Barry gets the star treatment on a trip down memory lane in Sydney
Our aged care resident Barry was treated like a king when he watched the Sydney Swans play at the Sydney Cricket Ground last weekend. As a guest of the club, he feasted on pastries and other treats in the members’ box, and even met Swans ruckman Kurt Tippett.
It made me feel really special,’ Barry says.
Barry’s home is now our Sambell Lodge in Clifton Hill. But throughout his life, he has lived in various temporary housing facilities, and on the streets. ‘I know what it’s like to be homeless. Living in deserted houses, and under cardboard boxes,’ he says.
Although there have been some hard times, Barry also has some fond memories, and wanted to visit some of his old haunts and reminisce about his days in Kings Cross in the 1970s.
Sambell Manager Paul Brophy escorted him on the weekend Sydney trip, which included a visit to Paddy’s Market and Circular Quay. Barry also asked to go to the SCG, where he adopted the Swans as his team for day. At the Brotherhood, we regard care as a tool for living. Many of the older people who live at our aged care residences and are involved in our programs have experienced a lifetime of disadvantage.
We strive to make sure they are involved with the community and enjoy security, comfort and choice in life.