Celebrating community, capturing stories and keeping connected
The Coorparoo Chronicle
Celebrating community, capturing stories and keeping connected. Spring
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, David
Chefs Corner, Karl
10
Meet the Residents Alan and Estelle
11
Quality Corner, Janet
12
Spring Highlights
13 - 15
Noticeboard
16
Games Corner
17
Games Corner answer
18
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Debbie
Facility Manager
December has certainly arrived quickly, and our staff are already in full flight preparing for the Christmas break and several parties are planned for the residents with a Christmas Lunch on 19th December.
From 1 November, significant changes to Aged Care legislation came into effect with the implementation of the new Aged Care Standards. A great deal of work has been undertaken to ensure our ongoing compliance, and we look forward to continuing to provide optimal service and support to all our residents in 2026 and beyond. We would like to remind everyone that all persons entering the facility must sign in and out at the front desk. While there are no restrictions on visiting hours, fire compliance regulations require us to maintain an accurate record of everyone in the building at all times. Signing in and out ensures we can account for all occupants in the event of an emergency. We have also implemented new Dining Standards to further enhance the dining experience for our residents. All residents are now seated at tables set with cloth tablecloths and napkins, creating a more welcoming and dignified environment. A dedicated Dining Champion now leads the service, and staff education is ongoing to ensure the best possible mealtime experience. Resident feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Wishing everyone the very best Christmas and a Happy New Year. Debbie
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Message from the Lifestyle Team
Preparations for the Melbourne Cup began well in advance, with residents crafting their own fascinators to wear on race day for our Fashions on the Field. Residents proudly paraded around, showing off their race-day outfits in a friendly competition for prizes. In the afternoon, a large group gathered on Level 1 to watch the race, enjoying drinks, snacks, and the excitement of the day together. Our Remembrance Day service featured a moving tribute, including the Last Post, a minute’s silence, and the Rouse at 11am broadcast through the speaker system so all residents could participate. The service also included readings, hymns, and wreath-laying, with several newer residents enthusiastically volunteering to take part, helping make the service a meaningful and inclusive occasion. Once again Anna gave the residents of the New Zealand Anthem which was well received. Monthly lunch outings to the Village Bistro continue to be a highlight, with excellent attendance and plenty of camaraderie. Residents are joined by friends from the Village, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether stopping by for a chat or joining in for a meal, these gatherings are a joy for all and a wonderful way to stay connected. Kindly, Lifestyle Team
Community Happenings Spring
What a vibrant spring it’s been at Coorparoo! From rooftop celebrations under the stars to heartwarming community connections, we’ve filled these past three months with memorable moments that truly capture the spirit of our community. Celebrations & Special Moments Our spring was brightened by countless birthday celebrations. We honoured Barb, Raveen, Shirley, June, Maria, and Kathy, each celebration unique and special. Raveen enjoyed her day surrounded by family, Shirley treasured the beautiful flower arrangement her son personally created for her, June was spoilt with gorgeous blooms, and Kathy marked her birthday with a lovely family lunch in the front Parlour of Erica House. Helen had a touching moment when she received stunning roses from her children, a beautiful reminder of their love. Father’s Day brought special recognition to our gentlemen, who received tokens of appreciation honouring the love and wisdom they’ve shared throughout their lives.
Rooftop Moments Our rooftop became the place to be this spring! In September, we gathered for an unforgettable Rooftop Riverfire evening, sharing fish and chips as we raised our glasses and watched Brisbane’s night sky explode with fireworks and colour. The celebration, conversation, and city lights below made it more than just a fireworks display - it was pure magic. We returned to our favourite spot in November for Takeaway Tuesday, enjoying fish and chips, drinks, and live music with Brisbane’s skyline stretching out before us. These rooftop gatherings have become cherished traditions, combining great food, great views, and even better company.
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Community Happenings Spring
Staying Active & Energised Fitness and fun went hand in hand this spring. Our Boogiecamp Zumba sessions with Olga filled the room with great music and incredible energy. Our walking group stayed active throughout the season, and when Mary bid farewell to return to New Zealand, she left a touching gift: custom printed caps featuring flowers and New Zealand ferns to keep the sun off our faces during our strolls. It was a beautiful reminder of the friendships we build here. Culinary Adventures Our Resident Choice Menu took us on exciting culinary journeys this spring. October transported us to Japan with beautifully prepared dishes that earned glowing reviews. As residents shared during the chefs’ rounds, the compliments couldn’t stop flowing! November brought the vibrant flavours of Mexico to our tables, with residents expressing their gratitude: “Thank you chefs for providing such a lovely meal.” Each month, our talented kitchen team transforms mealtimes into special experiences that delight our taste buds and bring us together. Furry Friends & Special Visitors Our community welcomed some adorable visitors this spring! Scout the friendly pup stole hearts during an afternoon visit, spreading cuddles and smiles to everyone he met. These special moments with our four- legged friends always brighten our days and bring extra warmth to our community.
Community Happenings Spring
Giving Back At our Stitch and Chat group, we welcomed Stephanie from Care Kits for Kids for an inspiring afternoon. We learned about the backpacks provided to children facing tragedy or family difficulties, and saw the toys that bring comfort during difficult times. Our generous group, led by Marjorie and her team, proudly handed over more than 100 handmade beanies and committed to creating more items to help Queensland children in need. It’s moments like these that remind us how our skills and compassion can make a real difference in our wider community. As we look back on spring 2025, we’re filled with gratitude for the laughter shared, friendships deepened, and memories created. From rooftop celebrations to charity work, culinary adventures to quiet moments of remembrance, these three months have shown us once again that life at Coorparoo is rich with purpose, connection, and joy.
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Message from the Clinical Team
It is a pleasure to share updates from our clinical team in this quarterly newsletter. It is our privilege to care for and support every resident entrusted to us. Pathology, diagnostic imaging, and other diagnostic services support medical and health practitioners in describing, diagnosing, and monitoring a resident’s illness or injury. For residents in aged care pathology tests may be required to: • identify signs of disease • assist with diagnosing an illness • estimate recovery time • prepare for treatment • monitor a condition or response to treatment Recently, the Clinical Team at CAC has received several enquiries regarding pathology testing bills.
Please note that our staff are not involved in any billing or administrative processes , and resident representatives will need to contact QML or SNP directly for all billing-related questions. In 2025, the Australian Government introduced changes to Medicare- funded pathology services to support ongoing high rates of bulk-billing. As a result, the criteria for clinically appropriate pathology testing were updated. This means that some tests that were previously bulk-billed may now attract a charge. Bulk-billing still applies in most situations; however, if residents or their representatives have any concerns or questions about charges, they should contact the relevant pathology provider. For further information: www.mps.com.au › media Kind regards, The Clinical Care Team
Meet the Team David Maintenance Team David Creasey first joined Coorparoo Aged Care in February 2020 as our second-ever maintenance team member. He worked with us successfully for several months before deciding to return to his trade as a qualified painter. Over the years that followed, Coorparoo Aged Care continued to draw on David’s expertise, including a full internal repaint of the Facility completed in early 2025. When asked what prompted his return, David shared that the friendly staff, the wonderful residents, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference offered him far greater job satisfaction than he found elsewhere. So when the maintenance position became available again, he was eager to apply. Outside of work, David treasures time spent with his wife, Kathy, and their grandchildren. He enjoys being outdoors—whether at the beach, bushwalking with the dog, or simply taking a moment to relax. Originally from the UK, David hopes to take Kathy back one day to see where he grew up and to meet his family.
9
Karl
Chef’s Corner
We held another menu tasting session this Spring, thank you to the residents for your valuable feedback. Karl designs the menu based on nutrition and resident preferences. Here is a popular favourite.
Beef Ragout serves 20 Ingredients
1.5kg gravy beef steak, lean 4 tablespoons plain flour 1 tablespoon canola oil 6 cloves crushed garlic
200gr sliced pancetta, diced 3 cups (750mls) dry red wine 1 cup (S00mls) beef stock 3 tablespoons low salt tomato paste 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons of thyme 8 medium (560grs) sliced carrots 1 bunch ( 450gr) spring onions
Method 1. Dice steaks into 3cm cubes. 2. Toss steak in flour; shake off excess. 3. Heat the oil in a large pan; cook steak, in batches, until browned; remove from pan 4. add garlic and pancetta to pan; cook stirring until pancetta is crisp. 5. Return steak to pan with wine, stock, paste, mustard, thyme and carrots; simmer covered for 2 hours. 6. Add onions, simmer covered for 20 minutes. Serve hot.
Meet the Residents
Alan and Estelle
A Life Built on Love, Family and Kindness Alan and Estelle, now happily settled into Coorparoo Aged Care, have spent their entire lives in Brisbane’s inner suburbs—Alan growing up in Greenslopes and Estelle in East Brisbane. Alan still vividly remembers watching the construction of Greenslopes Hospital as a boy, the first time he ever saw a bulldozer in action. Their love story began at the iconic Cloudland Ballroom, where they met at a dance when they were 23 and 21. Dancing quickly became a shared passion, and the pair continued attending dances together for many years. They married in October 1960 and welcomed two sons. Though they sadly lost one of their boys, Estelle says they are deeply supported by their son Peter and are incredibly proud grandparents to four grandsons—each high-
achieving and very close to their grandparents. Alan and Estelle agree that their greatest achievements are their marriage and the loving family they built together. Alan began his career as an electrician before becoming a trade teacher with Queensland TAFE, helping guide the next generation of apprentices. Estelle first worked as a talented dressmaker before joining the family jewellery business, where she brought her creativity and craftsmanship to a new field. Both credit their life philosophies for guiding them through the years. Alan lives by: “ Do unto others as you would have done to you. ” Estelle echoes this sentiment, adding her belief that everyone should “ think of others and be kind. ” One of Alan’s favourite quotes—“N one come into this world with a saddle on their back, nor others booted and spurred to ride them ”—serves as a lasting reminder of equality and respect. Reflecting on the greatest changes of their lifetime, Estelle points to the rise of technology and, most importantly, the extraordinary improvements in health care. Both agree that Medicare has transformed life for millions of Australians, offering support unimaginable to previous generations. Alan and Estelle are delighted with their move to Coorparoo Aged Care, where they share a comfortable suite with separate living and sleeping areas. They have personalised their space and spend much of each day enjoying activities and time outside their room. As Alan warmly expressed, “ I am yet to meet a staff member who is not friendly and helpful—they are all just lovely. This is the best decision we’ve made. ”
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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
September brought us the joy of spring with wonderful outings and special celebrations. We kicked off the month with a spectacular Rooftop Riverfire evening, sharing fish and chips under the stars as Brisbane’s night sky lit up with fireworks. Father’s Day was a heartfelt celebration, with our gentlemen receiving special tokens of appreciation to honour their love and wisdom. Our walking group received a touching farewell gift from Mary - custom printed caps to keep the sun at bay, a reminder of her friendship. We enjoyed a delicious lunch outing to The Village Bistro, energised mornings with Olga’s Boogiecamp Zumba sessions, and celebrated Helen’s special moment when she received beautiful roses from her children. It was a month filled with movement, connection, and the simple joys that make life at Coorparoo so special.
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Spring Highlights October 2025 October was a month of warmth, celebration, and delicious surprises. We welcomed adorable visitors, including Scout the friendly pup who made everyone’s afternoon brighter with cuddles all round. Our Resident Choice Menu took us on a culinary journey to Japan, and the reviews were glowing - residents couldn’t stop complimenting our talented chefs on the beautifully prepared dishes. Birthday celebrations filled the month, with Shirley treasured the special flower arrangement her son created for her, and June was spoilt with gorgeous blooms that brightened her day. We also enjoyed precious moments watching our residents head out to spend quality time with family, like Sylvia’s lovely morning with her daughter. These small moments of connection and the care we share with one another truly make our community feel like home.
Spring Highlights
November 2025
November brought us together in both celebration and remembrance. Our Takeaway Tuesday reached new heights - literally - as we gathered on the rooftop for fish and chips, drinks, and live music, with Brisbane’s skyline providing the perfect backdrop. We paused to honour Remembrance Day with a meaningful service, grateful for the courage and sacrifice of those who served. Our Resident Choice Menu transported us to Mexico, earning rave reviews as residents shared lovely compliments with our chefs during their rounds. At Stitch and Chat, we welcomed Care Kits for Kids for an inspiring afternoon, learning about the backpacks provided to children in need. Our generous group handed over more than 100 handmade beanies and committed to creating more items to help. As we moved towards summer, we reflected on a spring filled with friendship, purpose, and community spirit.
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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 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 to our friendly team. We are here for you If you’d like more information on the above services, please contact the Lifestyle team: caclifestyle@coorparooagedcare.com.au
Games Corner
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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.
388 Cavendish Road, Coorparoo, QLD 4151 07 3153 6000 coorparooagedcare.com.au
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