Seniors living it up during ‘Very Important Pensioners’ (VIP) night

SENIORS WRAP

Jamie Jansen

Journalist

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Lucky residents were treated to a night of glitz and glamour. Picture: Kewarra Aged Care Centre

Every month at Kewarra Aged Care, a special group of VIPs get to experience a fancy-schmancy restaurant-style feast.

Chef Carsten and his team whip up nutritious and delicious meals every day, but once a month they pull out all the stops for the most exclusive dinner invitation in town: the Kewarra Chef's Table.

The lucky residents of Kewarra Aged Care were treated to a night of glitz and glamour in their golden years, stealing bites of mouth-watering Las Vegas-themed dishes. The lifestyle team went all out, transforming the "restaurant" into a swanky casino with bold reds and blacks. 

But before hitting the jackpot, the high rollers were pampered with a full-on session at the hair salon. And once they arrived, a glass of bubbly and creamy chicken cappuccino set the mood, followed by an overflowing table of tantalising mains.

The Kewarra team took great pleasure in organising dinners for their beloved residents. This time, it was the dynamic duo of Maintenance Officer Rory Howard and Lifestyle Coordinator Nicky Mifsud who volunteered to host the fun-filled event. According to Nicky, "The residents' laughter and smiles are a testament to how much they enjoy these dinners."

Lucia, one of the residents, couldn't stop gushing about the meal, "This is so beautiful and fresh, the mushrooms are beautiful. Actually, the whole meal is just perfect!" Meanwhile, Margaret couldn't contain her enthusiasm and exclaimed, "I could lick the plate clean if I was allowed!" Reggie was equally delighted with the meal and declared, "I love everything about this meal. There is nothing I don't like," before adding, "I am going to sleep well tonight!

MEANTIME IN OTHER SENIOR NEWS….

Swinging for good: the golfer with a heart for community

When Shona Barbour moved to Australia from Gisborne, New Zealand in 1977, little did she know that her journey would lead her to become a devoted volunteer and community advocate in Port Douglas.

After a successful career in banking, Ms Barbour relocated to Port Douglas in 1995 with her partner John Cameron, where they ran a car rental business until retiring in 2008.

While Ms Barbour and Mr Cameron don't have any children, they have dedicated their time to supporting local clubs and volunteering in the community.

She became involved with the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre with her friend Maree and in March 2014 she took on the Treasurer's role.

Ms Barbour started the Tuesday Friendship Group at the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre, a place where those in need can find support and friendship. She is also the Secretary of the Port Douglas Travel League and FNQ Women's Golf.

Beyond her volunteer work, Ms Barbour has a love for golf and has been an avid player for years. She even had a hole-in-one in 2007 and she has been Secretary FNQ for Women's Golf since 2014. Shona's passion for volunteering and connecting with people in the community is a true testament to her warm and caring nature.

“I have enjoyed all the volunteering roles, where you meet a range of very interesting people,” Ms Barbour said. “They all make up the great community spirit of the Far North, and our local Douglas Shire area.”

Easter bunny artistry at Kubirri Aged Care Centre

At the Kubirri Aged Care Centre, residents have been showcasing their artistic talents by creating cute Easter Bunny art in their craft group. Using white paper plates and rabbit templates, the residents coloured in and attached the templates to the plates.

They then added some extra flair to the plates using coloured paper, glitter, and cotton balls. The completed crafts were proudly displayed in the Centre's reception area to spread Easter joy, and the residents chose this location to share their vibrant artwork with everyone.

Betty, a Kubirri resident , spoke with the Centre's Lifestyle Coordinator, Maria, about her experience in the craft group. She mentioned that her favourite aspect of the activity was that it brought everyone together, and despite differences in ideas, they all created beautiful artwork. Betty also expressed how the craft group is an excellent way to socialise with other residents, providing her with encouragement and a reason to smile.


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