Discovering 87 Kilo Gigantic Pumpkins at Alowyn Gardens

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page” Saint Augustine.

It is astounding how often people don’t play the ‘tourist’ in their own backyard and what adventures can be had in your own local area. Such as it was for our residents in May when we went exploring the great wide world that Yarra Valley has to offer.

We are lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world with wineries, restaurants, parks, tourist attractions, all at our fingertips.

It was a fresh morning, though the autumn sun was bright in the sky, it made for a perfect day to take a bus trip to visit Alowyn Gardens in Yarra Glen, which is a sight to behold.

Our residents had a wonderful time wandering the garden paths – and there were plenty of them to choose from, but the Wisteria Walk (although not in bloom) was stunning. Discussions were rampant about the many types of plants, gardens and flowers as we explored the onsite nursery. It was surely a feast for the eyes and the nose, but after the walk it was definitely a feast for the stomach that was in high demand. There were lattes and cappuccinos all round with scones and a dollop of jam and cream at the onsite alfresco café.

“It’s great to be able to get the residents out and it’s something we are working very hard toward doing on a more regular basis” said Ben, Holmwood’s Lifestyle Coordinator (and the day’s bus driver). “It’s great, because the residents enjoy themselves and we have a wonderful retinue of staff who are putting their hands up to volunteer their time to come with us which makes all the difference. It allows them to spend time with the residents, not as a carer but as a travelling companion and friend.”

Our residents had a wonderful time seeing some of the gigantic vegetables on display. The 87 kilo pumpkins are out of this world! There’s an old shed set up near the café with all the old homewares, garden tools and utensils to look through. Many memories came flooding back to the residents and we had some good old laughs about what they used to have to do and how much easier it is today, (we were looking at an antique laundry press at this point).

“Each trip is planned by the residents. They choose the destinations and the time (as much as possible) and it gives them independence and the feeling that this is their trip and they’ve planned it. Independence is such an important part our identity. We support and encourage which is terrific” said Ben.

The residents are looking forward to other outings over the coming months and year. They can’t wait to find out more about our local attractions and destinations and also what the Yarra Valley has to offer. Destinations with tea, coffee and cake are high on the agenda. Oh yeah, and a shopping trip too!