Graeme

About

I am a very kind, mature caring enthusiastic person, who likes to make a positive impact to those people in my life. I enjoy meeting new people, hearing their stories and finding common interests. Five years ago, I took over caring for our elderly mother, managing her affairs, relocating her into permanent aged care and selling her home in rural Victoria. I come from a large family and play a role in my niece's and nephew's lives, connect with my cousins and keep in contact with my aunts & Uncles. Earlier in 2021 I retired from permanent work and commenced Part-Time work assisting others to enjoy their lives, pursue their interests, learn to budget, exercise and remain in their homes. My interests include gardening, reading, catching up with friends for a coffee and chat, overseas and local travel, photography, cooking & baking, walking, swimming, going to movies & attending Art Exhibitions. I have been working with some members since late 2021. My objective is to assist others with getting out and about in the community, gardening, exercise, social skills and assist them to explore Melbourne or take them out on outings. I drive so we could travel to locations that they wish to go to, run errands or I could suggest some areas that may be of interest to members once I get to know them. I tend to make friends easily and could assist members to become more confidant, IT savvy, believe in themselves and more independent. In the past few years, I have taken a few Members to Dights Falls at Abbotsford and we have sat in a quiet spot along the Yarra, visited the Mural detailing the history of local indigenous people who once lived in the area and enjoyed hearing the Waterfall and viewing it close up. We saw many local native birds on our walk there. I have also taken a member to the Cranbourne Botanical Gardens and taken the small bus tour. We sometimes visit a local Community Garden where I volunteer. At another time we have visited is Collingwood Children's Farm, Kanes Bridge near Studley Park Boathouse and sat on a seat and watched the waterbirds. Enjoying the fresh air and nature has always been an interest of mine. I have also taken my Members to their Physio, swimming and on long walks. One Member ordered a VegePod (raised garden bed) and we recently completed building this together. I have taken a member recently to Victoria Park as he is a keen Collingwood Supporter - he enjoyed sitting in the stand and reading the history and viewing old club photographs around the ground. I also assisted a member to put together to construct a 'Can-O-Worms' cylindrical Worm Farm. I am currently pretty fully booked with existing members so have limited availability for any additional members unless you are prepared to be a bit flexible with support times as I currently have a number of permanent Bookings. Some are weekly, some are fortnightly or once a month.

Work Experience + Qualifications

Services

Interests

Recommendations

Training & Awards

Received both doses of COVID-19 vaccination & booster

63 hours of aged care support

625 hours of physical disability support

575 hours of mental health support

Worked with the same member for 2 years