Locky carers enjoy a day out

The event was open to carers of all demographics, including carers of primary school special needs children and the elderly.

With the trip being held during school holidays, children were also welcome to take part.

Nursing centre manager Sharon Moran said the ‘Take a break’ sessions were a chance for carers to relax.

“The theme of our project has been ‘Take a break’, which through the Lockington Bush Nursing Centre, we’ve sort of encouraged take a break both with the carer and the care recipient,” she said.

“We’re trying to tap in and network people with other carers in the local community, but also with resources that might support them on their journey of caring for their family.

“Better support of our carers was a common theme that was identified by our local community as something that we could help more with, and so we’ve grabbed hold of that and that’s what we’ve done.”

During their time in Echuca, the group explored the port and enjoyed a cruise on a paddle steamer.

Once on the cruise, attendees were each given a Thermos containing hot soup, and a bread roll.

Guests also received a voucher to purchase a coffee or hot drink from the kiosk onboard the paddle steamer.

Ms Moran said there would be more events for carers in the coming months.

“This is our second of four carer-specific events that we have been able to facilitate through a grant from the Campaspe Shire (Council),” she said.

“The first event was really well received, and we’ve had a lot of interest and referrals from carers and other care recipients as a result. So the group is growing, which is fantastic.”

The first session was held earlier this year, with carers gathering for an event with Carers Victoria and to enjoy a shared lunch.

The next session is set to be hosted on Tuesday, October 14 at the Lockington Heritage Complex’s outdoor area.

Carers and families will be able to enjoy a picnic in the springtime, with the Port Ice Creamery van to make an appearance.

While plans are not finalised, the fourth event is looking to include another bus trip to a nearby strawberry farm where a Christmas celebration will be held.

The events have been created with and supported by Carers Gateway and Carers Victoria, with the help of a $9000 grant from Campaspe Shire Council.