Musical Volunteer finds her ‘decks’ with Resthaven

Carolyn McHugh has been a proud volunteer at Resthaven Leabrook since 2016, bringing her talent of ‘DJing’ to music-loving residents who enjoy coming together and sharing their love and enjoyment of music.

Recently, Carolyn took it upon herself to write a letter to Resthaven, sharing how rewarding it is for her to share what she loves with older people in a volunteering capacity.

‘Some may think I have a set of headphones on, operating two turntables simultaneously, surrounded by flashing lights – actually, I operate a CD player, surrounded by a wonderful group of residents who love listening to my music,’ writes Carolyn.

‘As a child in the 1950s, I have fond memories of my parents playing their favourite ‘78’ records on our ‘radiogram’.’

‘They taught my sister and I to dance to the ‘big bands’ – Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, and Artie Shaw. Some big favourites of mine are Frank Sinatra, Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, and Bing Crosby.’

‘My love of music has evolved over the years, and I have an extensive CD collection, consisting of a wide variety of genres, including classical (orchestral and opera), 30s, 40s and 50s swing, jazz and blues, and musical theatre (stage and film) – music generally enjoyed by older people.’

Carolyn prepares a new program every two weeks, which is first distributed to the Music Group, to help residents follow the music played to them.

‘To make the whole experience more interesting and enjoyable for the group, I research the music I play, and include information about the composers, music, and artists.’

‘There are lots of comfortable chairs in the cosy Knightsbridge Lounge on the third floor, where residents sit back, relax, and enjoy the wide variety of music I play for them.’

Residents are encouraged to share their memories of music, and to request a favourite song to be played in future sessions.

‘I look forward to sharing the music, chatter, and laughter with residents each fortnight – they feel like my extended family.’

‘Volunteering gives my life more purpose, and so much joy.’

Lifestyle Coordinator, Shah, enthuses, ‘Carolyn brings the fun out in us all – especially residents! She helps to bring the quieter ones out of their shell and enjoy the music. We are thankful for her light.’

Thank you for sharing your heartfelt words with us, Carolyn.

Music is just one of the ways to share your interests in something many people enjoy.

To find out more about volunteering, call 8373 9036 or visit https://www.resthaven.asn.au/volunteering-careers/volunteer/