Intervillage Visit

January 7, 2017

IN AUGUST, RESIDENTS FROM OUR NEWEST VILLAGE, BERWICK BRAE, WARMLY HOSTED A BUS-LOAD OF 20 RESIDENTS FROM NEARBY MONASH GARDENS RETIREMENT VILLAGE.

When it was discovered that Monash Gardens had arranged an excursion to a renowned restaurant in Berwick for lunch, employees and residents seized the opportunity to invite them over for a cuppa. Planning evolved rapidly from there, and when the day arrived, there was an array of wonderful things to do and see. Berwick Brae’s loyal cook, Heather Schwedt had kindly set up a display showcasing an outstanding assortment of her 300+ highly collectable dolls, which included vintage baby dolls and prams, Barbie dolls from past and present, and a bridal doll display.

In addition to the doll display, and a lovely Devonshire tea, the Berwick Brae Craft Club hosted a stall, showcasing a variety of handmade items that proved extremely popular, with $335 being raised to assist their future endeavours.

Resident pianist, Helen Wakelam skilfully provided elegant background music and a cheerful ambiance, and resident Derek Garton, who is a long-time ‘Friend of Wilson Botanic Park’, conducted informative bus tours of the neighbouring gardens, which was very interesting and enjoyed by all.

The Berwick Brae Quilting Club raffle, which was widely promoted at Streeton Park, Redmond Park and Monash Gardens was drawn at the event, the prize being a children’s alphabet-themed quilt. Congratulations to the winner, Mrs Haslyn Smith from Monash Gardens who was fortuitously present to accept her prize!

The Quilting Club was delighted to be able to donate $380 to their chosen charity ‘Backpack 4 Vic Kids’, a not-for-profit organisation run by volunteers to aid children going into foster care families.

Often children are placed quickly into foster care without much more than what they are wearing at the time. They strive to provide them with a few essential items to help with the transition such as toiletries, pyjamas, clothing, a toy or an activity book and torch.

An invitation was extended to Monash Gardens residents to join in the weekly Sports Days at Berwick Brae, which includes a mini-golf course, billiards and carpet bowls. We look forward to this now regular feature of both Villages’ social activities!