Celebrating community, capturing stories and keeping connected
Celebrating community, capturing stories and keeping connected. The Coorparoo Chronicle
Summer
Contents
Message from Facility Manager, Debbie
3
Message from the Lifestyle Team
4
Community Happenings
5 - 7
Message from the Clinical Team
8 9
Meet the Team, Jaki
Chefs Corner, Karl
10 - 11
Meet the Resident, Kath
12 13
Quality Corner, Janet
Summer Highlights
14 - 16
Noticeboard
17
Games Corner
18 - 19
Games Corner answer
20 - 21
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Debbie
Facility Manager
It has been a busy and eventful start to the year for our community, marked by both new beginnings and heartfelt farewells. We are delighted to warmly welcome Dr Thusitha Amarakoon, known as Dr T., who has recently joined
us as one of our General Practitioners. Early feedback from residents and staff has already been very positive, and we are confident that Dr T. will quickly become a valued and trusted member of our community. As we welcome new faces, we also take a moment to acknowledge and say goodbye to several residents who have moved on in recent months. While farewells are never easy, we wish each of them well in the next chapter of their journey and thank them for the time, friendships, and memories they shared with us. The beginning of the year has certainly kept everyone busy, with new residents settling in, familiar faces moving on, and the long-awaited repairs to the Level 2 servery now finally complete. We were very pleased with the response to our buffet breakfast held early in March. Residents from Level 4 joined us on Level 5, where an extensive array of breakfast options was enjoyed by all in attendance. Feedback from residents was overwhelmingly positive, making the event a great success. Debbie Facility Manager
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Message from the Lifestyle Team
Word Games Keep Minds Sharp and Spirits High Word games continue to be a popular activity, offering residents a fun and engaging way to exercise their grey cells each day. These sessions provide both mental stimulation and plenty of laughter along the way.
More than just a game, these sessions encourage connection, friendly competition, and a wonderful sense of achievement. The enthusiasm and regular attendance highlight just how much our residents value activities that are both enjoyable and beneficial for cognitive wellbeing. We warmly invite all residents to join in and experience the fun — it’s Our exercise groups continue to be a wonderful highlight of each day, bringing residents together to move, laugh, and support one another in a positive and welcoming environment. The sessions are run twice daily, with a morning and afternoon group, and the enthusiasm has been fantastic. Each morning session regularly welcomes around 25 to 30 residents, with several participants also choosing to return for the second group in the afternoon. It’s inspiring to see such strong engagement and commitment to staying active. The benefits of regular exercise for older adults are well known, and our groups are designed to be safe, inclusive, and enjoyable for all ability levels. Participation helps residents maintain strength, balance, and flexibility, which can support independence and reduce the risk of falls. Gentle movement also promotes better circulation, joint mobility, and overall physical comfort. never too late to put those grey cells to good use! Staying Active Together: Our Daily Exercise Groups Beyond the physical benefits, the social aspect of the exercise groups is just as important. Exercising together provides valuable opportunities for connection, conversation, and shared achievement, helping to reduce feelings of isolation and boost mood. Many residents report feeling more energised, confident, and positive after each session. The Lifestyle Team
Community Happenings Summer
Farewell to Our Korean Nursing Students We said a bittersweet goodbye this summer to a wonderful group of Korean nursing students who had been part of our community for ten weeks. They got to know us, learned about our practices, worked on their English, and brought so much energy and enthusiasm to everything they did. They will be very fondly remembered and we wish them all the very best for the future. Birthdays, Birthdays, Birthdays My goodness, we had a lot of celebrating to do this summer! Birthdays were shared with Vilma, Greg, Joy, Noel, Eugenie, Di, Marjorie, Jill, Estelle, Marie, Barb, Nick, Maureen, Lula, Dianne, and Lyn. Every single one of these days was made special with family visits, happy hours, lunches out, and plenty of love from everyone around them. But the birthday of the summer, and perhaps of the year, belonged to the extraordinary Valda who celebrated her 103rd birthday surrounded by beautiful flowers and the warmth of everyone at Coorparoo. What an honour to share that milestone with her.
Decking Every Level We worked together to put up Christmas displays on every single level of the home and the results were stunning. Every corridor, every common area, every level looked wonderfully festive, and the effort and creativity everyone put in made the whole place feel truly alive with Christmas spirit. Well done to absolutely everyone who had a hand in it. Fish and Chips on the Rooftop There are few things in life more enjoyable than Fish and Chips on the rooftop at Coorparoo, and this summer we got to enjoy it twice. The food was great, the company was lovely, and the views were nothing short of spectacular. As one of us put it so perfectly, what more could you ask for?
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Community Happenings Summer
Les from Indigo Dusk We enjoyed a wonderful concert with Les from Indigo Dusk, who played up a storm with sixties favourites and Christmas tunes that had everyone singing and tapping along. Great music has a way of bringing a room together and Les did exactly that. Christmas Eve Happy Hour Our Christmas Eve Happy Hour was wonderfully festive with a great crowd gathered together to enjoy the occasion. The Christmas raffle was drawn on the night, with David J taking third place and John J walking away with second. A lovely, celebratory evening to close out Christmas Eve. Welcome Back Olga! One of the highlights of the summer was the return of Olga from Boogiecamp Zumba, and the turnout said everything. A huge group of us came out to welcome her back and dance our way into the new year. There is nothing quite like Zumba to get the energy up and the smiles going, and Olga never disappoints.
A Lunch Out at The Village Bistro We headed out to The Village Bistro for a lovely lunch and it turned into a very special occasion. Marie celebrated an early birthday with friends ahead of her 99th, and the birthday cake her friends made for her was so generous that everyone at the table got to share a slice. Delicious by all accounts!
Community Happenings Summer
Stitch and Chat Needles out, tea on, and the conversation flowing. Stitch and Chat is one of those afternoons that just feels good. June completed her gorgeous merino wool crochet blanket for her new grandchild, Jenny made great progress on her knee rug, and the laughter and chatter filled the room as always. There is something very special about sitting together with good friends and creating something beautiful. Australia Day Artwork Ahead of Australia Day we got creative in the most beautiful way, tracing our hands and filling them with colourful dots and patterns in a traditional style. The finished works were something really special to see, and a lovely and meaningful way to mark the occasion. Monday Morning Bocce Morning exercise, a lovely morning tea, and then a friendly but very spirited game of Bocce. The kind of morning where you look around the room and think yes, this is a pretty wonderful way to spend a day.
7
Message from the Clinical Team
Footwear and Safety: Preventing Falls and Pressure Areas Appropriate footwear plays an important role in supporting resident safety, comfort, and wellbeing. Wearing well-fitted, supportive shoes can significantly reduce the risk of falls while also helping to prevent pressure areas and skin breakdown. Footwear that fits correctly provides stability and balance, particularly for residents who are unsteady on their feet or who require mobility aids. Shoes with non-slip soles, a secure heel, and adequate support help minimise slipping or tripping, especially during transfers and while walking on different surfaces. Ill- fitting or loose footwear, including slippers without support, can increase the risk of falls and accidental injury.
Equally important is the role footwear plays in protecting skin integrity. Poorly fitting shoes can cause friction, pressure points, and rubbing, which may lead to discomfort, blisters, or pressure injuries—particularly for residents with fragile skin, reduced mobility, or altered sensation. Shoes that allow room for toes, accommodate swelling, and provide cushioning help distribute pressure more evenly and reduce risk. Along with our Podiatrist, our nursing team regularly checks residents’ footwear as part of ongoing care, ensuring it remains appropriate as needs change. We also assess feet for any signs of redness, discomfort, or pressure areas, allowing us to intervene early and prevent further issues. Families are encouraged to support this focus on safety by ensuring footwear brought into the facility is well-fitting, supportive, and in good condition. If you are unsure about what footwear is most suitable for your loved one, or if you notice changes in comfort or mobility, please speak with our nursing staff. Working together helps us maintain a safe environment and support residents to move confidently and
comfortably every day. Clinical Nursing Team
Meet the Team Jaki I have been part of Coorparoo Aged Care since October 2020, and over that time it has become much more than just a workplace to me. In my administration role, I feel incredibly fortunate to be at the heart of the home, connecting each day with our residents, their families, and our dedicated staff. What I value most is the strong sense of community. The relationships we build with families, the trust they place in us, and the opportunity to support them through important moments is something I truly cherish. Our residents bring warmth, wisdom, and unique personalities, and it’s a privilege to be part of their daily lives, even in a small way. I also feel lucky to work alongside such a caring and committed team. Everyone goes above and beyond to create a positive and supportive environment, which makes coming to work each day genuinely enjoyable. Coorparoo Aged Care is a place where people truly matter. Being part of a team that shows compassion, respect, and kindness every day is something I’m very proud of, and I look forward to continuing this journey with such a wonderful community. Outside of work, I’m a proud mum of three and a grandmother to three beautiful granddaughters. I enjoy travelling in our caravan, spending time by the water, and catching up with friends over coffee. Jaki
9
Karl
Chef’s Corner
A Delicious Start to the Year We were delighted to begin February with the launch of our new buffet breakfast. Due to the layout of our floors, the buffet was first
introduced on Level 5, with Level 4 residents invited to join. This new offering provides a greater variety of choices to suit individual tastes and appetites. The relaxed, social setting has made breakfast time even more enjoyable, and it has been wonderful to see residents selecting their favourites and starting the day together. In addition to the usual continental options, residents have been enjoying a range of delicious items including ham and cheese croissants, Vegemite scrolls, cinnamon scrolls, bacon, eggs, and roasted tomatoes. Residents on all floors will have the opportunity to attend the buffet breakfast as it rotates to each floor on a monthly basis. Our themed meals continue to be a highlight on the dining calendar. In February, residents enjoyed a Chinese-themed meal, filled with familiar and flavourful dishes that were very well received. This was followed by a Greek-themed meal in March, featuring bold flavours and popular classics, which also received enthusiastic feedback. These special dining experiences reflect our commitment to providing variety, choice, and a sense of occasion. We look forward to many more shared meals and culinary celebrations in the months ahead. Karl Head Chef
Chef’s Corner
Sausage Rolls 1kg pork mince 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 large brown onion, grated 1 large carrot, grated 1 ½ tablespoons dried Italian herb mix 1 cup panko breadcrumbs 3 eggs 3 sheets frozen ready-rolled puff pastry,
partially thawed (see tip) 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
1. Preheat oven to 200°C fan-forced. Grease 2 large baking trays lined with baking paper. 2. Combine oil and onion in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a sheet of damp paper towel. Microwave for 2 minutes on High/100%. Set aside to cool for 10 minutes. 3. Combine pork mince, carrot, dried herbs, breadcrumbs, 2 eggs and cooled onion mixture in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Using clean hands, mix thoroughly until well combined. Divide pork mixture into 6 equal portions. 4. Whisk the remaining egg with a fork. Lay pastry sheets onto a work surface and cut each in half. 5. Using one portion of pork mixture, spread into a long sausage shape along the long edge of one halved pastry sheet. Brush the opposite long edge with beaten egg. Roll up pastry to enclose the pork mixture, pressing the edges together to seal. Repeat using remaining pork and pastry. 6. Brush sausage rolls with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and cut each into 6. Place sausage rolls, seam-side down with a little space between each one, onto the prepared trays. 7. Bake for 38-40 minutes, swapping the trays in the oven after 25 minutes, or until golden and puffed. Serve with tomato sauce. It’s easier to work with pastry when its partially thawed, just make sure it’s completely thawed before you start cooking. The sausage rolls freeze well, cooked or uncooked in airtight containers or bags, for up to 3 months.
11
Meet the Resident I was born in Adelaide in 1922 and I just celebrated my 104th birthday. Until I turned 100 everything was good but not so much after that. I still lived on my own until the age of 102. Grew up at Semaphore beach which is near Largs Bay in Adelaide. I was one of 5 children. 4 girls and 1 boy. My youngest sister was a catholic nun. 1 had 5 children, the other 7 and my brother was Redemptorist Brother in the Catholic church. I was the second eldest, and all my siblings have now passed on. They were all into their 90’s. I was the naughty one in the family, and I think that’s why I lived so long. I have a wicked sense of humour. My mother was a tailor and father worked in retail.I enjoyed teenage life and worked at a kindergarten. Kath
At the end of the war, I remember the soldiers coming back and the celebrations in the streets. After the war and depression time the world changed significantly. I remember how different the food was back then from now. Everything was home cooked or made and I remember my mum and dad always growing vegetables as there was short supply back then. I worked in the factories making machinery during World War II. I volunteered at Calvary Hospital in Adelaide. I used to dress up for work in my best clothes, even when going to the factories and then got changed into uniform. I worked at David Jones and Myers stores selling special clothes especially for those people attending weddings. Loved going to dances usually twice a week. I met my husband, Jennie’s father at a dance after the war. My favourite pastimes were dancing and house decorating, and I was very house proud. When my husband passed away when I was 90, Jennie and I went on about 10 cruises within 3 years and also travelled through Europe together when I was 85. The most important person to me is my dear girl Jennie, she is a joy to me. I adore her. She just gets things done, is very genuine and sensible. She makes me smile whenever I see her. I have 2 grandsons. My favourite drinks were brandy for medicinal purposes and sherry and I would have one most evenings. The advice I would give anyone is to travel more, be kind and thoughtful. Remember to enjoy every day and make the most of them.
Quality Corner
Janet
Influenza Vaccines Influenza (flu) is a common viral illness that affects people of all ages. While symptoms may be mild for some, influenza can cause serious illness and may lead to hospitalisation—even in otherwise healthy people.
The safest and most effective way to protect yourself and others is to receive an influenza vaccination each year from a health professional. The flu virus changes regularly, so the vaccine is updated annually, which is why yearly vaccination is important. The type of vaccine recommended depends on your age and health needs, and your GP can advise which option is right for you. Annual influenza vaccination is recommended for everyone aged six months and over. Receiving a vaccination not only helps protect you—it also helps protect your family, friends, and the wider community. For more information on vaccinations, please see a friendly member of the care team. Do you know about PainChek? Within our homes, we use the PainChek system, a clinically validated digital pain assessment tool. Using AI technology to support a modern pain assessment framework PainChek will identify the presence of pain even when it’s not obvious. PainChek is fast and easy to use. Using a smart device, the device’s camera looks at the person’s face then analyses the images using AI driven facial recognition. PainChek analyses facial expressions and facial muscle movements in real time and combines this information with observations of behaviour, body movements, and vocalisations to generate an objective pain score. This information calculates an overall pain score and stores the result. This outcome forms the evidence base supporting the implementation of pain management interventions, and for the ongoing monitoring of their effectiveness over time. This approach supports the early identification of pain, more consistent assessments, and improved pain management. By enabling accurate and timely pain recognition, PainChek helps care teams deliver safer, more consistent, and person‑centred care. All assessments are stored securely, allowing for trend monitoring and shared clinical insights to support ongoing care planning. Kind regards, Janet State Quality Manager
13
Summer Highlights
December 2025
December was a month full of warmth, celebration, and some truly special moments. We farewelled a wonderful group of Korean nursing students who had been part of our community for ten weeks and who we will genuinely miss. Birthdays were celebrated for Vilma, Greg, Joy, Noel, and the remarkable Valda who turned an incredible 103 years young! We worked together to put up beautiful Christmas displays on every level of the home, enjoyed a concert with Les from Indigo Dusk playing sixties favourites and Christmas tunes, and gathered for Fish and Chips on the rooftop which proved as popular as ever. Our Christmas Eve Happy Hour was wonderfully festive, the Christmas raffle was drawn, and we enjoyed a beautiful Christmas lunch together with Santa gifts for all. A truly full and joyful month.
Summer Highlights
January 2026
January eased us gently into the new year with some lovely moments shared together. We celebrated birthdays for Eugenie, Di, and Marjorie, and enjoyed special visits and family time throughout the month. Ahead of Australia Day we got creative, tracing our hands and painting them with colourful dots and patterns in a traditional style, with the finished works being something really beautiful to see. Stitch and Chat was in full swing with June completing her merino wool crochet blanket for her new grandchild and Jenny making great progress on her knee rug. And we welcomed back Olga from Boogiecamp Zumba to huge excitement, with a large group turning out to dance their way into the new year.
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Summer Highlights
February 2026
February was a month of birthdays, outings, and wonderful everyday moments. We celebrated Jill, Estelle, Marie who was turning 99, Barb, Nick, Maureen, Lula, Dianne, and Lyn, with so many beautiful family visits and special days shared together. We headed out to The Village Bistro for a lovely lunch, enjoyed another favourite Fish and Chips evening on the rooftop with perfect weather and spectacular views. Days full of exercise, tea, friendly games of Bocce, and keeping the needles moving at Stitch and Chat. A full, happy, and well-fed month all round!
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 Summer we have had the pleasure of welcoming new faces to our community and what a wonderful addition you’ve all been! From sharing laughs at mealtimes to joining in activities and making new friendships, you’ve already brought fresh energy and joy to our home. We’re so glad you’re here. 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. Monthly Zumba – Move to Your Own Beat! Join us each month for a fun and gentle Zumba session designed especially for our residents. It’s a great way to get moving, enjoy the music, and have a laugh together.
If you have any questions or need assistance settling in, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are here for you If you’d like more information on the above services, please contact the Lifestyle team: caclifestyle@coorparooagedcare.com.au
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Games Corner 1
Games Corner 2
19
Games Corner Answers 1
Games Corner Answers 2
21
Stay tuned for Autumn
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.
388 Cavendish Road, Coorparoo, QLD 4151 07 3153 6000 coorparooagedcare.com.au
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