Generations converge at Star of the Sea

STAR of the Sea Aged Care Residence’s new café capped off six months of operation with an inclusive all-ages school holiday event.

Organised by Star of the Sea aged care staff and café coordinator Cathy Rundle last month, the event included residents, trainees and children enjoying a fun afternoon of bingo, balloon exercise, some delicious party food and face painting.

“Everyone had an absolute ball,” Ms Rundle said.

“Our trainees are already forming friendships with residents and their families, and the residents’ faces really light up when they’re around the little ones, it’s beautiful to witness.”

Star of the Sea Aged Care lifestyle coordinator Jen Cotsopolous said it was joyful and loud at the event.

“The children really lifted the residents’ spirits. Residents reminisced about their childhoods and bonded with the children.

“The emotional, physical, recreational and mental benefits of the intergenerational activities were plain to see.”

Resident June Clarke said the event was wonderful and is “already looking forward to next one”.

Lindy-Joy, is one of nine trainees with disability currently working at the café, learning food preparation, money handling and customer service skills, on her pathway to full-time paid work.

She said the inclusion day was “lots of fun” and loved winning bingo.

Ms Rundle said the café will offer more initiatives in the future, including more intergenerational inclusion days.

“We have connected with several mums’ groups and local charity Geelong Mums, for whom we’ve set up a donation collection point at the café where people can leave their pre-loved baby items,” Ms Rundle said.

“Hosting kids’ parties is also on the cards, and we have the support of the local primary school who have used us for catering.

“Star Café really is a special place that means a lot to many people.”

Star Café opened in December 2022 at Star of the Sea Aged Care Residence.

The café is run by services provider Villa Maria Catholic Homes and aims to provide people with disability invaluable work experience, and café culture and connections for older residents and families.

Star Café is located at Star of the Sea Aged Care Residence, 1290 Horseshoe Bend Road, Torquay.