ECH Keep Connected Autumn 2024

connected keep

Lyn

is looking towards a brighter future page 8

60 years of ECH

page 6

Celebrating on a mission page 10

Patricia’s

Iam thrilled to introduce you to your new look Keep Connected magazine. The magazine is now available in print and online. We hope you enjoy the new features, with stories and activities aligned with your health, wellness, lifestyle, hobbies, and community-building initiatives. Wherever you see the QR Code, know there is an associated video for you to watch.

All your regular topic experts are still with us and we wish to thank the teams for their wisdom. We'd also like to introduce a few new team members. Thank you to Sharon, who will share a wealth extensive knowledge in ICT from experience in the fields of education, aged care, and disability. Sharon is deeply passionate about harnessing the power of technology for the betterment of our community.

You will notice many of our client stories in this edition, use our MORE theme - residents contributing more, living for more, and getting more out of life.

As we continue to celebrate our 60th throughout the year, we will continue to acknowledge and thank those who have paved the way for us to be where we are today. As history explains, in 1964 Mr. Rundle, ECH’s founder, placed an advertisement in ‘The Advertiser’ seeking expressions of interest to form an organisation to assist older people. We remain committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and creating a future where South Australians can thrive – no matter what stage of life.

We're proud to foster the intergenerational connections, creating a unique and enriching environment where the young and the elderly come together to learn, share, and grow. This holistic approach fosters a future-oriented, intentionally designed environment, putting us in good stead

to realise another 60 years, but also sets the stage for continuous innovation and excellence in our practices along the way!

We would love to hear your stories about what you’re getting MORE of, or to hear how we’re helping you get MORE out of your life. Share with us at marketing@ech.asn.au

Join us in celebrating 60 MORE years of innovation, progress, and community building.

Let’s see where we go for 60 MORE to 2084.

Claire Scapinello

Want to discover more about what is happening in the ECH Community?

Follow us on our Facebook and Instagram page to see the wonderful stories from our community. Be the first to know the latest news, learn more about exciting group activities, bus trips and events near you.

Don't forget we include all of this content on our website ech.asn.au

Neighbours

Every Day

From someone who gives you a friendly wave as you pass by, to being some of our closest friends, neighbours are the heart of where we live and our community.

At ECH we encourage everyone to get involved on Sunday 31 March, ie Neighbour Day!

It’s the perfect opportunity for you to say thanks for being a great neighbour, and to thank them for being there when you need them most.

This special day marks the importance of social connection and community.

On this day, all Australians are invited to celebrate our neighbours.

Your neighbourhood could join the celebrations on Neighbour Day with a BBQ, morning tea, happy hour, some friendly games, or perhaps leaving a thoughtful note in the mailbox.

Included in this issue of Keep Connected is a postcard you can use to write your appreciation to a great neighbour.

You don’t have to wait until 31 March to start connecting with your neighbours. If you don’t know your neighbours well, you can start small and think about meaningful actions that you can take more frequently. Start with a smile and a friendly hello, strike up a conversation with a genuine compliment and perform a kind

gesture like bringing in their bins, watering their garden or share a surplus of baking, produce or cuttings.

Whether through a cuppa, a picnic in the park, a message of support or a simple act of friendship with those around us, connection can, and should, be something we all strive for whenever we can.

The day was started by Relationships Australia. Their Neighbours Every Day social connection campaign aims to help create and share belonging across Australia and build the inclusive communities you want to live in, one relationship at a time.

We would love to hear how you celebrated with your neighbours! Send your photos and emails to us at keepconnected@ech.asn.au

Conversation starters to get to know your neighbour

What is your favourite book or movie and why?

What childish things do you still do as an adult?

What is the scariest thing that you have ever done just for fun?

Who do you admire the most? (living or dead)

If money was no object what would you buy?

(Don't forget we include all of this content on our website ech.asn.au)

OPPOSITE: ECH

client Tanya attended the Adelaide 500 with Home Support team member Irene

A sensational 60s

mindset for a joy filled 2024

Tanya visited the Adelaide 500 using her Home Care Package with Home Support Team Member Irene. With support from ECH, Tanya has also gone to the Zoo and the Christmas pageant. After each outing, Tanya talks about how much fun she has had on the outing.

Whether you relive your childhood memories, or just simply consider what your parents rave about, the 60’s will always be classed as a time when things began to look up.

Where Tanya harks from, in the Midlands, is referred to as the Heart of England, given it lies withing the geographic centre. Children walked the couple of miles to school, and they stayed out all day, only going home when the streetlights came on.

For those living there, it was an adventure travelling the miles to the coast for a holiday, not a day trip. However, not everyone stayed.

Many, such as Tanya, came to Australia as “10 Pound Poms”, perhaps preferring their beaches closer. The cultural influence of our Ten Pound Poms has left a legacy on Australian society, particularly in areas such as sports, cuisine, and the arts.

Tanya spent many years supporting the Port Adelaide Musical Society and met her good friend and carer Roy Robinson whilst there. It was after Roy’s passing, that Tanya joined ECH.

Tanya is a fiercely independent lady who has much to say about ramping, aged care and the levels of care and how they are offered, as much as she does in continuing to pursue the joys of a fulfilling life - and to get MORE out of it.

It is a true spirit who keeps the child alive inside.

From visiting the Adelaide Zoo and our Christmas Pageant, to attending the Adelaide 500 race days, Tanya doesn’t let her personal restrictions stop her from doing the things she loves. She simply uses a combination of her Companion Card and Home Care Package to secure a carer, and off she goes!

ECH Home Care Packages

ECH recognises that staying active is vital to maintaining your health, independence, and confidence. Your Home Care Package is one of the many ways you can continue living independently and confidently. Some venues enable eligible people with disability, who require attendant care support, to participate at venues and activities without incurring the cost of a second ticket.

Companion Card Affiliates include but are not limited to:

• Adelaide Botanic Garden

• Adelaide Festival Centre

• Adelaide Fringe Inc

• SANFL (most clubs)

• State Theatre Company South Australia

Present your card or mention the Companion Card program at any venue or event that charges an admission fee. A companion can be a paid or unpaid assistant e.g. your carer.

To get your SA Companion Card phone 1800 667 110 or email

DHSCompanionCard@sa.gov.au

Additionally, if you are unsure about how the funding works or what services are available to you, ECH can help you understand the options so you can make informed decisions.

1964 Garnet E Rundle establishes ECH

105 ECH Retirement Villages

207,164

At home visits in 2023

60

more to 2084

South Australians have long been recognised for their forwardthinking spirit, consistently making significant contributions to the Australian innovation landscape.

From iconic inventions such as the "Hills Hoist" and the Stobie Pole, to ground breaking initiatives like the world's first all-plastic toilet cistern, our state has consistently punched above its weight in fostering creativity and ingenuity.

One initiative close to our heart is from war veteran Garnet E Rundle, who in 1964 identified the need for affordable retirement housing, laying the foundation for what would become the Elderly Citizens Homes of SA (ECH).

ECH, born out of a desire to enable people to live their best lives as they age, has evolved to become a cornerstone of support for older South Australians.

843 Employees in 2023

In 2024, ECH celebrates our 60th anniversary, marking six decades of innovation, and an ongoing commitment to supporting South Australians in living independently and confidently at home.

At 60 years of age – we’re excited and thrilled to be part of the solution for “60 MORE”.

ECH remains dedicated to developing homes and villages, designing services, and supporting South Australians in living independently and confidently at home. With over 15,000 South Australians benefiting from this original concept within ECH alone, it is evident that Mr. Rundle's vision from 1964, has stood the test of time.

140 Volunteers in 2023

Looking ahead to the next 60 years, we are excited and thrilled to continue our role in the solution for "60 MORE" years of inspired thinking.

As we ponder the possibilities, it's incredible to consider the progress we've made since Mr. Rundle's initial idea. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and creating a future where South Australians can thrive – no matter what stage of life they find themselves.

Join us in celebrating 60 MORE years of innovation, progress, and community building. Let’s see where we go for 60 MORE to 2084.

5,347 Wellness Clients in 2023

At 60 years of age we’re excited and thrilled to be part of the solution for “60 MORE”.

Looking towards a brighter future

The Council of Elders was established in December 2021 in response to recommendation 9 of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety Final Report. The Council provides a direct voice to the government from older Australians.

For this committee’s second term, new faces were announced by ‘The Hon Anika Wells MP’, including our ECH resident Lyn Whiteway.

We sat down with Lyn and mulled over the weather, mutual friends, years of research, and her (old and) new committee work!

Lyn initially strikes as a regular lady, in a regular place, caring for her husband. However, living with Rheumatoid Arthritis, sleep apnoea, and being a sepsis survivor (after a clinical error and misdiagnosis) drives Lyn to improve the lives of others. She shared with us her passion “to work with like-minded people to help enhance the lives of older Australians”, drawing upon her many personal experiences.

Sepsis is a serious condition in which the body responds improperly to an infection. Many people who survive sepsis recover completely and their lives return to normal. As with some other illnesses requiring intensive medical care, there are some who have longer-term effects. Lyn still has flashbacks, exhaustion, and PTSD.

However, she has turned her experience to good and continues to help and support the Sepsis Alliance, with a recent invitation accepted to present at a conference in Dubai! There’s no rest for some...

Lyn has significantly contributed to research outcomes through scholarships received. She is also an experienced board member across multiple healthcare organisations and committees, including Asthma Australia, the Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, SA Ambulance, and RDNS/Silver Chain. During her career, she has worked as a peer educator for COTA SA, and still strongly supports this organisation.

feature

THIS PAGE & OPPOSITE: Lyn is excited to take on her role in the Council.

BELOW: The Aged Care Council of Elders (image provided by the Dept of Health & Aged Care), ECH residents Lyn and Michael.

She is a wonderful example of a South Australian doing MORE.

Lyn’s national work for our elders will continue to make sure aged care reforms are communicated properly and that older people across the country have a say on the changes our government is looking to make.

The council do this by talking about changes being made to aged care and listening to people’s lived experiences. The council use this information to give independent advice to the government about the aged care system and ageing well. And, after years of supporting research projects and encouraging better clinical health care practices through her numerous consumer advocate roles in hospitals and trials, we applaud Lyn for continuing to give MORE back to her community.

Patricia’s Mission of Resourcefulness

Patricia’s captivating story; she’s a 103 centenarian who dances through life with the grace of independence and only a sprinkle of support. We spoke about her passion for the war on waste, listening to the traditional landowners, getting back to basics, reducing excess, buying to last and caring for each other. Drawing parallels with past plagues, she painted a vivid picture of a world rediscovering the profound need for human connection and care.

We simply learnt to be resourceful, and I carry this thinking through to my life today.

Patricia continues to read Science Illustrated and do her crosswords, however these days with the assistance of a screen magnifier. She reminisced with us about the days when things seemed to grow smaller around her. Not in thoughts, but in the munitions factory where she worked, as parts dwindled in size, leaving a lasting impact on her eyesight. Undeterred, she passionately urges her friends to persevere, to undergo cataract surgery, visit the podiatrist, and embrace mobility and social bonds.

Patricia says; "I worry about the world’s excesses. In my earlier years, we had no bus or postal delivery service, we would walk or ride a bike on the road (as there were no footpaths). We simply learnt to be resourceful, and I carry this thinking through to my life today. My wardrobe is full of a colourful mixture of clothes, good quality that lasts. But everything is a see saw, and I’m glad that everyone is getting “back to basics”. Look at the Hills Hoist as an example. They stopped manufacturing as people were using dryers... now everyone is back using them (or an inside line version)!”

Nestled in her ECH village, surrounded by female friends over 90, Patricia relishes the camaraderie that comes with looking out for one another. Rejecting the notion of 'too much help,' she prefers the harmony of self-sufficiency, a choice steeped in the wisdom of her years.

Patricia's advice, delivered with a twinkle in her eye, echoes through the ages: prioritise others, cherish the ordinary, and, surprisingly, opt for frozen vegetables! According to her, they capture the essence of freshness, snap-frozen at the farm, perhaps even surpassing their seemingly more glamorous fresh counterparts at the market.

Patricia's words lingered with us - a story of resilience and the timeless beauty of getting MORE out of life with resourcefulness.

Jan’s Unwavering Determination

Meet Jan, a woman whose life story is a testament to the transformative power of experiences. Hailing from London, Jan's journey led her through early adulthood in Munich, followed by extensive travels across Australia, residing in Melbourne, Brisbane, and her current home in Adelaide.

Jan embraced a healthy lifestyle rooted in vegetarianism, yoga, Pilates, gardening, community, and meditation. Despite her commitment to well-being, Jan faced an unexpected challenge—a severe stroke that left her with physical and visual impairments, along with Aphasia.

Undeterred, Jan's vivacity remains evident as she shares stories of her family, life, and past

Is there anything ECH does that gives you MORE of something?

"ECH has helped us tremendously. Their positioning of helping people live better lives in their own homes is the perfect match for the difficult position we found ourselves in, and the list of services and therapies that Jan receives is a testament to that. Services such as care-work, speech therapy at home, gardening, cleaning, physio, podiatry and more either supplied by ECH or outsourced by them. All these services take the pressure off and allow us the freedom to get on with the everyday aspects of living."

– Andrew, Jan's husband

involvement in the Red Hat Society, an organisation encouraging women to maximise life's experiences.

Following Jan's stroke, she began participating in ECH art classes and uncovered a surprising revelation: she possesses equal artistic talent with her left hand as she once did with her right. Jan regularly displays unwavering determination, with each artwork taking up to six weeks to complete. Jan and her partner Andrew, with a decadesspanning relationship filled with happy memories, face the future with optimism. Together, they embrace the insights gained from adapting to life's challenges.

Navigating Jan's health journey, Andrew expresses gratitude for the support offered by ECH, discovering a new world of remarkable people and valuable life lessons.

Originally drawn to Jan's paintings, our interview revealed that the canvas reflects more than art –it mirrors Jan's indomitable spirit. Jan emerges not confined by her current stage but as a woman radiating joy, resilience, and grace amidst life's unexpected turns.

Get MORE out of life

At ECH, we heard from many clients that having our support helps them to ‘Get MORE out of life’. As of late January, we’re telling that story across Adelaide, on TV, radio, and online.

Our brand story will feature on TV, in cinemas, social media, newspapers and magazines, online advertising; on screens in pharmacies, and soon it will even trundle past people on the North Terrace tram!

We’ll also share stories via social media and our Keep Connected magazine.

We are so proud that for over 60 years we’ve been helping South Australians get more out of their lives. Sometimes we help them with their health, and this enables them to do MORE of what they want to do.

Other times, what we offer with living support or health and community services means that they can spend their time focusing MORE on what they want in their life. This could be social connections, friendships, or perhaps greater happiness, because they don't have to worry about the maintenance of their home.

Look out for the new brand story across our office and site windows soon, as well as new signage on George Street and Greenhill Road.

We would love to hear your stories about what you’re getting MORE out of life with ECH. You can share at keepconnected@ech.asn.au

2024 National Retirement Living Awards

ECH is thrilled to be announced as a national finalist in the 2024 National Retirement Living Awards, celebrating high achievement across all parts of the retirement living sector.

The ECH Encore Apartments in Modbury is approx. 15kms Northeast of Adelaide amalgamating modern living with a strong sense of community, addressing a vital aspect of ageing gracefully at any stage.

ECH Chief Executive Claire Scapinello said, “it is an honour to be recognised as a National Finalist and no matter what happens next, we remain grateful to be included with this group of talented developers for the retirement living sector.”

“The project's unique approach, built to Gold Liveable Housing Design Standards has a focus on providing independence and community and includes fostering intergenerational connections, reflecting an innovative and inclusive approach to housing that goes beyond the typical guidelines.”

Vote for ECH in the People's Choice Award For Best Retirement Community

Voting is via an online voting poll which opens from 4 April to 3 May 2024.

The winner will be announced at the National Retirement Living Awards Gala Dinner to be held on Thursday, 27 June 2024 on the Gold Coast.

This vertical retirement village was the firstof-its-kind and features 77 two-bedroom independent living apartments as well as a Montessori Early Learning Centre on the ground floor for intergenerational interaction.

The integration of an SA Montessori – Early Learning Centre on site has created a wonderful community of ‘Grandfriends’ and our younger community members, with residents involved in the day-to-day life and learning within the shared community spaces.

Walking

among the Autumn leaves

Autumn is the perfect season to walk outside and embrace nature's beauty while staying fit. Walking is a low-impact exercise that can improve cardiovascular health, maintain joint flexibility and boost overall well-being.

1 Before beginning any new exercise routine, it's important to speak with your doctor to ensure walking is safe and appropriate.

Pay attention to how your body feels during and after walking. If you experience pain or discomfort, modify your routine and, if necessary, consult with a healthcare professional.

2 Wear supportive and comfortable shoes and dress in layers to regulate your temperature. Consider taking a walking frame or a cane if you need additional support.

3 Before walking, start with some simple exercises to get your body moving and blood pumping.

Shoulder rolls – slowly and gently shrug your shoulders 8-10 times.

Arm swings – gently swing loose arms around your body 8-10 times while standing.

High knees – while standing with feet shoulder-width apart, begin to march and eventually bring your knee up to touch your palm 8-10 times. Hold on to the table or a similar surface if you need extra support.

4

If you’re new to regular exercise or have mobility concerns, begin with short, gentle walks in a familiar, safe environment like your driveway or local area. Consistency is more important than intensity, and gradually increasing the duration as stamina improves ensures a sustainable fitness routine.

5 Walking and talking go hand in hand, so why not keep active and meet new people at the same time? In partnership with the Heart Foundation, ECH is part of Australia’s largest community-based walking network. ECH has walking groups in various locations across metropolitan Adelaide and Victor Harbor. To learn more or join a walking group near you, call 1300 275 324. Read more on page 23.

meet jacob

Exercise Physiologist

Remember to stay hydrated

Jacob brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to his practice. Known for his patient-centered approach, Jacob is committed to empowering his clients on their journey to recovery, ensuring they regain strength, mobility, and overall well-being under his thoughtful care.

W immune health 6 Nutrition Tips

Good nutrition is key in boosting the immune system and overall well-being. Making healthy food choices can help strengthen our body's natural defences against illness as we go about our daily lives.

1 Colourful Bounty: Fuel your immune system with a rainbow of colours from fruits and vegetables. These healthy options contain essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which help strengthen your body. Produce that is fresh, snap frozen or canned are all healthy options.

2 Citrus Splash: Amp up your immune support by enjoying citrus fruits such as oranges, strawberries, and capsicum. Vitamin C, a potent immune ally, stimulates white blood cell production. Consuming vitamin C rich foods increases iron absorption, particularly from non-meat sources like salads and green leafy vegetables.

3 Spice It Up: Infuse your meals with health benefits by incorporating immune-boosting herbs and spices. Turmeric, with its curcumin compound, brings antiinflammatory and antioxidant prowess, while garlic's allicin brings flavour and boosts immunity.

4 Protein Powerhouse: Fortify your immune system with lean meats, fish, dairy, beans and lentils protein. Adequate protein intake supports antibody and immune cell production.

5 Gut-Friendly Delights: Nurture a healthy gut with probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt, kefir, kimchi and sauerkraut. These fermented delights introduce beneficial bacteria, promoting a balanced gut microbiome and positively influencing immune function.

6 Holistic Harmony: Combine nutrition with regular exercise for comprehensive immune support. Physical activity enhances overall well-being and contributes to a resilient immune system.

meet deepti Accredited Practising Dietician & Accredited Nutritionist

Committed to evidencebased practice, Deepti assists clients in achieving realistic health goals, working effectively with diverse cultural backgrounds. She is passionate about optimising health outcomes and specialises in personalised dietetic interventions and counselling.

Cyber Awareness & Safety Tips

Modern technology provides valuable opportunities to socialise and access useful information. Being vigilant about cyber security allows us to enjoy these benefits safely.

Let’s begin with … What is phishing? Phishing is a scam that involves deceptive emails or messages that exploit trust and create urgency to trick people into revealing personal information, posing a risk of identity theft and financial harm

Let’s take a look at how we can keep safe.

1 Be wary of emails, texts, social media messages or phone calls seeking personal information like your bank details, Medicare number, birthdate or login passwords. Legitimate organisations won't ask for such details via these channels. Verify with the company directly if in doubt.

2 Do not use phone numbers in unsolicited text messages or emails to call someone back. Instead, find official contact details on the organisation's website, ensuring that you are speaking with a genuine employee.

3 Refrain from clicking on links or downloading attachments from unsolicited emails and messages. These may contain malware or phishing attempts to steal your personal information.

meet sharon

With a wealth of 25 years experience in the fields of education, aged care, and disability, Sharon possesses extensive knowledge in ICT. Sharon is deeply passionate about harnessing the power of technology for the betterment of our community.

4 Scrutinise sender email addresses for misspellings or suspicious signs.

5 Beware of messages creating urgency or using threatening language.

6 Exercise scepticism towards offers that seem too good to be true. Verify the legitimacy of unexpected prize notifications or special offers before proceeding.

7 Protect accounts with strong, unique passwords, and enable multi-factor authentication for an additional layer of security.

8 Research thoroughly before making payments to unfamiliar people or companies. Look for reviews and complaints to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes.

meet dean ECH Social and Therapeutic Horticulturist

Born with a green thumb and a lifelong fondness for gardening, ECH Social and Therapeutic Horticulturist

Dean was destined to become a horticulturist. He works to assist clients and residents with their gardening and outdoor needs while incorporating the therapeutic benefits.

ECH Garden Maintenance Services

ECH ensures you can get on with living without worry about upkeep. Residents who live in an ECH village receive garden maintenance

Garden maintenance services include;

• Lawn-mowing

• Weeding

• Pruning

• Planting

• Sweeping

• Cobweb removal

Specialised gardening services such as cutting down trees or those that require a ladder are not part of ECH garden maintenance services.

Plants that bring more  joy

From sponsoring the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, to simply pulling weeds… ECH is a garden lover, and we are thrilled to support clients to get MORE out of theirs!

The ‘lucky plants’ or those plants that bring a 'feng shui' and happy vibe to a garden, or positivity into the home, include Lucky bamboo, Snake plants, Rubber plants, String of Hearts and Jade plants.

Jade leaves are round like coins, and are sometimes referred to as friendship plants, money plants, or silver dollar plants. Dean says to place a Jade near the front door so that when you walk past, you can think of the money flowing into the house.

Under the right conditions, some Jades can be expected to live up to 100 years. In their native region, Jades thrive in dry, sunny areas and so don’t enjoy being overwatered. Their propagation is easy via stem or leaf cuttings, which when pushed into the soil, will root within a couple of weeks. They are a common houseplant worldwide.

Botanical name: Crassula ovata

Sun exposure: indirect sun outside to full sun indoors

Soil requirements: well-draining, acidic succulent soil

San Choy Bow

Flavourful, easy and nutritious, this recipe is a mid-week winner!

You'll Need

1 carrot, shredded

1/2 tbs olive oil

1 head of butter lettuce, leaves separated

1 tbs hoisin sauce

1 clove garlic, crushed

200-300g of mince of your choice

1/4 bunch fresh coriander, sprigs picked

2 spring onions, thinly sliced on the diagonal

1 tbs sweet chilli sauce

1/2 tbs sesame seeds

Chef's Tip

This recipe is extremely versatile; try it with chicken, beef, pork or plant-based mince.

Watch & Make

Scan to watch how to make this recipe

How To Make

Prep Time: 10 Minutes Cook Time: 20 Minutes Total Time: 30 Minutes Serves: 2

1 Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.

4

Add carrot, hoisin and sweet chilli sauce to pork and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes or until mixture is hot. Stir in onion.

2

Add mince and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes or until browned.

5

Place lettuce on a serving platter. Fill leaves with carrot and pork mixture, then top with coriander.

3 Add garlic to pan and cook for 2 minutes or until fragrant.

6 Sprinkle sesame seeds to serve.

01 - 17 MARCH

AFL Gather Round

It's time to gather 'round, grab your mates and celebrate all things Footy in South Australia. After a sell-out 2023, AFL Gather Round is back April 4-7 for another action-packed weekend - 18 teams, 9 games and one massive festival of footy. Check out the full fixture and start planning your Gather Round trip.

For more information, visit afl.com.au

03 -

Adelaide Festival

The Adelaide Festival is internationally recognised as Australia's pre-eminent arts festival. The program traverses a striking cross-section of music, theatre, dance, literature and visual art from artists of diverse backgrounds and cultures.

For more information, visit adelaidefestival.com.au

MORE to do

04 - 07 APRIL

Tasting Australia

Tasting Australia is one of the country’s longest running eating and drinking festivals, celebrating people, produce and place. Each autumn they invite audiences to step beyond a standard food festival to discover deliciously different experiences that feed their curiosity.

For more information, visit tastingaustralia.com.au

30 MARCH - 01 APRIL

Adelaide International Kite Festival

Watch the sky fill with colour, twists and twirls, kites of all shapes and size - when the Adelaide International Kite Festival returns to Semaphore Beach in 2024. This popular family friendly event is held over the Easter long weekend, and is a thrill for all ages. In addition to all the kite flying fun, the foreshore also hosts a bustling marketplace, so there really is something for everyone!

For more information, visit semaphoresa.com.

au/whats-on/adelaideinternational-kite-festival

21 FEB - 27 MARCH

12, 19, 26 MARCH

Get Connected Northern Lunch Club

Are you looking for a way to meet new people and enjoy a meal together?

Join our weekly social lunch club in the North, visit a variety of restaurants and try some activities which are consulted and decided by attendees, such as outings, sharing hobbies or listening to guest speakers.

For more information to register, visit ech.asn.au/events/ get-connected-northern-lunch-club

25 MARCH, 29 APRIL &

27 MAY

ECH Garden Activities

Do you enjoy being in gardens and nature? Curious about new topics? Join us for one or all of our garden workshops where you can learn about seeds, Japanese rock gardens and physical healing in the garden. ECH’s Get Connected programs provide opportunities to learn new skills and build meaningful social connections facilitated by ECH staff and volunteers.

For more information, visit ech.asn.au/events

ECH and SANFL Walking Footy Term 1

Whether you love footy or are just looking for a fun way to stay active, Walking Footy might be the ideal activity for you. Walking Footy is a fun, modified Australian Rules Football program created for people aged 50 or over. Played in small teams on a field the size of a basketball court, Walking Footy is a lively, inclusive and safe game with no running, tackling or bumping involved.

For more information or to register, visit ech.asn.au/walking-footy

19 & 26 MARCH 2 &9 APRIL

Tree Stories Project

Are you a budding writer and have a love for nature? Join storyteller and gatherer Helen Lawry for a four-session exploration of Tree Stories. Helen is a skilled workshop leader who can help you shake the stories from your own memory tree. This journey includes an excursion to the Botanic Garden and culminates in a tree planting ceremony to be held later in the year.

For more information or to register, visit ech.asn.au/events/tree-stories-project

MARCH - MAY

ECH Bus Trips

Want to explore the best of South Australia? Jump on an ECH bus trip and enjoy a variety of tours to exciting destinations across Adelaide and regional areas. Coming up in March, April and May, we're visiting Monarto Safari Park, McLaren Vale, Langhorne Creek, Fleurier Peninsula and the Adelaide Hills.

To view all upcoming bus trips and learn more, visit ech.asn.au/events

wellbeing Walk your way to

A number of our fabulous walking groups held celebrations together at the end of 2023 and have some lovely photos to share.

The Up & Atom walking group in Colonel Light Gardens was first established in 2018 when new ECH resident and volunteer, Dave, knocked on all his neighbours’ doors to introduce himself and ask if they would like to join a new walking group.

Five years on, they continue to walk three mornings a week – Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays – with neighbours from the wider community joining in, and often finish with coffee at the local Bond and Lane Café, where they’re well known.

Meet the Burnside Explorers! This walking group meets twice a week, ably led by Gill and Chris, and enjoys walking at a pace (and incline!) for those that are able with a (slightly) slower group taking a modified route. Every six weeks they rotate to a new location to “keep it fresh”. Coffee to finish is always a highlight.

One of the group members reported “Walking with poles has meant I can keep moving and socialising, which is so necessary, despite the hips playing up.”

Victor Harbour’s walking group Young at Heart celebrated the end of the year with a breakfast where Geraldine gave a lovely thank you speech.

Led by volunteer walkers Bruce and Anna, the walking group walks twice a week as it helps their fitness as well as creating social connections. They enjoy different walk routes to keep it interesting and the coffee stop at the end is the icing on the cake.

Members of our Glenelg walking group, Mindwalkers spent early December walking quietly and mindfully along the beach to Somerton and back to The Broadway Café for coffee.

One of the walkers said “I’ve had a lot of health problems in my life, but do you know what has helped me the most and been the best medicine? Socialising.”

We are very privileged to hear that friendships and caring communities are flourishing through our walking groups.

If you are looking for a way to keep active, why not consider joining one of the ECH walking groups?

The walking groups are a great way to exercise, meet like-minded people and maintain good heart health. Walking groups are currently active in various locations across metropolitan Adelaide and Victor Harbor.

To learn more or register your interest, email communityengagement@ech.asn.au

All aboard the ECH bus!

Clients and residents have been all over Adelaide experiencing some great activities together.

Participants on our College Grove, Walkerville bus trip visited the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, marvelled at the bulbous bottle tree then stopped for morning tea at Evergreen Café.

Afterwards, they drove to the Barossa Valley followed for a tasty, two course meal at the Vine Inn.

There was just enough time for a stop at the Barossa Valley Chocolate Company for some sweet, retail therapy.

Join an intergenerational playgroup

Looking for a way to give back to the community? Intergenerational playgroups provide the chance for 'grandfriends’ to enjoy play-based activities with preschool aged children. These supervised sessions allow you to focus on fun and building relationships with the children through activities such as crafts, story time, gardening and baking.

Monthly sessions will be held at Green Leaves Early Learning Centres in Bowden, Newton, West Lakes and Mawson Cascades, starting in late March.

To learn more or register your interest, email communityengagement@ech.asn.au

Almond Grove residents and clients on our Morphett Vale bus trip were beaming after our latest mystery bus trip to the Adeliade Hills with driver John and peer connector Trevor. The group visited Karkoo Nursery and Café where client Paul bought his latest fruit tree. Afterwards, they went to Melba's Chocolates Factory, Charleston Hotel and finished the trip at Mount Lofty Summit.

"It was such a lovely day and everyone enjoyed it immensely" says resident Felicity.

To view all upcoming bus trips, scan the QR code or visit ech.asn. au/events

Submit your artwork

Are you an artist and want to share your artwork?

Send a photo of your art to keepconnected@ech.asn.au for the chance to be featured in our next quarterly calendar.

Puzzles

Word Search

Win!

Once you have found all the words in the word search, use all the remaining letters in the order they appear to discover the secret sentence. Send this sentence to keepconnected@ech.asn.au or call 1300 275 324 by 29/04/24 and two winners will be drawnat random, each win a $50 EFTPOS gift card.

Winners will be announced in the next issue. Last issue's winners were June Harvey and Sandra Dench.

Rebus Puzzle

LEAF

LEAF LEAFLEAFLEAF

LEAFLEAFLEAF

LEAFLEAF

3. True, as are peaches and plums.

2. False, it's called a turkey.

Art Encore Mulch Walk Autumn

Launch SanChoyBow Council Leaves Sixty

SEEINGSEEING

LEAFLEAFLEAFLEAFLEAF LEAF LEAF LEAF

Rebus Puzzle Too close for comfort Pile of leaves Seeing double Happy Hour

Words can go in any direction and share letters as well as cross over each other. ANSWERS

1. True, she made the journey in 2021 at the age of 82.

True or False?

1. Wally Funk was the oldest astronaut to ever travel to space.

2. Three strikes in a row in ten-pin bowling is called an eagle.

3. Apples and pears are part of the rose family. True or False?

Pass Me On

At ECH we are constantly looking at ways to reduce our ecological footprint on the planet. This is why we ask that once you've enjoyed this magazine you pass it on to a friend, family member or even your local café so that it gets a long life. This magazine was printed on Forest Stewardship Council certified paper which supports the growth of responsible forest.