Estia’s footy fans enjoy VIP experience
Residents from Estia Health aged care homes rugged up for a game of football at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Residents from Estia Health aged care homes rugged up recently to watch a live game of Australian Rules Football at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Following a request from Estia, the group of residents and carers enjoyed the Richmond v Hawthorn game on 22 July from a corporate suite as the guests of entertainment platform provider Foxtel Business.
The Richmond and Hawthorn fans came from across Victoria, and while the former left with bragging rights after Richmond pulled off a last-quarter comeback to win 14.12 (96) – 15.5 (95), all left happy after a fun experience.
They include aged care resident and lifelong Hawthorn supporter Marty – who was thrilled from the moment he heard he was going, said Blake Cordell, a lifestyle assistant at Estia Health Melton South.
“It was the happiest I’d ever seen him. It’s also the first time he’s ever been to the footy in a suite and he’ll remember it for a long time,” Mr Cordell said.
Similarly, the match offered John – a lifelong Richmond supporter who wears his footy jumper every time there’s a game on – a day to remember, said Jane Neely, a lifestyle coordinator at Estia Health Bendigo.
“If Richmond win then he will wear his jumper the next day too. John has been talking about the trip to the footy ever since he was picked to attend,” she said.
There’s nothing like being in the stadium to watch a match, said Foxtel national health manager Tom Enright – who added it was a joy to see the excitement among the residents there at the game.
“We were very happy to accommodate Estia Health’s request to work with them on delivering a special day for their residents,” he said.
Estia Health chief executive officer and managing director Sean Bilton said all attendees were grateful for the invitation.
“Their act has created unforgettable memories and enabled our residents to reconnect with something that brings them immense joy and drives stronger connection with their community.”
Among those reconnecting with their team live after three decades was Richmond supporter and Estia Health Glen Waverley resident Robyn. It was a great and nostalgic experience for her, said Sylwia Kadziolka, residential aged care manager at Estia Health Bentleigh.
“Robyn spends so much time indoors and to travel into the MCG has been a fantastic experience for her. Robyn is a Richmond supporter and it’s been 30 years since she was last at the footy.”
Images (supplied by Foxtel): Estia Health residents and carers enjoy a premium day at the footy
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