Under the Stars - Publication 1 2021

SOUTHERN CROSS CARE TASMANIA COMMUNITY & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE - EDITION 1, 2021

ANZAC Day Picture Special P8-9

A NOTE FROM THE CHAIR

P5

THE BUZZED BUNNIES

Take on The World's Greatest Shave P4 1

Feel right at home.

Delivering flexible health and lifestyle services to suit you and the people you love.

2

www.scctas.org.au

Welcome to the Under the Stars magazine.

Contents

Our goal is to showcase the people, both residents and team members, of Southern Cross Care Tasmania.

The Buzzed Bunnies

4

A note from the Chairman

5

Knights of the Southern Cross

6

ANZAC Day Picture Special

8

Home & Community Services

10

Australian Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration

13

International Nurses Day

14

Ainslie Low Head

16

Fairway Rise

18

Glenara Lakes

20

Guilford Young Grove

22

Mount Esk

24

We hope you enjoy it!

Rivulet 26 Rosary Gardens

28

Sandown Apartments

30

Yaraandoo

32

Lifestyle Villages

34

Technology

36

Voluntary Assisted Dying

37

Crossword

38

Health & Wellness

39

Circulation Melissa Coad

In the Kitchen with Ronald Maben

40

Printer Foot and Playsted

Upcoming events

42

Editor & Designer Kylie Featherstone Feature contributors Nicholas King Sarah Molnar

3

Cover Story

The Buzzed Bunnies collect a hair-raising $17,000 in the World’s Greatest Shave.

Congratulations to The Buzzed Bunnies at Ainslie Low Head who raised nearly $17,000 for the World’s Greatest Shave!

Low Head] that I was planning on participating turned into a team of 10 “shavers” and 10 “colours”,’ Toni said.

On Monday, March 22, 2021, the team of 20 shaved, cut or coloured their hair as part of the Leukemia Foundation’s World’s Greatest Shave.

‘We had three residents join in on the day as well, who had their hair shaved; one had shown interest earlier and two on the day said that they would like to participate.’

Team Captain and Enrolled Nurse at Ainslie Low Head, Toni Miller, said she was thrilled with the result and very proud of the team.

The team raised an enormous $16,692.88, greatly exceeding their initial target of $5,000 when they first joined the challenge.

‘A simple comment to Heather Currant [Facility Manager at Ainslie

Two local hairdressers, Kelly and Chloe from Kaizen Hair, volunteered

4

to come in to do the team’s shaves and colours. The Great Shave was held in the dining room at Ainslie Low Head so that everyone could participate. Between 20 to 30 residents came to watch throughout the event.

We congratulate The Buzzed Bunnies again on their momentous achievement.

The World’s Greatest Shave raises funds for families with loved ones who are in the fight against blood cancer, and for research into ways to diagnose and treat blood cancer more effectively.

A note from the Chair For as long as it is beneficial, the Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Robyn Boyd and I have agreed that we will contribute to each edition of “Under the Stars”.

I intend to address one or two items of topical interest from the perspective of the Board.

monitoring progress in meeting the strategic obejectives of the strategic plan. More detailed plans at the operational level support the strategic plan and form regular reporting to the Board.

The Royal Commission's final report into Aged Care Quality and Safety was handed to the Australian Government in February 2021 as the culmination of over two years of work. The Australian Government has committed to providing a comprehensive response to the 148 recommendations in the Budget in May 2021.

While many of the recommendations were expected and reflected in the strategic plan, we are undertaking a review of the strategic plan to make any adjustments necessary to respond to the Royal Commission's recommendations thoroughly. One of the significant pieces of information required at this stage is how the Australian Government will respond to the recommendations and the timelines for implementing the recommendations it accepts.

Over the past year, Southern Cross Care has been working towards being well placed to respond to the Royal Commission's recommendations (based on recommendations included in the report released by Counsel Assisting in late 2020) and to remain a major provider of high-quality services to the aged in Tasmania.

During the last twelve months, much work has progressed, such as significantly improved ICT infrastructure, integration and automation, trends analysis and reporting capabilities. This work is not immediately obvious but necessary to enable Southern Cross Care to deliver its services effectively.

That work commenced with developing the 2021-26 strategic plan that will guide Southern Cross Care for the next five years. This is an important document for Southern Cross Care and the Board in setting the organisation's strategic direction, with the strategic objectives then delivered through the Chief Executive Officer.

A comprehensive care management system has been implemented and is being worked into day to day operations. New or upgraded systems for personnel, rostering and financial management are close to being brought online. New systems to oversee risks, both clinical and operational, are also being implemented.

Other key responsibilities of the Board are to monitor progress of Southern Cross Care in the delivery of high-quality care and service provision, which is aligned to evidence based best practice, in parallel to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Standards and

The Royal Commission recommends that from 1 July 2024, an average of 215 minutes per resident per day should be provided, and this should include 44 minutes of registered nurse time. By then, every residence should have a registered nurse on duty at all times.

Southern Cross Care is proud to confirm that staffing levels currently operating at each care facility now exceeds the recommended staffing ratios and has had 24/7 on-site nursing in place for several years. This commitment to ensuring the quality of care and service provision to our residents remains paramount and is core to our values, vision and mission.

Southern Cross Care welcomes the opportunities presented through the Aged Care Royal Commission. It has shone a light on some of the failings within aged care, and has provided our elderly with a voice.

Southern Cross Care has seen some turbulent times over the past few years but remains resilient and committed to its core beliefs and values of providing high quality care and services to our residents and clients across Tasmania.

I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank you, our dedicated employees, for everything that you do every day in support and care of our residents, clients and Southern Cross Care.

- Chairman of the Board, Stephen Shirley 5

Knights of the Southern Cross Tasmania Christian deeds and service guided by the strength and shield of our Catholic faith and fraternity

Dear Reader, Sudden Cardiac Arrest kills some 100 Australians each day. A staggering 30,000 will die from what could be preventable deaths each year.

The rollout of “Heart Start Defibrillators” for Workplaces, Sporting and many other public venues is proving invaluable in saving lives.

Just over 12 months ago, some readers may recall an incident where one of the original “Wiggles” Greg Page collapsed as he left the stage during a Bushfire Benefit Concert in Suburban Sydney. Another member of the Band quickly performed CPR as no breathing or pulse could be detected.

A nurse in the audience applied a nearby Defibrillator Machine to him, and he was brought back to life.

In 2019 the Burnie/Wynyard/ Somerset Branch of the Knights of the Southern Cross decided to commence a project to raise $10,000 to purchase and install 6

“Heart Start Defibrillators” in each of our four Mass Centres in the parish. Fundraising commenced in June 2019 with “Winterfest” in Wynyard along with several smaller functions. We were fortunate to have the money for two “Heart Start Defibrillators” donated by separate organisations, for which we are very grateful. These donations, along with funds raised, meant we had paid for three units before Covid-19 came along and put an abrupt stop to all fundraising activities. Because of Covid-19 restrictions, we had no alternative but to ask for donations from parishioners. A grateful ‘Thankyou’ goes to all for their very generous donations to enable the installation of these lifesaving units.

Recent training sessions were attended by 36 people.

DEFIBRILLATORS DO SAVE LIVES. The more people who learn CPR and how to use Defibrillators the more lives will be saved.

Congratulations to a King and Queen of Hearts for 70 years.

Our congratulations are extended to Kevin and Patricia Nelson on their recent celebration of 70 years of marriage on February 3, 2021. They have seven children, 13 grandchildren and 14 greatgrandchildren. Kevin is the oldest member of the KSC Burnie/ Somerset/Wynyard Branch, with over 60 years of service.

Kevin met Patricia, who was a nurse, while he had time in hospital at Wynyard. Born in Preston, Victoria, Kevin's early life was difficult as he contracted polio at nine and missed two years of school while being strapped to a full body splint.

Despite the permanent disability inflicted by polio, upon leaving school, Kevin learnt the Butchery trade, which was his employment for most of his working life. Kevin is currently resident in Southern Cross Care facility of Yaraandoo at Somerset.

- Justin Maguire – Acting Chairman KSC Burnie/Somerset/Wynyard Branch

Feel right at home.

Supporting your health, your wellbeing, your lifestyle and your independence at home and in the community.

www.scctas.org.au

7

ANZAC Day

8

ANZAC Day

Above, a memorial display at Sandown Apartments. Opposite page, clockwise from top left, Sandy McKinstry receiving a poppy from Chrissie Divona; Pastoral Carer and volunteer Glenda Howden (who also served in WRAAC and CMF 1965 – 1969) with the wreaths at Sandown Apartments; Sharon Earnshaw playing the Last Post at Mount Esk; the flag flying at half-mast at Sandown Apartments; Chrissie Divona presenting a wreath to Brenda Hodson and Bernard Boon at Mount Esk; wreaths on display at Springhaven Lifestyle Village memorial; A reading of In Flander Fields by John McCra at Sandown Apartments, from left, Corporal Ashley Thomson, Squadron Leader Alan Robertson OAM, CSM, RFD, JP, Father Denis, Sandown Facility Manager Lauretta Stace, Laree Triffett and resident Ruth Thomson.

9

Home & Community Services The Home and Community Services team have had a few changes since January, including a significant restructure.

We now have an operations manager, and also a delivery specialist able to focus on specific areas of the business arm. This means we are now split into the two distinct roles of service coordination and service delivery.

Separating them is useful as it means the team is now able to give full dedication to each area of focus.

We are also pleased to report an increase in our home care package numbers across the state. We are now about to implement day respite centres, initially in the South with the North the next stage

after that. We note that we have received additional CHSP support through funding, and received the announcement that we have secured group social support for the North West Coast, which will give us the opportunity to develop those day respite centres even further.

We also had some other new team members join us thanks to the growth of the business arm. We have hired an additional service delivery driver for the North West, and we have also had a new support coordinator for the North join us recently.

We also have all three of our regions coming up for reaccreditation this year, so we have naturally been working hard in preparation for that, including some work around policy and procedure development.

Most of our clients have enjoyed the easing of COVID restrictions, plus we are pleased to report that we are virtually back to pre-COVID service delivery now.

And finally, one last project that we were very excited to get underway was the campaign to promote Home & Community Services across Tasmania.

Who better to appear in the campaigns but our very own team members themselves!

Support Worker Juany Moran, Program Coordinator Denise Daly, and Assets and Property Manager Nathan Costelloe all played their parts magnificently!

The entire Home & Community Services team have some busy times ahead!

Clockwise from top left, Juane and the Firefly Studio crew preparing to shoot; Nathan Costelloe on the mower; behind the scenes snap of our gardening scene.

10

Clockwise from top left, Juany and Bronte the dog filming their scenes; Denise and Elena had a ball talking Italian cooking in between takes; Juane and Beth appreciating Bronte the dog's hard work.

Staff spotlight: Chantal McMullen Support Coordinator, Launceston A resident of Tasmania for the last 15 years, Chantal originally moved to Launceston on a transfer while working for the business banking arm of NAB. After taking a break from work to raise two daughters, Chantal was looking for something to go back to, but knew that business banking wasn't the right pathway.

Enter aged care!

Returning to TAFE to study a Cert III in Aged Care, Chantal was offered a casual placement as an ECA at Glenara Lakes. After being offered

ad hoc admin hours in various facilities, Chantal was asked to join Home and Community Services on a full time basis. Now working as the coordinator of the new Commonwealth Help Support Program, Chantal has the privilege of overseeing the delivery of interim care to new clients.

Her advice to anyone starting in aged care: "Never underestimate the value of your work and what you can provide to a person. The smallest gesture can bring the most joy."

11

Home & Community Services - Day Centre Southern Cross Care Home & Community Services is very excited to announce a new venture in the South and North West of Tasmania.

On June 1, the Rosary Gardens Activity Room and the attached Atrium at 85 Creek Road, New Town, we will be welcoming members of our surrounding communities, seniors and those living with various forms of dementia, to the first Home & Community Services Day Centre.

Our Day Centre provides activities for older people designed to develop, maintain or support their ability to remain independent and socially active.

The Day Centre will provide an opportunity for people to join together with like-minded individuals in a group setting to enjoy gardening activities, art & crafts, group outings, multicultural activities, plus much more. Activities will revolve around the interests of clients, and they will encourage socialisation, engagement - but most importantly - fun.

Our Hobart Day Centre is located at 85 Creek Road, New Town operates from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm Tuesday to Friday.

Our second Day Centre will open on July 1, in the Devonport region.

The cost can be funded from a Home Care Package or by private arrangement at the Hobart Day Centre. The cost can be funded from a Commonwealth Home Support Programme, Home Care Package or privately in the North West.

Morning tea and lunch are included.

Bookings are essential.

Call 1300 389 574 or email scc.communitycare@scctas.org.au to secure your place.

12

Day Centre

Enjoy a day making new friends in a supported, enabling environment.

Feel right at home.

Australian Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration Southern Cross Care (TAS) Inc. joins the Australian Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration program in an organisation-wide first.

The Australian Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration (PCOC) is a national voluntary program used to improve palliative care for residents and their families.

Southern Cross Care (Tas) Inc. are among the first aged care providers to join the PCOC program and is the first to establish it at all aged care homes operated by an organisation.

100 staff across the organisation are attending training for the program, held at the Mount Esk residential aged care home in Launceston and at Fairway Rise residential aged care home in Hobart.

“There has been a huge uptake by staff across the state, with many

team members coming in on their day off to attend.”

“The overwhelming response shows how dedicated our team are to improving the delivery of palliative care in our facilities,” says Southern Cross Care (Tas) Inc. CEO Robyn Boyd.

Dr Malene Ahern from the Australian Health Services Research Institute and Hazel Bucher, Nurse Practitioner Psychogeriatrics and General Manager Clinical Services at Southern Cross Care (TAS) Inc, will be hosting the training sessions.

In the PCOC program, staff conduct routine clinical assessments that help to identify and manage pain and symptoms. These assessments are then evaluated, and feedback is provided to help improve resident outcomes.

“We are proud of our inclusion in this collaborative. Improving the delivery of quality palliative care to

From left, Hazel Bucher, Nurse Practitioner Psychogeriatrics and General Manager Clinical Services at Southern Cross Care, and Dr Malene Ahern from the Australian Health Services Research Institute.

our residents is very important to the entire team at Southern Cross Care Tasmania. Delivering the best palliative care possible is a goal that we continuously work towards exceeding,” says Robyn Boyd.

Rotary Charity Sail Day Southern Cross Care is a very proud sponsor of the Rotary Club of Hobart.

The Rotary Charity Sail Day is an annual event that raises funds for the organisation to support their local, national and international service projects. This year's event on March 1 raised over $40,000 as a result of the generosity of participating businesses, sponsors and attendees on the day.

The Rotary Club of Hobart supports our local community, particularly disadvantaged young Tasmanians,

the elderly and the homeless.

This year Southern Cross Care has gifted a number of team members a place on the Southern Cross Care Sail Day yacht, as part of the organisation’s rewards and recognition program.

These team members were hand selected by their managers in recognition of their hard work.

Congratulations to Katie Miller, Michelle Fisher, Shelley Wierzbicki, Michael Wickham, Jason Turnbull, Tania Rogers, Charmaine Carter,

From left, Michelle Fisher, Shelley Wierzbicki, Michael Wickham, Cathryn Kerr, Jason Turnbull and Nathan Costelloe.

Gina Souvleris and Nathan Costelloe.

Cathryn Kerr, Executive Manager Estate Development, kindly lent and skippered the Southern Cross Care Yacht for the day 13

International Nurses Day

Nurses play a fundamental role in delivering high-quality care across Southern Cross Care Tasmania's Residential Care homes and Home & Community Services. They provide clinical expertise, but they also journey with their residents and clients through a significant transition period of their life. This requires a unique blend of attributes and skills, but most importantly, it requires compassion, integrity and a resolute passion for the industry.

Southern Cross Care's nurses come from diverse backgrounds; some identified nursing as their career of choice from a very young age, while others entered aged care through a different role and found their route to nursing from there. Aged care also requires a range of nursing roles; Southern Cross Care's clinical team includes registered nurses, enrolled nurses, clinical care coordinators, nurse practitioners and facility managers.

Ebony Richards was 21 years old

U O

‘S S E C RS SC R NU

14

Above, Ebony Richards.

Above, Monica Tatnell.

when she started working as an Extended Care Assistant (ECA) with Southern Cross Care Home and Community Services three years ago.

Within a month, she had started a Certificate III in Individual Support.

With this under her belt, Ebony felt she could do more for her clients and wanted to pursue further studies.

and the two years following as a registered nurse at Southern Cross Care's Rosary Gardens Residential Care home; Monica then ventured to the Royal Hobart Hospital to gain experience in an acute setting.

There, she spent time in orthopaedic surgical specialties and burns nursing.

When the prospect arose to return to Southern Cross Care as a Clinical Care Coordinator, Monica jumped at the opportunity to not only advance her career but to return to her roots in aged care.

Becoming a nurse had always been Ebony's ambition, but it wasn't until she became an ECA that she found the dedication to pursue this dream.

A fellow Southern Cross Care ECA told her about the Health Education & Research Centre's (HERC) courses.

When the Diploma of Nursing became available, she applied immediately and was accepted.

While she understands that gaining her diploma will open lots of doors, Ebony knows that the aged care industry is where she wants to stay.

Monica Tatnell, who is now Fairway Rise's new Facility Manager, completed her graduate year

She says that for a registered nurse to work in aged care, they need drive, and should have a strong passion for the industry because "when you have that you can do anything with it."

She says working as a nurse in aged care also gives you the opportunity to "spread your wings" a little more than in an acute setting, as you often need to rely on your own assessments.

So thank you, nurses, from Southern Cross Care.

International Nurses Day

MAY 12, 2021

Southern Cross Care Tasmania would like to thank all Tasmanian nurses for International Nurses Day 2021, but would especially like to shine a light on and say thank you to our own nurses.

Feel right at home.

Feel right at home.

Get the maximum out of life with the minimum of worries.

www.scctas.org.au

15

Residential Homes - Ainslie Low Head

Above, Ava the Leisure and Lifestyle assistant dog with resident Kaye Whitehead.

Recently at Ainslie we’ve been bursting with activities and things to do.

direction and rainfall, and provides us with our fortnightly weather report! (It’s like having your very own weatherman!)

Always up for supporting a good cause, some of our residents participated in this year’s World’s Greatest Shave, with three of our ladies making the ultimate sacrifice – shaving their heads! Despite it being a little cool for the upcoming winter months, we’re so proud of the way they were willing to jump in and support the Leukemia Foundation.

Somebody needs to knit you three some beanies! (A job for our “Ways with Wool” group, maybe?)

Really though, this is only scratching the surface of everything we have going on. On Tuesdays it gets a little rowdy with some old time rock ‘n’ roll in the dining room. One of our volunteers selects some favourite tracks, puts them on CD and treats us to a sing along (plus entertains with some of her own dancing!). For our canine lovers, we get to spend time with Ada the border collie, who is brought in for a pat by one of our Lifestyle & Leisure officers three days a week.

Another fun experience has been an activity we title, “It’s All About the Weather”. One of our residents recently purchased and set up a small weather station. After printing him off some charts, he now takes down all the local weather details including barometric pressure, wind 16

We’ve got a ladies’ craft group on Mondays sporting their needlework; exercises three days a week including Tai Chi; adult colouring every Friday (which is very therapeutic and a popular favourite); a meditation group; fortnightly mystery bus tours

(for the slightly less mobile among our residents); our knitting and crochet group “Ways with Wool” (though this is more storytelling and risqué jokes than actual knitting . . . but nevermind!); themed reminiscing groups; Montessori flower arranging; bird watching; church groups; woodwork; Noodle Wars (like tennis but with a pool noodle and a balloon); Armchair Travel (where we explore other countries without leaving our seats); Brain Gym (some puzzles to help us use both sides of the old noodle); Nail Beauty (where one of our volunteers comes and paints our residents nails); footy tipping (just started up again); and more. It’s quite a bit to keep track of!

Of special note also, we’re so fortunate to have our regular Happy Hour (not quite what you think). The Happy Hour Singers have visited us on the last Friday of every month . . . for 30 years!

Staff spotlight: Maree Youl, Clinical Care Pastoral Carer & Leisure & Lifestyle Officer. of interest. However, the course coordinator said to her, "I'll sign you up for aged care!" and that was pretty much that.

Born in Launceston, Maree has lived in many towns all over Tasmania, including the former mining town of Gormanston on Tassie's west coast. Originally intending to study textiles at TAFE, the course she planned to sign up for never ran due to lack

Although Maree was originally uncertain about the new direction, she has since decided it's the best thing she has ever done. Starting as a carer, and later progressing to a Leisure & Lifestyle role, Maree now works in pastoral care. Although she recognises pastoral care as also one of the hardest things she has ever done, she says she nevertheless "finds it very rewarding".

Her advice to others: "Don't do it for the money. It's about having the privilege to look after these people who in years past have been looking after us. It's a real privilege."

I am Patrick Livens, Ainslie Nursing Home and Hostel is my home and this is my story.

Born in Riga, Latvia, Patrick migrated from Germany to Australia in 1948 shortly after WWII, only escaping Eastern Germany thanks to his mother bribing a Russian soldier with a pearl necklace. After arriving at a camp at Maitland in NSW, and attending high school there for a year, Patrick's stepfather then built them a cabin on an acre of land he found near Windsor, NSW. Later moving to Sydney, Patrick learned art at East Sydney Technical College, which led to employment with Angus & Coote Jewellers as a silversmith, ultimately seeing him move up to manage their design department.

Continuing in his artistic niche, Patrick painted Australian birds for a living, but eventually moved to Tasmania with his family for the sake of his son's respiratory health. Settling in Georgetown, Patrick found his true passion in designing kayaks and boats, and even showcased his work at Tassie's Wooden Boat Festival.

Clockwise from top - Cryil Parkes and Tony Ansell making Messages of Unity for Harmony Day. Left and above, Joan Leahy and her Harmony Day Messages of Unity.

Though he misses Germany, Patrick sees Tassie as his home (much better than the mainland!).

17

Residential Homes - Fairway Rise Grange residents who chose to move to Fairway Rise were settled, it allowed us to open applications for permanent residency to the general public again. Fairway Rise has proven to be on the top of a lot of peoples lists as a place to live, as rooms have been in very high demand!

We wish a warm welcome to all of our new Fairway Rise residents!

Both COVID-19 vaccinations have also been administered for residents, which has lead to a reinvigoration of activities at the home and the exciting reopening of the on-site cafe. Residents, visitors and staff can again enjoy a relaxing latte or cup of tea and snack while socialising at the cafe.

Resident Margaret Crothers has been very busy knitting gorgeous comfort bears. These bears will be donated to the children's ward at the Royal Hobart Hospital. Thank you Margaret for your generous and talented contribution .

Above, resident Margaret Crothers and her hand-knitted comfort bears

Fairway Rise is very happy to announce that Monica Tatnell, our longstanding Clinical Care Coordinator, has agreed to step into the role of Facility Manager!

You might remember Monica from our Fairway Rise Staff Spotlight in the last edition of Under the Stars.

Monica brings to the role a wealth 18

of clinical knowledge as well as experience at Southern Cross Care.

One of Monica's many projects has been working with nurses and General Practitioners who regularly visit Fairway Rise to streamline GP visits to assist the clinical care provision for our residents.

Fairway Rise has also welcomed quite a few new residents over the last few weeks. Once all of our Mary's

A new sensory circuit has been installed in the Memory Support wing. This circuit works to engage resident's senses as they travel about their day. The wonderful volunteers of Fairway Rise raised the funds for the sensory circuit. We are all very grateful!

Rivulet Residential Care home and Fairway Rise will soon be commencing inter home visits.

Groups from each home will take it in turns to catch the Southern Cross Care bus on a day trip to the other site to socialise, make new friends and explore.

Here's to new friendships and adventures!

I am Dennis Leary, Fairway Rise is my home and this is my story.

Above, Joan Hutchins and Pat Freeman with their Valentines Day love heart necklaces that they made during craft day.

Staff spotlight - Nicholas Kirrane Extended Care Assistant, Fairway Rise. grandfather), but ended up coming straight to Tasmania with his wife and two daughters to settle in Lauderdale.

Denis decided to seek a change of career after he saw his father and grandfather suffer with ailments like arthritis and undergo joint operations due to how physically strenuous plastering was. Getting the idea of becoming a carer from his wife, who thought it would suit his personality, Denis decided to retrain and grasp the opportunity "with both hands".

Nicholas has been at Fairway Rise since it first opened (even before the first residents arrived!).

Originally from Manchester, England, Nicholas responded to a job posting for plasterers in Melbourne (Nicholas is a plasterer by trade, as were his dad and

Denis particularly enjoys a bit of banter with the residents, and says, "You never have favourites . . . but you always have favourites!" His advice to others considering aged care is, "I'd say give it a go, if you're doing it for the right reasons."

A lifelong resident of Hobart, Denis left school in his second year to begin an apprenticeship as a painter.

Continuing in this career throughout his life (except for three years when he managed a milk route), Denis used to work 16 hours a day six days per week (that's 96 hours a week!) when he was 20 years old. (Leave some work for somebody else Denis!)

Denis used to enjoy travelling in his caravan up the east coast of Australia and into South Australia, taking a foray into nature three or four times with his partner on long road trips.

A true handyman, Denis also loves home projects and used to like "pottering around home, fixing things and improving things".

Moving into Fairway Rise only about two months ago, Denis is still learning to adjust to his new surroundings as it has been a bit of a change of scenery for him, but says he's "got to look forward."

19

Residential Homes - Glenara Lakes

We’ve been keeping busy over at Glenara Lakes, with plenty to keep us all occupied and entertained.

A special recent highlight has been our St Patrick’s Day activities provided by our Leisure & Lifestyle officers, with many of our residents joining in the fun.

Shamrocks and hints of green were in abundance, proving you’re never too old to celebrate! Unfortunately no leprechauns turned up this year, which we consider to be their loss – we certainly had a great time! (Even without any alcohol!)

We also recently welcomed a well-timed visit by two of 20

our Southern Cross Care executives, Robyn Boyd (CEO) and Jo Perry (Executive Manager Care Services), on a mission to train and inspire us in our roles. Hopefully we were up to scratch, though we realise we all still have things to learn! (Besides, somebody has to keep us in check over here, right?

Some of our residents can be downright cheeky . . . ) More good fun, we also enjoyed a rousing Launceston Cup day last February, with some of our residents organising and participating in their own sweep. We’re still not quite sure if anyone came out on top, but watching the race certainly set some hearts pounding! A great day for all regardless.

Clockwise from top, Nicola McKinstry and Naomi King creating a beautiful bouquet; all eyes down for Bingo, meeting the locals on a bus trip to Relbia.

Staff spotlight: Cheryl Thomas Leisure & lifestyle Officer, Glenara Lakes.

Cheryl started work with Southern Cross Care in 1993 (over 28 years ago!). Originally joining what was then Nazareth House, Cheryl was employed in the kitchen as a weekend cook by the nuns who ran the home, with the duty of preparing their weekend meals.

A young mother with growing children at the time, Cheryl sought to increase her work hours, and made a switch to a laundry role for about six years, including cleaning the nuns' habits and the resident priest's robes.

& Lifestyle as an LLO. Though semi-retired now, Cheryl says she "really enjoys interacting with the residents and the staff, and as long as she keeps enjoying it she will keep working in Leisure and Lifestyle and at Glenara."

I am Coral Warmsley, Glenara Lakes is my home and this is my story.

Seeking to further increase her hours, Cheryl moved on to cleaning at Nazareth House before eventually choosing to study and qualify as an ECA. Working in this role for several years again, Cheryl returned to night school to study and obtain a qualification in Leisure

‘

An increase in family members visiting from the mainland ... has given us some happy reunions!

Heather Robinson Acting Facility Manager, Glenara Lakes

On a slightly more sober note, we’re happy to report a successful and smooth rollout of our first COVID-19 vaccine, provided to us on 23rd March. We’d like to thank the nurses and everyone involved in providing the vaccine, as it offers considerable peace of mind despite being such a simple thing. We’re also pleased

to report that we’ve experienced a significant rise in family visits over the last quarter, as our COVID restrictions are much more relaxed now, with no restrictions around visitor numbers except the standard COVID checks. This has also led to an increase in family members visiting from the mainland, which has given us some happy reunions!

As a quiet moment of appreciation, we remember what the lockdowns were like last Easter season, when it felt like nobody could travel at all (not even to the shack!).

Nevertheless, we are grateful for the recent changes and that we all came out of this period of our lives largely unscathed.

Born at St Marys on Tassie's east coast, Coral moved to St Helens to marry, begin her family and start work. Remaining there for 20 years, Coral has fond memories of her lifestyle near the water, and says she especially "liked the crayfish". Raising three children, Coral moved to Launceston and worked in hospitality for several years, in both the kitchen and at the bar.

Moving into Glenara Lakes only two years ago, Coral actually visited the facility for a two-week respite and never got away again!

(She liked it, so here she stayed!)

Finding plenty of opportunities to socialise at the home, she says she has made many friends, including "two very special friends", plus her sister is also a resident of the home.

She recounts, "It's nice to have your breakfast in your room and walk down at midday and sit with your friends," and that, "If I can't be home, this is the place I'd want to be."

21

Residential Homes - Guilford Young Grove

Enjoying some Country and Western classics, from left, Margot Lampkin OAM, Rev John McRae, Rob Billing, Pam Grimes, and Michael Dixon.

It has been leprechauns, bus trips, Easter bunnies and anniversaries at Guilford Young Grove!

We’ve had a busy few months at Guilford Young Grove. As well as working hard to get all of our iCare documentation in place, we’ve enjoyed dealing with a large influx of visitors as the COVID restrictions ease and families are more able to visit with their loved ones. With the ramping down of restrictions we’ve also had more children in to see family, more activities, and generally much happier residents!

On March 17 we enjoyed our St Patrick’s Day celebration, which was an explosion of the colour green!

Green cupcakes, green mashed potato (some of our residents were a bit uncertain about that one), and 22

lots of green shamrocks. Hurrah!

We’ve also been fortunate enough to reintroduce our regular bus trips!

Hiring a bus once a month means we all get to enjoy a day out and explore just a little bit.

We prepared a superb Easter program this year, with festivities including raffles, colouring competitions, and of course quite a few Easter eggs going around (for those who love their choccy). There were even some eggs on our dinner trays! I wonder who put those there . . . ?

What else have we been up to? Julie Wick, one of our enrolled nurses, has put up her hand to become our lead for Learning for Dementia. Her training for this is coming up within the next few weeks . . . go Julie!

Thanks to Ms Margot Lampkin OAM and co., we recently had a wonderful

performance of Country and Western, John Denver, and other old-time favourites. This was enjoyed by all residents, families and friends. (So, if you feel like sharing your musical talents with us in a bit of a show, just let us know. We would love to see you!)

And of course, who could forget our lovely Agnes and Norman?

Agnes and Norman MacMillan celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary on the 20th of March this year. (What a milestone!) They were married on the 20th of March 1957 in Greenock, Scotland in a church service followed by a reception at the Bay Hotel in Gourock. (Something for the rest of us to aspire to!)

So, what is Agnes’ secret to a long and happy marriage? – “Pick a man who thinks you are wonderful.” Good advice Agnes.

Above- Agnes and Norman MacMillan celebrate their 64th wedding anniversary.

‘

Pick a man who thinks you are wonderful.'

Agnes MacMillan

Staff spotlight - Matthew Joyce Servery Assistant, Guilford Young Grove.

Originally from a hospitality background, Matthew decided to seek employment in the Guilford Young servery about ten years ago out of a desire for a steadier and more predictable role, rather than the "chaos of takeaway food".

Since then, he feels he has learned a lot of new things, and has had the opportunity to meet a lot of new residents and people.

Indeed, Matthew's favourite aspect of his role is talking to the residents. He recognises that you may not always have time to stop and talk, but if you can find a few minutes, you'll learn about their fascinating lives and backgrounds.

His advice for anyone moving into an aged care role is, "Keep in mind everyone is different, even the elderly. Some of them don't

I am Veronica Lowenstein, Guilford Young Grove is my home and this is my story.

Born in Hobart, Veronica lived in southern Tas most of her life except for a short stint when her father was transferred with the railways up to the northeast.

Growing up in Hobart with her family, she attended the presentation college, and then went to St Marys for commercial college. This education saw her enter the state public service (the day after she left school!), which she worked in thereafter for 24 years.

Although she enjoyed her work, she and her husband eventually found they were in a position to marry, and so she left the service to have a son and become a "humble housewife" – though she says her experience was anything but!

talk that much about their lives, and don't want to, but over time you work out which residents are happy to give you their story," and that you need to "be a people person".

A resident of Guilford Young since only September last year, Veronica says of the home, "The atmosphere when you come in, people are friendly, the staff are beautiful to the residents, the residents all talk to one another."

She notes, "That's my story, I'm here and I'm happy."

23

Residential Homes - Mount Esk

Above, Elain Nisbet and Geoffrey Armitage enjoying the weather during a BBQ lunch.

Mt Esk was among the first of all nursing homes in Tasmania to receive the COVID jab, and the first of the Southern Cross Care homes!

Despite only short notice, the vaccination process went extremely smoothly with excellent feedback from clients.

Thanks to our facility manager Susan’s careful preparations, we managed to run everything like clockwork. Extra staffing, careful timing, and the right messages went into making sure a day that could otherwise have been unpleasant was in fact a delight.

Susan said, “Everything was so well organised, so calm and happy, it felt just like an outing for the residents!”

24

Tea and coffee were arranged, with lunch set up for the COVID team in attendance. We even had our former Facility Manager Heather here on the day to assist, which was a great benefit for the residents in keeping them calm and reassured (Heather has such a great relationship with everyone!)

Heather was also extremely useful in helping us figure out what documentation was needed, as the COVID team themselves didn’t know everything about the process since everything was still so new!

Residents had to wait a minimum of 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine before continuing on their way, just in case they had an adverse reaction. Anyone with any allergy of any kind had to wait a minimum of 30 minutes, just to play it safe.

Thankfully we got through the day without any adverse reactions

whatsoever, so I’d say we’re all feeling pretty good about it.

In fact, some of the residents even dressed up as an occasion! How much more fun can a vaccination get?

and more residents ‘areMore now enjoying their meals together, which is wonderful for everyone’s socialisation and wellbeing.

Susan Blythe Facility Manager, Mount Esk

It's great to see that post vaccination more and more residents are now enjoying their meals together, which is wonderful for everyone’s socialisation and wellbeing.

Staff spotlight: Susan Blyth, Facility Manager, Mount Esk. Hailing from Queensland, and having worked in the aged care industry since 2000, Susan has enjoyed a varied career including university lecturing, project management, and running her own business.

I am Tony, Mount Esk is my home and this is my story.

Susan was originally drawn to aged care due to the industry having the "best of both worlds" of business development and making a genuine difference in the lives of individuals.

Now employed in Tassie as Mt Esk's facility manager, Susan was drawn to Southern Cross Care out of a desire to help the business grow, and because her research showed that it was a "very kind" place to work and be. (Thanks Susan!)

Susan's passion for aged care stems from her belief that the end stage of life is the most important

Born and bred in Ulverstone on Tassie's northwest coast, Tony is an avid hunter and fisherman with experience stalking deer, and the game trophies to prove it! (Just take a visit to his room, they're mounted on the wall!) one. She says, "there's always challenges, there always will be, but I think people often forget while we're here, and it's 'end stage of life'." Moreover, she says her motto is: "Never say no. When there's a will, there's a way!"

In fact, the jabs were entirely painless, and nobody felt them, so we all had another shock when we realised they were already done!!

As for other events, we enjoyed a fabulous BBQ outside to enjoy what might have been the last of the lovely warm weather. We went outside for nibbles and drinks before lunch, only to have everyone want to stay out instead of coming in for their meal as they were having too much of a good time outside! We did get to lunch eventually though I promise!

Watch this space for more on Mt Esk!

Above, Judy Thompson enjoys an afternoon of music on her 60th birthday.

A former army serviceman, Tony also completed 12 months of military service stationed primarily in Victoria, but thankfully was never required for active service as his posting occurred only toward the end of the Vietnam War. A family man, Tony has a son and a daughter in Tasmania, and another son in Townsville.

Originally intending to visit a nursing home on respite from hospital, Tony's son did some investigating and, upon encountering Southern Cross Care's Mt Esk facility, thought that this was indeed the best one around, with the biggest rooms and the friendliest people.

Coming for a tour with facility manager Susan, Tony was invited to stay and has now moved in permanently.

25

Residential Homes - Rivulet

The staff here at Rivulet are starting to settle into the routine of being part of Southern Cross Care. We are gradually becoming one big team, which is a wonderful unifying experience for all of us.

Residents are naturally very happy to be seeing their families in person again after the easing of COVID restrictions. We have actually had two doses of the vaccine so far at Rivulet over the last 3 months, and many residents are hoping that restrictions will ease even further as a result! The administration of the vaccine went smoothly and comfortably, no trouble!

In February we enjoyed a meet & greet with residents and family representatives. This was a lovely evening out in the courtyard (and we’re just glad that the weather decided to remain friendly!)

Rivulet has now transitioned over to Southern Cross Care’s food menu, with some resident focus groups 26

organised to give feedback on the meals. Yum yum! We have also received a total of six new nurses to our little family, and we welcome them and hope they truly enjoy their time with us.

The outside area in memory support has been undergoing a makeover!

Residents were excited to help fix it up by tidying the area and oiling our outdoor furniture, ready for the cooler months. The budgies are also now enjoying their life outside in the fresh air, in their new yard filled with bright and colourful toys and bird boxes. There are also two new budgies to join the family!

Residents are encouraged to assist with looking after the birds by feeding and keeping water levels topped up.

We also had some visits from a furry friend – Alpaca Rosie! Rosie had some exciting news to share this month when she visited . . . she is expecting! A younger Alpaca named Hershey is now being trained up to cover Rosie while she is on Maternity leave.

We held our first Ladies BBQ for this year. Our ladies enjoyed getting together to have a chat and eat a delicious BBQ lunch. It was a great opportunity for some of our new residents to meet others and have a laugh!

Finally, all the residents got together from our three buildings to have fun at a Black Cherries concert held at the Court recently. Lots of fun was had by all.

I am Ian Dawson, Rivulet is my home and this is my story.

Above, Janet Allsop has a quick chat with Rosie the Alpaca who is now on maternity leave.

Above, Kathleen Meaghan helps out with keeping the outdoor furniture in tip-top shape.

We also had some visits from a furry friend – ‘Alpaca Rosie! Rosie had some exciting news to share this month when she visited . . . she is expecting!’

Lesa Kerstan Facility Manager, Rivulet

A lifelong resident of Hobart, Ian also has two children, one living here and the other in NSW. Ian's room features a nice sunny outlook, and is perfectly positioned to offer some lovely birdsong in the mornings.

Staff spotlight Sam Wall, Registered Nurse, Rivulet.

One of our registered nurses, Sam has always liked the idea of aged care,and in fact volunteered at Mary’s Grange when she was in grade 10 at Mt Carmel College.

Completing year 12 and attending UTAS in Launceston for 3 years, Sam achieved her qualification, and then passed through the graduate program with Aged & Community Services Australia.

Ian is one of our long-term residents, having moved into the home about twenty years ago. As a former bank manager for thirty years(!), Ian's career was highly varied, and saw him travel all around Australia to most states as part of his role. Visiting South Australia, the Northern Territory, and Perth in Western Australia (his favourite) for work purposes was "an adventure".

Southern Cross Care and has been so for the last four months.

Working at Barrington lodge for 18 months, followed shortly by BUPA for 9 months, Sam is now at

Currently in the role of clinical care coordinator, Sam's advice for anyone considering a role in aged care: "You have to be passionate; you have to know you want to be a nurse, and be caring, considerate, with others nothing bothers you because you see it all!"

27

Residential Homes - Rosary Gardens

Above, Australia Day concert featuring the Daystar Duo. Below, armchair travels to the Netherlands.

As a bit of a theme you may have noticed, residents throughout Southern Cross Care’s facilities are generally pleased to be getting life back to near-normal and out from under COVID’s thumb.

It’s no different for us here at Rosary Gardens, with residents enjoying the opportunity to get back to their outings in particular. We have a plan in process for starting these up again in earnest, though the men’s group has already had an outing together as first cab off the rank.

Recently many of the residents of Mary’s Grange have settled in here at Rosary Gardens. Though it’s always a bit uncomfortable to move house, most residents have taken the transition in their stride and are making this their new home.

We’re trying to very gently move 28

toward a household model of care, so that there is more closeness on each unit.

We try to place residents where they will add to that mix in the most harmonious way possible.

Circumstances are definitely improved here, given the fact it is a beautifully renovated facility, and there is a strong and solid team there.

As for our Leisure & Lifestyle activities, recently we went on an Armchair Trip to Holland. We discussed the country, ate Dutch food, and watched a travel show about Holland on the big screen.

We also had an Australia Day concert featuring the Daystar Duo. As a result, the residents enjoyed some Australian-themed songs and some of their old favourites.

I am Beverly Ripper, Rosary Gardens is my home and this is my story.

Above, Joseph Xiberass and Leisure & Lifestyle Officer Carole Driessen enjoying the Daystar Duo.

We try to place residents where they will add to ‘that mix in the most harmonious way possible. ’ Staff spotlight: Leanne Hutchins Enrolled Nurse, Rosary Gardens.

Rosary Gardens facility was still the hospital at St John's Park (that's a whopping 36 years of experience!).

Since then, she has been with Southern Cross Care since the facility was taken over some 28 years ago, and has stayed ever since.

If you notice a nurse at Rosary Gardens with brightly coloured hair, it might just be Leanne!

Leanne began her career as an enrolled nurse in 1985 when the

Born in Carlton, Victoria, Beverly's father originally worked in Tassie at the Zincworks, building a house and moving their family to the Glenorchy area when she was just two years old.

Attending school in Glenorchy, Beverly then got a job at Tastex Knitwear making jumpers with the knitting machines. Hers was a challenging job, with as many as five knitting machines going at once! Unfortunately her time at Tastex was prematurely ended by the health department when they discovered her epilepsy, and she was told she was unable to work again.

Over the years she has worked in all areas of aged care, has completed numerous courses focused on dementia education and training..

Nevertheless, as one door closes another one opens. Meeting her husband after finishing work, Beverly then gave birth to two beautiful daughters, both of which are still in Hobart – and now she has grandchildren!

Leanne says that she has always had a desire to look after the elderly, and that this is the favourite aspect of her job – just communicating with and caring for them. Her advice for anyone wanting to be a nurse or get into aged care is simply, "Go for it."

Beverly has been a resident at Rosary Gardens for over two years, and says "I'm happy here".

She mentions she has numerous friends here now, that the carers are beautiful, and that there are plenty of activities to keep her occupied.

29

Residential Homes - Sandown Apartments

There has been some milestone birthdays, a ballooning activities schedule, new staff and new residents at Sandown over the last couple of months.

We’ve been doing lots of work in terms of family meetings, getting to know the staff, the team, and how everything works.

We’ve had some great birthdays recently too, with Esme Birkett turning 100, and Gladys Dobson 102!

(It’s not a competition, but that’s pretty impressive.)

Residents are of course enjoying the relaxing of the COVID restrictions, and are beginning to have a few more outings. Families are also finding it easier to come and go, and be more relaxed while being here.

Also, each of our residents has received both doses of their COVID vaccine now. Everyone was keen to receive it, with people lining up early in the morning to get theirs 30

administered. In fact, this became quite an event in itself, as we made it a social day (so as to offset the need to wait around for up to 30 minutes after the vaccine is administered).

Pet therapy dog Derek and his owner Gary were on hand throughout vaccination day to make sure everyone received a cuddles after their vaccination.

We also enjoyed the Easter break, with some easter egg hunts on Easter weekend!

Lifestyle and Leisure Officer Liz Hanuszewicz introduced a new activity called Balloon Bash at the start of the year. The first ever event only had six residents and one balloon and went for 30 minutes once a week. It has now ‘Ballooned’

to a group of up to 26! We now have a volunteer assisting and we run this class for an hour twice a week. It has becomes very competitive, is so much fun and has become one of our most popular activities!

Jewelery making day is another one of Sandown resident's favourite activities. The resulting jewelery are frequently gifted to loved ones on special occasions or just because.

We have quite a few new care staff now, including some cleaning staff who came across from Mary’s Grange. We’ve enjoyed bringing them over and orienting them to Sandown.

Also, we are currently full! We have 100% occupancy at the moment, but are going well and very happy to have a full house.

Clockwise from top left, pet therapy dog Derek and his owner Gary making sure Diana Ward gets adequate cuddles a after her COVID vaccination; John and Christen Maddison, on jewellery making day; Balloon Bash activity in full swing.

Opposite page, Joy Goodman and Irene Martin displaying their new bracelet and necklace they made during jewellry making.

Staff spotlight: Dinusha Wijewardena Admin Assistant, Sandown Apartments.

Noting the unfortunate scarcity of employment opportunities in Tasmania at the time, Dinusha nevertheless applied for a role with Southern Cross Care in April 2019 and obtained a role as a service employee. Transitioning to an administration role only last year, Dinusha notes that her work can be challenging due to the sheer range of tasks required of administrative staff, but enjoys the career opportunities it has brought her.

A native of Sri Lanka, Dinusha originally came to Australia for the first time in 2014. Graduating from an accounting degree through Swinburne University of Technology, Dinusha nevertheless had to return home for a time due to VISA issues, only coming back to Tasmania in 2019.

Dinusha says, "Aged care is a good place to start with a job. There is always growth in aged care, and there will be plenty more aged people in the future. If you are doing something in the aged care industry, you have a high possibility of getting a job."

I am Barbara Calvert, Sandown Apartments is my home and this is my story.

Born in Devon, England, Barbara followed her fiance to Tasmania six months after he moved here with a placement as an architect offered work here. Marrying, and staying here on contract for the next 5 years, Barbara had two daughters before returning to England, and ultimately coming back to Tasmania to have her third daughter.

Starting off as a landscape designer, Barbara specialised in designing children's playgrounds, and in fact assisted in designing the Mt Nelson Primary School playground (how unique!). A talented quilter and cross-stitcher, Barbara in fact ran a craft business in her earlier years, and was successful enough to put her children through private school thanks to the proceeds.

Coming to Sandown to live four years ago, Barbara enjoys a lovely view from her room, and values participating in the regular activities such as Bingo and Mahjong, which she plays together with a group of six every week.

31

Residential Homes - Yaraandoo

It’s been so nice ‘that we have been able to enjoy our morning tea in our lovely garden most mornings throughout summer..

’

Judy Hoskins Facility Manager, Yaraandoo

Above, Peter Evans, helping Valmai Bonney and Ila Bennett celebrate their birthdays.

Here at Yaraandoo we can hardly believe how quickly the year is flying!

Our Leisure & Lifestyle team have been busy organising an annual calendar filled with new activities and outings, and we can’t wait to get on with them. We also offer a warm welcome to Deb, the newest member of our Leisure & Lifestyle team.

Valmai Bonney and Ila Bennett celebrated their birthdays on April 8 and 9 respectively. Double the fun was had when a combined party was planned for both of them on April 9. Wishing you both all the best for the coming year Valmai and Ila!

On Valentine’s Day this year we had the pleasure of having Mott Ryan at the facility, and we hope this will be the start of many visits from Mott!

Since then, we have been enjoying fortnightly concerts with him, as the residents love singing along to his songs and enjoy their weekly happy hour during the concerts.

As a recent activity, we have had the pleasure of being taught Line Dancing once a month. Other than this, we have enjoyed a combined exercise and physio class, as well as weekly bus trips, and have been blessed with amazing weather.

On Australia Day we made ourselves a photo booth and had a great time taking some “patriotic” photos.

Just look at those cool dudes and dudettes! We also played some Aussie games – thong throwing, and beach ball throwing. How very Australian!

32

It’s been so nice that we have been able to enjoy our morning tea in our lovely garden most mornings throughout summer.

Additionally, we were recently fortunate enough to receive a visit from the Cox children including Sienna, Joel and Sophie, who came in and showed us how talented they

are playing the piano. What little maestros!

On April 16, Glen 'Tiny' Neal and Joy Neal celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary. Mrs Neal lives at Yaraandoo, and Mr Neal drives down from their Yolla home to visit her multiple times a week.

This time last year, Mr and Mrs Neal were supposed to be celebrating 60 years of happy marriage together.

But just three days before their anniversary, the North-West was thrown into the most severe lockdown the country had seen to that point.

Thankfully, in the year since both Mr and Mrs Neal have been safely vaccinated, reunited and were able to have the family around to celebrate their 61st anniversary!

Congratulations Mr and Mrs Neal!

I am Ila Bennett, Yaraandoo is my home and this is my story.

Above, resident William Anderson and Carol Staples have enjoyed a busy few months at Yaraandoo.

Staff spotlight: Emily McPherson Registerd Nurse, Yaraandoo her tenacity and persistence. Emily knew early on she wanted to get into aged care, largely because she liked the model of long-term care allowing you to get to know residents and their families.

Emily decided to study nursing while her husband was recovering from back surgery. A challenging task juggling the needs of her family (including children!) while studying, Emily completed her degree over six years instead of the normal three, a testament to

After losing a job at another aged care provider due to COVID, Emily applied to Yaraandoo, recognising this as her preferred workplace since it was in her local community only 10 minutes from home, as well as being a more moderately sized facility (not hundreds of residents).

Emily feels honoured as a new graduate to have a chance to work here, and her advice to any nursing student considering the industry is to "definitely consider aged care," as "it's a privilege to look after people in their last years."

Born in Wynyard on Tassie's northwest coast, Ila moved to the mainland when she was 17 for a waitressing job in the Victorian snowfields. Deciding to pursue nursing, Ila later became an enrolled nurse and worked at both hospitals and aged care facilities. Ila also has experience in pastoral care, and fondly remembers her years working as a volunteer.

Moving back to Tasmania only last November, Ila was gone for a total of 65 years, and says, "it's nice to be back, but it's very different!"

Now settled at Yaraandoo, Ila has made many friends and enjoys participating in the activities on offer, including bus excursions, and says she “loves it here”. She enjoys picturesque views of the ocean, as well as direct access to a beautiful garden courtyard from her room. The only problem is, with her nursing experience Ila sometimes feels like she wants to get up and help the carers, but they tell her, "We're here to look after you now, so relax and let us!"

33

Lifestyle Villages

Above- the Glenara Lakes Snow White cast , from left, John Burgan as the Huntsman, Margaret Meyer as the Snow White, Toni Maloney as the Prince and Gayle as the Wicked Queen.

Activities have definitely increased at our Villages over the past few months!

Glenara Lakes held a BBQ for Australia Day on the day which over 50 people well attended. A quiz was also held, and a very competitive game of tear the “Fantale” wrapper into as long a strip as you can. The wonderful Helen Cohen won this novel competition.

Glenara Lakes Residents’ Association organised a production entitled “Saturday Night Live at Glenara”.

This event was hugely popular, and the hall was packed, albeit of course with strict COVID-19 rules in place!

The audience was delighted by Doreen Warburton’s singing, Dennis Smith MC’s events and entertained 34

with some wonderful jokes. Patricia Mason and Helen Burgan produced two skits, including a hilarious skit on a cricket match. The other was a very clever rewrite of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves written by Helen Burgan.

Over at Saint Canice, what began seven years ago as an excuse for an evening get-together by residents at the Lifestyle Village has developed into a fund-raising venture which has raised thousands of dollars to support a host of worthy causes.

The brain-child of village residents Carol and Ian Batt, the monthly

event has become a popular feature of the Saint Canice social calendar.

Carol and Ian collect residents’ pizza orders and send them to an appreciative local Sandy Bay pizzeria.

Carol said the Pizza Night venture was never intended as a fund-raiser – but the “little profit” accumulated each month had provided financial help to a variety of needy causes while adding a popular social event to the village calendar.

Surplus funds from Pizza Night have been distributed to many worthwhile community causes, including Cystic Fibrosis Tasmania,

The Two Swinging Ukes, Helen and Bruce Todd.

Danny and Deb Holland at Springhaven St Patrickst's Day.

Snow White, far right, and the Seven Dwarves at Saturday Night Live at Glenara Lakes Lifestyle Village.

the Bone Marrow Donor Institute House in North Melbourne, Timor Leste projects, the Nepal Earthquake Appeal, the Women’s Shelter, the 2020 Bushfire Appeal, the Saint Canice Craft Group, and a self-funded project by two friends who meet weekly to sew sanitary shields for girls in orphanages in India, and knit beanies for indigenous babies in outback Australian hospitals.

Just about everyone at Saint Canice laid claim to at least some Irish heritage on St Patrick's Day, as the

Carol Etherington & Lorraine Walters – wearing their bunny ears.

Carol and Ian Batt prepare to distribute pizzas to Saint Canice residents on the 75th Pizza Night event.

traditional festival was marked with a luncheon featuring Guinness pies, green peas and mashed potato – followed by pavlova with appropriate green trimmings.

Strickland – is permitted to display the trophy in pride of place in their apartment for a year, before handing it over to next year’s winner.

In time-honoured tradition, residents completed the village’s annual Irish Quiz – competing for the coveted ERNI Trophy (a perpetual Leprechaun-like statue presented annually as an Extraordinary Reward for Notional Intelligence -- ERNI ).

Springhaven Lifestyle Village has seen the return of many activities, including Let’s Get Crafty - Card Making, ladies night Spring Chicks Chatter and a St Patricks Day Concert. The concert was held Wednesday 17th March and was a wonderful afternoon of Irish entertainment by the “Two Swinging Ukes” Bruce & Helen Todd.

The winner – this year Christine

35

Technology

Use Messenger : o t w o H on your laptop/ 5 # computer.

How to use Messenger on your laptop/computer.

Following on from the last Technology article in Under the Stars on how to set up Messenger on your Laptop or Computer, this edition we will share COTA Tasmania's

instructions on how to use Messenger on your laptop or computer. As always, your carers are happy to assist you if you need a hand.

All devices are different. Don’t stress about what’s on your screen, look for the icons and word commands we have ringed in red.

1

On your laptop of computer, click on this icon on your bottom taskbar:

2

If the below message appears, click on “Don’t Allow” or “Not Now” to decide later.

You may need to login again.

Use the same email and password as Facebook.

4

There are three ways to chat.

Message

Examples will appear as you type.

Click on the person you wish to chat with.

3

First you need to find someone to chat to. Under “Chats”, start to type their name in the Search box.

If the below message appears, click on “Allow”.

Talk Video call

5

To send a message ... a) Click in the ‘Aa’ or message box at the bottom right of your screen.

b) Type your message. c) Press the send button.

When your friend replies it will appear under your message. Then you can repeat steps b and c to reply.

6

To talk ...

This is like a phone call.

Click on the handset icon (top right-hand corner).

Make sure the microphone is on.

After you finish your chat, click on the bottom of the screen — icons will appear.

Click on the red phone icon to end the call.

When the other person answers the call, this screen will appear.

7

To video call ...

Click on the video camera icon (top right-hand corner).

After you finish your chat, click on the bottom of the screen — icons will appear.

Click on the red phone icon to end the call.

As at 22 June 2020.

IT HELP FOR OLDER TASMANIANS Contact COTA for more information on 6231 3265 or kereer@cotatas.org.au.

36

In the News Voluntary Assisted Dying So much of what Southern Cross Care aims to do is to acknowledge each person's uniqueness who comes into our care, particularly in residential aged care and to assist them to live as fulfilling a life as possible while with us.

Already in Southern Cross Care, much attention is given to working with our residents and their families to understand, document and honour the residents’ end of life wishes.

In March 2021 Southern Cross Care joined the Australian Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration, a voluntary program that trains aged care staff and clinicians to assess the palliative care needs of new residents to improve care outcomes.

In March 2021, the Tasmanian Parliament passed Voluntary Assisted Dying legislation.

It will come into effect sometime after 1 July 2022 to allow the Government time to put in place the necessary details to operate this legislation. I will use the terminology of Voluntary Assisted Dying or VAD because it is now commonly understood even though the wording is, in my view, an attempt to make the reality of the legislation more acceptable.

Southern Cross Care spent considerable effort during the debate in Parliament to seek organisations such as ours to have

the same right of conscientious objection as provided to certain health professionals.

We will continue to pursue this conscientious objection for Southern Cross Care since we are told that the legislation is about choice.

We at Southern Cross Care acknowledge that the legislation will enable anyone who satisfies the criteria to access VAD. From our perspective, VAD is an incomplete response to the reality of death, particularly when overlaid with Southern Cross Care being an organisation formed by the Knights of the Southern Cross to provide a catholic response to the reality of ageing.

Southern Cross Care will use the period until the legislation becomes operative to join with and learn from other Southern Cross Care organisations across Australia. To educate and train our staff on how to engage respectfully in conversations with residents and their families who wish to explore VAD; to remain true to Southern Cross Care’s ethos, and not engage in VAD in our facilities, not discriminate and not abandon our residents.

Southern Cross Care will work with our residents to give them full autonomy to make their own decisions and facilitate those who wish to access VAD in the most appropriate setting beyond Southern Cross Care.

- Chairman of the Board, Stephen Shirley 37

Career Update You may remember Kath Johnson from the last edition of Under the Stars.

We met Kath, pictured right, while she was working in Administration at Sandown Apartments. Since then, Kath has taken on a new role within Southern Cross Care, moving into the Learning and Development Coordinator position at Southern Cross Care State Office.

While it is a very different role, Kath says she still has the chance to be connect and be involved with her fellow team members, and that the position still requires customer service skills.

“It’s been a good experience so far, I’ve learnt a lot,” said Kath.

“Altura is my big project, which involves putting new staff on, answering any queries people have about being able to access the platform, or about any of the projects.

Or, if Facility Managers want particular programs provided for their staff, I upload those. And I get to sit on a lot of the training and learn a lot from that.”

“We’re also really encouraging nurses to get involved in the NPS Nurse’s Program, and also the graduate program, so that they can update their skills and advance their careers.”

“Being able to help others to develop their skills has been very rewarding… we have great potential in Learning and Development to really grow the skills of the workforce.”

Kath has always been passionate about her own learning and development. She has completed various certificates and training courses, and now is able to facilitate this for team members across the organisation.

“I encourage anyone who is interested in developing their skills to put their name forward. And, if anyone has any ideas of programs they think we could be part of, or if there is particular training they would like to see available, please reach out.”

Southern Cross Care Crossword - number 41 ACROSS 1. Short respite from work 8. Pollution Watchdog 10. She works in the OR 11. City leader 12. Powerful phrase from a famous Lincoln speech 16. Pa's counterpart 17. Blink of an eye 21. _, Myself & Irene 23. Hack it 26. Grown-up 29. Lost 31. Snapshot 32. Wood-splitting moves DOWN 1. Share top billing 2. Largest city in North Dakota 3. First lady 38

© 2020 by Trusted Media Brands, Inc. No other duplication permitted and not for resale. All rights reserved.

4. He up for the quiz 5. Tree type 6. Entered data 7. Float event 9. Longest river in Italy 13. Wesson partner 14. Down 15. Smoking and drinking 18. Meal with many choices 19. Speedy bird 20. Skirmish 22. Nike rival 24. Glengarry Glen Ross playwright 25. Texas landmark 27. Harry and moves William's mother 28. Besmirch 30. Pouch

Health & Wellness - It's Never Too Late During the 1970s, several studies of healthy older people indicated that strength, stamina, and flexibility drop significantly after age 55.

These declines were once considered an inevitable consequence of aging. But a landmark study published in 1994 by Harvard and Tufts researchers showed that many functional losses could be reversed, even in the frailest and oldest women. In that study, 100 individuals, ages 72 to 98, performed resistance exercises three times a week for 10 weeks*. At the end of that time, the exercise group could lift significantly more weight,

climb more stairs, and walk faster and farther than their sedentary counterparts, who continued to lose strength and muscle mass.

In the years since, other researchers have substantiated the value of exercise for the oldest and most vulnerable populations. Their collective message: If you can move a muscle, you should. It may help you live longer and better.

Whether you've been sedentary all your life or become inactive because of injury or illness, gentle exercise programs are an ideal way to turn things around. Programs that are supervised by exercise professionals and incorporate individual physical evaluations are the best way to get started.

Before you undertake any exercise program, begin with a checkup by your primary care provider or rehabilitation specialist. If you have a condition such as congestive heart failure, lung disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, arthritis, or a joint replacement, you'll need guidance on developing a safe exercise routine.

If you've taken a couple of tumbles recently or just feel unsteady on your feet, you may want to start with balance exercises, even before you begin your aerobic program. All you need is a pair of comfortable, low-heeled shoes. Because balance exercises don't stress muscles, you can do them as often as you like. *Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School

39

In the kitchen with Ronald Maben Ronald Maben, our resident recipe wiz, is sharing his wonderful recipe for Mixed Vegetable soup/curry (Sambar) for us to enjoy

Ingredients: 1 cup split gram (tur dal) 50 gms. tamarind, soaked in hot water 2 cups chopped vegetables (carrots, beans, tomatoes, cauliflower, pearl onions, drum sticks brinjal) 4 green chillies, sliced lengthwise 1 onion, sliced lengthwise 3 tbsp oil Salt to taste 2 tsp chilli powder 2 tsp. sambar powder (get from Indian Grocery) 1 tsp. mustard seeds ½ cup scraped coconut (dry roast it and grind to a fine paste) 1 tsp cumin seeds

40

3-4 small red round chillies 2-3 sprigs curry leaves 1 bunch coriander leaves

For preparing Sambar powder: 1 tsp coriander seeds 1 tsp Bengal gram 1 tsp fenugreek seeds 1 tsp pepper corns 1 tsp cumin seeds 5-6 red chilies Fry all these ingredients in 1 tsp. oil until golden brown and blend to fine powder when cool. You can make this and store also

Method: Wash the split gram and pressure

cook with 3 cups of water till half done. To this, add green chillies, onions and chopped vegetables and cook till vegetables are tender. Add salt, chilli powder, sambar powder and the coconut paste and cook for one minute.

Now add tamarind water and water if required and let it boil on slow fire. Heat oil in a thickbottomed pan, fry the mustard and cumin seeds, small red chillies curry leaves until they splutter. Pour the boiled dhal and vegetable into the pan. Keep on slow fire of 2 minutes. Also add chopped coriander leaves and cover with a lid. Serve hot with any bread or rice.

Hospitality

The Hospitality team have had an incredibly busy start to 2021.

Jason Turnbull, Group Hospitality Manager, says that many exciting things are both underway and on the horizon.

Southern Cross Care has joined the Maggie Beer Foundation, an initiative established to help improve older Australians' food experiences, particularly those living within aged care homes. Jason will be attending conferences to discuss aged care industry food standards and menu choices to then introduce in Tasmania.

Food Focus Groups began at each Southern Cross Care aged care home last year. These focus groups gather around ten residents at a time to collect input on what they would like to see offered on the menu.

They are also invited to bring in their

own recipes and cook alongside the Southern Cross Care chef to increase inclusivity.

“We’re looking to include more things on the menu that our residents are asking for. I don’t think we’ve ever had as much feedback as what we do now from our residents and staff. Which is a good thing, but we need to be pushing on with that [feedback],” said Jason.

New Hot Boxes have been introduced to some homes, starting late last year and continuing this year. The new Hot Boxes are a plugin unit that can keep food warm to up to 85 degrees celsius, which helps with food quality and keeping food temperatures hot. They are integral to Southern Cross Care’s hospitality service, but it depends on the layout of the home as to whether that home has the new Hot Boxes in place at present.

“We’re trying to work this in conjunction with improving the overall dining experience for

residents; encouraging residents to come back to the dining room as opposed to eating in their rooms … this combined, I hope, will minimise cold food being delivered,” said Jason.

Continental buffet breakfasts are also being introduced. So far, the Rosary Gardens buffet is almost ready to commence service, and Rivulet is about to receive its buffet equipment. The continental buffet breakfasts will be open to residents and staff in each home’s dining room(s). When the buffets are up and running there will be a triple cereal dispenser, dual juice dispenser with ice, bread display, pass-through toaster unit with a cool-touch top, milk dispenser and fruit display. It is expected that all homes should have a continental buffet breakfast in place by the end of the year.

“We are looking to push out into more sectors, so stay tuned for more news … I really think it’s time that we increase our footprint and showcase what we can do in hospitality.’

41

Community events May, June & July 2021

Australian Aged Care Collaboration

BURNIE COUNCIL

Burnie Farmer’s Market, every first and third Saturday of each month.

Troy Ruffles: Weathering, 7 May - 19 June, Burnie Regional Art Gallery.

A Taste of Ireland―The Irish Music & Dance Sensation, Thursday, 15 July, Burnie Arts & Function Centre.

CITY OF HOBART

Salamanca Market, every Saturday, Salamanca Place.

Japan's Children's Day Celebration, 1 May, Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens.

BOFA Film Festival, 28-30 May, Village Cinemas.

CLARENCE CITY COUNCIL

South Arm Community Market, first Sunday of each month, South Arm Community Centre.

Richmond Village Market, every Saturday, the Village Town Hall.

Free flu clinic for 65+ years, 4-18 May, Integrated Care Centre.Fitness in the Park, 9.30am Tuesday's and Friday's, until 29 June.

Mosaics Workshop, 15 May, Bellerive Community Arts Centre.

DEVONPORT CITY COUNCIL

Friends of Don Reserve, 11 May, 13 July & 27 July, Don Reserve.

North West Film Society – Corpus Christi, 12 May, Paranaple Convention Centre.

Family History Course, 27 May, Devonport Library.

Community Engagement Outreach Connection Van, 7 July, Market Square.

Rockin’ Through the Ages, 15 July, Paranaple Convention Centre.

Devonport Jazz, 22-25 July, Devonport and Surrounds.

As a nation, we have spent more than two decades looking at how to fix our aged care system. With the Royal Commission set to deliver a historic set of recommendations, we can’t let this opportunity pass us by.

The Australian Government must commit to comprehensive reform of the aged care system so all older Australians are supported and enabled to live their lives with dignity.

Show your support.

Sign the petition NOW. CareAboutAgedCare.org.au

LAUNCESTON CITY COUNCIL

Harvest Market Launceston, every Saturday, 71 Cimitiere Street.

Launceston Family Funfair, 15 April, Mowbray Racecourse.

Agfest Field Days, 5-9 May, Carrick.

The Art of Forgiveness, 15 May, Windsor Community Precinct.

Australian Musical Theatre Festival, 19-23 May, Theatre North Inc. Telling Stories - Creating New Work, 21 May, Earl Art Centre.

KINGBOROUGH COUNCIL

Kingston Beach Handmade Market, every Sunday, Kingston Beach.

Hobart Doll Club Doll Making, every Saturday, Kingston LINC. English Language Group, 4-6 May, Kingborough Community Hub. Seasonal Walks, 1 June, contact Julie for location information, 6211 8170.

Southern Cross Care Locations SOUTHERN CROSS CARE HOUSE

Sandown Lifestyle Village Southerwood Drive, Lower Sandy Bay

85 Creek Road, New Town

St Canice Lifestyle Village 15 St Canice Avenue, Sandy Bay

HOME & COMMUNITY SERVICES South 85 Creek Road, New Town North 3 Pattisons Avenue, Youngtown 196-224 Low Head Rd, Low Head North-West 29 Wragg Street Somerset 81A Gunn Street Devonport

Guilford Young Grove Village 13 St Canice Avenue, Sandy Bay Grange Lifestyle Village 26 Channel Highway, Taroona Taroona Villas 100 Channel Highway, Taroona Glenara Lakes Lifestyle Village 390 Hobart Road, Youngtown

INDEPENDENT LIVING VILLAGES

Ainslie House and Chalet Lifestyle Village 5 Waveney Street, South Launceston

AA Lord Lifestyle Village 131 Hill Street, West Hobart

Ainslie House Westbury 87 Meander Valley Road, Westbury

Fairway Rise Lifestyle Village 1 Toogood Drive, Lindisfarne

Ainslie Low Head Lifestyle Village 165-255 Low Head Road, Low Head

Springhaven Lifestyle Village 1 Kirkham Drive, Lindisfarne

Yaraandoo Lifestyle Village 27 Wragg Street, Somerset

Sign up to the Southern Cross Care mailing list for Under the Stars e-newsletters.

AGED CARE HOMES Ainslie Low Head 196-244 Low Head Road, Low Head Fairway Rise 2 Toogood Drive, Lindisfarne Glenara Lakes 390 Hobart Road, Youngtown Guilford Young Grove 13 St Canice Avenue, Sandy Bay Mount Esk 38 Station Road, St Leonards Rivulet 14 Gore Street, South Hobart Rosary Gardens 85 Creek Road, New Town Sandown Apartments Southerwood Drive, Lower Sandy Bay Yaraandoo 1A Cardigan Street, Somerset

Solution: Crossword number 41

Electronic newsletters are one of the fastest ways to receive communication about important news, events and updates.

If you would like to sign up to the Southern Cross Care mailing list to receive e-newsletters, please email marketing@scctas.org.au 43

Hobart

Day Centre

Enjoy a day of respite making new friends in a supported, enabling environment.

Our Day Centres provides activities for older people designed to develop, maintain or support the ability to remain independent and socially active.

85 Creek Rd, New Town 1300 389 574 | www.scctas.org.au