• Volunteer Stories

    ‘Having a Yarn’ leads to connection

    When Resthaven Marion resident, D’Arcy Hancock, turned 106 last year, making him Australia’s oldest ham radio operator, his story generated a lot of local interest. Not least of which with volunteer, Joan Barra, who wondered if he could possibly be the same D’Arcy who had played in a band in Kadina along with her late … Continued

    I love to have a beer with Peter

    According to Resthaven resident, Peter Lathlean, the India/Australia test match is best enjoyed with a cold beer and good company. Volunteer, Lloyd Winter, couldn’t agree more! Lloyd, who moved into a Resthaven retirement living unit around 12 months ago, not only facilitates the Men’s Group at Resthaven Malvern, but also regularly visits Peter in his … Continued

    Tram Ride to Glenelg

    On 20 February, residents embarked on a very special bus trip to ride the tram down to Glenelg. Lifestyle Assistant, Julie Glacken, organised the trip. With the support of volunteer bus driver, Peter Johinke, volunteer, Fran Lagadu, and carer, Rachana Patel, the operation went forward with military precision. Boarding the Resthaven bus in record time, … Continued

    Volunteer made of write stuff | The Border Watch

    CONTRIBUTING to the community from a young age, long-term volunteer Bhavani Bailey-Walters has been recognised for her dedication to others with the 2016 Mount Gambier Young Citizen of the Year Award.
    Source: Volunteer made of write stuff | The Border Watch

    70 year age gap? No problem!

    Resthaven Mitcham resident, Fleur Bayliss-Nayda (90) has found an instant connection with Volunteer, Tomoko “Chloe” Nakajo (20). Tomoko, who began volunteering with Resthaven only a short time ago, is currently studying at the Intensive English Language Institute, before returning to her studies at the University of Japan in September. ‘Tomoko approached us as she wanted … Continued

    Leabrook Celebrates Volunteers ‘Viva’ Style

    Each Tuesday, volunteer, Lucille Haddy, brings joy to residents at Resthaven Leabrook when she visits. ‘Having Lucille here makes a real difference to the lifestyle program,’ says Lifestyle Coordinator, David Saddler. ‘She runs cards and scrabble in the mornings, Bingo, and “Stitch, Knit, and Natter” (our very popular knitting group).’ ‘Along with the many other … Continued

    Volunteer, Marj, retires aged 95

    In May 2016, volunteer, Marj Holman (95), formally ‘retired’, after 20 years of volunteer service to Resthaven Westbourne Park. ‘Marj has volunteered in the site shop for the past 20 years,’ says Resthaven Westbourne Park Manager, Marian Greenshields. ‘She has also been a Chaplain’s Assistant.’ ‘She is always cheerful and ready for a chat, and … Continued

    ‘Reminiscence’ with Volunteer, Marianne

    From 9-13 May, we celebrate National Volunteers Week. Volunteers are integral to the fabric of Resthaven’s community. Just one volunteer who is making a real difference to the lives of residents and clients is Marianne Newbery, who facilitates the ‘reminiscence’ group at Resthaven Paradise. Marianne, who worked at Resthaven Paradise and Eastern Community Services for … Continued

    Volunteers have ‘500’ in the Bag

    Volunteer, Jenny Irving, has introduced a card game at Resthaven Mount Gambier that is keeping everyone on their toes. ‘500’ is a ‘trick-taking’ game which requires a lot of brain power, and involves a complicated bidding and scoring process. ‘It’s not for the faint hearted,’ says Jenny, ‘but it’s so popular with residents that some … Continued

    Volunteering Brings Old Friends Back Together

    When Allan started volunteering at Resthaven Port Elliot, he had no idea that he would bump into an old friend from his childhood. Allan, who grew up in Port Elliot, fondly remembers visiting his local ‘four square’ shop as a ten-year-old boy in the 1950s, where he was served by Port Elliot local, Bert Brittain. … Continued

    Thank You, Volunteers!

    This week is National Volunteers Week, when Australia recognises its six million Volunteers nationally. Last year, Volunteering Australia announced a new contemporary and inclusive definition of volunteering: “Volunteering is time willingly given for the common good and without financial gain.” Volunteering has been at the heart of Resthaven since it was established in 1935. Each … Continued