Under a clear blue sky and a cool winter breeze, participants of GreenConnect Mildura embarked on a picturesque bus trip to Werrimull and Lake Cullulleraine, experiencing a day filled with nature, art, and newfound friendships.

In a beautiful intersection of cultures and shared experiences, the GreenConnect Dementia Respite Project recently organised a serene outing to the Atisha Centre for people with dementia and their carers. Joining the group were members from the Bendigo & District Aboriginal Cooperative (BDAC), making it a day of rich cultural exchange and peaceful exploration.

On a crisp and bright day, the GreenConnect Dementia Respite Project team organised a memorable outing for people with dementia and their carers to the Jirrahlinga Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled deep in the serene bushland near Chewton. This sanctuary, known for its diverse array of Australian wildlife, provided an enriching and engaging experience for all who attended.

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 new, groundbreaking program in the Loddon-Mallee region that uses the power of nature as respite for people with early-stage dementia and their carers has already achieved remarkable success in combatting the effects of the disease and improving quality of life.

GreenConnect Dementia Respite recently received an exciting opportunity from Dementia Australia to enhance carers' knowledge of dementia through a cutting-edge program using virtual reality technology. The program, known as EDIE for family and carers (Educational Dementia Immersive Experience), allows carers to experience the world through the eyes of those they care for who have been diagnosed with dementia.

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.

The recent Interfaith Dinner brought together individuals from various cultures and faiths, fostering an atmosphere of understanding and connection. The highlight of the evening was a keynote speech by a representative of the Hindu faith, who shared insights about his church in Melbourne and the various activities they engage in.

Over the past few months, our team at GreenConnect has been diligently laying the foundations for our ground-breaking project. Designed as an innovative-first pilot initiative for the Loddon-Mallee, our goal is to elevate the quality of life for carers and those they support, particularly those in the early stages of dementia, by offering tailored respite experiences outside of traditional aged care facilities.

Delve into innovative dementia care with transformative digital initiatives. Explore the intersection of technology and compassion through a revolutionary immersive AI avatar learning experience.

Set against the serene backdrop of Bendigo’s Atisha Buddhist Centre, discover the dawn of a new era in dementia care with the official launch of the GreenConnect Dementia Respite Project.

Embark on a cultural tour of Kooyoora State Park with Pamela and Kevin Aspinall. Explore ancient traditions and breathtaking landscapes as they reveal nature’s profound ties to tradition.

Discover the transformative power of bringing a garden to life with a team. Learn how sustainable practices and community engagement are cultivating hope and empowerment for a brighter future.

Join Pamela and Kevin Aspinall’s heart-warming journey at the Atisha Centre. Feel the joy of friendship and connection in nature’s embrace as they share their transformative experience.

Experience the Boots & Bling Carnival through Pamela and Kevin Aspinall’s recount, filled with laughter, camaraderie and unexpected friendships. Embrace the joy of new experiences and connections.

We are still buzzing with joy from our recent Dinner Under the Vines event in Mildura! On 2 March, amidst the serene beauty of the vineyards, we gathered for a truly special evening.

As part of the GreenConnect pilot project we took a group of carers and people with Dementia from the Bendigo region on a 4-day trip to Mildura.