It was a two-for-one deal at Villa Maria Fortitude Valley last week, with residents and staff coming together to celebrate the Home’s unique cultural diversity!
The Home in Brisbane is embracing cultural-themed monthly events as part of an awareness program. This month, residents were lucky to be involved in two celebrations – an Italian-themed morning tea and a Moon Festival afternoon tea.
“The Italian morning tea was very popular. The desserts provided included tiramisu, cannoli, cantuccini, panforte, and Italian chocolates and pastries,” says Joanne, Diversional Therapist.
“Of course, the Moon Festival was held on the actual day of the Moon Festival, the 21 September. For this afternoon tea, we provided several types of traditional and more modern moon cakes and also Chinese tea.”
The Italian morning tea was chosen by the Leisure and Lifestyle team with the aim of getting more of the Italian residents and their families involved in the Home. The Mid-Autumn Festival, also called the Moon Festival or the Mooncake Festival, was a chance to honour those of Asian descent, and was a time for celebration, reunion and thanksgiving. Residents were joined by their families and friends, including their grandchildren, which was a treat!
“We are a truly multicultural community here at Villa Maria and we have residents and staff from a variety of backgrounds including, Italian, Filipino, Indian, African, Chinese, Nepalese, Irish, Dutch, German, Thai and Vietnamese to name a few,” says Beth, Residential Manager.
“It is important that we embrace and celebrate our cultural differences. We try to learn more about each of our residents’ unique backgrounds and life stories so that they feel truly valued in our community.”
The residents enjoyed the celebrations, dining on delicious cakes and sweets and trying out new foods. Overall, both celebrations were a success!
Located in the heart of Brisbane with scenic views of the city, Villa Maria Fortitude Valley is a welcoming heritage-listed Home. The beautifully refurbished grand heritage-listed building accommodates 127 residents and includes a stunning onsite chapel, views of Brisbane city and a lovely outdoor garden area. Residents can engage in arts and crafts programs, exercise programs and other social outings and activities.
To find out more about Villa Maria Fortitude Valley call 1800 225 474 or visit the Villa Maria Fortitude Valley page on our website.
August 3, 2021
Residential Aged Care, CHL
Meet Karina Gabiola, Aged Care Funding Instrument Coordinator at Villa Maria Fortitude Valley in Brisbane. Karina’s Filipino upbringing instilled in her a strong regard and consideration for other people’s feelings, and also a strong sense of respect for the elderly which she has carried through into her current role as Aged Care Funding Instrument Coordinator.
July 5, 2021
Residential Aged Care, CHL
When Ruby, resident at Villa Maria Fortitude Valley Residential Aged Care Home turned 108 years this week it was a precious occasion to celebrate.
