Ladies’ day out with Bill ‘Swampy’ Marsh

On 15 November, Resthaven Marion residents enjoyed a day out to the Marion Cultural Centre, where they watched award-winning writer and performer, Bill ‘Swampy’ Marsh, discuss his new book More Great Australian Outback Towns & Pubs Stories. Lifestyle Coordinator, Tamara Jacquier, explains, ‘Recently, the Marion Cultural Centre received a grant from the Office of Ageing Well, with the goal of giving older people an opportunity to become further involved with the greater Marion community.’

‘In response, the cultural centre invited us to collaborate on some exciting new initiatives, including attending the most recent author talk by Bill “Swampy” Marsh.’

‘We opened expressions of interest to all residents, with three ladies—Mrs Mignon Bamford, Mrs Cath Mildenhall, Mrs Coral Wilson—taking up the offer.’

‘So, we decided to make a day outing of it!’

‘We arrived at the cultural centre and were surprised with VIP seats right at the front. The ladies were so impressed with the running of the event.’

‘They greatly enjoyed Bill’s talk about his new book and had a lovely social chat with him at the end.’

‘After the show, we relaxed with a coffee in the café, where we were joined by other attendees.’

Mrs Mignon Bamford says, ‘I really enjoyed getting out and chatting with other people over a coffee. I feel like I did ten years ago!’

‘It’s a lovely way to become more involved in the community, and an opportunity to have interesting experiences and meet new people,’ Mrs Bamford says.

With Swampy’s talk being one of the first events as part of the collaboration, there will be plenty more to come.

Tamara says, ‘There are a number of new initiatives on the cards, including intergenerational activities, book clubs, social clubs and live streaming events, most of which will commence in the new year.’

‘The library educators will also be visiting us here at the home, to show residents how to use new technology. This will allow us to order library books online and listen to audio books on our devices.’

‘We are also hoping to start an intergenerational program with young children, to help develop their confidence in reading.’

‘And there will be a program with older students, who will research the history of the City of Marion and allow an opportunity for sharing memories.’

Watch this space!

Find out more about Resthaven Marion