Why this story stayed with me


Hello Reader,

Aged care isn’t something most of us are rushing towards — but many are already helping a parent or loved one navigate it.

That’s why this piece from our contributor Kaye caught my attention.

Aged care: When it’s good, it can be very, very good

She shares the story of her mum, who made a thoughtful decision to move into care more than a decade ago — a choice that led to 12 years of connection, dignity, and genuine community.

What stood out to me is how much the experience was shaped not just by the place, but by her mum’s attitude — staying engaged, speaking up, and making the most of where she was.

It’s a practical, hopeful reminder that good aged care does exist — and that the right environment, combined with the right mindset, can make all the difference.

Enjoy your week,
Amy

P.S. If you’re thinking of something a little special this week, Overgrown Paths with the MCO opens in Melbourne with just a handful of performances. It’s The Four Seasons reimagined with live narration and storytelling — and the Sunday show falls on Mother’s Day. Use code MCOFAN10 for 10% off Melbourne shows. More info here.

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Let's Explore Melbourne and Beyond

Melbourne’s Hidden Garden Oasis

Tucked away from the bustle, Kaye discovers a peaceful garden perfect for a quiet stroll among greenery and blooms.

Who knew Melbourne had its very own secret garden, just a short walk from the transport hub of Flinders Street Station? I didn’t until, by chance, I heard it described in a radio interview with horticulturalist James Hitchmough in early January.
Kaye

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WHAT'S ON - Mark Your Calendars

  • Royal Exhibition Building Open Day – Melbourne Museum (9 – 10 May 2026). This free special event invites visitors to explore the iconic World Heritage-listed building through guided tours, exhibitions, live performances, talks and family-friendly activities, celebrating over 125 years of history and marking the anniversary of Australia’s first Federal Parliament.
  • Botanica Festival at Rippon Lea (Sun 10 May 2026). A celebration of gardening, sustainability, and our natural environment. Explore guided tours, sales, and local crafts while enjoying delicious scones. Proceeds support the National Trust’s efforts in Victoria’s heritage.
  • Capitol Theatre Orchestra followed by The Sound of Music (17 May 2026). Enjoy a unique afternoon at The Capitol with a lively 1920s-style jazz performance by the Capitol Theatre Orchestra, followed by a screening of the beloved classic film The Sound of Music — a heartwarming story of music, family and courage set against the Austrian Alps.
  • Gimme Gimme Disco – ABBA & Disco Dance Party (22 May & 24 Jul 2026). Get ready for a glitter-filled night at Ms Collins, Melbourne, where a live DJ spins nonstop ABBA favourites and classic 70s–80s disco hits from artists like Donna Summer, The Bee Gees and Cher, creating a feel-good dance party for Dancing Queens and disco lovers alike.
  • Melbourne Design Week (14 – 24 May 2026). Discover 400+ events across the city, including exhibitions, talks, tours and much more.
  • Botanic Gardens Week (18 – 24 May 2026). Celebrate the beauty and importance of plants during this Australia-wide week of events across botanic gardens and arboreta, featuring guided walks, workshops, wellness activities and educational experiences that highlight the vital role gardens play in conservation, biodiversity and human wellbeing.
  • The Gondoliers – Monash Chorale (30 May 2026). Enjoy Gilbert & Sullivan’s sparkling comic operetta at the Salvation Army Temple in Glen Waverley, where Monash Chorale brings this Venetian tale of romance, mistaken identity and witty satire to life with orchestra, soloists and glorious harmonies, followed by afternoon tea included. Tickets from $35.
  • ART (22 Apr – 21 May 2026). Starring Richard Roxburgh, Damon Herriman and Toby Schmitz, this internationally acclaimed comedy follows three friends whose decades-long friendship is hilariously tested after one of them buys an outrageously expensive painting.
  • Lyon Housemuseum Exhibitions – Kew (until 31 May 2026). Discover contemporary Australian art at Lyon Housemuseum’s current exhibition featuring Ry David Bradley’s EPOCH and Christopher Langton’s BLOW, showcasing large-scale paintings, kinetic works and sculptures within a unique space that blends gallery and residential living.

Daily Crossword

Start your day with a mental challenge!

Joke of the Day

What do you get when you cross a pig and a pineapple? A porky pine


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