While studying the Bachelor of Dementia Care (BDC) and working in the community, I began to understand why many older people are reluctant to visit shopping centres, restaurants or public spaces.
The idea to establish a café to cater for people in this situation began growing in my head for several months before I decided to do something about it. In June 2019 I got together a few acquaintances I had met through the BDC. I put forward the idea of establishing a café for people living with dementia and their caregivers and surprisingly the suggestion was very well received. So began our journey to make it happen. After much research we came up with name – Golden Wattle Café.
Then followed months of conversations and discussions to find a venue with ample safe off-street parking, easy access and spacious room with an easily accessible kitchen and a quiet environment – the Golden Years Club in Glenorchy became our home.
Community Based Support in Moonah and the Glenorchy City Council came on board to support and help us achieve our dream. My team of Liz Stott, who is currently doing her BDC studies; Julie Lawless, who graduated in December 2019; and Annie Woodhall, who is working with the elderly, worked tirelessly to make our café dream come true. With other valuable team members, Susan and Brian and our amazing volunteers, we are working hard to make our project operate successfully.
We opened our café on 16 January to a good crowd who enjoyed a great morning of good conversation and food in a friendly environment. Guests were happy and moved around making new acquaintances.
Some of the comments after our first café:
A good little “cafe” and a wonderful idea. Well done to all the volunteers.
Great morning at Golden Wattle Cafe for people living with dementia and carers. Conversations with people I knew and spoke with new visitors to the cafe. Amazing Agnes, well done, well organised and great volunteers. Cheers for now, see you next Thursday.
Thanks Agnes. A delicious morning tea and good company! Well organised. I will tell my friends.
Agnes Frith, Bachelor of Dementia Care Graduate
