November 2014 - Christadelphian Aged Care

Candlel ght
Magazine
A publication of Christadelphian Aged Care
November 2014
Contents
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hristadelphian Aged Care
is blessed to have sister
organisations across Australia
that share the same values and
mission to provide care to the
aged and frail in our communities.
A year of change
CAC News
Retiring among
friends in Perth
60 years of service in
Adelaide
Environmental focus
in Victoria
Home is where the
heart is
This year the Australian
Government’s reforms to aged
New face on the
Central Coast
Running for a cause
Memories of
weddings and joy
Finding a new
passion later in life
Olivet in Victoria, Hermon
Village in Perth, Bethsalem
Care in Adelaide, and of course
the newest member of the
Christadelphian Aged Care
family, Maranatha in Queensland,
were all formed by brothers
and sisters who followed the
command of Christ to care for the
ageing in our society.
The interstate organisations
are featured in this edition of
the Candlelight to highlight their
achievements and passion for
excellence in care.
Learning on the job
Editor-in-Chief: Jane Burns
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Our common mission
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Photos:
Spring Ball and
Roaring ‘20s Ball
The principles of
decision-making
in aged care
Casa Mia
Cultural Day
Learning on
the job
Editor and designer: Jenny Pogson
care have been implemented
and include changes to how we
talk about the different stages of
care, and the payment system.
In this magazine we have
endeavoured to explain the
changes and how they affect
residents and families, but if you
have any further questions please
don’t hesitate to contact any of
our Homes for more information.
Our Chief Financial Officer
Andrew O’Toole has taken up an
exciting new career opportunity
and I would like to thank him for
his passion and dedication over
the years, and welcome our new
Chief Financial Officer Rob Hall.
As always I thank our Heavenly
Father for continuing to bless us
in so many ways.
Graham Cavanagh-Downs
CAC Chairman
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Songs of
friendship
Common eye
conditions found
in aged care
Our Homes
Living Longer,
Living Better
Cover photo: Mamah Daramy
The Candlelight Magazine is published by Christadelphian Aged Care, a not-for-profit provider of
aged care and retirement services in NSW and QLD. ©2014 Christadelphian Aged Care
11 Queensbury Rd, Padstow Heights NSW 2211, P.O. Box 690, Riverwood NSW 2210
Phone: (02) 9782 6000, E: admin@chomes.com.au
A year of change
CEO Ross Peden reflects
on the changes seen in
the aged care industry
and within CAC this year.
S
ince our last Candlelight, the Living Longer,
Living Better reforms have been implemented.
The reforms were far reaching and introduced a
greater component of user pays, but at the same
time a flexibility of funding options for those entering
residential aged care.
If you or your family are considering entry to the
aged care system we are more than happy to
discuss and explain the options of care available.
More information can be found at the back of this
magazine.
CAC has continued to upgrade the extension of
our Homes with major work being undertaken at
Southhaven, Casa Mia and Maranatha. Minor work
has recently been completed at Ridgeview and
Chamberlain Gardens.
All this work has at times caused disruption for our
residents and I personally thank them, their families
and our staff and volunteers for their patience while
the various works have been undertaken.
Following a recent strategic review it was decided
to sell Lakefront Village. We have owned Lakefront
for almost six years and during that time have
significantly upgraded the site.
However, it was decided the location of Lakefront
was not strategic to CAC’s future and the capital
employed was better utilised in other areas of
our organisation. It was important to us that the
incoming purchaser shared similar values and
commitment to residents as CAC, and so we are
very happy that RSL Lifecare, an experienced
village operator, was the successful purchaser.
We anticipate that the sale will be complete midNovember.
After having our head office at Padstow for more
than 30 years we have outgrown the accomodation
there and so recently purchased an office building
nearby, which we expect to occupy in midDecember after some refurbishment.
Our Chief Financial Officer Andrew O’Toole has
decided to take up a new position outside of the
industry after being with the organisation for seven
years.
Andrew's time with CAC saw the organisation
double in size and he has been an integral part of
that successful growth and the implementation of
new systems to support our growth. I know all of us
at CAC who have worked with Andrew wish him all
the best in his new role.
I would like to welcome Rob Hall who has joined
CAC as Chief Financial Officer. Rob has a wealth of
accounting and corporate advisory experience.
Ross Peden
Chief Executive Officer
Christadelphian Aged Care
3
CAC News
and tested. There is also a new nurse call system
in place and all bathrooms have been upgraded.
New furniture and soft furnishings are currently
being installed. Residents, families and friends can
enjoy a tea or coffee from the new refreshment bar
in the refurbished entrance foyer. Further projects
for Casa Mia include updating the outside areas so
residents and family can enjoy the gardens.
New look for
our Homes
Southhaven
he ground, first and second levels of the
Riverside (formerly Hostel) renovations are
now complete. Level three is almost finished
and construction for level four has commenced.
Level four will be an open area housing toilets
and a balcony where residents can enjoy the river
outlook. The purpose of this level is to give direct
access to Riverside and Treetops (formerly Nursing
Home) for residents, staff and visitors through the
Link building.
T
The Link building will have three levels with a lift
servicing one link to Riverside and another link
to Treetops. There will be a welcoming entrance,
cafe and offices for the site manager and other
staff members. We have received council approval
and plan to commence construction shortly. The
administration team will be moving to a location
close by and the office buildings will be demolished
to make way for these further developments. A fire
sprinkler system has been installed and tested in
Treetops.
Casa Mia
All major internal renovations are nearly completed
at Casa Mia. Fire sprinklers have been installed
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4
Maranatha
The builders have completed the renovation works
in Acacia Lodge, the laundry area and Sunnyside.
Renovations have commenced in the older wings
and the linkway between the older wings has been
completed. Unfortunately, asbestos has been found
in the canite ceiling, in some of the older vinyl
flooring and the memorial meeting room. Asbestos
removal from the kitchen has now been completed.
Removal of the asbestos is being undertaken by
licensed removers using strict safety precautions.
The affected area has been completely sealed
off and outside areas are constantly monitored to
ensure no dust escapes the enclosed area.
Residents have moved into Acacia Lodge and the
final touches such as soft furnishings and paintings
will be placed shortly. The Sunnyside room has
been expanded which allows more resident
recreational areas.
Have you sat outside the cafe in the newly
grassed and landscaped area? Light meals and
refreshments can now be enjoyed six-and-a-half
days per week.
The front entrance is nearing completion and now
features a conference room and a more open
reception area. The laundry now has two entrances
and a dedicated folding area. The linkway for the
older wings is near completion and will give access
to the main areas, saving precious walking time.
Lounge chairs have been placed along the linkway
so moments of quiet contemplation can be enjoyed.
Saying goodbye
C
Duck hunt brings
Homes together
T
he call went out... who has thee flying ducks?
Casa Mia residents and staff are justifiably
proud of the renovations that have transformed their
Home, especially the dementia area. The common
rooms are filled with memorabilia such as a treadle
sewing machine, transistor radios, a dresser and
many other knick knacks.
However, they were lacking were three flying
ducks. The Maranatha Fund Raising Committee
was asked if they could help locate a set of these
ducks. These kind ladies located two sets, one of
which went to Casa Mia and the other to Bethsalem
(Adelaide) for their ‘50s room.
Much discussion and reminiscing takes place about
the ducks, such as which wall they lived on at their
home, and where are they flying to?
hristadelphian Aged Care has been caring for
Lakefront Village and its residents for the past
six years. During that time I have been delighted to
oversee the many improvements that have taken
place to enhance the services and lifestyle now
available to residents. These included a complete
makeover of the serviced apartments, lifts in the
two-storey buildings and a refresh of the buildings
and roads.
Following a recent strategic review, the Board
of Christadelphian Homes Ltd decided that the
organisation’s core focus will be residential aged
care. Therefore the Board unanimously resolved to
divest Lakefront Village and RSL LifeCare will take
over ownership in November.
Lakefront Village is a beautiful place to work and
live, and having made the decision to no longer
operate Lakefront Village we are very pleased to
pass this stewardship across to Ron Thompson
and his team, given their long experience, values
and excellent reputation in serving the community.
I am also pleased that Geraldine and her team
will continue to serve you as employees of RSL
LifeCare. I take this opportunity to thank them
for their service and dedication and offer my best
wishes for the future.
Ross Peden
Chief Executive Officer
Christadelphian Aged Care
Update on the General Services
Enterprise Agreement
I am delighted to confirm that on July 10, 2014,
Christadelphian Aged Care received a majority
YES vote from our general services staff for the
enterprise agreement, and 92 per cent of staff were
in agreement with the EA.
The General Services Enterprise Agreement was
lodged with Fair Work Commission (FWC) on July
14, 2014.
The FWC compared the 2013 Agreement to the
modern award and appropriate pay rates for the
classifications contained in the 2013 Agreement.
To pass this comparison test the Enterprise
Agreement had to result in an employee being
better off overall – also known as the BOOT (Better
Off Overall Test).
Our Enterprise Agreement passed with flying
colours and was ratified on August 21, 2014.
Alison Bolton, HR Manager
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Retiring among friends in Perth
Hermon Village, Perth
s there were no
Christadelphian
retirement villages or nursing
care facilities in Perth, a
group of brethren felt there
was a need for provision of
a safe, secure, supportive
environment for our mature aged brothers and
sisters. A committee was formed and community
support gained to form an association to achieve
our objectives.
A
In 2001 Christadelphian Welfare Association
became incorporated under the associations act
(1987). The objectives of association was to provide
Christadelphian accommodation and care for aged
and other persons in need of such help, primarily
but not exclusively those of the Christadelphian
faith, and to procure and manage real estate
properties in Western Australia and construct or
develop properties.
In 2003 the retirement village site was selected
and purchased in 2004, and in the following year
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civil engineering works commenced for the over
55s retirement village, which comprised of 23
independent homes.
In 2007 construction on the first 10 units began, and
the first residents moved in the next year. In 2010
construction of six more units began and four more
were built in 2013, two of which were pre sold with
strong interest in the other two.
Once these units are sold it is planned to proceed
with a further five units to complete the building
program, and last of all it is planned to refurbish the
community centre.
CWA has always hosted seniors’ activities, which
have been enjoyed by all who participated in them.
They hold an activity every two months, and end
the year with a seniors’ dinner and entertainment.
Hermon Village is located in the foothills of the
Darling Scarp, Perth WA. There are number of new
and refurbished two-bedroom units available for
sale. If you would like further information regarding
these beautiful homes, please contact Chris Carder
on 0437 054 379 or chrisnrae@webshield.net.au.
60 years of service in Adelaide
A delightful morning tea was shared together
afterwards, with many people sharing and swapping
stories of the past and the present, all with a strong
sense of anticipation for the future.
Bethsalem Care, Adelaide
ethsalem Care recently celebrated 10 years of
service in the “new” facility at Happy Valley in
Adelaide’s southern suburbs.
B
This delightful home opened its doors to its first
residents on August 31, 2004, after the “old resthome” at Glynde in the northern suburbs had
served the community well for 50 years.
This year sees us celebrating 60 years of quality
service and care to the community and 10 years in
this “House of Peace” at Happy Valley – where life
matters.
A special meeting of thanksgiving, remembrance
and celebration was held with about 100 people
attending to reminisce and thank God for the
blessings that have overshadowed us for many
years.
Bethsalem Care held their fourth bi-annual Winter
Olympic Games to coincide with our 10th birthday
celebrations.
The residents had a great day of competition and
celebration with the added excitement of a past
Olympian (together with his own Sydney Olympics
torch!) in their presence to officially open the event.
A Channel 7 TV crew was present and we featured
briefly following the evening news – an exciting end
to fantastic day.
Residents from the four “houses” pitted their skills
against each other in suitably modified sports with
teams cheering each other on.
The celebratory 10 year birthday cake (well prep
ared by our new Italian chef!) was enjoyed by all.
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Environmental focus in Victoria
using students from a local high school where they
learned skills in outdoor garden design, carpentry
and concreting.
Olivet, Victoria
livet’s new sensitive care memory support
unit was planned understanding that clients
entering were in need of sensitive care, and as
such consideration was given to size, use of light
and outdoor space.
O
We looked at key design concepts to improve
quality of life and feel the ones chosen have been
successful.
The Mullum Mullum Creek trail is at the end of the
quiet court at Olivet and so weather permitting,
those who love the outdoors take daily walks.
For those who might not be able to walk as far,
Olivet’s sensory garden is better suited. This
delightful garden was built with volunteer labour
and a project funded through the State Govenrment
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The garden has been featured on Gardening
Australia, and the design was a collaborative
arrangement between members of the Horticultural
Association of Victoria, Olivet’s architect and staff.
Our garden extends along 150 meters of fence line
and meanders through bush to provide wonderful
colours for sight, leaves and flowers to provide
scents, soft and rubbery plants for touch, fruit and
herbs for taste, and bird baths to attract the myriad
of birds for us to enjoy their songs.
Olivet has also recently installed solar power units
and we are currently generating up to 100KW per
day of solar power from the 450 roof mounted units
and eight inverters.
It is proposed that these panels will generate over
130.5 MWh of solar power annually, and which is
expected to save Olivet up to $34,000 a year in
energy bills and will shrink Olivet’s carbon footprint
by 173.92 tonnes a year.
Wooden toys bring joy to residents
R
ay Mogg has been making toys for the
Maranatha‘s Spring Fair for more than 20
years.
His wooden trucks and cars are a big hit every year
and most sell out by the end of the day.
“Not only are there about six types of wooden
vehicles but we also make a variety of jewellery
boxes, turned wall and desk clocks made from
Champhor Laurel and various timbers,” Ray said.
“It is great to see the figure and colour of the grain
in the timbers as they are polished.”
According to Alzheimer’s Australia, giving people
with dementia a simple game or task to focus
on can distract them and reduce aggressive or
distruptive behaviour.
“Changes in the behaviour of people with dementia
are very common. Sometimes they can become
upset and display behaviours such as pacing and
fiddling. Constant vocalisations such as talking
constantly, repeating words and phrases, crying or
Some of Ray’s toys were
recently taken to Casa Mia
and given to some of the
residents with dementia.
cursing and screaming are also types of agitated
behaviours,” an Alzheimer’s Austalia helpsheet
says.
“A simple activity.. may help. Distraction and
understanding the trigger are often
the most useful approaches.”
Some of Ray’s toys were recently taken to Casa
Mia and given to some of the residents with
dementia.
Staff found the toys made the residents happy and
less likely to become agitated.
Ray said even though he is now retired he wanted
to continue working with wood and creating toys for
the community.
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Home is where
the heart is
After seven years at
Christadelphian Aged Care
Chief Financial Officer Andrew
O’Toole is moving on, but says
he will always hold a special
place in his heart for the
organisation.
H
ome is the nicest word there is. For many years
the aged care sector has referred to residential
care as a ‘facility’, because of negative impressions of
‘nursing homes’ that developed in the media. I dislike
the word ’facility’ because it sounds institutional. I much
prefer the word ‘home’ and I’m delighted to see that this
term is now consistently used by the Commonwealth.
Home is personal – it’s where we live.
I’d particularly like to name a number of people to thank
who have supported and encouraged me at CAC.
Firstly from the Board, our Chairman, Graham
Cavanagh-Downs, who has shown a steady hand and
great insight over decades of leadership here. John
Pearce, who passed away too young, an amiable
character, who balanced commercial nous with a great
interest in people.
After seven years with Christadelphian Aged Care, I’m
moving elsewhere, moving house. In fact, you could
say I’m moving from one ‘home’ focused enterprise to
another; from residential care of our elders to improving
consumers’ homes.
Importantly, I thank our CEO, Ross Peden, a very loyal
and caring fellow, whose strategic instinct and hard
work are behind the organisation that CAC is today.
I came to work at Christadelphian Homes after a phone
call. A door opened and I decided to walk through.
I return to where I came from, at DuluxGroup, after
another phone call. A door has opened, and it’s time to
walk through. Phone calls from one home to another,
one relationship to another.
I’ve met many special people during these past
seven years – hard-working, warm-hearted, capable
and astute – nurses, caterers, cleaners, carers,
administrators, directors and volunteers, who are
inspiring examples of human compassion.
I’ve experienced the inner beauty and sparkle of our
elder citizens and seen the dedication and loving
support of their spouses, children and friends. The
latter years of life are a time that can bring people
together in love and that’s a wonderful thing. It’s
dignified and profound.
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Special thanks also to my diligent team, led by
Steve Houlahan, who work behind the scenes in our
Corporate Services office and to Matthew Lamey our
General Manager of Operations and his large team of
capable and big hearted staff across all our homes.
I’ve enjoyed sharing a lot of great times and weathered
some challenging storms together with many of you.
Life is made up of highs and lows, but the highs give
contrast to the lows and make the view serene.
In chapter 14 of John’s Gospel, Jesus said, “Anyone
who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will
love them, and we will come to them and make our
home with them”.
“Home is where the heart is.”
I feel very blessed to be at home wherever I am.
I’ll be thinking of you at home and I pray for God’s
blessing on you also.
Andrew O’Toole
New face on the
Central Coast
Bev Moss has joined
Christadelphian Aged Care as
the new facility manager at
Chamberlain Gardens.
B
ev Moss graduated from nursing at the Sydney
Adventist Hospital and then later moved to
Melbourne, where she married Peter and had their
daughter Michelle.
She had worked in several areas of nursing including
acute care, theatre and district nursing. However, when
she was introduced to aged care she found that it was
her passion and now has over 20 years experience in
this area.
She completed post graduate studies in gerontology
and nursing in Melbourne, and was then asked to
be a director of nursing. She has continued in senior
management roles in aged care since then as facility
manager, director of nursing and executive manager.
Ten years ago she and Peter decided to move to the
Central Coast to be closer to Michelle who is now
married and has a beautiful three-year-old daughter
called Summer. Bev says that Summer definitely does
brighten up their days!
During her extensive experience in aged care she
has commissioned new multi-million dollar facilities,
managed multiple sites and been asked to represent
the Central Coast Residential Aged Care Managers on
the Medicare Local Aged Care Committee.
She has a deep respect for our aged citizens and is
passionate about enhancing our resident’s lives with
excellent and empathetic quality care.
She is really enjoying working with Christadelphian
Aged Care and the great team at Chamberlain
Gardens, and said that it was their excellent reputation,
Christian values and philosophy and inspiring
leadership that led her to join the organisation.
A touch of colour and spice
M
ichael Travers joined the staff at Chamberlain
Gardens when Christadelphian Aged Care took
over about four years ago.
Michael is the back-up chef to head chef Leanne
Hurrell and Visha who makes the salads, desserts,
cakes and cookies. Michael enjoys using a variety of
cooking methods and adapts to the “flavour” of the day.
His other passion is photography, and he’s taken
photos all his life. His family moved to New Guinea and
Michael started taking photos of logs, which led into
scenery.
His dad gave Michael a hand-me-down Ricoh Rapid,
which he used for 10 years before graduating to a
Nikon.
He had his own dark room and developed black
and white photos.
On his days off Michael is up at 4am looking for
sunrises to photograph. He gets the shopping done
and the bills paid, then he is off exploring in the car
looking for the next great photo opportunity.
National parks, waterfalls, beaches and cliffs are
favourites. His main love is landscapes with a side
interest in wildlife, particularly birds.
Michael recently visited Bouddi National Park on
the Central Coast and snapped a beautiful photo of
a litte beach, using a CAC umbrella to add a little
colour.
Check out the photo on the back page!
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Running for a cause
Read about the experiences of Christadelphian Aged
Care staff when they participated in this year’s City2Surf.
As the day got closer, the more
nervous we became. We had entered
into the “back of the pack” group but
we weren’t sure we would get to the
finish line. I have never seen so many
people in my life. Four kilometres into
the walk, we felt we had had enough,
but, we kept going... and going... and
going. At last we made it! We were
enormously impressed with ourselves
for completing the walk and enjoyed
the day tremendously. Although tired,
we all arrived at work early the next
morning fit and well, surprisingly with
very few of the aches and pains we
had anticipated. - Margaret
People from all walks of life participated and it was easy to
catch up with our team mates wearing our brilliant orange
t-shirts. The end was a welcome relief as we linked arms to
cross the finish line together. A great day of camaraderie and
laughs. - Libby
What a great experience we had participating in the
2014 City2Surf. This was my first (and my last) time. The
atmosphere was wonderful and we stood out in the crowd
in our orange t-shirts. Unfortunately, we didn’t see any other
CAC staff along the way but we represented the organisation
proudly. Although we were exhausted by the time we reached
the finish line, we were still smiling. - Kim
I have a good feeling that I have
participated in a wonderful and
beneficial event for a humanitarian
fundraising purpose. A most enjoyable
marathon with my wonderful friends
in Christadelphian Aged Care, who
proudly wore their orange t-shirts. –
Joseph
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As the day approached, we
had been working on our
fitness levels, had our t-shirts,
registration bibs and we were
ready to go. Then I got a nasty
viral infection, Lisa developed
knee problems and Kelly also
succumbed to a nasty flu. Glenda
was the only able bodied person
who was able to represent
Chamberlain Gardens on the day.
Despite these disappointments,
we are already talking about next
year! - Val
Memories of weddings and joy
Southhaven held a Spring Bridal Day in September and
residents, families and staff enjoyed dressing up in wedding
clothes and remembering their own special day.
The Southhaven Spring Bridal Day was organised
by the Fitting Together Committee with a great
deal of help and support from managers, staff and
relatives of residents.
As with any wedding, dresses were organised
over the previous months, and a range of beautiful
wedding, bridesmaid and flower girl dresses were
donated or loaned for the day.
It started to feel like the build-up to a real wedding
as Recreational Activity Officers Lenny and Carmen
began doing hair and make-up in the morning.
Our residents enjoyed watching as staff were
transformed into beautiful brides and bridesmaids.
After lunch, champagne was served to the
“congregation’ as we all waited with anticipation for
the parade of gowns to begin.
Facility Manager Peter Jessing introduced the
afternoon’s proceedings, and RAO Janet was the
MC and gave an interesting commentary as each
bride or bridesmaid walked out on to the red carpet.
Joshua, one of our nurses, looking very elegant
in his grey suit with pink tie, escorted each lady to
display the gowns to the audience.
Kerry, Michelle, Reagan and Varna brought their
children in to wear flower girl and page boy outfits.
Registered nurses, nurses and kitchen staff made
As with any wedding,
dresses were organised over
the previous months, and a
range of beautiful wedding,
bridesmaid and flower girl
dresses were donated or
loaned for the day.
very beautiful models.
Debbie from the kitchen made a wonderful wedding
cake, complete with bride and groom on top!
The gowns kept coming – pink, blue, green, grey
and even black bridesmaid dresses – and many
wedding gowns.
Father Steve played the piano throughout the
parade and added so much to the ambiance with
his lovely selection of wedding music.
The afternoon was topped off with a high tea which
was enjoyed by everyone.
Staff, residents and relatives enjoyed the day. It
was fun and so many people went out of their way
to make it a really lovely day. We hope it brought
some happy memories back for our residents.
Lesley Gosling, Southhaven physiotherapist
13
Finding a new passion
later in life
Maranatha residents Isobelle Bundesen and Lucille Gradwell have
both discovered the joy of quilting.
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M
y sewing life began when
I was seven years old.
I used to sit and watch Mum
sewing on her old treadle, but
she would never let me have a
go on it.
Eventually, when she wasn’t
looking, I had a try and found
I could treadle and sew and
manage the seams. She then
agreed for me to sew on some
little garments for my baby sister
– Lucille. That was in 1943.
At the age of 13-years-old I
made my first dress completely
alone. When I started work at
the age of 16, I made all my
work clothes. I was training as
a bookkeeper at the Singer
Sewing Machine Co.
I bought my first Singer treadle
machine when I was 17 and in
1956, I married Keith and made
my wedding dress and two
bridesmaid dresses.
From then on my sewing
machine was never idle as in
the next seven years I gave
birth to five baby boys, one of
whom died at six months with
leukemia.
Naturally, with so many mouths
to feed, I found it necessary
to carry on with a business
from home and four years
later, expecting my first of two
baby girls, I moved on from
children and elderly ladies
dresses to wedding gowns and
bridesmaids.
When the second little girl
arrived I was 37 and an
extremely busy and an
organised Mum. My eldest boy
was 16 and had just started
work. Life went on in this
manner for the next 30 years.
In 2003 my husband passed
away and I struggled to find a
purpose for dress-making.
Then I found quilting – a whole
new world! I had become a
quilter and a great-grandmother.
I joined the “Patch Happy”
group at Rockhampton, but
opportunity brought me to
I now have a
list of 17 great
grandchildren
waiting for
a quilt to be
made by great
grandmother
and a growing
list of other dear
friends.
Maranatha. I bought a quilting
machine and frame in 2007 and
I have been making quilts to
sell as a fundraising project for
Maranatha ever since, firstly with
Lucille and then with my friend
Teresita.
I have also been helping my
friend Ailsa learn the art of
stipling and managing the quilter
which she has learnt very well.
My daughter Elizabeth does
excellent patchwork and great
granddaughter Evana, who is
12-years-old, is learning.
I now have a list of 17 great
grandchildren waiting for a
quilt to be made by great
grandmother and a growing
list of other dear friends. Dear
God please continue to give me
strength.
Isobelle Bundesen
I
n the 1970s I began making
rugs, bath mats and other
household items out of fabrics
left
over from garments I made for
my young children. Patchwork
curtains in my son’s bedroom
looked very effective. Old
sleeping bags became
patchwork quilts. Thus began
my love of quilting.
In 2002, my husband and I
bought a caravan and became
“grey-nomads”. My sewing
machines came, too. While
travelling, I designed and made
quilts and cuddle rugs to give to
my children and grandchildren.
Since coming to Maranatha in
2007, I have made and quilted
lots of quilts, pillow cases,
cushion covers, carry bags, and
other items. I have plenty to
keep me busy – several quilts
are at various stages of
completion, and I am presently
working on the design of
another.
Some of my quilts have been
among those on display at the
bi-annual quilt shows held by A
& R Quilters, the quilting group
of which my sister and I are
members.
I am now so addicted to
quilting that I have become a
“quiltaholic”!
Lucille Gradwell
15
Spring Ball
Maranatha
Roaring ‘20s
Ball
Ridgeview
The principles of decisionmaking in aged care
N
ominated and legally appointed
representatives and guardians are substitute
decision-makers and consent givers. The views
and wishes of the person receiving services, so
far as they can be ascertained, should be given
paramount consideration by substitute decisionmakers and consent givers. Any decisions made
about the person should be, as nearly as possible,
the decisions that the person would have made
and in the best interests of the person receiving
services. Wherever possible, people receiving
services should be consulted and involved in
decisions made about them.
Power of Attorney
It can be a good idea to plan ahead for a situation
where you may have an accident or be too ill or frail
to make important decisions. In these instances,
you can authorise another person to act on your
behalf by signing a power of attorney. The person
might be a relative, a close friend, a solicitor or the
Public Trustee (State Trustee in Victoria)
Main types of Power of Attorney
• A general power of attorney authorises a person to
act generally on your behalf.
• A limited power of attorney authorises a person to
act on your behalf in specific circumstances
• An enduring power of attorney, unlike the other
two types, remains valid even if you lose your ability
to make decisions because of illness or injury
18
Purpose
A power of attorney is used to make sure that a
trusted person attends to essential matters at the
right time. It usually becomes effective as soon as it
is signed. However, this does not mean you cannot
continue to manage your own affairs if you are able
to do so.
Guardianship
Guardianship involves making lifestyle, health or
other personal decisions on their behalf. Guardians
may be family members or friends of the person
receiving services. When a person can no longer
make decisions and there is no nominated or
appointed representative, a public guardian may be
appointed by a state or territory government to act
on a person’s behalf.
Enduring Power of Guardianship
This means the appointed guardian making
personal and lifestyle decisions can continue to
make those decisions in the event of the person
losing, at some time in the future, the capacity to
make decisions.
Contact your local Guardianship Board or Tribunal
for detailed information about laws in your state.
Information taken from;
Accommodation Choices for Older Australians and their
Families, Department of Social Services – What can we learn?
Feb 2014
Cultures celebrated at Casa Mia
A
very hot day and tremendous thunder storm did
not dull the enthusiasm of those who attended
Casa Mia's Cultural Family Day in November.
us, not to be outdone by a Samoan Choir and the
Bagpipes being played by Dr Cameron.
Food from Greece, China, Italy and the British Isles
was enjoyed by everyone.
Thank you to everyone who participated in our
Cultural Day and made it a wonderful event for our
residents.
Staff donned their traditional dress and proudly
modelled for all to see.
Sharon Fletcher
Casa Mia Facility Manager
Traditional Indian and Tongan dancers entertained
19
You’re in charge:
of your own learning
commencing october 2014
For more information, contact:
renee Potter – Education Coordinator
e: rpotter@chomes.com.au
p: 02 9782 6068
m: 0401 343 305
e3Learning offers training and
education through flexible
online learning, giving you
the opportunity to study at
work, at home; in your own
time, and at your own pace.
Learning on the job
C
hristadelphian Aged Care’s E3 Learning offers
training and education through flexible online
delivery and provides the opportunity to study at
work, or home, in your own time and at your own
pace.
E3 is a self-directed learning platform. It is your
responsibility to ensure you complete the required
modules by specified dates.
Competency assessments will continue to be
required and will be completed on the job by CAC
staff educators.
Computer terminals will be made available at each
Home for staff use or you can access through
the CAC website at your home using your own
computer. You will be given individual usernames
and passwords.
E3 Learning was expected to commence this
October and onsite training was given beforehand.
The basis for developing the CAC 12 monthly
education calendar is linked to all 44 Standards for
Aged Care and the results of internal audits. Yearly
education surveys are provided to staff to identify
further the needs of the Home and staff.
Practical, on the floor education is provided by the
educator who may invite guest speakers, or staff
may be sent to other professionals for specialised
training.
Monthly calendars are displayed around the Home
and volunteers and family members are welcome to
attend with prior notice.
Some topics which are covered include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Fire safety: awareness of fire, evacuation
procedures and use of equipment where all staff
gain hands on experience with extinguishers
and hose reels
Infection Control: standard precautions, hand
washing techniques and additional information
such as outbreak protocols (gastro/flu)
Manual handling (theory of movement, use of
lifters and transferring residents)
food safety
chemical safety
bullying and harassment
medication competencies
21
Songs of friendship and fun
The Ridgeview Choir is helping resident reconnect with their
past and make new friends for the future.
R
idgeview Choir began early this year in
February by a small number of residents who
enjoy singing and making music. Starting out, we
were unsure where this idea would lead, and even
wondered if there would be someone to play the
piano each week!
But the following month saw Lyn join the volunteer
team at Ridgeview to become our choir’s pianist
each Monday when we meet together.
We would be lost without Lyn’s musical talents and
the comedic antics of her enthusiastic husband Ern
who joins us occasionally to boost our numbers and
volume.
Our choir eagerly awaits a chance to perform to
their fellow residents, so the dates have been set
for the end of October and a special Christmas
performance in December. While our choir was
busily preparing for these events they were
delighted to receive customised embroidered
22
We would be lost without
Lyn’s musical talents and
the comedic antics of her
enthusiastic husband Ern
who joins us occasionally
to boost our numbers and
volume.
sashes to wear while performing, which makes
them look rather smart and sing even louder.
We continue to grow in numbers and it has
been wonderful to meet together, sing some old
favourites, have a laugh and enjoy making new
friends
Shell Bonner
Volunteer & Pastoral Care Coordinator
Common eye conditions
found in aged care
V
isual impairment is an important health issue
facing older Australians because it can affect
physical, functional, emotional and social wellbeing,
and reduce quality of life.
The major eye diseases that cause reduced
vision are cataracts and Age Related Macula
Degeneration (ARMD).
What is a cataract?
In the human eye there is a transparent lens which
is used for focusing images.
A cataract is a clouding of this clear lens most
commonly caused by sun damage. They generally
occur in those who are older, but they can develop
in younger people as well.
In the early stages a cataract may not cause
vision problems, but some of the common signs
associated with advanced cataracts may be blurred
vision or glare sensitivity or a feeling of looking
through a veil.
Those most at risk are people who have exposed
their eyes to sunlight without protection over a long
period, or who perhaps have a family history of
cataracts, or have smoked for some time. Diabetes
and eye injuries are also common causes.
The good news is that treatment these days
is wonderfully successful. Once spectacles
can no longer be used to improve vision an
ophthalmologist will recommend surgery where
the “old, discoloured” lens is removed and a
new, transparent plastic lens is inserted – an
outpatient procedure these days, done under local
anaesthetic.
The major eye diseases that
cause reduced vision are
cataracts and Age Related
Macula Degeneration
(ARMD)
What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
This condition affects the macula area retina at
the back of the eye. Sadly, this is the area that is
used for straight ahead, sensitive vision, so people
who have ARMD struggle with reading, writing,
looking at detailed objects, and colour vision. Their
peripheral vision is still good so moving around is
easy, but often face recognition is poor.
ARMD is described as either dry or wet. Dry ARMD
is the most common and results in a gradual loss
of central vision. Wet ARMD is rarer and leads to
sudden, big changes in vision.
The most common symptom is distorted vision, a
gradual decline in the ability to see objects clearly
and a dimming of colour vision. Those most at risk
of developing this are people with a family history of
ARMD, people over the age of 75 and smokers.
Unfortunately, there is currently no treatment for dry
ARMD but there are injections into the eye available
for wet ARMD that are aimed at reducing vision loss
for as long as possible. Some doctors recommend
vitamin supplements to reduce the progression of
the disease.
Cathy Strachan
Volunteer and Pastoral Care Coordinator
23
Ashburn House
A little bit of extra care
A
shburn House is a modern
facility designed to create a
living environment that not only
encourages a healthy and active
lifestyle, but one that feels like
home. The facility is located in
the Sydney northern suburb of
Gladesville, close to Looking
Glass Bay and Banjo Patterson
Park.
Ashburn House incorporates the
latest innovative design concepts
and modern technologies to
provide personalised care
within a peaceful and secure
environment. The facility has
also implemented resource
and energy efficient initiatives
including solar hot water and
rainwater storage for gardens.
Accommodation
Ashburn House offers a range
of accommodation and care
services to meet the various
needs of those seeking assisted
24
living. All rooms are stylishly
furnished and fitted with modern
inclusions.
Facilities
Surrounded by landscaped
gardens and well-appointed
courtyards, there is plenty of
space for residents to stroll the
grounds or enjoy a barbecue with
family and friends.
Inside there is a choice of
several comfortable lounge areas
furnished with quality decor and
modern fittings. Residents can
choose to socialise with family or
friends or take advantage of the
numerous other amenities which
include:
• Theatre and function area
• Cafe and outdoor dining area
• A well stocked library
• Hairdressing salon
• Craft and exercise room
Services
To complement the 24-hour
nursing care at Ashburn House
the entertainment and activities
are designed to enhance the
quality of life of all our residents
and maximise their mental
and physical well being. We
understand that companionship
is important to our residents and
seek to offer activities that fulfill
their social needs.
“
I’ll never forget the
beaming smile with
which my father was
welcomed back
by staff, after I’d
taken him out for
the day. He was truly
welcomed and cared
for. I am very grateful
and thank you.
- Vanessa, Abbotsford
Casa Mia
There’s no place like home
Thank you for the
C
three wonderful years
asa Mia Aged Care is
located close to the banks
of Salt Pan Creek in a quiet
neighbourhood in Padstow.
The facility offers residents an
exceptional level of care that
comes from dedicated and
caring staff and a commitment
to enriching the lives of all our
residents.
Meaning “My House”, Casa
Mia is a place residents are
comfortable to call their home.
Professional nursing staff are
on duty 24 hours a day to care
for our residents in a supportive
environment and encourage them
to take advantage of all facilities
and services so they can enjoy
their life to the full at Casa Mia.
Facilities
Casa Mia opens out to an
expansive lawn and garden with
a covered entertainment area.
Residents and their families can
take advantage of the barbecue
facilities or just enjoy the
outdoors with their loved ones in
a corner of the garden.
Services
To complement the 24-hour
nursing care at Casa Mia the
entertainment and activities
are designed to enhance the
quality of life of all our residents
and maximise their mental
and physical well being. We
understand that companionship
is important to our residents and
seek to offer activities that fulfil
their social needs.
These include:
•
•
•
•
Regular bus outings
Onsite hairdresser
Entertainment and activity
programs
Multi-denominational church
services
Residents are free to choose
their own doctor or we can advise
them of visiting doctors. Along
with 24-hour nursing care, Casa
Mia also offers a variety of allied
health services.
“
Mum had with you.
You gave her a new
lease of life. You told
her about your lives,
your families and she
often said living there
was like being part of
a big family. Thanks
for making her laugh,
thanks for the curried
prawns and rice.
Thanks for caring.
”
- Maureen Smith,
Avoca Beach
25
Chamberlain Gardens
Dedicated care on the Central Coast
C
hamberlain Gardens Aged
Care is located at Wyoming
on the Central Coast. This
modern facility backing onto
Niagara Park Reserve is in a
private and secure location and
enjoys attractive views of the
Australian bush.
The facility has 24-hour
professional nursing care and
provides care services tailored
to the specific needs of each
resident.
Facilities
This modern facility also features:
•
•
•
•
•
26
Landscaped gardens and
courtyards
Well-appointed lounges and
quiet areas with modern
decor
A well-stocked library
Hairdresser on site
A chapel with multidenominational services
Services
To complement the 24-hour
nursing care at Chamberlain
Gardens the entertainment
and activities are designed to
enhance the quality of life of
all our residents and maximise
their mental and physical well
being. We understand that
companionship is important to
our residents and seek to offer
activities that fulfil their social
needs. These include:
•
•
•
•
Regular bus outings
Diversional therapy,
entertainment and activity
programs
Volunteer program
Pastoral care services
offering emotional and
spiritual support to residents
and their families.
Allied health services such as
dental and podiatry visit regularly
or as required.
“
It is indeed a pleasure
when one stumbles across
something that just grabs
your attention. Your facility
has just done that. Lisa
made herself available
to take us on a tour and
answer the many questions
we posed to her. The staff
have been absolutely
wonderful and helpful. So
while our journey through
your facility is relatively new,
it is refreshing and reassuring
that we have made the
right decision for our loved
one. To you and your staff,
many thanks.
Greg Kincaid, Wyoming
Maranatha Aged Care
Enjoy the golden years in Queensland
M
aranatha is nestled among
neatly maintained gardens
in the northern Brisbane suburb
of Kallangur in Queensland.
The integrated care site hosts a
52 unit village and 91 bed Home.
This design allows for an easy
transition as the dependency
needs of our residents change
over time.
Professional nursing staff are on
duty 24 hours a day, and provide
care services tailored to meet the
needs of each individual resident
with compassion and dignity.
Facilities
Along with the attractive gardens
located within the village,
Maranatha also has a productive
orchard, vegetable and herb
gardens and a delightful sensory
garden. Many residents take the
time to stroll, relax and enjoy the
scents and colours, which help
stimulate memories and senses.
Outdoor functions such as
barbecues and birthday parties
are regularly held in the screened
rotundas, and the delicious
aroma of freshly brewed coffee
at the Sunflower Cafe draws
a steady stream of residents
and visitors to enjoy its light
refreshments.
Services
Volunteers and pastoral carers
provide companionship and
help with many of the activities,
which contributes to Maranatha’s
friendly atmosphere.
The entertainment and activities
that complement the nursing care
are designed to enhance the
quality of life of all our residents
and maximise their mental and
physical well-being.
These include:
•
•
•
•
Allied health services
Hairdresser
Bus outings with wheelchair
access
Multi-denominational church
services
•
Diverse activity programs
We understand that
companionship is important to
our residents and seek to offer
activities that fulfil their social
needs.
“
“I am very grateful
for the numerous
educational training
sessions that I
have been able to
participate in and
the opportunity to
use this knowledge in
helping the residents.
It is great to work
with the RAOs and
Volunteer Coordinator
who appreciate
our help with the
excellent activities
they organise for the
residents.
- Pauline, Maranatha
volunteer
27
Ridgeview
Mountain views in the Illawarra
R
idgeview Aged Care is
located at Albion Park in the
Illawarra region. This modern
facility is situated in the foothills
of Budderoo National Park in a
quiet residential community and
enjoys attractive mountain views.
The facility has 24-hour
professional nursing care and
provides services tailored to the
specific needs of each resident
with compassion and dignity.
Facilities
This modern facility also features:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
28
Landscaped gardens and
delightful courtyards with
barbecue facilities
Well-appointed lounges and
quiet areas
Private function area
Well-stocked library
Internet cafe
In-house resident laundry
Hairdresser onsite
Chapel with multidenominational services
Services
To complement the 24-hour
nursing care at Ridgeview, the
entertainment and activities are
designed to enhance the quality
of life of all of our residents
and maximise their mental and
physical well-being.
We understand that
companionship is important to
our residents and seek to offer
activities that fulfill their social
needs. These include:
•
•
•
Regular bus outings that
include wheelchair access
Diversional therapy,
entertainment and activity
programs
Volunteer program offering
activities and social support
for our residents
Allied health services such as
dental and podiatry also visit
regularly or as required.
“
In the almost three
years Mum spent in
her new home, she
was always beautifully
cared for by all the
staff. From the nurses
who went beyond
the call of duty, to
the kitchen providing
lovely home cooked
meals, the laundry
staff, the cleaners,
RAOs and physio
aides. Dementia is not
an easy condition but
Ridgeview certainly
made it easier for me.
Thank you from the
bottom of my heart.
- Lynne Savage,
daughter
”
Southhaven
Enjoy a peaceful life in a bush setting
abode. I know we
T
are fortunate that
reetops and Riverside
(formerly Nursing Home
and Hostel) emerge from the
bushland of Salt Pan Reserve,
on the banks of Salt Pan Creek in
Padstow Heights.
This stunning natural setting
creates a living environment
residents feel comfortable to call
their home.
Southhaven offers an extensive
range of accommodation and
care services to meet the various
needs of those seeking assisted
living.
Treetops Cafe is an ideal place
to enjoy the natural bush canopy
where kookaburras chortle and
galahs congregate.
Communal areas are designed
for indoor games and
entertainment and the various
lounges for residents to enjoy
quiet times conversing with family
and friends.
Services
Residents at Southhaven enjoy a
busy calendar of events designed
to promote an active and healthy
lifestyle and encourage social
interaction.
“ “”
Southhaven has been
my mother’s home
for the last 18 months.
Whenever I visit the
nursing home it is
always light, clean,
quiet and orderly –
but best of all is the
welcome and the
feeling of belonging
when I come through
the door. Staff have
always been willing
to bring me up-todate with events or
information about
my family member
and go out of
their way to make
residents comfortable
and happy in their
mum feels happy,
safe and content at
Southhaven.
- Lyn Dumont
The Hostel is a
fantastic place to
work, staff work as
a team and our
manager Kim is
always there to talk
to and offer support.
Residents are always
treated with respect
and duty of care is our
number one priority.
Our aim is to make
the residents happy,
comfortable and
still in control of their
decisions.
- Stephanie, staff
member
”
29
Aged Care Changes
Living Longer, Living Better
Government regulated aged care reforms became effective on July 1, 2014. Residents
who enter into Christadelphian Aged Care will have a choice of paying a Refundable
Accommodation Deposit (RAD), a Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP) or a combination
of both. Residents have 28 days after entry to decide their choice of payment. CAC, as
per Government requirements, has advertised on our website, the maximum amount to
be charged for each group of rooms at each Home. RADs are completely negotiable. We
suggest you compare similar aged care services within the locality suitable for your needs,
and contact us to discuss your options.
Refundable Accomodation Payment (RAD)
A refundable accommodation payment is an amount of money payable as an entry fee or
rather, a purchase of your new Home. The balance of the RAD (after agreed deductions
have been drawn down) will be refunded to the resident (or estate) upon the termination
of the resident agreement. If any amounts are drawn down, the daily accommodation
payment will be increased by an amount that compensates for the impact of receiving
lower earnings due to the decreasing refundable accommodation payment balance.
30
Daily Accommodation
Payment (DAP)
Maximum Permissible
Interest Rate (MPIR)
A daily accommodation payment is the
amount calculated by converting the RAD
into a daily charge using the maximum
permissible interest rate (MPIR) that
applied on the price agreement day, or
rather, your daily hotel type services.
Interest rates are determined by the
Australian Government and updated
quarterly. Currently set at 6.63% (1/10/14
– 31/12/14). To calculate the DAP, multiply
the RAD for a room by 6.63% and divide
by 365. For example, a RAD of $300,000
becomes a DAP of $54.49 per day.
How to apply for a placement with CAC
From July 1, 2014 the distinction between permanent High and Low Care was removed.
1
An Aged Care Client Record (ACCR)
is required by all those applying for
care and accommodation. Aged Care
Assessment teams can be contacted
through most public hospitals or your
General Practitioner.
2
Complete a Request for a Combined
Assets and Income Assessment,
available from www.humanservices.gov.au,
and lodge with Centrelink. (By visiting My
Aged Care: www.myagedcare.gov.au/feeestimator/residential-care you will be able
to complete and print your Residential Care
Fee Estimator. Your estimate will give you
the basic daily fee, the means-tested care
fee and the accommodation payment)
3
4
Complete a CAC application form.
These are available by calling any
of our Homes or from our website www.
chomes.com.au.
Submit these documents, and if
applicable, a copy of enduring power
of attorney and/or guardianship documents,
to the facility manager who will discuss
your needs and current availability of
accommodation.
Government accommodation supplement – Means Tested Care Fee
The Government will continue to pay a
supplement to CAC for residents who
they have assessed as being eligible for
an accommodation supplement. Eligibility
for residents entering care after July 1,
2014 will be determined under new means
testing arrangements involving a combined
income and asset test. The Government will
either pay the maximum accommodation
High
Dependency
supplement
or a part Care
accommodation
supplement, depending on the resident’s
assessed financial circumstances. This is
currently set at $25,349.21 (indexed) per
annum (including Income Tested Fee for
Home Care) during the year or currently
$60,838.12 (indexed) over a lifetime
(including Income Tested Fee paid for
Home Care). This is charged on top of Daily
Accommodation Payment (DAP) and reset
each financial year.
Respite and Special Care Units
receive residential respite care you will need
an ACAT approval. Low-level and highlevel care categories continue to apply for
approvals for residential respite care after
July 1, 2014. Booked accommodation at
CAC Homes is available for those seeking
short term care.
Respite care is a form of support for carers.
It gives people a break from their caring
role. If the person who cares for you on a
day-to-day basis needs a break, a short
stay in an aged care home can be arranged
for you. This is called ‘residential respite
care’, and can happen on a planned or
emergency basis. You will return home after
your short stay in the aged care home. To
Special care units are designed to give
residents the best quality of life supporting
those with various forms of dementia in a
safe and secure environment.
31
Christadelphian Aged Care
11 Queensbury Rd, Padstow Heights NSW 2211
P.O. Box 690, Riverwood NSW 2210
Phone: (02) 9782 6000 Fax: 9782 6005
E: admin@chomes.com.au
Ashburn House
Casa Mia
20-34 Ashburn Place, Gladesville NSW 2111
Ph: (02) 8876 9200 Fax: (02) 8876 9210
E: admin@chomes.com.au
28 Alma Rd, Padstow NSW 2211
Ph: (02) 8707 6010 Fax: (02) 8707 6052
E: admin@chomes.com.au
Chamberlain Gardens
Maranatha
53-67 Chamberlain Rd, Wyoming NSW 2250
Ph: (02) 4329 8000 Fax: (02) 4329 8001
E: admin@chomes.com.au
1582 Anzac Ave, Kallangur QLD 4503
Ph: (07) 3482 5333 Fax: (07) 3886 3889
E: admin@chomes.com.au
Ridgeview Aged Care
Southhaven
95 Daintree Drive, Albion Park NSW 2527
Ph: (02) 4235 7600 Fax: (02) 4235 7650
E: admin@chomes.com.au
11 Queensbury Rd, Padstow Heights NSW 2211
(Treetops) Ph: (02) 9782 6010 Fax: (02) 9782 6011
(Riverside) Ph: (02) 9782 6030 Fax: (02) 9782 6031
E: admin@chomes.com.au
www.chomes.com.au