Two decades of caring

Each year BlueCross’ award-winning STARfish Extravaganza celebrates positive ageing, coinciding with the United Nations International Day of Older Persons and Victoria’s Seniors Festival.

This year’s event, held earlier this month, also celebrated BlueCross’ 20 year anniversary with more than 600 staff, clients, residents and special guests all coming together for a big party.

The event, run at the Melbourne Park Function Centre, was attended by special guests including Australian Ambassador for Ageing, Noeline Brown; Minister for Social Services, the Hon. Kevin Andrews MP; Assistant Minister for Social Services, Senator Mitch Fifield; and many more.

Hosted by David Mann, from Melbourne’s own 3AW, the Extravaganza celebrated making the most out of life, no matter what age you are, and proves that age is no barrier to having fun!

This event has received numerous awards and accolades for innovation in the aged care industry, including an Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Award last year and a Better Practice Award in 2011.

BlueCross chief executive, Carol Allen, has been invited to travel the world from Europe to Asia, presenting on the Extravaganza and encouraging others to see the potential in such an event to bring about positive outcomes.

“We are changing the face of aged care by challenging the stereotypes out there and embracing the philosophies of Living Longer Living Better,” Ms Allen said.

The Extravaganza reflects the BlueCross commitment to innovation and improving the quality of life of our older citizens through person-centred care.