The Salvation Army Aged Care

15/10/2025

Hilda is one of many inspiring centenarian residents and resides at . Hilda often recalls significant moments in history that occurred throughout her life, including the war.

“When I was 18, I wanted to join up and my father said, ‘no way!’ Some of the women were ambulance drivers and so called ‘Workers Soldiers,’” she recalls, but abiding by her father’s wishes, Hilda didn’t partake in War efforts. She does, however, still have her rations card, a significant item to keep as her own piece of wartime history.

She also recalls the beginnings of new inventions at the time, such as cars and washing machines, as she saw the different versions coming into society.

Hilda's longstanding connection with The Salvation Army extends back to her childhood. Her family would attend two church services, with The Salvation Army church being one of them.

To this day, Hilda’s faith continues to play a huge role in her life. Lifestyle staff at the Centre read the Bible to Hilda a few times a week, as she completes ‘The Bible in One Year’ program.

When it comes to her advice for a long and happy life, Hilda reveals it is all in the daily routine and diet. “I’ve always been energetic; I’ve always walked and did exercises and have been independent,” she states. “I’ve always loved gardening, eating potatoes and beans and broccoli.”

Read more about Hilda's story at the link below.

When it comes to her advice for a long and happy life, Hilda reveals it is all in the daily routine and diet.

14/10/2025

With flowers in full bloom and the sunshine inspiring creativity, residents and staff spent a joyful afternoon painting to the sounds of their favourite tunes. A beautiful way to celebrate spring together 🌼🎨

13/10/2025

From 12-18 October, it is , a time to recognise the incredible people who care for others, both professionally and personally.

At The Salvation Army Aged Care, we’re grateful for our caring staff and the countless carers in our communities who give so much of themselves.

If you’re a carer who needs some time to rest and recharge, we’re here to help.
🌷 Our respite care services offer short-term care in our aged care centres.
🏠 Salvos Home Care provides support in the comfort of home, so you can take a well-deserved break knowing your loved one is cared for.

Thank you to all carers, your compassion truly changes lives.

10/10/2025

Game night never goes out of style! 🎯 residents love a bit of friendly competition. Whether it’s snakes and ladders, Connect Four, or a tense round of Jenga, it’s all laughs, strategy, and good company.

09/10/2025

70 years of love and laughter! 💍In September, Ruth and Wally at celebrated their incredible 70th wedding anniversary! ❤️

Wally, a former Salvation Army Officer, first met Ruth at a Christian youth group - he was with the YMCA and she was with the YWCA. The two were rehearsing for a fundraising musical r***e when fate brought them together. Ruth was 16, Wally was 19, and they’ve been inseparable ever since.

Congratulations to these two lovebirds on seven beautiful decades together! 🕊️💐

09/10/2025

We had a wonderful time at the Ipswich Seniors Expo (QLD) and Generations Connect Fun Day in Burnie (TAS) last week!

We loved connecting with so many people in the community - thank you to everyone who stopped by for a chat. And a special thanks to Cuppa Plus, Ipswich City Council and COTA (Council On The Ageing) Tasmania for organising such meaningful community events.

08/10/2025

For Mental Health Awareness Week, we asked residents across The Salvation Army Aged Care centres and retirement villages: What advice would you give to someone going through stress or mental strain?

Their answers? Wise. Simple. Grounded in a lifetime of love, loss, resilience and perspective.

Because when you've lived through wars, heartbreaks, raising families and moving across continents, you learn a few things about keeping your head and heart above water.

Mental health matters at every age, and so does kindness.
Let’s listen, share, and support one another.

07/10/2025

A Gallery of Wisdom: Honouring the Artistic Voices of Our Seniors.

Throughout our work with participants, we've witnessed the incredible artistic talent many of them express with passion and sensitivity. Their artworks, which are filled with emotion, creativity and history, inspired us to create a space to celebrate and showcase their art with fellow residents. At , artworks by Maria, Bradley and Paul are on display at the Centre for everyone to enjoy. At the end of August, a gallery opening was held to celebrate and recognise the wonderful efforts of the three residents, with Centre staff and Chaplain, and fellow residents in attendance.

02/10/2025

At Salvos Aged Care centres, lifestyle programs are shaped by residents themselves. From creating a forum for residents to share life stories to practical and creative projects, these resident-led activities are making a real difference.

At , Commissioner Earle recently led the way in 'Macquarie Lodge Chronicles’. This activity provides residents with an opportunity to share their life story in an open and empowering way.

“It was an unexpected privilege that had been addressed to me,” says Commissioner Earle. “I felt it was such a meaningful opportunity, not only for people to get to know each other better, but you feel that we are all better off because we learn from each other.”

At , Betty and Cheryl have been leading the charge when it comes to their ‘Arts and Crafts Ladies Group.’ Both Betty and Cheryl recently organised for their group to create a variety of doorstops for residents to use at their centre.

Betty reflected on the sense of purpose it brings, “I think it’s great, I feel helpful, and I love it,” she says.

👉 Read more about how residents are leading the way in next-level lifestyle programs.

Inspiring residents on taking the lead in running Lifestyle activities at their Centres.

30/09/2025

Creativity is in full bloom at ✨🌸 Residents enjoyed a beautiful flower arranging activity, filling the room with colour and joy 💐

These moments remind us that it’s not just about the flowers, it’s about community and connection.

26/09/2025

Exploring new chapters at ✨📚 Residents enjoyed a trip to the local Rotary Club’s book fair, picking out new titles for the Centre’s mobile library.

Ken found several Australian books that reflect his love of local stories and culture. Peter selected a range of gardening books to build on his interest in plants. Kath chose a book about New Zealand, keen to learn more about its heritage.

The new additions will bring plenty of variety and enjoyment to the shared library.

25/09/2025

Adventure is always on the calendar at ! 🌿

From a picnic at the tranquil Pine Island Reserve to exploring the peaceful waters of Cotter Dam and the sweeping views at Mount Ainslie, residents love getting out into nature and making memories together. These outings were full of fresh air and plenty of smiles.