GreenConnect Mildura Explores Almond Blossom, River Tracks and Local Heritage
Story by Kaye Matthews, Respite Care Coordinator Mildura
Light rain and a cool winter’s day greeted our GreenConnect Mildura group as they set off with Murray Offroad Adventures for a memorable bus trip exploring the almond blossom, river tracks and heritage of the local region.
The first stop was The Shed Café at Red Cliffs, where the group collected steaming hot coffees before heading west to Gill Estate Almonds. There, morning tea was enjoyed beneath a beautiful cascade of almond blossom, with the spectacular scale of the almond plantings a highlight for many participants.
From Gill Estate, the group travelled to Red Cliffs Pumps, taking in the soaring red sandstone cliffs along the Murray River. They also stopped to observe the many ancient white shell middens embedded in the cliffs. These sites provide an important connection to the traditional lives of the Latji Latji and Ngintait peoples, who gathered along the Murray River for thousands of years, collecting and enjoying its abundant molluscs, fish and birds.
The journey continued along the recently upgraded Woorlong wetlands and Murray River tracks, with plenty of kangaroos spotted along the way, before arriving at Psyche Pumps for the next stop.
As another shower of rain approached, the group was grateful for the shelter of the large Psyche Pumps rotunda. Here, everyone enjoyed hot soup, crusty bread rolls, Jeanie’s signature cakes and Anzac biscuits, along with delicious seasonal local fruit.
Peter then provided an informative tour of the heritage-listed 1891 brick engine house, including its brightly polished and operational steam pump. The pump is a remarkable piece of local engineering heritage and is noted as the oldest pump configuration of its type in the world.
As the afternoon drew to a close, it was time to board the bus and begin the journey back to Mildura. Along the way, the group visited the childhood home of one of the participants near Bruce’s Bend at Nichols Point, prompting plenty of reminiscing, stories and fond memories from those on board.
What our participants had to say
“I just loved the almond blossom. I have never seen such scale of these plantings.”
“The entire day was wonderful. I loved the chatter on the bus and all the stories and laughter.”
“It is just so nice to get out with lovely people and to be so well looked after. Thank you.”
“I loved the new tracks along the river and wetlands. They will protect flora, fauna and cultural heritage and the information boards are terrific.”
GreenConnect: Building Community and Connection
GreenConnect is dedicated to providing meaningful, nature-based activities for individuals living with early to mid-stage dementia. Our dementia activities in nature offer participants a chance to relax, foster friendships, and enjoy a sense of belonging in a safe and supportive environment.
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