Bendigo Botanic Gardens and Morning Tea
The beautiful Bendigo Botanic Gardens played host to GreenConnect participants for our September morning tea. Our group has grown substantially and while we were sad to say goodbye to Peppergreen Farm, our move to Omari café at the Botanic Gardens has provided an inclusive and comfortable space to create new connections.
On a lovely spring morning, several new participants were warmly welcomed by familiar faces, along with Jade, GreenConnect Respite Care Coordinator, and Catherine, GreenConnect Project Manager. Gathering around an impressive live edge timber table, conversation flowed as our group enjoyed a delicious spread of scones, cakes, tea and coffee.
Speculation about the upcoming AFL grand final (seemingly equal support for the Cats and the Lions!), whether the promised spring rain would eventuate and plans for vegetable gardens were just some of the topics of conversation.
We then moved outside to the Garden of the Future, where several GreenConnect participants enjoyed a gentle stroll. The gardens feature lovely wide paths and plenty of seating, making them accessible for a wide range of abilities. With the gardens just beginning to wake up, we’re looking forward to watching the changes when we return next month.
As always, it was lovely to hear feedback and comments from participants as they headed off for the day:
“I’m so glad we could get out of the house and come today… it’s been a lovely morning”
“We met some really nice people this morning”
“Being out in nature is good for us all. We love going for a walk in the garden”
“It was nice to see everyone again”
“Good to see some new faces – glad we had the name tags, it makes everything a lot easier”
“He’s had a lovely morning, I’m really pleased we could make it”
“It’s just good to get out together”
GreenConnect: Building Community and Connection
GreenConnect is dedicated to providing meaningful, enjoyable experiences for individuals living with early to mid-stage dementia and their carers. Our activities offer participants a chance to relax, foster friendships, and enjoy a sense of belonging in a safe and supportive environment.
Get Involved with GreenConnect
GreenConnect is always looking for new business partners, accommodation providers, and care organisations to join the network. If you’re interested in supporting the project and helping provide vital services to individuals with dementia, reach out today to learn more about how you can contribute.