May 2024: A Month of Connection, Joy, and New Beginnings
What an incredible month May has been for LINK’s Outings Program! From forging new friendships to rekindling old ones, from scenic train rides to cultural discoveries, our teams and clients shared unforgettable moments—all while expanding our reach in the community.
Building Bridges Through Education and Outreach
The month began with meeting our dedicated Group Leaders, ensuring the next phase of the LINK Outings Program is packed with exciting adventures. But the real magic happened when we stepped into the spotlight at the Doreen Probus Group, captivating an audience of 100 eager seniors. The room buzzed with enthusiasm—not just for our outings, but for LINK’s Transport Services, proving just how vital accessible, community-focused care truly is. The outreach didn’t stop there. LINK brought our expertise to La Trobe Retirement Village in Reservoir, where 130 residents gathered to learn about the upcoming changes in the aged care system and the roll out of Support at Home. With clarity and compassion, the team broke down complex systems into simple, actionable insights. The gratitude in the room was palpable—many left feeling empowered, informed, and excited about the support available to them.
A Warm Welcome Back: Rina Joins the Team
We couldn’t be happier to announce that Rina Mansjur has rejoined LINK as our new Social Support Coordinator! After completing a successful placement with us last year, Rina returns with fresh energy and a deep understanding of our mission. Her passion for fostering social connections makes her the perfect addition to assist Shade and the Outings team, especially as our services continue to grow. Welcome back, Rina—we’ve missed your smile!
Unforgettable Adventures: May’s Outing Highlights
If there’s one word to describe May’s outings, it’s “vibrant.” Each trip was a tapestry of laughter, nostalgia, and new experiences.
- Dragons & Heritage in Bendigo
Partnering with CCSSCI, our Eastern Outings group journeyed to the Bendigo Dragon Museum and soaked in the rich Chinese Australian heritage. The outing wasn’t just a tour—it was a celebration of culture and shared stories. - Puffing Billy: A Ride Down Memory Lane
Our newest group, Bayanihan in Melbourne, embarked on their very first LINK outing—a scenic steam train adventure from Belgrave to Lakeside. Laughter echoed through the carriages, cameras clicked endlessly, and by the end, everyone agreed: this was just the beginning of many more joyful journeys together. - Rainbow Trout Farm: The Catch of the Day
80 spirited seniors from the Filipino Community Council of Victoria tried their hand at fishing—and what a triumph it was! The excitement was contagious as they reeled in their catches, some even declaring they’d skip lunch just to rush home and cook their fresh trout! - Swan Bay Express: Nostalgia on the Rails
Multiple groups—including Craigieburn Probus, Sanctuary Lakes Probus, the Association of Senior Filipino Australians, and Point Cook Retirement Village—stepped back in time aboard the vintage Swan Bay Express. For the seniors from Point Cook Retirement Village, this marked their first-ever outing with LINK—and their smiles said it all. “We felt so cared for,” one remarked. “When’s the next one?”
Gratitude and Looking Forward
As we approach the end of the financial year, our commitment to building connections, fostering joy, and providing exceptional care remains stronger than ever. None of these moments would be possible without the dedication of our volunteers, the trust of our clients, and the hard work of our staff and students. To everyone who made May so special—thank you. Here’s to many more months of laughter, discovery, and community spirit. The best is yet to come!
