BRINGING THE LIG HT OF CHRIST INTO COMMUNITIES - ISSUE 3 2020 - Churches of ...
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ISSUE 3 {2020}
BRINGING THE LIGHT OF CHRIST INTO COMMUNITIES
Contents
08 11
09
12
4 Building home and community 15
6 Music – a therapy to strum along to 16
St James Retirement Village blooms
8 with native plants 17
Barcoo residents take a trip down memory lane 18
9
A stepping stone to homeownership 19
Promoting positive wellbeing through technology 10
Awards recognise achievements 20
11
Outstanding effort preparing children
12 for the new school year 21
13
2020 LASA Awards honour innovation
14 in aged care 22
2 ׀networking
15
22 32
Warrawee turns 30 24 networking
Churches of Christ in Queensland
Poppy’s tale 25 41 Brookfield Road Kenmore Qld 4069
CEO Shining Star Awards 26 PO Box 508 Kenmore Qld 4069
07 3327 1600
Thanks for caring 27 communications@cofcqld.com.au
Warwick local maintains connection networking contains a variety of news and
with paw-fect companion 28 stories from across Churches of Christ in
Queensland. Articles and photos can be
Meet the next cohort of leaders 29 submitted to communications@cofcqld.com.au.
Family favourites 30 The submission deadline for the next edition
of networking is 31 January 2021.
People and Events 32
Events 35
Churches of Christ in Queensland
update
This was not the year we were expecting
C
hurches of Christ in communities, have been at the core of
Queensland, like many the growth of our caring services, and
organisations, has had an this continues to this day.
interesting year. In 2020 we have supported:
Yet, with the help of our team members, • 5153 children, young people
volunteers and churches, we continued and families
to bring the light of Christ into • 2915 people through our
communities across Queensland and in housing services
Melbourne.
• 10,828 home care clients
As I reflect on the challenges
• 1136 retirement living residents
we have overcome this year, I also • 1862 residential aged
celebrate 2020 as a milestone year care residents.
for Churches of Christ in Queensland. I am proud to say that we have also
This year we celebrated 90 years of grown as a faith movement, affiliating
bringing hope and meaning to people’s two new churches this year: Riverlife
lives through our care services. It was Church of Christ at St George and
in 1930 that the Churches of Christ Little Mountain Church of Christ on the
Conference Council established the Sunshine Coast. The latest gathering at
Social Services Committee. From these Little Mountain fulfills our dream for our
humble beginnings, we find ourselves integrated community at the Sunshine
here today, continuing to respond Coast site.
to community need, driven by our It has been a big year for our
Christian faith. developments. In March we completed
This year also marked 70 years since our seniors housing development in
our first venture into aged care, 50 partnership with the Department of
years since we opened our first home Housing and Public Works. The $9.3
for children in Maryborough and 40 million, 32-unit development on our site
years since our first housing service. Our at Hillcrest provides affordable living
churches, and their love for their options for local seniors.
4 ׀networking
We have much to look forward to next year as
we work to shine Christ’s light even brighter.
We also developed an innovative, At the end of 2019, we had to
affordable housing initiative at Ripley, in evacuate our Crows Nest Aged Care
Ipswich, in partnership with the Service and retirement village because of
department. The 20 homes give tenants an encroaching bushfire. At the
the option to enter homeownership beginning of 2020, floods and bushfires
through an innovative shared-equity wreaked havoc on our nation.
arrangement.
Throughout all this, our people have
In mid-2021 construction will be
continued to find ways to come together
completed on a new seniors affordable
and guide us through the most uncertain
living development at Bongaree on Bribie
times by continuously supporting those
Island, with 83 new seniors apartments.
they care for, their loved ones and their
In May, at the height of the pandemic,
communities.
our 65-unit Lady Small Haven Retirement
In recognition of this, we created the
Village opened on the Gold Coast and
inaugural CEO Shining Star Awards
we also opened our state-of-the-art $24
million, 64-bed development at Fassifern to acknowledge and recognise our
Aged Care Service in June. brightest stars, whose commitment
As we come into the New Year, to our mission has inspired us, with four
I am delighted to share that we will be award ceremonies held across the state.
embarking on another phase of our We have much to look forward to next
property development journey, growing year as we work to shine Christ’s light
our communities in Queensland. even brighter.
Each year we are faced with many I wish you, your families and loved ones
opportunities and challenges. As we grow, a holy and blessed Christmas season, and
we find innovative ways to forward our pray for health, safety and happiness in
mission. 2021. ■
I take this opportunity to acknowledge
the incredible service of our dedicated Gary Edwards
team members. Chief Executive Officer
Churches of Christ in Queensland
Bringing
the light of
Christ mas
into
communities.
6 ׀networking
The thrill of hope
By Steve Webster, Director of Communications and Marketing
W
ell, we won’t forget
2020, will we? It’s
been a rollercoaster!
I’m sure that O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
most, if not all, of you could attest
to the fact that this is a great It is the night of our dear Saviour’s birth.
description of the year we have Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
endured, with its ups and downs
and twists and turns. Till He appear’d and the soul felt its worth.
Some people have lost their jobs
A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices,
and livelihoods, while others haven’t
seen loved ones in months. Some For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
funerals and weddings have been
cancelled, and our normal way of
life has been thrown into disarray.
Accompanying these challenges
have been a range of emotions:
anger, frustration, sadness, and lives, and the heartache this with the “new and glorious morn”
feelings of hopelessness. I felt has caused. – the birth of the Saviour Jesus.
many of these myself at various For me, this Christmas feels He is the Saviour whom saved
times, and I’m sure you have too. somewhat thrust upon us, like us from the burden of this
In my role as Director of it has appeared out of nowhere disconnection and stood in its
Communications and Marketing, and a New Year is now suddenly place to restore hope for our
I have the privilege of hearing stories here. And at this time, we hear present and the future.
of light in the midst of the darkness, the sounds of Christmas Carols. Reflecting on this challenging
and joy in the midst of sorrow. Now if I’m honest I have to admit, year, though there has been
It’s been heart-warming to watch I’m not a huge fan. However, ‘O, darkness, at Churches of Christ
our beautiful aged care residents Holy Night’ is one that I love. It’s a in Queensland we have shone His
in Victoria perform together in moving carol with powerful words, light bright in our communities. We
music videos and take part in other in particular, the first verse (above). have witnessed our vision to bring
activities to keep their spirits high and “The thrill of hope the weary hope and meaning to people's lives
share with their families and loved world rejoices!” This year has been reach over 40,000 individuals as
ones during the extended lockdown. demanding for so many of us. The they connected with our services,
Conversely, I have also heard weariness in this verse, however, mission activities and churches.
the difficult and sad stories of is not so much a physical one, The “thrill of hope” for us who
residents enduring long and tough but a spiritual and emotional one. are weary this Christmas season
visitor restrictions and being Finally, the burden of our human is very much alive in the person of
physically separated from their failings and wrongdoing that had Jesus. He knows our need; to our
family and friends for extended disconnected us from a loving weaknesses, he is no stranger.
periods in this, the twilight of their Father was soon to be erased Merry Christmas! ■
Churches of Christ in Queensland
New church
connections in
St George and
Little Mountain
A
t our 137th Annual General our heart and our focus are to preach long and at times a challenging, journey
Meeting on 5 November the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all that towards bringing his vision of the
2020, we officially welcomed we can. We believe that as we proclaim community church to life.
Riverlife Church of Christ in Christ, the Holy Spirit will be in the “I genuinely believe God has planned
St George and Little Mountain Church business of saving people.” everything leading up to this point – the
of Christ on the Sunshine Coast. Director of Church and Community good and the bad; people have been
Although separated by more than 500 Engagement, Tim McMenamin, recently faithfully praying over this site for more
kilometres, both churches share a similar visited the Riverlife Church of Christ St than 10 years,” said Simon.
excitement about this new season. George campus to mark the occasion “We’re really excited at the
Derek Schiller, the Pastor of Riverlife and meet members of the church. opportunity to be officially a part of
Church of Christ, said that this is an “It was a privilege to be there and this wonderful movement of Churches
important new chapter for all three officially welcome them in; we can’t – even though we felt pretty connected
locations of the church situated along wait to see how the church continues already.
the Balonne River. to grow and positively impact their “I’m so keen to see what God
“We’ve experienced such community,” said Tim. will accomplish in this space through
encouraging growth over the past few “We’ve welcomed in both Riverlife these exceptional people we call our
years; God has really blessed us.” and Little Mountain now, and Church family.”
“At our St George campus, we’ve experiencing their genuine hope and Churches in Christ in Queensland
been fortunate to meet at the Warrawee excitement for the future has been celebrated the affiliation of 68 churches
Aged Care Service to provide services really wonderful,” he said. across Queensland that seek to
to our senior residents,” Derek said. Pastor of Little Mountain Church, bring the light of Christ into their
“At all of our churches at Riverlife, Simon Teunis, said that it had been a communities. ■
Director Church and Community Simon Teunis delivering a service at Little Mountain.
Engagement Tim McMenamin, with Derek
Schiller and his wife Jodie.
8 ׀networking
Playgroups
provide a
platform
for Cairns
families to
connect
W
ith communities “People are looking for connections. individualised message in a specially
becoming more transient, Often, if they’ve moved to Cairns designed and printed card. Each
there is an increasing because of work, they don’t know envelope also contained two hot drink
demand for church-run anyone locally,” Rosemary explained. packets. The cards were hugely popular,
playgroups that connect families within “Playgroup is the week’s highlight for and the messages had a big impact.
a safe, engaging environment. many. It’s a fun yet safe place that “I believe God used the timing of our
The Lakes Church in Cairns, also gives them a break.” cards to encourage so many mums
which has a 24-year history of running Rosemary and her team have who, with isolation and homeschooling,
playgroups, hosts five weekly Koala adapted playgroup after COVID-19 were juggling extra loads on top of all
Kids sessions attended by around restrictions limited its normal operation. the usual ones.
100 families. “We always make a special effort to “It was heart-warming to read the
Rosemary Woodward, who has celebrate Mother’s Day – we decorate, ladies messages appreciating their
coordinated the program since 2008, hold a special morning tea and give each special community, and seeing offers
has a team of eight helping to make woman a small gift from our church. of support at particularly trying times.”
playgroup happen. Families enjoy “There is so much expectation After months of being limited to
structured sessions where free play surrounding the day. The picture- mainly online interaction, the playgroup
is interspersed with a predictable perfect family breakfast-in-bed is holding playgroup catch-ups
routine of mat-time, morning tea, surrounded by children holding their attended by half of its members.
craft and music. hand-drawn cards and gifts … and “Physically distant but re-connecting:
Together they have built a community yet for many families, the reality is it’s different, but we’re still together,
that welcomes all and provides wrangling toddlers on little sleep, and and it’s a wonderful solution for the
holistic support beyond the playgroup surviving on toast and coffee. moment,” Rosemary said.
setting, exemplified by actions such as “It’s a privilege to acknowledge our “We pray that our playgroup
delivering home-cooked meals to new incredible mothers and we weren’t community continues to reflect the light
mums. Many of their families transition going to let these unusual times stop and share the love and hope of Christ
to programs for older children; a number us this year.” to the families of Cairns.” ■
have come to know God through Instead, every woman enrolled in
playgroup and have joined the church. playgroup received a hand-written,
Churches of Christ in Queensland
Promoting positive wellbeing
through technology
T
he Australian aged care months) uses both interview and
sector is changing rapidly, observational elements to ensure all
with providers under residents have choice and
increased pressure to adapt independence in their care.
faster to consumer sentiment and Another feature of the app prompts
regulatory changes. residents to indicate to what extent they
Our commitment to person-centred “feel part of the community and
care uses practical and collaborative connected to the people” and are
approaches to meet the care needs “engaged in purposeful activities that
and preferences of Australian seniors add meaning” to their lives. Residents
and their families. also have the option to add comments,
An important element of our care with responses like “Everyone here is
recognises a resident’s sense of self by so nice. I feel part of it”.
giving them opportunities to express Data collection is presented
their wishes independently. One of the as an overall wellness score,
ways we are achieving this is through which can be tracked over time.
technology such as our purpose-built Any unmet needs are followed up if
My Wellbeing app. required. With the information the app
The tool assesses the individual’s provides, services can offer more
preferences about the care they personalised care and implement
receive, including social contact, quality improvement processes.
personal development, leisure Families and relevant stakeholders can
activities, living environment and daily also access the information, which is
routines. These align with our Positive securely stored online.
Wellbeing Model of Care, a whole- The app’s final question is a bit
of-life approach to bringing uplift and different. It asks: “If you had a magic
quality of life. wand, what would you wish for?”
A key focus of My Wellbeing is to Phyllis’s magic wand wish was to
foster social inclusion, health and “visit a farm and see animals in open
Phyllis’s wish comes true on the farm. overall wellbeing. Using the data spaces”, so a team member invited her
captured, we can identify and respond to visit their farm. Phyllis interacted with
to resident preferences and provide the animals and reminisced about how
more meaningful engagement. she lived on a farm before moving to
The app is a user-friendly experience, the service.
featuring traffic light emoticons to “My Wellbeing App is helping us
determine how satisfied residents are to know better the people we care for,
with their level care. Residents use a to understand their experience and
touch screen to record their responses. support them to retain as much
Those who are unable to articulate their independence and dignity as possible,”
preferences are still able to access Patricia Dargent, Project Subject Matter
the app. The My Wellbeing Officer Expert, Clinical and Care Governance
(who surveys each resident every six said. ■
10 ׀networkingFriends and families enjoy
a break in Bundaberg
L
ife at Sugarland Gardens and helps to keep those established
Retirement Village often feels connections strong.”
like a holiday for its residents – One of the great benefits of
now their families and friends
can book for a holiday at the village
Sugarland Gardens is its convenient
location in the heart of Bundaberg.
Thank you for my
and enjoy the relaxed lifestyle for With a variety of sights and attractions lovely stay in your
themselves. on its doorstep, the area is a popular unit, which was very
In a first for our retirement villages,
Sugarland Gardens has created a
tourist destination. It’s close to the
Burnett River and only 30 minutes to
comfortable and
two-bedroom holiday unit within the World Heritage beaches. affordable.
retirement village, which is located on “I may be biased, but I think Heather Storer
Johnston Street in Avoca. Bundaberg is a perfect place to come
Les Bowman, Retirement Living for a holiday escape! It’s well-known for
Manager, explained how the initiative its wildlife - you can see turtles nesting
was started to provide affordable and hatch for example - and the
Fabulous idea, made
accommodation for when residents’ shopping and dining options,” Les said. our job here so easy.
friends and families visit Bundaberg. The unit can only be booked by Many thanks and best
“At its heart, retirement living is residents at the retirement village
about creating and maintaining social for exclusive use by their friends and
wishes to all.
connections, both within the village families, for visits starting from two John and Megan
itself and with the wider community. nights up to a maximum of 14.
Regular visits from friends and families “The idea is proving popular with our
play a part in that, and are important to residents, who have started inviting What a fabulous idea.
our residents,” Les said. their loved ones to come and stay. We
Thank you for such a
“However, many of our residents had a family stay to help their loved
have loved ones who aren’t local – ones move into their new home, and lovely bungalow—
some live significant distances away. another family visit to attend their dad’s 10 out of 10.
The village’s dedicated holiday unit 100th birthday celebrations,” Les said.
provides a flexible accommodation “Everyone has said how much they Noelene and Helen Bain
option, at a reasonable rate, close enjoyed taking a break at Sugarland
to family and facilities. This makes Gardens and commented on the
it easier and more affordable to visit comfort and flexibility it provides.” ■
Churches of Christ in Queensland Joan and her daughter Jennifer at Fassifern Aged Care Service.
Joan’s joy for new home
T
he Fassifern Aged Care to turn [my wheelchair] around in,” “Boonah is very like where we lived in
Service development in Joan said. Murgon. I like being part of the Boonah
Boonah, Queensland, is now “There’s plenty of space for your community and the people. Everyone is
open, and we have welcomed things, Mum!” Jennifer pointed out. friendly,” Joan said.
residents to their new home in the An avid gardener when she was For many of us, home is not
state-of-the-art facility. Joan, who is younger, Joan particularly likes being just a place where we live. It can also
93, shared her thoughts on seeing able to look out on to the cottage mean warmth and security. Jennifer,
her room for the first time, and what it gardens and see the roses. whose priority is ensuring her mother’s
means to be part of the Churches of Maintaining her independence is safety and wellbeing, is reassured by
Christ in Queensland community. important to Joan. “If I can do a thing the service’s focus on creating
“My new room is very nice – I won’t myself, I do it. But if I want some help, a positive community environment
know myself for a while. I’ll have to the nurses help straight away. I regard where residents feel safe, respected
get used to it all! Everything is so them as good friends,” she said. and valued.
convenient,” Joan said. Dedicated care teams located “This is a good place, it’s run
Her daughter Jennifer added, in each cottage can build closer well, and the staff are so nice,”
“it’s so fresh and beautiful. And the relationships with residents to she explained.
atmosphere is happy. I just love it, understand their personal and health Before we left Joan to continue
love it, love it!” care needs better. “Nurses, staff, enjoying her new home, we asked her
“Oh, I do too,” Joan agreed. everybody is like a big family. Even on for her final thoughts on Fassifern Aged
Joan’s new room is in one of her down days, they help cheer her up,” Care Service:
four cottages, each with 16 private Jennifer said. “Well, it’s lovely. I think I’m very
bedrooms, and all with their own A country girl at heart, Joan fortunate to be here.”
ensuite and emergency call system. grew up on a dairy farm in a small Watch Joan’s video at
“I was concerned about moving, but town near Kingaroy and spent much www.cofc.com.au/Boonah. ■
I like my room very much, especially of her married life raising her family
having my own bathroom and space in Murgon.
12 ׀networkingMarching to a
secure future
W
ithout a safe place to with Steve’s mum, Tina.
call home, it can be With assistance from our Gold Coast
challenging to deal Housing Office, Steve registered with
with other aspects the Department of Housing and Public
of life, such as mental and physical Works. He secured a unit at our Miami
health, education, employment and complex on the Gold Coast.
participating in the community. Steve is recovering well from his
At just 19 years of age, Savannah medical complications. He is thankful
is soon to experience the biggest for the opportunity he was given to
day in her life as she graduates from be housed at a time when he needed
basic training with the Australia support most.
Defence Force. Since joining the ADF, Steve has
Describing his daughter, Steve talks seen a positive change in his daughter.
with pride about what she has achieved “She is committed to her training - even
in a short space of time and how he on the weekend. It’s clear the Army has
is excited about her future. Savannah had a big impact on how she lives her
joined the Army in early 2020 and, life, her fitness, how she dresses and
despite several setbacks, she has how she looks.”
already come a long way. With several “There were times in the past couple
‘Top Recruit’ awards under her belt, of years when I was scared for the
Savannah is fit and driven, with her future, with no home and no steady
eyes set on the horizon. income, I was living on benefits. It
Eighteen months ago, Steve and wasn’t a situation that I was used to or
Savannah’s life was quite different. that I was comfortable with.
Steve was diagnosed with a blood clot “I can’t thank Churches of Christ
on his brain. Things went from bad to in Queensland enough. The chance
worse quickly when Steve suffered a of stable accommodation made a
heart attack later that same day. He huge impact on my daughter. As
had to give up work and lost his unit as she prepares to serve our country,
a result. Out of a home and a job, Steve I couldn’t be prouder of her,”
and Savannah were temporarily staying Steve said. ■
Churches of Christ in Queensland̒ ̒Even if they only stay for a few days,
they are part of our family. ̓ ̓
G
rowing up in a safe and her mother, Melissa witnessed first-hand in Queensland – Children, Youth and
loving environment is the impact fostering can have on the Families, General Manager. “The events
something that many of us life of a child or young person. of this year have had inevitable flow-
take for granted. “I love it,” she said. “Getting to play on effects into foster care, with more
In Queensland today, there are even a small role in transforming young children needing safe homes and fewer
thousands of children and young lives for the better is something so carers available to provide them.”
people who are unable to remain living unique and special.” “Our priority at Churches of Christ in
in their family homes due to unsuitable Scott and Melissa have two children Queensland, with the help of dedicated
or unsafe conditions. These children of their own but said that as soon as foster carers, is to keep children and
and young people need a safe and a foster child or young person enters young people safe in homes where
nurturing environment that foster their home, they are considered family. they can belong, while maintaining
carers provide to help them find a “There is no use of the ‘foster’ word in their connections to family, kin, culture
path to a brighter future. our house at all; they are all brothers and and community.”
Churches of Christ in Queensland is sisters,” Scott said. “Even if they only stay “We also recognise that each
one of the largest not-for-profit provider for a few days, they are part of our family.” fostering situation is unique, so carers
of foster care services in Queensland, After 14 years, Scott and Melissa have the option to specify what type of
caring for more than 3000 children and remain dedicated foster carers and are care they can provide,” Leanne said.
young people each year. passionate about encouraging others Churches of Christ in Queensland
Scott and Melissa are foster carers to consider becoming foster carers. currently support foster and kinship
with us and have been caring for “We love being foster carers,” Scott carers to provide respite, emergency,
children in out-of-home care for over 14 said. “It has been such a rewarding short-term and long-term foster care
years. For the couple, foster caring is a experience for us – we’d love to see options.
normal part of everyday life; they couldn’t more people consider getting involved.” We believe it takes a community to
imagine their home any other way. Churches of Christ in Queensland provide a safe and caring home to belong.
“It’s beautiful to make a difference believe that foster carers play a vital role If you are considering becoming a foster
in somebody else’s life,” Scott said. in shaping young lives and are always carer or interested in finding out more,
“People often comment on how caring seeking dedicated people who are willing please visit ittakesacommunity.com.au. ■
we are towards each other. They see and able to take on this rewarding role.
how our kids and the extra kids all get “The demand for foster carers is
along and become one family.” greater than ever before,” said
Having grown up in a vibrant home, Leanne Rutherford, Churches of Christ
filled with foster children cared for by
14 ׀networkingChurches of Christ Housing Services new seniors’ development at Bongaree on Bribie Island – due for completion in mid-2021 (artist’s impression).
Building home and
community
O
ur unique Community “Our award-winning Social Club
Chaplain Program means that in Bongaree is a case in point. The
residents don’t have to ‘walk’ Club has been a lifeline to many. The
the housing journey alone. residents have done it all. They have
Established in 2010, the c program demonstrated how a small group of
focuses on nurturing healthy individuals – most in their twilight years
communities that are safe, inclusive and – can work together successfully and
empowering. Community Chaplains, like productively and in doing so, support
Luke Finlay, provide vital support to each other through the good times
many residents, whether they are new or and the bad. This is what building
long-time residents. This ‘wrap-around communities are all about,” he said.
Community Chaplain Luke Finlay
support service’ works on building Our approach as a developer is
people’s resilience. As a key presence “A safe place to call home means simple—improve living standards through
on the ground, they engage heavily in people are better able to deal with simple yet effective design strategies.
supporting individuals who need it and other aspects of their life, such as their Social and community housing makes
foster community development. mental health, education, employment a vital contribution to the creation of
“Each tenant comes with different and community participation. It’s not vibrant and diverse communities. It’s
life experiences and a different future rocket science; we all need somewhere very much a safety net for people who
ahead of them – many of our tenants to feel safe and secure before we can face barriers to sustaining a tenancy in
present with complex issues requiring sort out the more difficult things. I’ve the private rental market or who struggle
support to sustain their tenancy. Past been a Chaplain for eight years now. I to find accommodation that meets
events continue to have an impact get to see first-hand why it can take their physical needs. It’s the foundation
on their everyday lives. These events some time before someone feels their for a new beginning.
can happen to any one of us. While house is a home. I’ve seen how, when In mid-2021, Churches of Christ
most people need some security and they are feeling safe and secure in their Housing Services will expand the housing
stability to get back on track, many homes, they are better able to look offering at Bongaree when 83 new seniors
need ongoing support. That’s where I beyond their homes. With support, they apartments become available. Chaplain
come in. I’m able to offer pastoral care soon feel empowered and can play a Luke will be front and centre to support
to those who need it for as long as they role in creating a community where the residents as they start on their new
do,” Luke said. they live. housing journey. ■
Churches of Christ in QueenslandMusic – a therapy to
strum along to
D
rew Phelan, a Home Care visiting clients for one-on-one in-home could no longer communicate verbally,
Worker with Bribie Island support sessions. Spending more time for example.”
Home Care, is using music individually with his clients allowed him Drew only plays for those he thinks
to provide joy and to use music to get to know them better. will like it. Care responsibilities
happy memories better. “I’ve played the guitar for more than remain his priority, although he often
Drew is new to aged care, having 20 years. Although I’m not much good incorporates music into other tasks,
left retail in search of a more fulfilling at it, I thought some clients might enjoy talking about it when he walks with
role. He calls himself a ‘sponge hearing me!” Drew said. clients or takes them shopping.
for knowledge’. He has studied “For me, music is part of a person- He has formed a strong musical bond
several courses to gain a deeper centred approach to care. I consider with one particular client: “Dr Ralph
understanding of the care sector, each individual’s history, likes and was in the Navy band and had great
one of which was the University of capabilities. I learnt to play ‘That’s knowledge,” Drew said.
Melbourne’s ‘How Music Can Change Amore’ for an Italian client. Another “He couldn’t keep up with what I
Your Life’. liked me to sing after I’d cleaned her played initially but had no problems
“Music can take you out of the house. And then there was a client my with his own songs. Dr Ralph’s musical
moment, relax you and lift your spirits, age with similar musical tastes to mine. tastes are very different to me, so I
and often creates fond memories. I played songs we both liked and his adapt what I know and slow the tempo
It absolutely improves wellbeing,” wife would sing along.” to sound like his favourites.”
Drew said. Drew admits he didn’t expect music Dr Ralph and Drew are transforming
“It’s also a social magnet. When we to have much of an impact. However, a guitar as a joint project. “It involves
have music in common, we become people reacted positively almost as lots of intricate work and is ideal for Dr
less ‘me’ and ‘you’ and more about ‘us’ soon as he started to play. Ralph with his surgical experience as a
enjoying this together.” “The effect was way beyond what former country doctor. We’re giving it a
With the COVID-19 pandemic halting I expected, you could see the joy fresh look, using the black and white of
group social activities, Drew began enveloping one person’s face, who Collingwood AFL!” ■
When we have
music in common,
we become less ‘me’
and ‘you’ and more
about ‘us’ enjoying
this together.
16 ׀networkingSt James Retirement Village
blooms with native plants
O
ur St James Retirement “It’s been great to see the Water
Village welcomed the Wise initiative in action, and we are
delivery of native plants, already looking into other ways we can
compost bins and lawn decrease, and be more mindful of, our
fertiliser as part of Townsville City water consumption,” Wendy said.
Council’s Water Wise Package. The Water Smart Package,
The water-smart products funded by the Queensland Government
were delivered to the village in late and supported by local businesses,
September to reduce garden water was first introduced in 2018 and
consumption by 20 per cent. has received an overwhelmingly
St James Retirement Living positive response throughout the
Manager, Wendy Williams, said her Townsville region.
residents are already incredibly water In 2019, the program hit 100 per
conscious and were enthusiastic cent of registrations, with more than
when the council first announced 22,000 properties registered to make
this grassroots initiative in 2008. their homes and gardens more
“Townsville is a dry tropical city, water-efficient. Educating residents to understand
and the installation of the new drought- “With the majority of Townsville’s how personal water use impacts
resistant plants and turf in the garden water usage occurring outside of the on supply is an important piece of
could not have been timed better. With house, we knew that getting the right work that the Townsville City Council
all of the changes this year, we love the water-saving products could have continues to focus on. More information
idea of having plants that are designed a huge impact on our community,” about the Waterwise program is
for our climate and can be thriving all Wendy said. available at www.townsville.qld.gov.au/
year round. water-waste-and-environment. ■Barcoo residents take a trip
down memory lane
O
ur Barcoo Living Multi- The communal courtyard gardens residents,” Lorraine said.
Purpose Service in have been a fixture at the Blackall Churches in Christ in Queensland’s
Blackall is being praised service. Still for some time, and have unique positive wellbeing model of
for its creative initiatives, remained popular this year. care seeks to enhance the quality of
supporting residents through the “Being able to plant what they life for older people through person-
COVID-19 pandemic. want and tend to it themselves is a centred care, evidence-based practice,
As part of the 2020 ‘Bloomin’ in the huge part of the appeal for the open collaborative care partnerships and
Bush Garden Competition’, presented courtyard gardens. supportive living environments.
by the Blackall-Tambo Regional “We know how important it is to “We’re doing our job when our
Council, the aged care service won have a purpose in your life and to be residents are supported to enjoy the
the ‘best non-residential’ category for able to do something you love and see best possible quality of life, feeling
its communal courtyard garden and your dedication pay off. That’s part of comfortable, included and valued
‘COVID creation area’. what this communal garden offers to our where they are.” ■
Conceptualised by the Blackall
Neighbourhood Centre, the unique
COVID creation project was brought
to life over two weeks by a team of
dedicated workers.
The area features display shelves,
set up in the style of an old country
kitchen, where residents are encouraged
to bring in items that represent
significant moments from their past,
with a personally written note to
accompany them.
Service Manager Lorraine Withington
said the service really wanted to create
a space where residents can reminisce
and share their stories and memories
with others, helping them all to take their
minds off the pandemic environment.
“Many of our residents were
unfortunately unable to see family
when the lockdowns were in introduced.
It was a big adjustment for them.
“We’ve had such a wonderful
response to the project so far; the trip
down memory lane has been exactly
what many of our residents needed,”
Lorraine said.
18 ׀networking...Then Samuel took a stone, and set it between
Mizpeh and Shen, and called the name of it, Ebenezer,
saying, 'Hitherto hath the LORD helped us.
1 Samuel 7:12
Kurrajong Townhouses community centre with barbeque area and lawn. Below, Carlos, Adriana and Victoria have now bought their own home.
A stepping stone to homeownership
N
umber 34 at the Kurrajong our Affordable Living development, we
Townhouses in Kallangur has have been able to play a part in this
been home to Carlos, Adriana couple’s housing journey.
and daughter Victoria since “Leaping renting to buying is a huge
the development was completed in achievement. I’m delighted for them,”
November 2017. After three years, the Alicia said.
young family are now delighted to be in a The couple loved the community feel
position to step onto the housing ladder at Kurrajong, appreciated the helpful
with the purchase of their first home. housing officers who were always
Originally from Colombia, Carlos and willing to help and answer questions,
Adriana made Australia their home 12 and loved the community centre at the
years ago. Both IT professionals, Adriana heart of the development.
works in Caboolture, while Carlos works “For us, the best thing about living
as a contractor for Queensland Rail. here was having a secure garage and
They leave the Kurrajong Townhouses also with a little two-year-old we were
with happy memories. grateful for the community area and
“Four years ago we didn’t think that barbeque. We often invited friends
we could ever afford to buy our own here, and with the enclosed community
home. We have really appreciated the garden area, we knew that the children
opportunity to live at the Kurrajong could play safely. It’s a great space.
Townhouses. The adjusted rent meant We used it a lot,” Carlos said. mercy that this has been achieved. We
that we were able to save for a deposit. For Adriana, even when times were are forever grateful for what he has done
For three years, our focus was saving. challenging (which was not often), in our lives. We are excited about the
It was tough, but we are excited to she said their faith was strong, and it next chapter in our journey and would like
be homeowners. We have built a new carried us through. to say a big thank you to all the staff at
home in Rothwell,” Carlos said. “We loved our time here, and we honour Churches of Christ Housing Services.”
General Manager of Housing our Lord Jesus Christ for what he has All the best to Carlos, Adriana and
Services Alicia Follet, said that it gives done in our lives and for the opportunity Victoria in the next chapter of their
her a great feeling to know that through he has given us. It’s only through his housing journey. ■
Churches of Christ in QueenslandAwards recognise
achievements
All of our team members are vital to our success and to
the lives of those we care for. Recently, the achievements of some
of our valued employees gained state-wide recognition.
Achieving better outcomes Child Protection Week 2020 award, and service delivery roles for the
Aboriginal and Torres Strait acknowledging her achievements in Queensland Government.
Islander communities this field. In 2017, Tammy championed the
A proud Jirrabal woman with strong establishment of the Indigenous Advisory
Tammy Wallace, Strategic Manager,
cultural ties to the Rainforest People Committee, Gili Burra, to influence
Engagement and Inclusion, has been
of the Atherton Tablelands, Tammy Churches of Christ in Queensland’s
working tirelessly for many years to
is an emerging elder in her family work to achieve better outcomes for
address the overrepresentation of and an inspiration to all who work Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander alongside her. For the past 20 years, children, families and communities. Gili
families, children and young people she has worked with Aboriginal and Burra provides expert cultural advice to
in the child protection system. She Torres Strait Islander communities inform policy, program, engagement and
recently received a well-deserved implementing policies, programs practice and builds the organisation’s
cultural capabilities.
Tammy’s achievements extend to
developing a state-wide engagement
strategy, including the creation of
eight engagement officer positions
to build meaningful and collaborative
relationships and partnerships with
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
communities, families, children and
young people.
Aligned with the engagement
strategy, Tammy has also developed
and spearheaded a Cultural Practice
Framework to strengthen the cultural
connection of children, young people,
families, carers and staff.
“Tammy has made a significant
difference in improving safety
and resilience of children through
strengthening the positive connection
to culture and community,” Leanne
Rutherford, General Manager Children,
Tammy Wallace (centre) with Leanne Rutherford and Gary Edwards. Youth and Families said. ■
20 ׀networking Families Together Intensive Support Service team members with Leanne Rutherford and Gary Edwards. Below: a child has their height recorded
at the School Readiness event.
Outstanding effort preparing
children for the new school year
O
ur Families Together, to provide a one-stop-shop where
Intensive Family Support parents and children can access a
Service at Brisbane dentist, audiologist, child health nurse,
South received a Highly nutritionist, hairdresser and podiatrist.
Commended award at the 2020 “We reached out to local allied health
Queensland Child Protection Week services and received an overwhelming
Awards for outstanding practice for response that contributed to the
their ‘School Readiness’ event. success of this event.”
The School Readiness event “Families and children enjoyed the
held in January 2020, connected self-paced market stall, visiting stalls
families across Churches of Christ in hosted by the local health providers,”
Queensland’s Family Support Services Jodie said.
with a range of free services to help At the beginning of the event, each from families and our partners, and
parents support their children’s health child was encouraged to complete an are hoping to make it bigger and better
and developmental needs, and prepare ‘event passport’ to track which stalls next year,” Jodie said.
them for the new school year. they visited. Thank you to Children’s Health
Team Leader of the Families Together “Families left with a bag of helpful Queensland, Hear and Say Centre,
Intensive Family Support Service, Jodie and fun resources and information to Eat Smart Nutrition, Kelly Bevis
Thomas, said, “the team were humbled be ready for school, and children were hairdressing, Happifeet podiatry
to be acknowledged by their peers in given practical items including books, and Mt Ommaney Dental.
the child protection sector.” pencils and other stationery to give School Readiness will become
“We work closely with various other them the best to start their school year.” an annual event across all Family
agencies and services to support “We would like to thank the Support Services across Churches
families and children in need.” stallholders who offered their services of Christ in Queensland in 2021,
The Families Together team free of charge, making this event a supporting children and families to
identified a need in the community success. We received fantastic feedback thrive in their community. ■
Churches of Christ in Queensland2020 LASA Awards
honour innovations
in aged care
C
hurches of Christ in John started with the organisation
Queensland have been as part of a graduate nursing program
recognised in the Excellence in 2016. The program saw him working
in Age Service Awards 2020, across multiple clinical streams in
as part of the Leading Age Services Residential Aged Care and Home Care
Australia (LASA) Ten Days of Congress services, in both metropolitan and
held from 12 to 23 October. rural areas.
Clinical Support Officer John Sison “As the youngest member of our
and Physiotherapist Taranjot Minhas team, John leads by example and shows
were among those recognised for respect and integrity beyond his years,”
demonstrating exceptional talent, Sheelagh Henson, General Manager
innovation and compassion towards Clinical and Care Governance said.
improving the lives of senior Australians. This experience, combined with his
John was the national recipient of advanced IT knowledge and a passion
LASA’s 2020 Rising Star award for his for making a difference, inspired him
outstanding contribution to the aged to design and implement clinical
services sector for his development governance tools that collect and
of a data analysis tool that helps track present data in a more meaningful way.
and improve the wellbeing of aged Building on his earlier ideas, he
care residents. developed a dynamic in-house tool that
The tool allows Churches of Christ spans the clinical governance fields to
in Queensland to monitor the trends analyse and map together with a variety
and analysis of resident care, including of clinical areas. This includes incident
tracking medications, antimicrobial analysis and recommendations to
management and clinical data. assist services in developing strategies
Honoured at a virtual awards and care planning for older people.
ceremony, John said it was very “I think the clinical care governance
humbling and an honour to receive component of the organisation
the award in recognition of his work changed into a much more modern
at Churches of Christ in Queensland. way of thinking for us [and it] definitely
22 ׀networkingAs the youngest
member of our team,
John leads by example
and shows respect
and integrity beyond
his years.
John Sison (front) with Sheelagh Hensen, Gary Edwards and Daniel Bailey-Green.
has increased reporting and visibility,” in Queensland, Taranjot is introducing
John said. the Therabubble medical device into
John is working on a second and our residential aged care services to
improved version of the tool. support people with chronic respiratory
The information from these tools conditions and reduce hospitalisation
is provided to both the aged care rates. When a person blows air into the
services and senior management to water-filled device to create bubbles,
drive change in practice. This enables it improves ventilation and clears their
us to deliver best practice care and lungs. This breathing exercise can
support that achieves improved prevent re-hospitalisation and can
outcomes for residents and clients. help people recover faster from acute
“John’s interactions with both infections and illnesses.
residents and families are sensitive “TJ [Taranjot] is passionate about
and empathetic. His ‘can-do’ attitude making a difference in the lives of
and calm demeanour reassure the people in our care and achieving the
most anxious of residents and staff,” best possible outcomes for them. She
Sheelagh said. brings a fresh vibe, and is constantly
“Residents enjoy his company and feel thinking of new ways to improve service
safe and valued by him. We frequently delivery. She looks at residents’ overall
receive requests for John to attend wellbeing and not just physiotherapist
services to assist with clinical support.” intervention,” Kane Singh, Regional
Taranjot’s passion for using Support Manager said.
innovation in her workplace earnt her a Chief Executive Officer Gary Edwards
well-deserved finalist place in LASA’s said he was delighted the innovative
inaugural Next Gen Young Leader Award. initiatives to improve aged care by team
Taranjot is a physiotherapist who has members were being recognised by the
been with us since graduating from industry as a whole.
university after a student placement “I am appreciative of our aged care
with the organisation attracted her to team for their dedication to making
the aged care industry. a difference in the lives of senior
In what is understood to be a first Australians,” Gary said. ■
Churches of Christ in QueenslandWarrawee
turns 30
F
or 30 strong years, St Chair of Care’s Board at the time, and start a nursing service – and quickly.
George’s Warrawee Aged a long time member of Toowoomba’s The remarkable Youngs once again
Care Service has served the Margaret Street Church of Christ (now came to the rescue of the yet-to-be-
local community; not even a HumeRidge). built facility. They decided to sell their
devasting flood could break its spirit. At the meeting in St George, and car and donate the sale price back to
On 4 August 2020, the service after a survey was conducted of Churches of Christ in Queensland so
celebrated its 30th birthday, albeit not patients by St George doctors, it was that a nursing service could be funded;
the celebration imagined due to clearly established that there was a showing such extraordinary devotion
COVID-19 restriction. need in the local community for hostel to the idea of providing care for the
Warrawee Aged Care Service accommodation. The need, however, local seniors.
officially opened on 4 August 1990, required funding and a location to It can often be forgotten that many of
despite many challenges surrounding manifest itself. the facilities we now run were initiated
location and funding. This was a After the need was identified, St and supported by dedicated individuals
significant day for the community, as George locals Paul and Nancy Young or small groups and communities of
the residents could now receive the took a bold step towards meeting passionate people.
care and support they required, close that need. They offered their house, Today, Warrawee stands as an
to their family and friends. situated on a 10-acre property dotted example of the partnership between
The story of Warrawee truly with fruit and nut trees, to Churches the community of St George, Churches
demonstrates the mission of Churches of Christ in Queensland for $100,000, of Christ in Queensland and the deeply
of Christ in Queensland of bringing the which they then donated back to the motivated Paul and Nancy Young. ■
light of Christ into communities and organisation. Those funds were then
responding to community needs. used to renovate the property into an
There is a famous story from 1984, appropriate aged care facility. This
about the then Executive Director of wasn’t the end of Paul and Nancy
Care, Dr Don Stewart drawing more Young’s involvement at what would
people to a public meeting about the later become the Warrawee Hostel.
need for an aged care facility at St They also donated funds to pay for a
George than a Slim Dusty concert was tractor for the site and took on the role
able to draw, only weeks earlier. as caretakers, while still operating their
This is a notable part of the Churches own business from the property.
of Christ in Queensland story as, unlike Not long after, the only community
other services, there was no local nurse in St George quit, leaving the
Church of Christ backing this potential town without services or resources
facility. One of the key voices urging for the aged, ill or disabled. Churches
such a move was Beverly Grenfell, of Christ in Queensland needed to
24 ׀networkingThe big flood
February 2012 is
ingrained in the minds of
the people of St George.
Following a significant rain
event, the Balonne River,
which runs through the
town, continued to rise
Poppy’s tale
relentlessly and inundated
the lower part of the town,
including the Warrawee
Aged Care Service. All of
the Warrawee residents
were evacuated, along with
over 2600 of St George’s
Y
population of 3000.
It was a very traumatic
and emotional time. oung people exiting Although a tough decision,
care are navigating Poppy decided to end the
The residents were
a whole host of life relationship and move into a
evacuated by air and were
events, often on their domestic violence shelter. This was
away from their homes for
own. Living independently, finding understandably a challenging time
months, with some never
work, furthering their study, and for Poppy. However, she continually
able to return.
navigating relationships are some sought support from her Case
As the floodwaters
of the situations they face. Manager to set goals for herself
receded, it was evident that
Exploring new relationships and to strengthen her independence.
the building had sustained
establishing a sense of identity While in the shelter, Poppy
a great deal of damage. All
that is unique but also connected explored her cultural heritage
the sodden floor coverings
to their history, family, and culture through a Cultural Strengths
had to be removed, along Plan with her Youth CONNECT
is a milestone for all young people.
with the contaminated team. She continued to seek
This, though, can open up a range
furniture; it was a mammoth employment during this time,
of difficulties for young people
task. The ADF was called as well as exploring long-term
exiting care. Unfortunately, this
in to assist, and the facility cohort is more likely to become accommodation options. Poppy
was cleared out, ready to victims of a domestic and family was able to find a private rental
be restored. violence relationship. and move in with a housemate,
The then Prime This was the case for Poppy*. with the assistance of her Youth
Minister, Julia Gillard, Poppy left to care when she CONNECT Case Manager.
and Queensland Premier, turned 18 and linked in with Youth Since moving into her new
Anna Bligh, flew in CONNECT. After leaving care, she home, Poppy has obtained her
and inspected the site, moved around and ultimately moved provisional driver’s license and
offering support for the in with her partner at the time. also found casual employment
recovery. At the time, the Poppy identified that there was as a disability support worker,
Council thought that the abuse within their relationship, which she is enjoying.
reconstruction of Warrawee and this abuse was escalating. Poppy has shown tremendous
might be too daunting She confided in her Case growth throughout 2019. She
for Churches of Christ in Manager, and together they were is now focusing on saving for
Queensland. Still, despite able to make a plan for Poppy to her own car and has opened
the repair bill running leave the relationship. a savings account to help her
into the millions, the new Poppy’s Case Manager achieve this goal. She is also
Warrawee was completed connected her with domestic exploring mental health support
and was even better violence organisations, and also and is continually meeting with
than before. ■ helped her negotiate with her her Case Manager to work on
landlord to take her off the lease achieving her goals. ■
so she could leave home she * Case studies have been de-identified.
shared with her partner. Images are not of the individual.
Churches of Christ in QueenslandYou can also read
