Residents and staff celebrate Harmony Day

Murrumba Downs aged care residents explored different cultures and traditions for Harmony Day with food, traditional outfits and performances.

Bolton Clarke’s Inverpine home took the opportunity to learn more about each team member and resident’s cultures by dressing up in their traditional outfits while trying different cuisines and having a performance by Chinese dancers.

Marking the last day of Harmony Week, Harmony Day (March 21) celebrates and recognises the diversity across Australian communities.

Diversional Therapist Rekha Singh, from Fiji with a Girmitiyas background, says the day is a perfect opportunity for residents and team members to get to know one another better.

“Many of our residents are well-versed in these areas because they have travelled and seen a lot of countries and cultures so seeing the colourful outfits and tasting the food can bring back memories,” Rekha said.

“Days like this offer educational opportunities to learn about each other, our different cultures, history and traditions.

“Our team members are working in their home so we want them to know who we are and where we come from.”

Administration officer and proud Manus Island woman Betty Wanma says the chance to showcase her culture with residents and team members is an exciting opportunity.

“We work in a company where there are lots of different nationalities and there is nothing better than having a day where we get to showcase that,” Betty said.

“I am dressing up in my island attire with a traditional bridal outfit and for me, I am proud of my culture and love sharing more about it.

“The residents love to touch and feel all the different materials our outfits are made of and want to know more about each piece and what it means.”