Residents Spring into Action with Fun-filled Activities

Pictured above: At St John’s in Wangaratta, spring was welcomed with a focus on positivity and gratitude, thanks to the introduction of a ‘friendship wall’.

With the sun shining and the flowers blooming, we all look forward to spring as the season of renewal, rebirth, and new beginnings. And while we’re proud to say the winter months didn’t put a damper on our homes’ rich and varied social calendars, the springtime undoubtedly presents us with a refreshed opportunity to re-engage with a range of activities and hobbies – whether it be some old favourites or new interests. 

And it’s an opportunity that residents across our communities have only been too happy to take up! From special arts and craft activities to trips out and about the local community, there is never a dull moment at our homes. 

For example, Wattleglen residents in Sale, Gippsland, recently decided to draw on some springtime inspiration as part of their regular arts and crafts sessions. Thanks to some recycled food cans, as well as some paint and extra decorations, they enjoyed creating model bees to bring a splash of colour (as well as a buzz of excitement) across the shared living spaces of their home. 

At St John’s in Wangaratta, the change of season was welcomed with a focus on positivity and gratitude, thanks to the introduction of a ‘friendship wall’. The communal display, which featured proverbs, quotes and perspectives about camaraderie and connection, acted as a timely reminder of the strong sense of community at St John’s – and staff, residents and visitors were also invited to leave their own special messages reflecting on what makes friendship so important. 

Spring is often the season where people find themselves reconnecting with their favourite pastimes too, and this was absolutely the case at Baw Baw Views in Moe, as residents celebrated ‘Hobbies Week’ through a unique ‘show and tell’ session. Everyone was encouraged to share their favourite activities and personal interests with each other, including the stories behind their significance, whether it be gardening, collecting memorabilia, or reading. And even the local community wanted to get in on the action – with the Latrobe Railway Club popping in to show off some of their model trains, complete with a surrounding track of intricate forests and mountainous terrain.

In Tasmania, our Eliza Purton community in West Ulverstone has also enjoyed adopting some new activities in recent weeks. Residents of the home’s Memory Support Unit had some fun flying foam gliders across the spring sky, as well as continuing their regular baking sessions (ideal for afternoon tea!). Meanwhile, the home’s popular Men’s Group has been busy developing their own new hobby, courtesy of a unique tabletop game which they have christened ‘Bobs’. After crafting and painting nine numbered arches to resemble a brick wall, the group was only too happy to share their creation with their fellow residents and show everyone how to play – thanks to the addition of a cue stick and several billiard balls.

Residents at Avonlea in Nhill also immersed themselves in seasonal craft activities. A hotly contested paper plane competition proved the perfect opportunity for some afternoon fun as well as a chance to reflect on some of their favourite childhood memories and pastimes.

Elsewhere, our Tyler Village community in Prospect Vale took advantage of the springtime weather to hit the road for an exciting day trip sightseeing around the local region. All enjoyed leisurely taking in the green landscapes of St Leonards, White Hills Evandale and Corra Lynn. A fantastic opportunity to get out and about and spend some quality time together. 

And of course, when we think about Spring, the fresh scent and vibrant colours of flowers in bloom immediately come to mind. And thanks to the generosity of the Tasmanian Hospitality Association, who donated bunches of beautiful flowers, our residents at St Ann’s in Hobart enjoyed a fun flower-arranging session. The end result – several stunning arrangements and bouquets – were popped in vases and spread across the home. What a wonderful way to welcome spring!