New Garden Brings Back Fond Memories at Carpenter Court Aged Care Plus Centre

On 9 April 2018, Carpenter Court Aged Care Plus Centre hosted an intimate Garden Party for residents to mark the opening of a new garden on site.

Our new garden is an answer to prayer, and an opportunity for our residents, their families, and staff to relax and reflect in God's creation. It is a great place to connect, both with each other and with our own spirituality.

The remodelling of the garden took several months and although we were all anxious to see the finished design, many of the residents enjoyed watching the landscapers work. They were a friendly group of men and they chatted with the residents too.

The new garden seems to be a trigger for many memories and an opportunity for reminiscence for residents. Many residents have talked about gardens they have had or known and talk about specific plants too.

On the day of the Garden Party, staff worked together displaying great teamwork - watering plants, decorating the area, and serving afternoon tea. It was a very warm day, and we all sat in the shade of our new, oversized umbrellas and enjoyed a scrumptious afternoon tea, all home-made by Carpenter Court Aged Care Plus Centre Manager, Doris Damerau.

We all enjoyed the party atmosphere, assisted by the Carpenter Court Fairy (Care Service Employee Karen Warner), as she spread joy in the form of bubbles all around.

Chaplain David Hopewell entertained us with live music and together we danced to our favourite songs. Major Steven O'Neil had the honour of the ribbon cutting to officially open the new garden, and said a prayer for us.

We are looking forward to enjoying the space. Our prayer on the day of the Garden Party was that as we watch the plants growing, that we too would grow as a family with them. We asked the Lord to bless us with many meaningful times in the new garden.

Story by Valerie Hopewell Chaplain, Carpenter Court Aged Care Plus Centre