Celebrating our community Wacky hats and high tea; Country ‘n’ Western music and cowboy hats; tropical punch and Hawaiian leis; art exhibitions and choirs – the Celebration of Ageing Well brought out some fun ideas and great entertainment combinations. The Celebration of Ageing Well is a two-week festival in October, coinciding with Seniors Week in Victoria and Tasmania, that recognises the many wonderful people who make up Uniting AgeWell. Residences marked the celebration with historic displays, choir performances, art shows, dress-up parties and catered events encouraging families, residents, clients, staff and Board members to join in the festivities. Uniting AgeWell CEO Andrew Kinnersly, who attended 15 of the Celebration of Ageing Well events, said he enjoyed each of the unique occasions. “It was a joy to visit so many of our residences and meet the residents, clients, families, staff and volunteers that contribute to making Uniting AgeWell the great organisation that it is.” DoveTale Camberwell Community, Condare Court celebrated with an art exhibition and choir performance, while quirky hats and dramatic dress-ups were featured at Strath-Haven Community’s Mad Hatters’ Tea Party in Bendigo. In northern Tasmania, Latrobe Community, Strathdevon celebrated the history of its hometown with a display of old photos, newspapers, household items and war memorabilia. Rosetta Community, Strathaven in Hobart, pictured, was transformed into an American diner for its Grease party, based on the movie. A three-piece band and local dance group performed 1950s rock ‘n’ roll dancing, and a photo booth was set up for residents, families, volunteers and staff to enjoy. Across Uniting AgeWell services and sites, twenty awards were presented to clients who turned 100 this year, and to 160 clients who turned 90. Several Uniting AgeWell sites also presented staff with awards for years of service to the organisation during the Celebration of Ageing Well, including Kings Meadows Community, Aldersgate’s Gaylene Morris who was recognised for an outstanding 40 years of service. 5
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