GreenConnect Morning Tea at The Cottage Highlights the Power of Community Connections
Story by Kaye Matthews, Respite Care Coordinator Mildura
A cool, overcast winter’s morning set the scene as GreenConnect participants gathered at The Cottage on Cureton Avenue for another welcoming morning of friendship, conversation and connection.
Thirty participants, together with three care friends, the Mildura Respite Care Coordinator and an additional staff member, came together to catch up, share experiences and enjoy one another’s company.
The Cottage provided the perfect setting for the gathering. Tables were beautifully decorated with branches of poinsettia and wattle picked from staff member Julie’s own garden, before being gifted to two lucky carers as they headed home.
Participants enjoyed a delicious morning tea featuring fresh sandwiches, slices and fruit platters from Hudak’s Bakery, while Anthony from Curly Top Espresso served fresh coffees from his Piaggio barista cart. With light morning fog drifting along the Murray River and a cool breeze in the air, the hot drinks were a welcome way to begin the day.
As always, conversation flowed easily.
The morning provided an opportunity not only to reconnect with friends, but also to discuss topics important to people living with dementia and those who care for them. Participants reflected on the recent SBS Who Do You Think You Are? episode with Bruce McAvaney, filmed at The Cottage, as well as an episode of Landline featuring an older woman living with dementia on a remote station property, prompting thoughtful conversations about isolation, accessing services and the importance of community support.
Many also shared their recent experiences of attending the Dementia Support Australia two-day retreats in Mildura. The response to the retreats has been overwhelmingly positive, with another two-day program already planned for August following additional participant referrals. Participants were also pleased to hear that Dementia Australia Support Specialist Bertilla Campbell will be joining the July GreenConnect gathering, continuing the project’s valued partnership with Dementia Australia.
It’s these conversations – sharing experiences, asking questions and learning from one another – that continue to make GreenConnect such an important source of friendship and support for people living with dementia and their carers.
Participants shared some of their reflections from the morning:
“It was a lovely group today; I had time to make my way around and catch up with others.”
“Sunassist transported us here today and we are very glad we made the effort to come along. I recognised quite a few from my time as a school teacher and the sport I played.”
As the morning drew to a close, participants headed home with warm drinks, beautiful flowers, renewed friendships and plenty to look forward to at the next GreenConnect gathering.
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.
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 living with dementia, reach out today to learn more about how you can contribute.