Mayflower Grapevine news issue 94

e n i v e p a rg NEWS

Winter Edition 2024

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Issue 94

IN THIS EDITION: • Thank You, Volunteers!

• Valentine’s Day Love • St Patrick’s Day Cheer • Marvellous Mother’s Day • Alice and Jack turn 100 @themayflowergroup

mayflower.org.au

A MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO

Dedication in Action Looking through the previous (Summer) edition of Grapevine, it has been very special to see the richness of life within our Mayflower Community. My hope is that Grapevine continues to grow and provide a window into the special things happening in our homes and in the community where we provide care.

The more I get to know our team, the more I see their dedication and commitment to the work that we do. I come across so many thoughtful acts every day that are aligned with our vision of ‘Care without Compromise’.

So much has happened in the last six months that makes me very proud to be a part of this team.

Mayflower Brighton has received generous donations which are being used to renovate the Salon and Library, greatly enhancing the lives of residents. We are also launching our ‘Golden Wheels’ campaign to acquire a new minibus for Brighton and are reaching out to the local community and our suppliers for support.

Scenic bus trips from Mayflower Reservoir have resumed, offering residents enriching experiences beyond our home.

Enhancements to the services continue, with modifications to the kitchen completed and a second Tovertafel installed for the benefit of all residents. The children’s playground is also being built so that families can bring small children with them when they visit their loved ones.

We are thrilled that Mayflower Edith Bendall has successfully implemented a new care system. This helps us to create a safer clinical environment and saves our team time so that they can spend more time with residents.

I do hope that you all enjoy this latest edition of Grapevine, stay warm through the winter; and as always, thanks to everyone – residents, family members, and our team - for all your support to Mayflower.

Stuart Rodney Chief Executive Officer 2

Home Care Mayflower’s Home Care services can help you or your loved one enjoy a healthy and independent life, with personalised care and support in the Northern and Bayside suburbs, including the Mornington Peninsula.

From simple daily chores to full nursing support, you can spend your days doing what you love while we look after the rest. Let us help you enjoy your independence.

Call 1300 522 273 or visit Mayflower.org.au/home-care Pictured above: Mayflower Home Care team member Teresa loves connecting with each client she visits.

On the cover: Teresa with her daughter Nella at the Mayflower Reservoir Mother’s Day event.

Connect with Us Facebook is a great way to stay ‘in the know’ and to network with others in your community, and The Mayflower Group socials are no exception!

We share inspiring stories and photographs of our wonderful residents, as well as helpful information and resources to help you better understand aged care and ageing.

You can find, follow, ‘like’ and share our social media pages by searching on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn for ‘The Mayflower Group.’

Pictured Left: Shirley with her daughter and Mayflower Volunteer, Robin during the Mayflower Brighton Valentine’s Day celebration.

VALE TREVOR MARTYN OAM It is with sadness that Mayflower acknowledges the passing of past Board Chair Trevor Martyn, OAM. Trevor joined the Mayflower Board in October 2008 and served as Board Chair from October 2010 until his retirement in October 2020.

His selfless leadership and commitment to resident care were exemplary.

Trevor was also a principal figure in the road freight and logistics industries and actively involved with Brighton Rotary. In 2018, he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM).

Our thoughts and condolences are with his wife Judy, daughters Miranda and Sally, and the entire Martyn family.

21.09.1944 – 14.05.2024 Pictured: Mr Martyn during his time as chairman of the Mayflower Board.

Private Dining Room for Hire At Mayflower Brighton, we have a newly refurbished private dining room available for hire.

The room can host up to 8 of your nearest and dearest and it is the perfect space for your loved ones next celebration.

Mayflower Edith Bendall and Mayflower Reservoir also have spaces available, please speak to your Care Manager to inquire.

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Pictured above: Christine, one of our fabulous Gift Shop volunteers, radiates as she is surrounded by Easter merchandise.

Volunteers Needed

Your opportunity to join our friendly team of Volunteers is finally here! From running our gorgeous Gift Shop, to driving our mini buses and on to running an activity - our volunteers help the world go round!

If you have a few hours a month you could share, we’d love you to join our team. Ask to speak to Nicole on 03 9591 1100 or email her directly, at: nicole.porritt@mayflower.org.au

Meet Valentin Valentin, an Environmental Services team member, has dedicated over 7 years to Mayflower Brighton, where his warm presence and trademark smile reassure those around him Valentin’s journey to Australia was shaped by his unwavering commitment to care and service, honed over 20 years in Italy as an emergency department paramedic and nurse in aged care.

During a holiday in Europe fate led him to meeting his wife, igniting a new chapter in Australia.

Drawing from his aged care experience, Valentin quickly became an invaluable asset at Mayflower, where teamwork and job satisfaction are his driving forces In his down time, Valentin treasures family time and hobbies, including car repairs with his son and fishing.

As a not-for-profit charitable organisation Mayflower relies on the generous financial support of donors. All money raised is directed to helping enrich the lives of residents.

Please help us by donating today!

For more information on how you can make a difference, please see the back page.

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In Valentin, Mayflower finds not just a team member, but a source of inspiration and kindness.

Valentin expresses gratitude for his colleagues’ support, noting that teamwork truly makes all the difference.

Pictured: Valentin with Claude on a sunny day in the garden.

Free Will Writing Resource Mayflower is proud to partner with Gathered Here, offering you a free online Will with unlimited updates for life. Fast, easy and legal.

It is also a way that you can help make a difference in the lives of residents, by leaving a gift to Mayflower in your Will.

All money raised is directed to helping enrich the lives of residents in various ways, such as lifestyle activities and more. One example is the Jennifer Cook Movie Theatre refurbishment.

Scan the QR code above or visit: gatheredhere.com.au/c/mayflower to write your Will today.

Brighton’s Easter ‘Eggstravaganza’ Winner!

Jim was chuffed when he realised his daughter, Liz, was the luckyguess winner of the Mayflower Brighton Easter Raffle.

The Prize? A giant vase of Easter eggs to share with the family!

JACK REMEMBERS - ON ANZAC DAY

various regiments. Based on these recollections, Jack has written a book titled ‘A Spotter Recalls.’

At Mayflower Edith Bendall, an exhibit is displayed each year, showcasing various artifacts and memorabilia of the Anzacs. This special exhibit stands as a tribute not only to Jack but to all who have served, reminding us of the sacrifices made for our country’s freedom.

Pictured is Centenarian Jack of Mayflower Edith Bendall. A true hero and veteran of World War II.

Anzac Day holds a special place in our hearts.

It is a time to honour and remember those who have fought and fallen for our freedom.

Across Mayflower, we embrace

this tradition wholeheartedly, marking the day with heartfelt Anzac Day services each year.

Our ceremonies at Mayflower include all the traditional and solemn moments of remembrance, hymns, and a minutes silence concluding with the comforting warmth of a shared morning tea and camaraderie.

Jack, who recently turned 100 in May, adds a personal touch to the day’s significance at Mayflower Edith Bendall in Pascoe Vale with his recollections of service in

These gatherings offer a chance to reconnect with friends and reflect on the enduring importance of honouring our past as we move forward together.

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Pictured above: Anna does some seated dancing to Irish tunes, with the encouragement of Care and Leisure team members Malliga and Debbie.

BRIGHTON Deep Pink

Light Purple

It’s All Green on St Patrick’s Day

Dark Purple

The spirit of St. Patrick’s Day filled the air across Mayflower as residents revelled in all things Irish and green - embracing the joyous festivities with warmth and cheer.

Sky Blue

Blue

This year, the celebrations kicked off a little early, as anticipation bubbled among residents eager to mark this special day. Each home within Mayflower radiated with Irish charm, adorned with whimsical decorations including Irish hats, shamrocks, rainbows, and, of course, pots of gold.

Delightful green treats and green beverages were served, enchanting taste buds with the essence of the Emerald Isle. From green jelly to cupcakes topped with vibrant green icing, these were just some of the favourite sweets of the day.

Residents enjoyed lively games of Irish trivia, testing their knowledge of all things Irish, while St. Patrick’s Day-themed happy hours and sing-alongs added to the merriment.

Live Irish music filled the halls, transporting everyone to the verdant hills of Ireland. Our dedicated team members also joined in the fun, donning shades of green and embracing the festive spirit wholeheartedly.

At Mayflower, celebrating cultural traditions like St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just about the festivities; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and connection. It’s about honouring the diverse backgrounds and experiences of each person living at Mayflower, while creating meaningful opportunities for them to share their heritage and traditions with others.

These celebrations serve as reminders of the rich tapestry of cultures within our community, strengthening bonds and enriching lives with each shared moment.

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Pictured above: John enjoys his cold brew of choice, and; Margaret with Care and Leisure Team member, Mary during the festivities.

Alice believes keeping active is part of her secret to a long and healthy life. “I enjoy watching tennis ,” says Alice, “I played at Regent and Cranross Tennis Clubs in Reservoir until I was 75!”

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Continuing to stay active is her mantra. Whether it’s through regular walks with friends, armchair exercises and activities – Alice enjoys keeping both her body and brain fit.

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Alice’s Journey to 100 A Century of Adventure

Meet Alice, who celebrated her 100th birthday in early April, joining the ‘Centenarian Club’ with style and grace.

Celebrating a life rich in love, adventure, and unwavering dedication, Alice has marked her remarkable milestone of a century on this earth.

Alice’s journey is one of boundless joy and profound connections, with her devotion to her family shining brightly as she continues to inspire those around her with her unwavering strength and love.

In 1948, Alice married Jack, and together they built a beautiful family, raising three children – Robyn, Peter, and Karen – and welcoming seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, with a third coming in June 2024.

Alice is a woman of many talents; she has been a skilled bookkeeper and a master of shorthand and typing. “Mum excelled as a homemaker, a devoted wife and mother, always there for everyone, strong and supportive, she lives for her family,” says Alice’s daughter, Karen.

Her greatest passion is tennis, it filled her life with playing both social and competition and administering the game through her service to the Preston MidWeek Ladies Tennis Association, where she has cherished lifelong friendships.

All three children played tennis, with Peter being a professional tennis coach and Karen working for Tennis Australia

Beach holidays have been a cherished part of Alice’s life, with Point Lonsdale, Ocean Grove, and Seaford her favourite destinations.

With her husband Jack, there was also the annual trip to Narooma in New South Wales.

Never shying away from an excuse to socialise with friends, Alice keeps her social calendar busy with the activities on offer, with live music performances at Happy Hour being the favourite.

The biggest smile is saved for her family visits which she cherishes - and she has lost none of her sense of humour!

As Alice reaches this incredible milestone, she does so surrounded by love and cherished memories, a testament to a life well-lived.

Happy 100th Birthday, Alice.

Pictured top left; Alice with her 3 children, Karen, Peter and Robyn. Below left; with her grand-daughter, and right with husband Jack in their younger years.

Alice and Jack met through their mutual love of tennis at the Regent Tennis Club in Reservoir.

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Pictured above: Gina painted a tiger for her son Peter, who is a dedicated Richmond Tigers supporter.

An Artful Recovery: Gina’s Journey with Mayflower Home Care Gina’s dining room, filled with art and the aroma of freshly baked treats, showcases her resilience and creativity.

Over the past 2 1/2 years, Gina has created over 200 paintings, each symbolising her inspiring journey to recovery “I’ve been painting for almost 2 1/2 years - I’m running out of ideas of what to paint!” she says with a smile.

Her interest in art began during an illness which found her unable to walk. Her son Michael introduced her to adult colouring books, which evolved into a passion for painting. “It relaxes me,” she shares.

Her paintings, often inspired by nature, depict serene landscapes and beloved subjects, including a vibrant horse-drawn cart filled with flowers, reminiscent of her memories of Sicily.

Gina’s home is a lively social hub, reflecting her love for hospitality.

She regularly treats visitors, including friends and support workers, to homemade sweets like strawberry scrolls. Family visits feature Italian and international dishes, showcasing her culinary skills. “I love cooking fried rice, Chinese-style food, and curries,” she says.

Gina’s recovery is supported by Mayflower Home Care’s services, including personal care, cleaning, transport, and therapeutic massages.

“I find them very attentive,” Gina says, praising our Home Care team.

Her weekly schedule includes cleaning on Fridays, social time on Tuesdays, and outings on Thursdays. These services not only address her physical needs but also enhance her quality of life by empowering her to stay active, mobile and socially connected.

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Pictured above: Top; Mayflower Home Care team member Michelle with Gina whom she shares a special connection with, and bottom; Gina shows her impressive pile of 50+ completed canvases of artwork.

Volunteer

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Scan the QR code to watch the ‘thank you’ video.

“Thank You” to our Incredible Volunteers During National Volunteer Week.

We invited our volunteers from across Mayflower to come together for a high tea event, to be celebrated and appreciated for their invaluable contributions.

We expressed our deep gratitude to our dedicated volunteers, and acknowledged their service milestones of 5, 10, 15, and 20 years with thoughtful gifts and certificates.

A special video tribute, featuring

messages from residents, management, and CEO Stuart Rodney, added a heartfelt touch to our high tea celebration.

We also remembered the late Lorraine, a beloved Gift Shop volunteer and Independent Living resident.

Residents and our team penned heartfelt notes of appreciation on an A2 card, pictured above, and a touching moment was shared joyous standing ovation led by Nicole, our Gift Shop Manager and Gifts and Giving Coordinator.

Members of senior management, and our CEO Stuart Rodney took time to personally thank

volunteers, recognising their profound impact in combating loneliness and fostering connection among residents.

Our volunteers, vital to the Mayflower Community, fulfill various roles, from gardening to quiz, running Bingo and managing the Brighton Gift Shop.

This year’s milestones: Glenn Delaney for 20 years as Quiz Master and Helen Wartman for 15 years in the Gift Shop.

Barbara McArdle and Anne Culley were honoured for 10 years of service in the Gift Shop, while Carolyn de Smit received recognition for her 5 years.

Pictured below, left to right; CEO Stuart Rodney, with Volunteer Glenn and Care and Leisure Coordinator Hitesh; Mayflower Reservoir Volunteer Marisol and Gift Shop Volunteer Barbara catches up with friends and fellow volunteers.

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Pictured above: Mayflower Edith Bendall Care and Leisure Coordinator Natalie, with Margaret, during their morning high tea service, and pictured right, top to bottom: Maureen shares the plate of delicious cupcakes, at Mayflower Reservoir; and, Marian receives her gift from Environmental Services team member Veronica at Mayflower Brighton.

Our Marvellous Mothers Celebrating those we call ‘Mum’ on Mother’s Day

May is the special month where we get to honour all the wonderful women in our community for everything they have done and continue to do for us.

We recognise that not every woman at Mayflower is a mother, but every woman can embody a nurturing heart.

So, we celebrate every mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, aunt, sister, fur parent, and close friend.

Across Mayflower, we marked this important day with lively afternoons of music, gifts, luncheons, and a selection of chef-prepared sweet and savoury hors d’oeuvres.

Each woman received a pampering gift pack filled with perfume, hand creams, and more. And what Mother’s Day celebration is complete without a few bubbles or a hot cuppa to cap off the fun?

The spirit of love and appreciation was tangible as we honoured the incredible women in our community with a little extra flair this year!

There were smiles, flowers, and cupcakes galore as residents, our team, and visitors celebrated Mother’s Day together.

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Top Image: Ruth and Maureen with volunteer Jodi, decorate their cookies together, while donning their Easter Bonnets.

Mayflower Edith Bendall’s Easter Week Spanning a full week, everyone at Mayflower Edith Bendall enjoyed Easter festivities, from craft and making decorations, to culinary preparations for the special day.

An Easter Sunday Surprise

Cookie Delights Residents gleefully engaged in Easter culinary preparations, crafting, and decorating, embracing the festive spirit.

From adorning Easter Bonnets to colouring in and Easter crafts, to decorating egg and bunny cookies the atmosphere was brimming with creativity!

Pictured above: Rosemarie lends Margaret a helping hand with her cookie design.

On the special day itself, the ‘Easter Bunny’ paid a special surprise visit to residents, delivering even more Easter treats!

Pictured below: Sisters, Margaret and Maureen, don matching sparkly bunny ears and beaming smiles.

“One a penny, two a penny, hot cross buns!”

Hot cross buns were a popular part of morning tea on Easter Sunday with residents eager to tuck in to the traditional favourite.

Pictured above: Robert gets ready to tuck in to his hot cross bun.

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Top Image: Elisabetta takes charge during the egg and spoon race.

Mayflower Reservoir’s Easter Party

At Mayflower Reservoir, the celebrations were equally spirited, as residents and our team alike embraced the joyous atmosphere.

From lively egg and spoon races to thrilling raffle draws, the day overflowed with laughter and excitement, creating cherished memories for all involved.

Generation of Easter Joy From the youngest members of our community to the young at heart, generations came together, transforming the event into a heartwarming family affair, filled with shared laughter and cherished moments.

Pictured above is Angela with her daughter Anna and great-grandson.

Orthodox Easter Easter is double the delight at Mayflower Reservoir, with Orthodox Easter making for an additional holy and sweet tradition each year.

This year, Orthodox Easter was later than previous years, falling on May 5, a full 5 weeks after the western Easter celebrations.

Pictured: Maria and Tony oil some hard boiled and dyed eggs.

Easter Raffle Winners Galore The air was charged with anticipation as residents gathered for the highly anticipated Easter Raffle, boasting a dazzling array of prizes just waiting to be claimed.

Pictured above: Angela was one of the lucky raffle-prize winners!

Angela is pictured here with Care and Leisure Coordinator Helen.

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Top Image: Albert receives his individual visit from the Easter Bunny.

Mayflower Brighton’s Easter Fiesta Mayflower Brighton’s Easter Extravaganza extended over a delightful week, featuring an array of activities.

From the joy of receiving room-delivered Easter Eggs to a lucky guess competition and the joy of witnessing baby chickens hatch, the celebrations offered something special for everyone to enjoy.

A Pose for a Chocolate!

As the Easter Bunny did his rounds at Mayflower Brighton, our team were keen to also receive a chocolate egg.

The cost? A pose for a chocolate of course!

Pictured above: Physiotherapist Lachlan poses for his chocolate reward!

Easter Bunny Revealed!

For the second year in a row, a high school student has generously volunteered to play the role of the Easter Bunny - which is no easy task.

This year, James volunteered to pop on the suit and visit each and every resident across the home delivering eggs.

Pictured below: Local students Thomas, James and Joshua holding little chicks.

Baby Chickens 12 fertilised eggs and an incubator made for a hot spot of activity – where residents watched adorable chickens hatch and eagerly waited for a cuddle with one of the little hatchlings.

Pictured: Care student Dipshika hands Janet a baby chicken - just hours old!

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Top Image: Our Mayflower Reservoir team connected over a shared meal.

Harmony Day - ‘Everyone Belongs’

In the vibrant cultural tapestry of Mayflower’s community, Harmony Day shines as a beacon of unity. As the pinnacle of Harmony Week, this event celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and cultural appreciation.

This year, Harmony Day was a delightful affair as team members showcased flavours from around the world. From Turkish sweet kalburabasti to Filipino bibingka malagkit, and Aussie party pies and lamingtons - every dish had a story to tell. Decked in vibrant orange attire, team members mingled, sharing cultural foods and the stories behind each recipe.

To wrap up Harmony Week, residents at Mayflower Reservoir embraced an orange-themed day filled with fun and unity.

Residents each indulged in delicious orange cupcakes and enjoyed a lively happy hour, serenaded by regular (and very popular!) performer, Adam.

By sharing traditions and cuisines, we foster understanding and respect. As we reflect on this joyous occasion, let us carry forward the spirit of harmony in every interaction, remembering, ‘Everyone Belongs.’

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Pictured above, top to bottom: Residents enjoyed Harmony Day celebrations at Mayflower Reservoir; There was a sea of orange at Mayflower Brighton and bottom, our team at Mayflower Edith Bendall also had a wonderful time.

OPA! HAPPY GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY!

unique cultures of each individual is a priority for Mayflower, reflected in tailored events coordinated by our dedicated Care and Leisure teams.

A highlight of the evening was the performance by a traditional Greek-style belly dancer. Donned in vibrant blue and gold attire, the dancer gracefully encouraged residents to join in, alongside our team members.

In March, our Mayflower Reservoir Community immersed themselves in Greek culture during a vibrant ‘Greek Independence Day’ celebration.

The event, filled with Hellenic music, traditional Greek culinary delights, and dancing, brought joy to all who joined in.

Amidst the lively music, the familiar cry of “Opa!” reverberated through the air.

This iconic Greek expression, signifying everything from celebration to astonishment, added an extra layer of authenticity and excitement to the festivities.

Many residents at Mayflower Reservoir hail from diverse cultural backgrounds, including Greece and Italy. Embracing the

Pictured: Kitchen team member Maria, Alex and his wife Angela, Care and Leisure Coordinator Helen, Care team member Sita, Tony and Care Team member, Chandra.

You Asked, and We Listened.

Pictured: Chef Lionel, along with Janet, General Manager Sandy, and Joe cutting the ribbon.

And, we’re thrilled to announce that their wish has been granted!

Our Mayflower Reservoir Community expressed their wish for a deep fryer to add a crispy touch to their fish and chips.

In a heartwarming ribbon-cutting ceremony, our community celebrated the installation of the new deep fryer, marking a milestone in enhancing our culinary service and experience.

We deeply value the invaluable feedback we receive from residents and their loved ones. Their input guides us in providing the finest care and services possible, tailored to their preferences and needs.

Sometimes it’s the little things, like extra crispy chips that can make all the difference.

A special shout-out to our incredible Chef Lionel, along with Janet, General Manager Sandy, and Joe who gracefully cut the ribbon, supported by our dedicated team at Mayflower Reservoir.

Cheers to many more delicious crispy treats filled with joy and flavour!

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Pictured above: Francesca enjoys a spot of dancing during the lively Valentine’s Day celebration at Mayflower Reservoir. Scan the QR code above to watch the video showcasing Mayflower Reservoir’s celebration and live music.

Love and Remembrance: St Valentine’s Day Across Mayflower.

Across Mayflower, St Valentine’s Day unfolded in a tapestry of love, compassion, and cherished memories. The halls and event rooms each glimmered with hues of pink and red, adorned with hearts and roses, setting the stage for a celebration unlike any other.

Across Mayflower, residents, team members, volunteers and family members came together to revel in the spirit of the day. Dancing ensued, love filled the air, and joy abounded as friendships were strengthened and bonds deepened.

Live performances and delectable treats added to the enchantment of the day. From romantic melodies to heart-shaped pastries, every detail was meticulously crafted to delight the senses and warm the heart.

At Mayflower Brighton, the festivities reached new heights with 2 live performers serenading the crowd with beloved romantic melodies as residents and visitors enjoyed their high tea, freshly prepared by our inhouse chefs. Residents also enjoyed a glass of wine or cuppa with their elegant tea.

Meanwhile, at Mayflower Reservoir, Adam’s soulful acoustic guitar and vocals set the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of enchantment.

Heart-shaped pastries adorned with strawberries and cream - truly a feast for both the eyes and the palate were freshly prepared by Chef Lionel. Each resident across the residence received a beautiful single-stem rose.

At Mayflower Edith Bendall, everyone enjoyed a romance inspired lunch, with the colours of love filling the air. A beautiful display of wedding photos, borrowed from residents, made for a hub of connection and reminiscence.

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Pictured right, top to bottom: Mayflower Edith Bendall’s display table filled with wedding photos and hearts, Judy with Care and Leisure team member Mary at Mayflower Brighton, Doug with his wife Leanne at Mayflower Edith Bendall, Care and Leisure team member Mel dances with Michael and Joy receives a rose at Mayflower Reservoir.

Special offerings such as these added an extra layer of delight to the celebration, captivating the senses and creating an atmosphere of pure indulgence.

The celebrations weren’t confined to the walls of Mayflower homes alone.

Across our community, spanning Mayflower Home Care, Independent Living and everywhere in between, families and friends joined in the festivities in their own way, bringing smiles and bouquets of beautiful roses for their loved ones.

Amidst it all, there were also moments of unexpected joy, as some lucky team members received roses from their partners, sparking conversations and laughter that echoed through the halls.

Yet amidst the festivities, we remained mindful of the bittersweet moments that St Valentine’s Day can evoke. For some residents, it was a time to remember late spouses and reflect on cherished memories. We were mindful to be sensitive to these emotions, offering support and solace to those who needed it.

“In celebrating St Valentine’s Day, we celebrated not just romantic love, but the love that exists between friends and family, too.”

We recognise that not everyone has a romantic partner, and so honoured the diverse forms of love that enrich our lives each day.

As roses were exchanged and smiles shared, it became clear that love knows no boundaries. It transcends time and space, bringing people together in a tapestry of shared experiences and heartfelt connections.

On this St Valentine’s Day, as we celebrated friendship, family, and relationships of all kinds, the love that permeated Mayflower illuminated the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to be a part of it.

Each installation is a symbol of colour, peace and joy, “Birds give us happiness.

They bring us peace,” explains Christina.

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Mayflower Reservoir’s Happy Hours a Delight At Mayflower Reservoir, residents are treated to a weekly happy hour - complete with live music performances, nibbles and a glass of vino!

Residents and our team enjoy connecting through dance and are well known for hitting the dance floor together.

Happy 100th Birthday, Jack!

At Mayflower Edith Bendall Jack became the centre of attention on his 100th birthday, with family, friends and our team celebrating.

Lucia’s Homemade Biscotti!

Pictured here is Lucia - an avid baker and Mayflower Home Care client making Italian-style Easter biscuits.

Supported by Support Worker Eleni’s weekly visits, Lucia is empowered to continue living at home and doing the things she loves.

With Eleni’s support, Lucia also enjoys domestic assistance around the home, and a spot of shopping when she chooses.

Best Scones in Town!

Meet Rina, our Sous Chef at Mayflower Brighton. She makes the BEST scones in town!

Voted most popular morning tea treat, the scones pair well with a favourite hot brew, prepared just as each resident likes it best.

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A Sold Out Dining Experience!

Dhan and Usha of Café Vibe recently hosted their very first themed dining night, with great success.

Guests savoured a three-course Biryani meal, or opted in for a delicious fish and chips alternative.

A culinary experience not to be forgotten, residents from across our Mayflower Brighton Community mingled with friends and family - making fond memories to be cherished.

Mayflower Edith Bendall - a Garden Stroll Mayflower Edith Bendall is surrounded by acres of lush gardens and Australian bush.

So Adorable!

Making an impromptu stop, the group were treated to an encounter with none other than ‘Fluffy Possum,’ a pedigree and award-winning Rex guinea pig.

Brimming with charm, Fluffy Possum melted hearts with her extra-fluffy cuteness, spreading joy to every passenger on board.

Pictured is Michael - the first to put his hand up for an encounter of the fluffy kind.

This gives our team ample opportunity to explore the grounds with residents and take in the sights, sounds and scents of nature.

Pictured here is Care and Leisure Coordinator Natalie with Patricia.

ILU Pool Sharks The pool table just outside the Independent Living lounge at Mayflower Brighton continues to be a hot spot of entertainment for like-minded pool enthusiasts.

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Empowering Change OUR APPEAL Mayflower would not be the organisation it is today without the financial support of individual donors, community groups and schools, businesses, philanthropic trusts and foundations. We are grateful to these benefactors for contributing much needed funds to Mayflower.

As a not-for-profit charitable organisation we rely on the generous financial support of donors. All money raised is directed to helping enrich the lives of our residents.

Yes, I want to make a gift to Mayflower: $ Donations to Mayflower are tax deductible.

My details for payment Cash or cheque enclosed (made payable to ‘Mayflower’) OR, please debit my:

Visa

MasterCard

Card number:

Your generosity has the power to make a profound difference in the lives of older Australians residing at Mayflower Brighton.

At Mayflower, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care and meaningful experiences that empower residents to lead fulfilling lives.

Name on card:

One such cherished experience is our outings on the minibus. These outings are more than just trips; they are opportunities for residents to connect with the wider community, fostering friendships and enhancing their overall well-being.

Signature: Expiry date:

/

Unfortunately, our current minibus needs replacement, presenting a crucial opportunity for you to ensure these cherished moments continue.

My details for receipt Title:

Golden Wheels: Driving Support for the Mayflower Community

Introducing ‘Golden Wheels: Driving Support for the Mayflower Community’, aimed at raising $90,000 for a new wheelchair-accessible minibus. Your support is vital in achieving this goal and positively impacting the lives of those we care for.

First name:

Surname: Address:

Suburb:

Postcode:

Telephone: Email:

Thank you sincerely for your generosity.

PLEASE RETURN TO: Mayflower 7 Centre Road, Brighton East VIC 3187 T: 03 9591 1100 | E: info@mayflower.org.au Alternatively, scan the QR code to make a donation today.

No matter the size, your contribution will profoundly affect residents’ lives.

By joining us on this journey of compassion, generosity, and community spirit, you will not only be helping to provide essential transportation but also enabling residents to continue enjoying the enriching experiences that outings on the minibus bring.

Together, let’s make a difference and ensure that Mayflower remains a place where every resident can thrive. Thank you for your support.

Donating is easy, and remember all donations are tax deductible.

Donate online now, by visiting: www.mayflower.org.au/golden-wheels-fundraising @themayflowergroup