A Summer Gathering at “The Cottage”
Story by Kaye Matthews, Respite Care Coordinator Mildura
39 participants, alongside four Volunteer Care Friends and two GreenConnect dementia respite staff members, gathered at The Cottage on what felt like a Far North Queensland summer morning – warm, humid and stormy.
Six new participants were welcomed into the group, joining regular attendees of our dementia activities in nature for a morning of shared conversation and connection.
There was plenty of catching up since December’s lunch gathering – laughter across the tables, friendly banter and more reflective conversations unfolding naturally. As always, participants supported one another in ways both light and meaningful.
At one point during the morning, two participants living with dementia sat together in conversation for close to half an hour, while across the table two dementia carers caught up and shared their own reflections. A support worker later observed how naturally these moments unfolded – independent conversations happening side by side, each meaningful in their own way.
It was a simple snapshot of how the group functions: shared space, parallel support and connection across the table.
The GreenConnect flag was flying, flowers brightened the space and information about upcoming Dementia Support Australia retreats was available for those interested. Food was shared and the atmosphere was lively.
Attendance continues to grow in Mildura. While the group can feel energetic at times, participants have expressed a clear preference to remain together rather than divide into smaller gatherings. A further ten regular participants of our dementia activities in nature were unable to attend this particular morning.
With conversations beginning to turn to the future of the GreenConnect dementia respite project and what may come next, the strength of connection in the room was evident.
Month by month, The Cottage remains a place where people gather, reconnect and support one another – across the table, in conversation and in shared experience.
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.