Celebrating community, capturing stories and keeping connected
The Holmwood Happenings
Winter Celebrating community, capturing stories and keeping connected.
Contents
Message from Facility Manager Community Happenings Message from Lifestyle Coordinator Message from Clinical Care Coordinator Allied Health Spotlight ACED 2025 Meet the Team Employee of the Month Chefs Corner Meet the Resident Quality Corner
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14 - 15 16 - 18 19 - 20 21 22 - 24 25 26 - 27 28 - 29
Holmwood History Winter Highlights Noticeboard Games Corner Games Corner answers
Message from Facility Manager
Brenda
You would think growing up in Ireland would have prepared me for these Victorian Winters but alas, it has been a chilly few months, but I do so enjoy life here in the Yarra Valley. It seems like only a week or two ago I was writing the last newsletter- these months have flown by and when you read here what we have been up to you can see why! Our recent upgrade to our WI-FI has been a great success and the new nurse call and communication system has been advantageous and another step forward in our resident care and service. We have also increased the number of team members- having been busy hiring many new faces we are proud to call part of our Holmwood Aged Care team and family! One of my favourite moments from the past few months was our disco night- hats off to Stacey and the Lifestyle team for a terrific event- we can’t wait to see what is next!
Brenda Facility Manager
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Community Happenings Winter
As the chill of winter settled over Healesville, Holmwood Aged Care was anything but quiet. From milestone birthdays and lively bus outings, to inter-generational fun and themed celebrations, residents, staff, families and friends embraced the season with warmth, laughter and community spirit.
Pets, Play & Inter-generational Delight Few things bring more smiles than animals and children, and Holmwood had both in abundance this winter. Montana the pony trotted in for cuddles, delighting residents with fond memories and a few extra carrots. Visits from the children of Nurture One Steel Street Children’s Centre brought laughter and energy, with games, dancing, puzzles, and even a rousing Hokey-Pokey. These mornings of connection continue to grow into treasured friendships. On International Dog Day, residents baked dog treats, shared cuddles with visiting pups, and celebrated their four-legged friends.
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Community Happenings Winter
Music, Arts & Entertainment Music filled the home throughout the season. Residents enjoyed live performances from local talents including Anthony and Steph, and were delighted by the near-30-strong choir and band from Galen Catholic College, who had everyone clapping and singing along. Happy Hours and trivia nights added even more sparkle, with plenty of fun, games and shared stories. Artistic expression and friendly competition were also embraced, with a bake-off challenge between Coranderrk and Townsend houses sparking plenty of creativity and delicious results. Outings & Adventures Holmwood’s bus trips were a highlight this winter. Residents enjoyed hearty pub lunches, lakeside reminiscing, bakery treats, fish and chips at the RSL, and scenic drives through the Yarra Valley. Rain or shine, spirits stayed high, with plenty of laughter, conversation and shared memories along the way.
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Community Happenings Winter
Celebrations & Milestones Winter was filled with special birthdays, including many joyful resident celebrations and the remarkable 100th birthday of Paddy, who inspired us all with her grace and humility. Every birthday brought cake, laughter and plenty of cheer. National and international occasions also had their moment, with a regal King’s Birthday Brunch, a JAWS 50th anniversary movie night, and a sweet celebration of International Chocolate Day— complete with a trip to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, chocolate competitions, and a screening of Willy Wonka. A highlight was the first Disco Night, filled with dancing and live music to boogie to!
Honouring Our People Holmwood proudly recognised its dedicated staff this season. Peter and Gurleen were celebrated as Employees of the Month, while Aged Care Employee Day saw the whole team thanked with a BBQ lunch, heartfelt words and well-deserved appreciation. Staff profiles of Megan and Sarah offered a glimpse into the caring
people who make Holmwood a warm, welcoming place. Meanwhile, the Men’s Shed program was relaunched, giving residents the chance to plan woodworking projects, share skills, and connect through hands-on creativity with Frank, our maintenance man.
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Message from Lifestyle Coordinator
Stacey
Saying goodbye to winter means beautiful sunny spring days and blooming flowers, but most of all picnics in the park!
June is when I officially became the Lifestyle Coordinator, a new role for me but luckily, I learnt from the best! I am enjoying the position and the fact I can play a small part in bringing happiness to our residents through activities. Also, in June we introduced our evening events which we intend to have every month. Movie night was first up- our 50 anniversary screening of Jaws, followed by July where we had our amazing disco with live singer, plenty of dancing, and everyone having a great time. th The end of August will see our trivia night with wine and cheese. We can’t wait till October where we will have a Halloween party! (something I personally am especially excited for- it is my favourite time of the year, well, maybe except Christmas!) Residents are enjoying heading out and about on their weekly bus trips just as much as they are enjoying staying in playing a game of Bingo or spending time with the kinder kids who have begun to visit regularly. We enjoyed world chocolate day and are looking forward to the end of august where we will celebrate world dog day! We as a team are very privileged to be able to bring joy to our wonderful residents and are always looking for new and different things to enrich the lives of the residents. Thank you to our residents and families for being supportive and offering suggestions along the way. Suggestions are always welcome so please reach out if you’d like to have a chat. Stacey Lifestyle Coordinator
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Message from Clinical Care Coordinator
Suleman
As winter draws to a close and the first signs of spring begin to appear, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the care, progress, and spirit that continue to define life here at Holmwood.
This new season brings with it a sense of renewal and growth, and we are delighted to share the positive changes and initiatives that have taken place over the past quarter. Each improvement reflects our commitment to providing the highest standard of care, comfort, and connection for our residents. We continue to focus on person centred care, ensuring that every resident feels supported, respected, and valued. Our dedicated staff work closely with residents and families to review care plans, adapt support where needed, and provide services with empathy and dignity. We are also grateful for the continued visits from our mobile dentist, optometrist, podiatrist, and physiotherapist, who provide essential preventative care and therapy on-site. Their regular attendance ensures residents receive important health support and mobility care without the challenges of travel, giving reassurance to both residents and families. Dining has been another important focus at Holmwood. Through our monthly Food Focused Meetings with residents and one-on- one feedback sessions, we have introduced positive changes that have been warmly received. continued... 8 Menu items are now clearly displayed in dining rooms and on tables, making choices easier and more engaging. In addition, the cafes at both the front foyer and Townsend have introduced fresh fruits and baked goods, which have been welcomed by residents and families alike. These improvements provide residents with greater variety, enjoyment, and comfort at mealtimes, while also enhancing the social dining experience for families and residents alike.
Message from Suleman Message from Clinical Care Coordinator Suleman Behind the scenes, upgrades to our systems have also taken place. The introduction of new staff phones, along with upgraded Wi-Fi, has enhanced communication and access to resources. These upgrades help our staff deliver more efficient and responsive care.To our families and friends, thank you for your trust and ongoing support. Your involvement makes a world of difference and helps ensure our residents feel connected, safe, and cared for. Here’s to a season of renewal, connection, and continued excellence in care as we welcome spring at Holmwood.
Suleman Clinical Care Coordinator
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Allied Health Spotlight
Holmwood Aged Care is fortunate to have the services of a number of Allied Health Professionals who visit to assist in the care and wellbeing of our residents. To the right: Arthur getting his eyes seen to by our Optometrist!
Pun intended.
Podiatry: some of our residents usethe older term chiropodist when referring to our podiatrist who visits on the regular from Healesville to ensure the foot health of our residents is maintained. Optometry: Optometry visits are also a regular and a spectacle of spectacles is on display so residents can choose new designs after they have had their eye health checked. Physiotherapy: Our physiotherapists are onsite every week and work to see all residents on rotation. Our physiotherapists work to keep residents moving and balanced, designing care plans and recommending equipment if required.
Dentistry: We are very fortunate to have a dentist who will visit us on site as well to check our residents dental health and well being. Speech pathology: is also a service utilised by Holmwood Aged Care and these consultations help individuals with communication and swallowing issues.
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ACEDDay 2025
On Aged Care Employee Day 2025, the red carpet was rolled out to honour the everyday heroes who make aged care so special. From carers to chefs, cleaners, lifestyle teams, administration and maintenance, every staff member was celebrated for their dedication, compassion and resilience.
Staff lit up the red carpet with their best moves, sharing plenty of cheers, laughter and flowers along the way. Their kindness and commitment touch the lives of older Australians and their families each day, and this moment was a heartfelt way to say thank you – not just today, but every day.
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Meet the Team Nokuthula (a.k.a Noku) Tell us a bit about yourself
My name is Nokuthula- Noku for short- I am originally from a family of 6, with three siblings. I started studying when I was younger and was going to work in the mines but quickly realised that that was not for me. When I was at home I would go to
church and that is where I developed my passion for working with the elderly, we would visit a local care facility and spend time with them and help them and I realised that is what I want to do. I moved to Australia last year with my husband, he got a job here so we moved and we are very happy here. Why did you choose aged care? I love working with the elderly, they make me happy. I am passionate about giving them good care and love spending time with them, learning about them, hearing their stories. I am considering doing further studies in nursing, but my fear of needles is holding me back a little. What is it you enjoy most about working at Holmwood Aged Care? Everyday I spend time with someone I haven’t got to know as well and I learn more about them, their past and their familiy. Making them happy makes me happy and I have learned so much in my time here already. What is your most special memory in Aged Care? Well I haven’t been here all too long, but for me something that is very special is doing the activities with them. I got to do it at home in
Zimbabwe when I was there and I see the smiles and joy for the residents here when they are in activities and being busy and it is lovely to watch and spend time with them while they are having fun. Thanks for sharing your story Nokuthula.
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Employee of the Month
Holmwood Aged Care has an Employee of the Month award each month. This is a great way to recognise our amazing team members and thank them for not only the work they do but also the little things that has made a day brighter, better or easier for someone. Nomination forms are in reception, and we welcome all our team members, visitors, residents and family members to nominate someone who you think deserves recognition for their efforts, attitude, assistance or more. The past months we have seen housekeeping member Tyler; Head Chef, Peter; Registered Nurse, Gurleen; and personal care team member, Gurpreet all take out the awards and we are very proud of each of them and grateful to have them on our team.
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Chef's Corner Peter
The winter months have seen our menu serve hearty warm meals including: casseroles and stews, bread and butter pudding; delicious soups and more. The kitchen team have been putting in
big efforts to make sure each and every resident is receiving healthy hearty meals that they enjoy. Personally, I am looking forward to warmer days and alfresco bbqs! Though I must say it doesn’t matter how cold it is- Holmwood Aged Care residents still love Ice Cream any day of the year, with strawberry a particular favourite at the moment. Peter Head Chef
Dashan, head chef Peter and Shannon make up our cooking team!
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Chef's Corner Lemon Tart
INGREDIENTS For the crust:
1 cup plain flour (130 grams) 1 stick unsalted butter (110 grams) 4 tablespoons powdered sugar
For the lemon filling:
¼ cup whipping cream ¼ cup caster sugar 1 egg (large) lemon juice (from 1 large lemon – at least 1/3 cup) EQUIPMENT Tart pan 18-20 cm METHOD: 1. Mix flour, melted butter and icing sugar in a bowl until you get soft dough. 2. Press this soft dough into the base of your cake tin and up the sides. Pierce the dough several times with a fork. 3. Bake it blind for 20 minutes at 375°F/190°C. Take it out & let it cool down. Reduce oven temperature to 300°F/150°C. 4. In a bowl, whisk caster sugar, egg, cream and lemon juice. Carefully pour into the cooled pastry case. 5. Return to the oven and bake for a further 35–40 minutes or until the filling is set. 6. Take it out and let cool down completely before removing it from the tin. 7. Dust with icing sugar and serve. Prep: 15 m Cook: 1 hr Serves: 5
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Meet the Resident
Coral
Growing up in North East Victoria, the once small town of Wangaratta, on a citrus farm. Coral’s family ran sheep then later cattle. She had a strict, hard life, both her parents were firm, but they were also very caring and made sure their children were well fed and cared for.
She fondly remembers life on the farm but some of her favourite memories were with her childhood friend, Betty- bike riding, going to the pictures, dances on Saturday nights at the dance hall. An era gone. To keep busy Coral took up quilting and writing- the latter being a hobby she continues through to today with many short stories in her repertoire. Once old enough Coral worked in a jewellery store and later in the Pharmacy once she completed her studies. Along with writing Coral has always had a love for poetry- something she still loves- and going to the pictures with an Ice Cream- Coral is often front and centre for our cinema events- but there must be a choctop or drumstick! Something else that has stayed with her is her faith- and she never misses our prayer groups or services here at Holmwood Aged Care.
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continued...
Meet the Resident
Coral
Reflecting on life we asked Coral what she feels the biggest change has been, and for her it is technology. Having grown up with the hand written word, snail mail, telegraphs and the landline telephone, Coral is adept at smart phones, Facebook, texting and her personal laptop gets a workout on the regular. When retirement came and life slowed down from working and raising the family Coral remembers fondly her trips to England, Ireland and Scotland, but her favourite place will always be her hometown of Wangaratta. Coral loves a good chat, and she is an avid talker and listener and this has always been something she feels has gotten her through meeting new people, changing jobs, moving homes and moving into Holmwood is her ability to have a conversation. A skill she notes can be somewhat lacking as technology ebbs further into our lives and our communication becomes more digitally dependant. In all her years something that Coral stands by is always be kind. Never be nasty to someone because it will come back to bite you. She also reflects that the best piece of advise she has ever received was to “ Always tell the truth” which is something she has imparted to her own children and grandchildren. Having seen pop culture change through the years, Coral has 3 favourites that have had the biggest impact on her life from the decades she has seen. An everlasting love for the song “White Sports Coat” by Marty Robbins; the classic film “Gone with the Wind”; and something more recently featured in culture is the book “Where the Crawdads sing” where she happily shares, she much preferred the book to the film.
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continued...
Meet the Resident Coral
When asked what it is she is most proud of in her life Coral is quick to answer with 2 achievements. The first is obtaining 2 VCE subjects as a mature age student, and the second is placing 2 in a writing competition. nd Thank you for sharing some of your amazing story Coral, there is definitely more Coral could share about her life but it is lovely to have this snapshot. Something that always makes her smile is comedy- a good joke or a bad pun. And sharing a Chinese meal with her friends. She fondly recalls a bus trip with the “ Deluxe Bis Company” and laughing with her friends and passengers as their bus, with another, leap-frogged down the highway, constantly passing one another. What makes this funnier for Coral is the other bus was full of off-duty policemen laughing as much as her bus was.
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Quality Corner
The new Aged Care Act commences on the 1 of November 2025. This will be the main law that sets st out how the Aged Care System operates and will put the rights of Residents at the centre of Aged Care.
The new Aged Care Act will include a Statement of Rights. This Statement outlines the rights that Residents will have when accessing Aged Care Services. The rights will help to ensure that Residents and their needs are at the centre of the new aged care system. The Statement of Rights includes the right for every Resident to have:
Independence, autonomy, empowerment and freedom of choice. Equitable access. Quality and safe funded aged care services.
Respect for privacy and information. Person-centred communication and the ability to raise issues without reprisal. Advocates, significant personal and social connections.
A fact sheet is available on the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing web address which details what is included in the Statement of Rights. www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2025-08/a-new-aged-care-act-for-the- rights-of-older-people-easy-read.pdf The Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website has many resources available which further explains the
pending changes www.health.gov.au
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Quality Corner
The below video links are from the Australia Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing with further information:
New Aged Care Act starts 1 November. www.health.gov.au/resources/videos/new-aged-care-act-starts-1-november My choice and decisions – Aged Care Quality Standards www.health.gov.au/resources/videos/my-choice-and-decisions-aged-care- quality-standards My dignity and diversity – Aged Care Quality Standards www.health.gov.au/resources/videos/my-dignity-and-diversity-aged-care- quality-standards My protections – Aged Care Quality Standards www.health.gov.au/resources/videos/my-protections-aged-care-quality- standards
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Holmwood History
Do you know our history?
Do you know that Holmwood Aged Care has been a Nursing home since the 1970s? And before that it was a beautiful guest house with bullnose verandas and a tariff of -30/ - week back in the 1920s. Holmwood Guest House was promoted as having Electric Light Throughout, Sewered, Hot Water Service, Radio, Asphalt Tennis Court, Croquet and its own Farm Produce. Back then the phone number was simply ‘209’. In August 1979, then owner Pauline O’Brien converted her house at this address into ‘Holmwood’ nursing home where she was the Director of Nursing. In 2014, Holmwood changed ownership, and neighbouring land was purchased with plans to build an extension to the existing aged care home. On the 6th August 2018 the modern extension opened its doors, and in 2020 we opened our latest extension adding on our Sedgwick House. The humble homes origins of 25 beds had expanded to being able to comfortably home more than three times that amount with beautiful modern amenities. With a long and proud history of serving care to our residents and the community, the original building (known today as Coranderrk House) looks vastly different to what it did only 15 years ago. Where once the front door stood is now a beautiful single room and ensuite- the lovely Coranderrk dining room used to be a 4-bed ward; and our lounge and activities area used to be communal showers and bathrooms. And while the building has changed with the times to a beautiful modern home the core values and care remain the same- as does the passion of those who work within.
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Winter Highlights June 2025 We embraced this month with scenic drives, cosy café visits , and comforting meals that brought everyone together. We celebrated King’s Birthday with brunch , where residents enjoyed a festive English inspired morning tea with music, dancing, and trivia . The joy continued with an intergenerational visit from the children at Nurture One. Residents also enjoyed a delightful visit from Montana the pony , which brought fond memories for many animal lovers. Entertainment took centre stage with film nights, live music, and group games, while our friendly bake off between Coranderrk and Townsend added a little sweet rivalry to the calendar. We were proud to celebrate Peter as our Employee of the Month for his outstanding care and dedication, and to honour Megan for her one year milestone with us, her compassion continues to brighten our days.
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Winter Highlights July 2025 In July, residents welcomed children from Nurture One Steel Street Children's Centre for lively mornings of Bingo, dancing , and games, joy continued with another visit, full of cuddles , chats , and ten pin bowling . Meanwhile, our Men’s Shed program saw a fantastic revamp, with residents working alongside maintenance man Frank to plan woodworking projects and learn about modern tools. International Chocolate Day was sweetly celebrated with a visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and games at our in-house Holmwood Chocolate Factory. Other memorable events included guest speaker Andrew from the Zoo , an incredible performance by Lizzie the trick dog , and multiple birthdays, including Paddy’s 100th! July was full of laughter, connection, and shared moments, proof of the vibrant life at Holmwood Aged Care.
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Winter Highlights August 2025 August was brimming with warmth, celebration and connection, reflecting the vibrant Holmwood community spirit. We began the month by congratulating Gurleen, our Employee of the Month, recognised for her kindness and professionalism. Residents enjoyed a fabulous performance from Galen Catholic College's choir and band, followed by live music from Steph on piano and an unforgettable Happy Hour with Anthony’s vocals. Aged Care Employee Day was marked with a heartfelt BBQ lunch, celebrating our dedicated team. Birthday celebrations for Keith, John and Ray added personal touches, while sunny weather made our bus trips and Fish & Chips outing to Healesville RSL all the more special. Intergenerational joy returned with visits from Nurture One Steel Street, and a highlight of the month was our first ever Trivia Night, a huge success for all involved. It’s all part of the ongoing Holmwood community spirit we’re so proud to share.
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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.
Salon with Karen Our Salon is open every second Monday from 9am for our residents to have their hair done. Happy Birthday! Gwenda, Sam, John, June, Ute, Ken, Tess, John F, Paddy (an amazing 100 milestone) Lawrie, Ray, James, Elliot, Margaret, Felix, Keith W, John C, David, Ray J, and Stephanie. th
Welcome We have welcomed some wonderful new residents to our community here at Holmwood Aged Care- it is a pleasure and a privilege to have them here and to be trusted with their care. Stephanie Judy Gwenda William Buffet Breakfast Townsend dining room every Tuesday 8:00 am. Come for the bacon, stay for the company!
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: lifestyle@holmwood.com.au
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Games corner
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Games corner
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Games corner answer 1
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Games corner answer 2
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Stay tuned for Spring
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 encouraged and appreciated. Articles, photos, reports on community outings, staff news, trivia, poems and amusing stories relating to residents and staff are most welcome. Please hand in your submission to reception.
17-23 Lalors Road, Healesville VIC 3777 03 5962 4321 holmwood.com.au
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