Garden Village volunteers are greatly appreciated to support lifestyle activities for aged care residents.
We catch up with Brett about why he volunteers for Garden Village. If you are thinking about volunteering contact us for more information.
Brett Hyde, the youngest of three siblings to the late Tom and Jean Hyde of Port Macquarie returned to Port Macquarie after many years working internationally. With a passion for travel, Brett spent 15 years living in Canada, where he worked as a cameraman and director of photography. After changing career paths, Brett now works in Workplace Health and Safety currently for the iconic Snowy Hydro 2.0 Scheme in Australia’s alpine region.
How long have you been volunteering at Garden Village?
I have only been volunteering at Garden Village for the past 4-5 months since my mother passed in November of 2024 after being a resident for only 5 weeks. During her time at Wintergarden she quickly made friends and took part in all the activities and events available. During this time I would also sample some of the activities myself and felt I would like to help in some way that would benefit the residents and provide variety.
The Volunteer Experience
What does a typical day look like when you volunteer and what kinds of activities do you enjoy.
As my work takes me away for periods at a time, it’s nice when back home to come into Wintergarden and convey the trivia quiz, morning tea and afternoon Bingo. Very soon I will learn more about the virtual experience technology that the residents can experience and incorporate that too into my volunteering visits. Probably the most interesting and educational activity I like to be involved in is the “Life Story” card game. Everyone finds out interesting and fascinating life tip bits about each other. Morning Tea trivia can be quite interesting and Bingo always draws a good attendance.
How do you build connections with residents?
Be genuine, acknowledge their presence, ask how they are going, don’t be in a rush and listen to what they have to convey.
Personal Impact
How has volunteering changed your perspective on aged care or older people?
I would have to say appreciation for life’s experiences, hearing stories and wisdom from seniors together with empathy and compassion by understanding their challenges and needs but also valuing their contributions.
What have you learned from the residents you’ve spent time with?
In life – to do what you can when you can and while you are able to enjoy it. Also recognising physical, emotional and social changes.
Has this experience influenced your life outside of volunteering?
I have always been brought up to help others, empathise and bring a smile or comfort when and where possible to others that reciprocate.
The Heart of Volunteering
What keeps you coming back to volunteer?
Most would say a sense of purpose & fulfillment and that is true. But also to make a positive impact, provide variety in their day and connect to the community.
Is there a resident or moment that makes you smile ?
It makes me smile when a topic comes up in trivia or life’s Story game whereby it generates conversation and antidotes between the residents.
What does it mean to you to be part of the Garden Village community?
Very humbling when the residents look forward to your visits, show appreciation for you coming to spend time with them but also the positive and gratifying impact they have on me. It also means a sense of purpose and giving to those that may have been forgotten.
For Future Volunteers
What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering in aged care?
This would depend in which avenue of aged care you would like to given your time.You will make a real difference in someones life. It is also a chance to learn from their experiences and wisdom. You will also form meaningful connections and friendships while gaining new perspectives and insights that can be enriching for both you and the seniors.
Why is it important to support and connect with older Australians?
In doing this helps to combat loneliness and sometimes isolation which can negatively impact their mental and physical health. Interactions between older and younger Australians foster understanding, empathy and knowledge sharing. Such support can encourage healthy behaviours and improve overall wellbeing together with reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in older Australians.
How would you describe the atmosphere at Garden Village?
For me personally at Wintergarden the atmosphere has been positive and the staff have made me feel very welcome. The times I can volunteer always benefits the staff whereby they can focus on their duties and provide some calm time where they are not taken away from their specific role. It is a nice atmosphere that I do enjoy.
