More than 400 people gather for a joint celebration of Harmony Day and Seniors Week

Posted on 21/03/2024 | by Vikki Hine

More than 400 people gathered together for a fun celebration in a joint Harmony Day and Seniors Week event this week, organised by SydWest.

The much anticipated event on our annual calendar saw people of all ages – from children to our seniors – come together for a morning of fun and educational activities.

Participants strapped on their dancing shoes, practiced Tai Chi, and experienced wonderful cultural, musical and poetry performances plus a cultural fashion parade while the children were kept busy with face painting and drawing.

In between the crowd was entertained with inspirational speeches and information sessions on water safety and healthy living.

‘Harmony Day and Seniors Week activities are a much-anticipated part of the community social calendar,’ said SydWest Settlement and Community Programs Manager Clement Meru.

‘It is a time to celebrate the true local spirit and sense of belonging within our proudly diverse community, learn more about each other and provide opportunities for new friendships to be forged across generations.

‘We are thankful to our guest speakers including Blacktown Deputy Mayor Chris Quilkey, Uncle Colin for the Welcome to Country, and all of our performers and educators for a fantastic celebration of what makes this community great.’

It's Aged Care Employee Day 2023 and a special time to say thank you to all the carers in our world.

Take time to say #ThanksforCaring

Posted on 31/07/2023 | by Vikki Hine

SydWest Multicultural Services encourages the Western Sydney community to recognise those who care for older Australians and say “thanks for caring” ahead of Aged Care Employee Day (ACED) on Monday 7 August 2023.

“We’re asking our community to take a moment and think about the quiet achievers and the superheroes who provide care with professionalism, compassion and dedication for our loved ones and give them the recognition they deserve,” SydWest’s Aged Care Services Manager, Mereline Murimwa-Rarami says.

“It’s been a particularly challenging eighteen months for aged care workers both in residential and home care services leaving many families and friends unable to visit loved ones in care for weeks on end.

“It often fell to the carers, the nurses and other staff to make up for that loss of family contact and become that crucial connection for frail and vulnerable older Australians.

“So, in the lead up to 7 August, we ask you to take time to think of the nurses, personal care workers, chefs, cleaners, gardeners, laundry staff, activities coordinators and administration staff when you next visit a loved one in aged care and say “thanks for caring”.

ACED will feature a #ThanksforCaring social media campaign with videos, stories and photographs that acknowledge Australia’s aged care workers.

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