Artistic wizard transforms local care centre with stunning artworks

SENIORS WRAP

Jamie Jansen

Journalist

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Hans finds solace in the stroke of a paintbrush, adorning his room with masterpieces that reflect his creative spirit. Picture: Kubirri Aged Care Centre

In our close-knit community, Newsport shines a light on two remarkable seniors whose stories inspire and uplift us all, reminding us of the beauty of our later years.

Entering the golden phase of life often leads us back to the passions of our youth. Take Hans, the artistic wizard residing at Kubirri Aged Care Centre. Since his arrival in March 2023, Hans has been quietly crafting stunning artworks that capture the imagination. 

Hans finds joy in sharing his creations with fellow residents and staff at Kubirri Aged Care Centre. Picture: Kubirri Aged Care Centre

From a young age, Hans has been captivated by the art of painting, his mind full with imaginative ideas waiting to be expressed on canvas. Now, in the quiet of his room, he finds solace in the stroke of a paintbrush, adorning his walls with his masterpieces.

Originally from Holland, Hans made the journey to Australia in 2022 to be closer to his only daughter, finding comfort in our sun-kissed shores. With a career steeped in the fashion industry, for a company which specialised in international merchandise, Hans traversed the globe. 

Yet it's within the walls of Kubirri Aged Care Centre that Hans's true masterpiece unfolds. Here, he shares his creations with fellow residents and staff, cherishing the moments when others admire his work and often finds himself smiling as staff select their favourite pieces.

Mary (right) and her daughter Suzanne, Picture: supplied

On the other side of our community, we find Mary Strouther, a cherished resident of the Daintree Rainforest for over 25 years. Amidst the tranquil beauty of nature, Mary has found her sanctuary and a deep sense of belonging, firmly asserting that there's nowhere she'd rather be.

Having called Brisbane home once, Mary's journey to the Daintree was ignited by her daughter Suzanne's dream of building a cabin in the midst of nature, now known as the Wilderness Lodge.

Drawn by the allure of unspoiled beauty, Mary cherishes the tranquil lifestyle away from suburban noise. For her, the allure lies in the peaceful, laid-back lifestyle, particularly in her elderly years.

Moreover, her prior engagement in establishing a support group for breast cancer survivors exemplifies her dedication to compassion and service. Her love for the arts also runs deep, with past involvement in the Clink Theatre in Port Douglas, where her stage presence and costume designs left a lasting impact.While her passion for patchwork and embroidery remains, Mary finds it more challenging with age.

Nowadays, Mary enjoys a vibrant and nurturing social life within the Daintree community, regularly joining gatherings with a group affectionately known as 'the seniors', sharing meals and conversations, foestering strong bonds in this unique part of the country.