Carinity Seniors Craft Magical Kids' Attraction

Some creative Rockhampton seniors have transformed a disused fountain into a wondrous children's attraction.

Residents of the Carinity Shalom aged care community have been working on creating a fantasy garden which they can show to visiting great-grandchildren.

A decorated fountain in Carinity Shalom aged care's fantasy garden is bringing joy to residents and their visitors
A decorated fountain in the Carinity Shalom aged care community's fantasy garden is bringing joy to residents and visitors..

With help from Diversional Therapist, Donna Hinchliffe, residents collected, painted and decorated ceramic garden ornaments from local shops - and also reclaimed a few pieces from throughout the Carinity Shalom building.

All ornaments were undercoated, painted and sealed so they could go survive the Rockhampton weather outdoors in the garden.

"As a group we decided that the old fountain which has not held water or worked for several years was the ideal home for this project," Donna said.

"It is easily accessed by all the residents and in a good place for visitors to see and admire."

Carinity Shalom aged care residents Max Roduner, Nola Thomas and Lenor Barney give directions to staff member, Donna Hinchliffe
Carinity Shalom residents Max Roduner, Nola Thomas and Lenor Barney give directions to staff member, Donna Hinchliffe.

Donna said creating the fantasy garden has given participating residents, who range in age from 89 to 97 years, a sense of "immense pride".

"It has been a very worthwhile activity promoting self-worth and pride and helping residents to find a creative side to themselves they did not know they had," Donna said.

"I am very proud of the effort the residents put into this project and I am sure it will be admired by families and visitors alike."

The fantasy garden project is an extension of an earlier activity which saw residents reclaim and rejuvenate weathered garden gnomes around Carinity Shalom.

A decorated fountain in Carinity Shalom aged care's fantasy garden in Rockhampton is bringing joy to residents and their visitors
The disused fountain at Carinity Shalom aged care has been decorated with ceramic garden ornaments.
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