GreenConnect Dementia Respite Mildura Enjoys a Delightful Day by the Murray River

GreenConnect Mildura participants recently embarked on a memorable adventure to the Murray River, thanks to a local off-road bus tour operator. This trip offered a refreshing change of pace for four individuals with dementia, their four carers, a care friend, and our Mildura Respite Care Coordinator for GreenConnect Dementia Respite, Kaye Matthews, who all enjoyed a cool yet gloriously sunny day immersed in nature and making new friends.

GreenConnect Dementia Respite Mildura participants enjoying a Delightful Day by the Murray River.

The group convened at the Mildura Wharf at 9:45am and boarded the Murray Off-road Adventures 12-seater bus for a scenic 45km journey to the farming community of Nangiloc, with the ultimate destination being the picturesque "Police Bend" sandbar. The tour operator, who has extensive local knowledge from his time managing areas and conservation initiatives for Parks Victoria, provided engaging commentary throughout the trip.

Upon arrival, the group set up for morning tea, featuring homemade sultana cake, Anzac biscuits, fruit, and vegan raw balls. Participants pitched in to start the campfire and arrange deckchairs in the sunshine. The tour operator then helped some participants cast fishing lines at the water's edge. Meanwhile, the care friend captured a group photo using a drone, showcasing the beautiful sandbar and bushland setting.

The day was filled with lively conversation and new friendships. Tash remarked, “I really enjoyed collecting the fallen timber with Liam for our fire and being in the bush.” After a brief walk along the river track, the group enjoyed a lunch of fresh bread rolls, gluten-free wraps, salads, and meats, followed by fruit and more fruit cake. Toasting marshmallows over the hot coals was a highlight for many, especially Bob.

John expressed his joy, saying, “It's the first time I haven’t had to drive to take my wife on an outing and I loved the banter.” Carolyn added, “How lovely it was to be with nice people, in a perfect environment, and to be looked after.” Jen shared, “I haven’t toasted marshmallows over the fire since I was a child and absolutely loved everything about the day.”

Program participants enjoying a bush walk by the Murray River.

As the day came to a close, the group packed up, extinguished the campfire, and boarded the bus to return home by 2:00pm. This allowed one carer to make it in time for their part-time job.

The satisfaction survey completed by participants reflected the success of the outing. Responses included: “Such a lovely day,” “Loved meeting new people in our same situation. I don’t feel so alone,” “Beautiful day amongst nature and sunshine,” “Very well organised; When is our next trip?” “Just the right amount of time,” “Loved the fire, food, friendship, and fishing,” “It is the first time I haven’t had to drive,” and “Brought back such lovely memories for me being on the river again.”

Although some people with dementia experienced fatigue following the outing, 50% of the cohort could recall the enjoyable day. All four carers expressed their delight and gratitude for being included, thoroughly enjoying themselves, and doing things they hadn’t done for a long time.

Kaye Matthews noted the positive impact of the day, highlighting the joy and camaraderie experienced by all.