July 2026
Dear Residents, Families, and Team Members,
As winter continues, I would like to thank our residents, families, volunteers, and dedicated staff for their ongoing support and commitment to making Garden View a welcoming and caring home.
Throughout July, we continued to celebrate the diversity and spirit of our community. During NAIDOC Week, residents and staff came together to recognise and celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the importance of respect, inclusion, and cultural appreciation.
To maintain a safe and comfortable environment for everyone, Roof Cleaning and Maintenance works were completed during the month. We appreciate the patience and understanding of our residents and families while these improvements were carried out.
One of the highlights of July was our Christmas in July celebration. Residents enjoyed a festive day filled with friendship, delicious food, and the beautiful sounds of classical Christmas music performed by a talented guest singer. The event brought joy, laughter, and many happy memories, reminding us that it is never the wrong time of year to celebrate together.
Thank you for your continued trust and support. Together, we continue to create a warm, inclusive, and person-centred community where every resident feels valued, respected, and at home.
Warm regards,
Nicole Zhang
Director of Nursing
Important Updates
Star Rating of Garden View Aged Care for Quarter 2 FY 25-26 – 4 Star
We are pleased to share that Garden View Aged Care has been awarded an overall 4-Star Rating for Quarter 2, 25-26 under the Australian Government’s Aged Care Star Ratings system. This rating reflects our strong performance across key areas including residents’ experience, quality of care, staffing, and compliance with the Aged Care Quality Standards. We thank our dedicated staff, residents, and families for their continued support as we strive to provide high-quality, person-centred care every day.
My Health Record
My Health Record is a safe and secure online place where your important health information is stored. When it is kept up to date, it helps provide a clearer picture of your health for you and your healthcare providers, especially in an emergency.
You remain in control of your record. You can choose what information is included and who can access it, and you can see when your record has been viewed.
Your My Health Record may include information such as immunisation history, pathology and imaging reports, prescription information, and hospital discharge summaries.
If your My Health Record is linked to myGov, sign in now to access your information. If you don’t have My Health Record linked to myGov account, find out how to set up and access your record through myGov.
If you’re not eligible for Medicare, you can still get a My Health Record. Find out more about getting a My Health Record on the Australian Digital Health Agency website.
The Australian Government has introduced 1800MEDICARE, a free, 24/7 service that connects people to expert health advice and helps them access the right care at the right time.
What is 1800MEDICARE?
1800MEDICARE is a free phone line (1800 633 422), website and app for 24/7 access to health information and advice, and connection to the right care at the right time. 1800MEDICARE is accessible and free to everyone in Australia, regardless of where you live – day or night. 1800MEDICARE is free and available to everyone in Australia, including visitors, international students, and people who do not have Medicare. You may have to pay for the service the nurse recommends, such as a visit to the doctor.
1800MEDICARE provides:
Phone line | 1800 633 422
Anyone in Australia can call 1800 633 422 for free health advice and support.
When you call, you will speak with a registered nurse who will:
ask about your symptoms or health concern
provide advice on what to do next
guide you to the right care, such as:
self-care at home; a GP; an urgent care clinic; a pharmacy; or an emergency department.
You can call for yourself, your child, an older family member, or someone you care for.
Website | medicare.gov.au/1800
On the website, you can:
-call the 1800MEDICARE phone line from your mobile
-check symptoms
-find local health services
-access information about medicines
-learn more about other Medicare services.
1800MEDICARE app
The 1800MEDICARE app provides secure and convenient access to key health information stored in your My Health Record. The app:
-complements the phone service
-allows you to view and share your health information
-is fast, easy and secure to use on your phone or tablet.
For help setting up the app, visit:
www.digitalhealth.gov.au/1800MEDICAREapp
NSW Health
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
infection and vaccination
How does RSV affect me?
- RSV is a common virus that, in most cases, causes mild cold-like symptoms.
- Older people are at higher risk of severe disease and more likely to get pneumonia (a
chest infection) and need to go to hospital if they get RSV. - RSV can worsen other conditions likes asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD) and heart failure.
How does the RSV vaccine help? - The vaccine may not stop you from getting RSV BUT it will protect you from becoming
very unwell. - Getting the vaccine makes it less likely that you will get a chest infection or need to go
to hospital.
When can I get the free RSV vaccine? - Anyone aged 75 years and older and Aboriginal people aged 60 years and older, can
receive the RSV vaccine called Arexvy.
What are common side effects of the RSV vaccine? - Most side effects are mild to moderate and last only a few days. These side effects
include pain, redness and swelling at the injection site, feeling tired, headache and
muscle pains. - Paracetamol can help with this pain.
- A very small number adults aged 60 years and over could develop rare complications.
More information is on the Australian Immunisation Handbook – RSV Chapter
Can the RSV vaccine give me RSV? - No. The vaccine cannot give you RSV because there is no live virus in the vaccine.
© NSW Ministry of Health. SHPN (HPNSW) 251155-1 March 2026
Resource developed by South Eastern Sydney Public Health Unit
Funded by Central and Eastern Sydney Primary Health Network
health.nsw.gov.au
Can I have the vaccine if I have had a recent RSV infection? - Yes. If you have recovered from an RSV infection, you can have the RSV vaccine.
- Protection from RSV infection is not long-lasting and getting infected with RSV is
common. Getting the RSV vaccine will provide more protection.
Can I have the RSV vaccine at the same time as other vaccines? - Yes. You can have the RSV vaccine at the same time as other vaccines such as the
COVID-19 vaccine, flu vaccine, shingles vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine.
Where can I get more information? - Speak to your GP.
- Frequently asked questions on RSV infection and vaccine are also available (in English
only) – please scan the QR code:
New laws to uphold your rights in aged care
Statement of Rights
The Aged Care Act 2024 includes a Statement of Rights that explains the rights older people will have when accessing aged care services funded by the Australian Government.
The Statement of Rights will help make sure you are at the centre of your aged care.
You will have the right to:
· make your own decisions about your own life
· have your decisions not just accepted, but respected
· get information and support to help you make decisions
· communicate your wishes, needs and preferences
· feel safe and respected
· have your culture and identity respected
· stay connected with your community.
If you have concerns about the aged care you are receiving, you can:
· talk to your aged care provider
· speak with an advocate on 1800 700 600 or at OPAN.org.au
· contact the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission on 1800 951 822 or at AgedCareQuality.gov.au
More information
Read the full Statement of Rights, including how you can make sure your rights are upheld:
www.health.gov.au/our-work/aged-care-act/about
New Aged Care Act & Strengthened Standards
There are 7 strengthened Quality Standards:
Standard 1: The individual
Standard 2: The organisation
Standard 3: The care and services
Standard 4: The environment
Standard 5: Clinical care
Standard 6: Food and nutrition
Standard 7: The residential community
Meet Our Whistleblower Officer
Phyu Han
Whistleblower Officer
Mobile: 0438 158 647
Email: Whistleblower@gardenview.org.au
Purpose of the Whistleblower Officer
The Whistleblower Officer provides a confidential, safe, and independent channel for reporting concerns about misconduct or unethical behaviour within Garden View Aged Care.
What You Can Report
• Misconduct or unethical behaviour
• Breach of laws, regulations, or organisational policy
• Fraud, theft, or corruption
• Unsafe or high‑risk practices affecting residents or staff
• Any serious wrongdoing that impacts safety or care quality
What the Whistleblower Officer Will Do
• Receive and manage disclosures confidentially
• Ensure protection from retaliation or victimisation
• Conduct fair, timely reviews or investigations
• Uphold transparency, accountability, and integrity
Your Protection
You may report openly or anonymously. Your identity will be protected at all times. Garden View Aged Care is committed to ensuring staff feel safe and supported when raising concerns.
Garden View Aged Care
Promoting a safe, transparent, and accountable environment for all.
The Taxi Service
From the Company:
13 Cabs – 📞 132 227
Wheelchair-Accessible Taxi – ☎️ (02) 8332 0200
From Individual Service:
Ray Taxi – 📱 0420 505 275
Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National)
If you need immediate phone interpreting services call 131 450 or +613 9268 8332 (outside Australia).
Staff Spotlight
Laundry Team: Cris Manzano
This month, we are delighted to recognise Cris, a valued member of our Laundry Team.
Cris has been part of the Garden View family since 2009, demonstrating outstanding dedication and commitment for many years. Through her hard work and attention to detail, she helps ensure our residents always have clean, fresh, and well-presented clothing and linen, contributing to their comfort, dignity, and wellbeing.
Cris is known for her caring nature, reliability, and positive attitude. She is always willing to assist others and takes great pride in her work, making her a valued colleague and an important part of our team.
Thank you, Cris, for your many years of loyal service and for the care and dedication you bring to Garden View every day. Your contribution is truly appreciated by our residents, families, and staff.
Ongoing Staff Training and Education
Staff completed training in Recognising Deterioration, Open Disclosure and Apology, and Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination in the Workplace. These education sessions strengthened staff knowledge in recognising changes in residents’ health, communicating openly and compassionately with residents and families, and promoting a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace, supporting our commitment to high-quality, person-centred care.
As part of our ongoing commitment to quality care, our care staff recently completed Recognising Deterioration training. This education strengthened staff knowledge and skills in identifying early signs of changes in a resident’s condition, ensuring timely reporting to Registered Nurses and prompt intervention. Early recognition and response play a vital role in improving resident safety and health outcomes.
During July, staff completed Open Disclosure and Apology training, reinforcing the importance of open, honest, and compassionate communication with residents and families when something goes wrong. The training highlighted the principles of transparency, empathy, and timely communication, supporting a culture of safety, trust, and continuous improvement across our home.
Staff also completed Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination in the Workplace training, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. The training increased staff awareness of appropriate workplace behaviours and their role in fostering a positive and supportive environment for colleagues, residents, and visitors.
Lifestyle and Wellbeing
July was another busy and enjoyable month for our residents, filled with cultural experiences, entertainment, outings and social activities.
We celebrated NAIDOC Week with a variety of meaningful activities. Residents participated in an Aboriginal painting activity, learned about traditional Aboriginal musical instruments, enjoyed a special BBQ and had the opportunity to taste kangaroo meat. These activities gave residents the chance to explore and appreciate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
Our residents also enjoyed taking part in an online quiz, which encouraged friendly competition, conversation and teamwork. The week finished with a relaxing coffee shop activity, where residents enjoyed refreshments and socialising together.
We were delighted to welcome our wonderful volunteers, who visited and provided an enjoyable performance for our residents. Their music and enthusiasm brought happiness to everyone, and we sincerely appreciate the time and energy they shared with us.
Another highlight of the month was our Christmas in July concert and high tea. Residents enjoyed the festive music, delicious treats and cheerful Christmas atmosphere. It was a lovely opportunity for everyone to celebrate together during the winter season.
Residents also enjoyed some fresh air and sunshine during a visit to a local park. To finish the month, we are looking forward to our bus trip to La Perouse, where residents can enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery and spend time in the community.
Thank you to our staff, volunteers, families and residents for making July such a memorable month!
💛 With warmth,
Lifestyle Team
Upcoming Events
BBQ in THE PARK
Resident Feedback & Quality Improvements
A total of 4 consumer feedback items were received, comprising 1 complaints and 3 suggestions/requests for improvement:
Four feedback records were reviewed, including three suggestions and one complaint. Key themes included improving personal care and safety for a resident experiencing shortness of breath when walking to the toilet, enhancing communication through staff training and translation applications, addressing concerns regarding ear care and discharge, and increasing culturally appropriate activities such as meditation and monk visits. Relevant departments will follow up on these matters to support safer care, better communication and continuous improvement.
Incidents- Trends:
Eight clinical incidents were recorded in July 2026, including six wound/skin-integrity incidents and two falls. Skin incidents were associated with planned dermatology procedures, pre-existing skin conditions, dry skin, tongue biting and one staff-related manual-handling incident. One fall resulted in no injury, while the other caused bruising following an unwitnessed fall with a head strike.
Solutions: Continue regular skin assessments, moisturising regimes, wound and pain monitoring, and timely medical reviews. Reinforce safe manual-handling and sling-lifter competency for staff, review residents’ fall-risk assessments and prevention strategies, maintain neurological monitoring following unwitnessed falls or head strikes, and ensure care plans, progress notes and family notifications are completed promptly.
Resident Rights, Complaints Process, Palliative Care & Whistleblower Protections
Whistleblower protections
What whistleblower protections do
Workers may be afraid of personal and financial risks by sharing information and disclosures with us. The new Act gives workers rights and protections when they make disclosures that qualify (meet the requirements) for whistleblower protection.
The rights under the new Act for disclosures include:
- Not being subject to retaliation or punishment
- Not being subject to consequences such as civil, criminal or administrative actions (legal actions) that may come up
- Choosing to be anonymous
- Confidentiality
- Being able to take legal action through the courts for compensation if you experience retaliation, punishment or consequences because you made a disclosure.
If something should happen as a result of you making a disclosure, such as being punished for speaking up, we recommend getting independent legal advice or contacting your union to understand how whistleblower protections may apply to you.
Statement of Rights
ew Aged Care Act includes a Statement of Rights, outlining the rights that older people have when accessing aged care services. The rights help to ensure that older people and their needs are at the centre of the new aged care system.
The rights outlined in the Act help to ensure that older people and their needs are at the centre of the new aged care system.
The Statement of Rights include the right for every individual to have:
- independence, autonomy, empowerment and freedom of choice
- equitable access
- quality and safe funded aged care services
- respect for privacy and information
- person-centred communication and the ability to raise issues without reprisal
- advocates, significant persons and social connections.
Providers have to ensure that their actions are consistent with the Statement of Rights. This includes ensuring that their aged care services are delivered by aged care workers who have appropriate qualifications, skills and experience.
Reminder of Consumer Rights and Service
• Senior rights service provides the legal advice, advocacy service and community engagement, for free and confident advice call, 02 9281 3600. Brochures and poster available near the small kitchenette.
• Free advocacy groups available to provide information. Pamphlet are distributing to consumer and available near the dining room information station for consumers and representatives. OPAN poster and contact details 1800 700 600 displayed on the notice board. The video of What Can OPAN help is played during the meeting. Brochures and poster available near the small kitchenette.
• Care plans are readily available for consumers.
• Reminder residents and family to seek consent from residents who have no cognitive impairment and from person responsible for those residents who are unable to give consent before taking photos and/or uploading photo to media.
Reminder of complaints process
• Consumers were reminded with the complaint and compliment process and encouraged consumers to voice for themselves.
• Reminded residents and relative the Open-Door policy of the DON.
• If you need an interpreter to speak with us, call the Translation and Interpreting Service on 131 450.
• If you cannot resolve your concern with the service provider or any serious concern, you can contact the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission on 1800 951 822. If you need an interpreter to speak with them, call the Translation and Interpreting Service on 131 450.
• Consumer and family are aware if they have any concerns and do not wish to speak to the Management team at site level, can directly email or handwrite letters, and someone can assist them in emailing the board@gardenview.org.au
• The Board holds a monthly gathering in the Central Garden to meet and greet residents and seek feedback and suggestions. It is usually held on the second Sunday of the month, starting at 9 a.m.
• Garden View provide protections for whistleblowers to allow reporting without fear of reprisal Whistleblower@gardenview.org.au
• Reminded consumers that OPAN is available for consumers and family, poster available on notice board.
• Consumer advisory body (CAB) member Ming He and John (Jack) Galbraith (Consumer), David Pearce, Craig Austin and Winne Steo (Representative) can be liaison representatives for consumers and relatives for any concerns or issues if they do not wish to speak to management directly. The photograph of the CAB resident members and contact details are displayed on the noticeboard. Garden View is always welcome resident and/or relative to involve and partner the care and/or committee.
Understanding Palliative Care in Garden View
Palliative care is a special type of care that focuses on improving the quality of life for residents living with serious or life-limiting illnesses. The goal is to ensure that every resident receives comfort, dignity, and compassionate support, rather than focusing only on medical treatment. At Garden View, our palliative care approach aims to keep residents as pain-free and comfortable as possible while supporting their emotional, spiritual, and physical wellbeing. Our team works closely with families to ensure that care is personalised and respectful of each resident’s wishes. We also provide family stay options for loved ones who wish to be close during this time and can arrange referrals to the GREAT Team for specialised palliative support when required. Information brochures about our palliative care services are available at reception. Please speak with our Clinical Team if you would like to know more or discuss how we can support you or your loved one.
July 2026 – Staying Warm, Staying Connected
As winter continues, our focus remains on keeping our residents warm, safe, and connected. July has been filled with enjoyable activities, shared laughter, and meaningful moments that strengthen our Garden View community.
Thank you to our dedicated staff, supportive families, and wonderful residents for making Garden View a caring and welcoming place. We wish everyone a safe, healthy, and warm winter.