Volunteer Nicolas Civetta has been blown away by the connections and experiences he is having as he becomes acquainted with people living at Resthaven Paradise. ‘It is incredibly rewarding,’ Nicolas says. ‘I am connecting with many people from Italy and we are discovering the most amazing stories and links.’ Nicolas was born in Benevento, Italy, … Continued
On Friday 28 February, Resthaven held its 2025 Excellence Awards. Celebrating ‘people who care for people’ the event included recognition of ‘Volunteers of Resthaven’. On the evening, all five volunteer finalists attended – Pam Jones (Resthaven Riverland Community Services), Julie Mullighan (Resthaven Bellevue Heights), Dawn Weyland (Resthaven Murray Bridge), Ian Kluge (Resthaven Murray Bridge), and … Continued
Having a conversation and sharing stories with the residents at Resthaven Westbourne Park is something that volunteer Rob Mutton enjoys very much. ‘It’s wonderful to get to know each person and learn about their life. If we share a laugh and a smile, then even better,’ Rob says. ‘I am doing my little bit and … Continued
When Resthaven Northern Community Services began increasing their number of bus outings last year, due to their popularity, Diane Davies put up her hand to help with the organisation and logistics. As a client herself, Diane had heard about the trips, and with her background in community development she knew this was something she could … Continued
The resident garden plots at Resthaven Aberfoyle Park are beginning to flourish – and it’s thanks to a combined effort of both residents and Resthaven volunteer Jeannie Peace. ‘We are grateful for Jeannie’s support,’ Cheryl Bajszi, Lifestyle Coordinator at Resthaven Aberfoyle Park says. ‘In the short time since Jeannie has joined us, the gardening club … Continued
Each time she walks down the path towards Resthaven Port Elliot, with a fistful of flowers, Volunteer Chaplain’s Assistant Lou Styles thinks to herself ‘Who shall I see first? Who will I get to talk with today?’. ‘I feel as though I am where I am meant to be,’ Lou says. ‘I am doing God’s … Continued
Rezky Jaya Indah (Indah) says that volunteering with Resthaven has been a great way to introduce herself to the field of aged care. ‘My favourite part is engaging with and getting to know individuals,’ Indah says. ‘We encourage and support each other – if I mention I am interested in something, then often a resident … Continued
Volunteers Yumeng Han and Shuchan Wang are both studying a Masters in Social Work and, through volunteering with Resthaven, are gaining experience that complements their chosen career path. In turn, residents are enjoying these interactions as well as offering their wise counsel and experience. ‘Growing up in China, my grandparents lived with us,’ Shuchan says. … Continued
‘I love walking through those doors,’ Resthaven volunteer Lesley Wimbles says of the entrance at Resthaven Malvern. ‘I know that I’m in for a treat when I have a day of volunteering ahead of me.’ The site is well-known to Lesley, who worked there as a Housekeeping Services Assistant for more than 47 years before … Continued
Leaning into her interests and background in wellness and health, Claire Bosworth explored ways to share her passion and engage with her community. She reached out to Resthaven to enquire about volunteering and was delighted to discover her place with the Resthaven Murray Mallee Hills Community Services ‘Wellness on Wednesdays’ group. ‘We have a lot … Continued
With a wry smile, his signature hat and a good dose of humour, volunteer Graham Ward connects with clients, such as Judy Potter at Resthaven Paradise and Eastern Community Services. ‘Graham always gets us all laughing,’ Judy says. ‘It’s nice to have a good laugh! He also makes an excellent cup of tea.’ Graham actively … Continued
Every day, volunteers at Resthaven make a real and tangible difference in enriching the lives of older people. Volunteers have been an important part of Resthaven since the very beginning in 1935. Nationally, Australia recognises volunteers throughout National Volunteer Week, from 20-26 May 2024. This is a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate with … Continued
For Deb Wotherspoon, one of the most rewarding things is to hear the voices of people singing along with her piano playing. A volunteer at Resthaven Bellevue Heights, Deb, and her bordoodle (border collie/poodle) Fergus, support the ‘Worship for Everyone’ church service. Deb plays the piano during the service and then continues to play afterwards … Continued
Rusty Novice, a volunteer at Resthaven Aberfoyle Park, is a firm believer in the sense of satisfaction that comes from achieving. ‘I always encourage people to have a go,’ Rusty says. ‘Whether it’s someone from the community, my own kids, or now my grandkids, if someone comes along and asks if they can help, I’ll … Continued
‘Happy Hour’ is a much-loved social event held at Resthaven Mount Gambier each Friday afternoon, and one where more volunteer support is welcomed. ‘Seeing the connections shared between residents and volunteers is heartwarming,’ Mount Gambier Acting Lifestyle Coordinator Shelley van der Linde says. ‘We would love volunteers to join us for Happy Hour, as well … Continued
Recently, Resthaven Mitcham resident, Mr Ian Gambling, enjoyed a special 60-year reunion with a former colleague. It’s all thanks to Quaid—the home’s favourite four-legged volunteer! Quaid is a regular visitor to Resthaven Mitcham, where he is accompanied by fellow volunteer, and doting owner, Diana Walters. ‘One aspect that makes Quaid a perfect volunteer, is that … Continued
This Christmas, Resthaven Mitcham volunteer, Bob Wharton, shares a special musical memory. Bob says, ‘I was working part-time back when I started volunteering with Resthaven, about fourteen years ago, and I wanted to contribute to the community in some way.’ ‘I have always enjoyed playing my guitar and singing with people, and I had a … Continued
Resthaven Murray Bridge volunteer, Ian Kluge, has lived a life supporting his community, both as a police officer, and as a volunteer. Ian discovered his love of volunteering after taking a leap of faith; ‘I had a long career in the police force, and I wanted to try a different path, one that I found … Continued
Resthaven Marion Community Services clients have been enjoying extra support in their social groups lately, thanks to volunteer, Anusha Nadeem. In recent years, Anusha and her husband left their home in Pakistan for a new adventure in Australia. Anusha says, ‘It was my husband who first found Resthaven, securing an Enrolled Nurse position with Resthaven … Continued
Volunteer pianist, Tony Kelly, enjoys spending his time hitting the keys at Resthaven Malvern, having discovered the joys of aged care approximately 25 years ago. Tony says, ‘I retired in 1997, but it wasn’t until a few years later that I ventured into volunteering in aged care, and I never looked back.’ ‘I was a … Continued