Celebrating community, capturing stories and keeping connected
The Kewarra Kaleidoscope
Celebrating community, capturing stories and keeping connected. Spring
Contents
Message from Facility Manager, Laura Message from Lifestyle Coordinator, Lisa
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Community Happenings 5 - 7 Message from Clinical Care Coordinator, Kathryn 8 Meet the Team, 9 Chefs Corner 10 Meet the Resident, 11 Quality Corner, Janet 12 Spring Highlights 13 - 15 Noticeboard 16 Games Corner 17 - 18 Games Corner answers 19 - 20
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Laura
Facility Manager
Spring has been absolutely delightful at Kewarra, and I couldn’t be prouder of the energy and spirit our community has shown over these past few months. Walking through our home each day, I’m constantly
reminded of why I love what we do here. Whether it’s catching Kelly leading everyone through morning exercises with plenty of laughter and gentle encouragement, or seeing the pure joy on faces during our puppy therapy sessions, these are the moments that make Kewarra special. I want to thank our incredible team who make all of this possible. From Kelly keeping us active and mobile, to Lisa and Keelie organising our adventures, to everyone who jumps in to help with activities and events – your dedication creates the warm, vibrant community we’re all fortunate to be part of. As we move into summer, I’m excited about the possibilities ahead. More outdoor activities, more sunshine, more reasons to get together and enjoy each other’s company. Kewarra is home because of the people who live and work here, and I’m grateful every day to be part of this community. Here’s to a wonderful summer ahead! Laura Facility Manager
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Message from Lifestyle Lisa What a spring we’ve had! I’m still buzzing from all the energy and laughter we’ve shared together. Kelly’s morning exercise sessions have been brilliant – there’s nothing like starting the day with a good stretch and plenty of giggles. Our shopping trips with Lisa and Keelie have been absolute highlights. The confidence and happiness on everyone’s faces says it all. Halloween was possibly the most fun I’ve had in ages! The creativity you brought to your costumes was incredible – some of you genuinely had me jumping in fright. Melbourne Cup Day was pure excitement from start to finish. We were all so wrapped up in the action that taking photos became an afterthought, which tells me we were truly living in the moment. Our Remembrance Day service with Able Seaman Nathan Graham was particularly meaningful. The quiet reflection and respect everyone showed created such a poignant atmosphere. The puppy therapy sessions paired with fancy morning teas have become firm favourites. There’s something magical about a warm cuppa, a sweet treat, and a cuddly puppy on your lap. Thank you all for bringing your energy and enthusiasm to every activity. Here’s to a summer filled with even more adventures and shared moments! Lisa Lifestyle Coordinator
Community Happenings Spring
Staying Active and Healthy Spring started with renewed energy as Kelly led us through morning warm-up exercises. There’s something wonderful about gathering together, stretching our bodies, and starting the day with a bit of movement and plenty of laughter. Kelly has such a gift for making everyone feel capable and included, whether you’re the most flexible person in the room or just happy to give it a go. These sessions have become more than just exercise – they’re a chance to connect, encourage each other, and set ourselves up for the day ahead.
Out and About Our shopping trips with Lisa and Keelie have been absolute highlights of the season. We love getting out into the community, browsing the shops, trying on clothes, and treating ourselves to something new. The before and after photos tell the story better than we ever could – the transformation isn’t just in the new outfits, it’s in the confidence and joy on everyone’s faces. There’s something empowering about choosing your own style and seeing yourself looking good. Lisa and Keelie make these outings so enjoyable, helping us find exactly what we’re looking for and sharing plenty of laughs along the way.
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Community Happenings Spring
Celebrations and Special Events Halloween brought out our theatrical side in the best possible way! We went all in with decorations and costumes, transforming our home into something delightfully spooky. Some of the costumes were so convincing that we actually gave each other quite a fright. The question on everyone’s lips was, “Are you game to visit?” We might have had a bit too much fun scaring each other, but that’s what makes it memorable.
The Melbourne Cup turned our home into a bustling race day venue complete with all the excitement you’d expect. We were so caught up in picking our horses, placing our bets, and cheering them on that taking photos was the last thing on our minds. By the time we remembered, we only had a few snaps from before the race started. But honestly, that tells you everything you need to know about how engrossed we were. The energy, the anticipation, the collective groans and cheers – it was everything a Cup Day should be. Honouring Our Past Our Remembrance Day service was particularly moving this year, made even more special by the presence of Able Seaman Nathan Graham. Having Nathan join us brought a personal connection to the ceremony that deeply touched us all. We stood together in remembrance, sharing stories and honouring those who served. These quiet, reflective moments are just as important to our community as the celebrations – they remind us of the values we hold dear and the history we carry with us.
Community Happenings Spring
Furry Friends and Fancy Treats Throughout spring, our puppy therapy sessions paired with fancy morning teas have become something we genuinely look forward to. We get ourselves dressed up a bit, enjoy some lovely treats, and then settle in for cuddles with the most adorable therapy pups. There’s something about a warm puppy snuggled up on your lap and a good cup of tea that just makes everything right with the world. It’s the perfect combination of feeling special and feeling the unconditional love that only a puppy can give. Spring has reminded us that life here is about connection, laughter, and making the most of every day together.
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Message from Clinical Care Kathryn
It is a pleasure to share updates from our clinical team in this quarterly newsletter. Clinical Focus Falls Prevention and Pain Management
This quarter, we are focusing on falls prevention and pain management, particularly for those who may not be able to verbalise their discomfort. Pain is common; yet often overlooked. Since many residents cannot clearly communicate their pain, it is essential for staff to remain vigilant and regularly assess any new or unusual behaviours that may indicate discomfort. Our staff are effectively using the PainChek app to assess residents’ pain. Identifying and addressing pain early can significantly improve a resident’s comfort and quality of life. Staff continue to receive training in recognising symptoms and providing appropriate treatment. Falls: We have reintroduced the autumn leaf symbol to identify residents at high risk of falls and to alert all staff to keep a closer eye on them. A few reminders to help residents stay safe when walking within the facility: • Use your walker if you have one, even for short trips. • Wear supportive footwear or non-slip socks to prevent slips and falls. • Ask staff for help when needed; whether it’s picking something up or reaching for an item. We encourage residents and families to speak with our nursing team if they have any concerns, and we will assist you. Allied Health Services Let us know if you would like to see the visiting optometrist, mobile dentist, or Hearing Australia, and we can organise this for you. Kind regards, Kathryn Clinical Care Coordinator
Chef’s Corner
We hope you have been enjoying the meals at Strathpine. If you have any special requests or feedback, please let us know. Here’s a great Christmas recipe that can be enjoyed any time of the year!
Mince Pies Ingredients 360g (2 cups) dried mixed fruit 200g (1 cup, firmly packed) brown sugar 50g (1/3 cup) slivered almonds, finely chopped 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled, quartered, cored, coarsely grated 40g butter, melted 2 tbsp brandy 3 tsp finely grated lemon rind
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp mixed spice Pinch of ground nutmeg 1 egg, lightly whisked White sugar, to dust Pastry 300g (2 cups) plain flour 70g (1/3 cup) caster sugar 160g chilled butter, chopped 1 egg
Method 1.
Make the pastry Rub the butter into the flour until it looks like breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar. Add the beaten egg and mix until it forms a dough. Chill for 20 minutes. 2. Prepare the pies Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Roll out the pastry and cut circles to fit a muffin tin. Spoon mincemeat into each case. Cut smaller circles or stars for the tops and place them on. 3. Bake Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden. Cool slightly, then dust with icing sugar.
Quality Corner
Janet
From the 1st of November 2025, the New Aged Care ACT and the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards commenced across all residential and home care services. The Strengthened Quality Standards are a set of requirements which Providers need to meet to ensure that Resident care is safe and of a high quality. The 7 Strengthened Quality Standards are: Standard 1. The Individual Standard 2. The Organisation Standard 3. The Care and Services Standard 4. The Environment Standard 5. Clinical Care Standard 6. Food and Nutrition Standard 7. The Residential Community
The Strengthened Quality Standards have been introduced by the teams within the homes. Education has been completed and is ongoing on the Strengthened Quality Standards and on the new policies and procedures which accompany them. The Resident and Relative meetings are a good opportunity seek further information regarding the Strengthened Standards, and more information may also be found at https://www.agedcarequality.gov. au/
As the weather warms up and we enjoy more time outdoors, it is important to protect our skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Sunscreen is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin damage. Sunscreen dispensers have been fitted within areas of the home for everyone to access, the teams are also here to help apply sunscreen before outdoor activities. Please also remember to pair sunscreen with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, light clothing for extra protection and seek some shade. During the warmer weather please also remember to remain hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
Spring Highlights
September 2025
The season started with energy and purpose as Kelly led us through warm-up exercises on a beautiful spring morning. These sessions have become more than just physical activity – they’re a chance to gather, have a giggle, and set ourselves up for the day ahead. There’s always someone cracking jokes about creaky knees or showing off how flexible they still are! Our fancy morning tea paired with puppy therapy sessions became an instant favourite. We’d get ourselves dressed up a bit, enjoy some lovely treats, and then settle in for cuddles with the most adorable therapy pups you’ve ever seen. It’s the perfect combination of feeling special and feeling the unconditional love that only a puppy can give.
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Spring Highlights October 2025 Shopping trips with Lisa and Keelie took centre stage this month, and what adventures they were! We love getting out to browse the shops, try on clothes, and treat ourselves to something new. The before and after photos show the transformation – and more importantly, the huge smiles on our faces. There’s something empowering about choosing your own outfit and seeing yourself looking good. Lisa and Keelie make these trips so enjoyable, helping us find exactly what we’re looking for and sharing plenty of laughs along the way. Halloween brought out our theatrical side in the best possible way. We went all in with decorations and costumes, transforming our home into something delightfully spooky. Some of the costumes were so convincing that we actually gave each other quite a fright! The photos and videos captured the fun perfectly – we were clearly having the time of our lives seeing who could pull off the scariest look.
Spring Highlights
November 2025
The Melbourne Cup turned our home into a bustling race day venue complete with all the excitement you’d expect. We were so engrossed in picking our horses, placing our bets, and cheering them on that taking photos was the last thing on our minds. We did manage a few shots before the race started, but honestly, the fact that we forgot to document most of it tells you exactly how caught up we were in the moment. The energy, the anticipation, the collective groans and cheers – it was everything a Cup Day should be. Later in the month, we gathered for our Remembrance Day service, a poignant ceremony made even more special by the presence of Able Seaman Nathan Graham. Having Nathan join us brought a personal connection to the service that deeply moved us all. We stood together in remembrance, sharing stories and honouring those who served. These quiet, reflective moments are just as important to our community as the celebrations – they remind us of the values we hold dear and the history we carry with us.
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Noticeboard
In Memoriam We offer our sincere condolences to the families and friends of our late residents. Every cherished member of our community who leaves us, is sadly missed and fondly remembered.
A very warm welcome to our new residents. This Spring we have had the pleasure of welcoming new faces to our community and what a wonderful addition you’ve all been! activities and making new friendships, you’ve already brought fresh energy and joy to our home. We’re so glad you’re here. From sharing laughs at mealtimes to joining in If you have any questions or need assistance settling in, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Daily Health and fitness Join us each daily for a dose of gentle exercise and seated games.
Library Service We have a mobile library service that picks up and delivers library books to residents’ rooms. We also have our fully stocked library. If you would like to use this service, please speak to one of our friendly team. Physiotherapy We have an excellent physiotherapy team on site. If you would like to book in to see one of the lovely physios, please ask a friendly staff member at reception.
We are here for you If you’d like more information on the above services, please contact the lifestyle team.
Games Corner
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Games Corner
Games Corner Answers
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Games Corner Answers
Stay tuned for Summer
Thank you We would like to issue a heartfelt thank you to relatives and volunteers who support us day in and day out. You make such a difference and we very much appreciate your time and energy. Can you contribute? Contributions to our newsletter are encouaged and appreciated. Articles, photos, reports on community outings, staff news, trivia, poems and stories relating to residents and staff are most welcome. Please hand in your submission to reception.
110-124 Cottesloe Drive, Kewarra Beach, Cairns, QLD 4879 07 4242 2000 kewarraagedcare.com.au
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