkins, Head of Customer Experience at ECH, is delighted by the sense of community. “Gail and Dianne’s story is one of many examples from across our 109 villages, where retirees have downsized to get more out of life, surrounded by a network of likeminded people.”
Neighbour Day Competition
To celebrate Neighbour Day, the Village Management Team held a competition to find the village with the best Neighbour Day event. Villages were encouraged to host a celebration, capture photos, and share their stories for a chance to win a BBQ package.
Thanks to all who participated and made Neighbour Day a memorable occasion!
Congratulations to the winners!
1st Place: Hill Court, Victor Harbor
Puzzles
Word Search
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 30 June 2025 and two winners will be drawn at random, each winning a $50 EFTPOS gift card.
Winners will be announced in the next issue. Last issue's winners were Irena Wilk and Alma Schleider.
Rebus Puzzles:
True or False
Read the statements and circle the appropriate letter under T (for true) or F (for false). When you have finished, the circled letters, reading downwards, will spell a secret word.
1. The Beatles’ first appearance on “The Ed Sullivan Show” was in 1964.
2. Australia switched to decimal currency in the 1970s.
3. “I Dream of Jeannie” originally aired in black and white.
4. Vegemite was invented before World War II.
5. The rotary dial telephone was introduced after the push-button phone
True or False: True, False (It was in 1966), True (Only the first season, 1965–66), True (First produced in 1923), False (Rotary came first), Word: CHIME, Rebus Puzzles: High noon, Just between you and me, Standing ovation