Morning Tea and Friendship Blossom at “growAbility” Native Nursery with GreenConnect
GreenConnect Dementia Respite Project recently hosted a heartwarming and engaging gathering for people with dementia and their carers at the “growAbility” native nursery, part of The Christie Centre’s social enterprise in Mildura. This event, the first of many planned monthly meetups, provided a serene and supportive environment where participants could connect, share experiences, and enjoy the beauty of nature.
A Nature-Inspired Retreat
The event took place at “Walkers Place,” a specially designed venue within the “growAbility” native nursery grounds. Surrounded by lush native bushland, Walkers Place exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere. The walls are adorned with vibrant artwork created by Christie Centre clients, and hessian-clad potted native plants are thoughtfully placed throughout, enhancing the venue’s natural beauty and creating a tranquil space for reflection and conversation.
Connecting Over Morning Tea
Sixteen participants, along with a Care Friend and GreenConnect Respite Care Coordinator Kaye Matthews, gathered eagerly for this inaugural gathering. The morning began with introductions, allowing everyone to share a bit about themselves and their journeys with dementia. This set the tone for a day filled with lively conversation and mutual understanding.
Barista-made coffee, peppermint tea, and a delightful spread of freshly made sandwiches, lemon curd biscuits, and fruit were served, adding to the convivial atmosphere. As participants enjoyed their refreshments, the room buzzed with shared stories and laughter. It was a joy to see new connections forming and to witness the deep, unspoken understanding that comes from shared experiences.
Voices from the Gathering
The participants expressed their gratitude and pleasure throughout the event, with comments such as:
“We both enjoyed this morning. It’s good to go somewhere together.”
“Thank you for a lovely morning and so well organised. It was good to compare notes with other carers and to catch up with Bev.”
“It was reassuring to know someone else has Alzheimer’s.”
“When are we going on the almond blossom bus trip?”
“It was nice for my husband to meet new people with similar teaching backgrounds.”
“I am recently diagnosed, and this larger group has made me feel I am not alone. Thank you.”
These reflections underscore the importance of these gatherings in providing a space for shared support and understanding.
Support and Care for Carers
GreenConnect recognises the critical role carers play and the need to nurture, support, and value them. The opportunity to attend a well-organised event, where all the logistics and catering are taken care of, allows carers to relax and enjoy the day without the usual responsibilities and stresses.
Kaye Matthews emphasised the importance of these gatherings in providing carers with a chance to unwind and feel supported. “Carers are a high priority for us,” she said. “Ensuring they feel acknowledged and valued is essential, and these events are a wonderful way to give them that space.”
Looking Forward to More Gatherings
The success of this first gathering has set a positive tone for future events. Participants are eagerly anticipating the next meetup. These monthly gatherings, held on the third Tuesday of each month at “growAbility,” promise to continue fostering a strong sense of community and support.
Kaye Matthews highlighted the joy and camaraderie experienced during the day, noting, “Today’s event was not just about meeting up; it was about creating connections and building a supportive community. Seeing everyone come together, share their stories, and find comfort in each other’s company was truly heartwarming. We are excited about the upcoming bus trip and the many more gatherings we have planned.”
Join Us at GreenConnect
The GreenConnect Project is dedicated to providing enriching and supportive experiences for people with dementia and their carers. These monthly gatherings at “growAbility” are just one of the many ways we foster community and connection.