For Wanda, art is now a way of life. Take a stroll through Uniting AgeWell Rosetta Community, Strathaven, and the cream-painted walls will suddenly be covered in Disney characters and drawings created lovingly by Wanda.
The art extends from her room to the walls along the walkways and represents her drive to channel her talent into the magic and colour of different characters. She also loves to share the experience and hopes it brightens the day of staff and residents who come her way.
Wanda has lived at Strathaven for over 12 years. She lived with her daughter but after a stroke, living in a supportive community environment was a better fit.
Born in Mangalore, she believes losing her father at the young age of four, taught her to be independent and strive to live with a glass half full.
Wanda’s bubbly personality is infectious with a warm smile and pride in her work, it’s hard to believe she is 90.
A mother of six children, she started work at the Cadbury’s Claremont site, operating the machinery and at times assisting in the office. Wanda was 40 when she left Cadbury’s and went on to enjoy being a Carer in the community.
Now with two adult children in Tassie and the rest on the mainland, family and her friends at Strathaven are important to her.
“I settled in straight away when I moved in. Everyone is lovely and I’m happy here.”
Although her brother was an artist, being a busy working mum meant she never really tried her hand at art.
The opportunity to spend time on her hobby means Wanda can continually draw and paint to her heart's content. Her love of animals comes through in her drawings.
“I’m working on Disney characters as we have an event coming up and the theme is Disney.”
Uniting Agewell’s Celebration of Ageing Well starts at the end of September, with sites across Tasmania and Victoria celebrating. This year marks 20 years of Uniting AgeWell as it is now and recognition of staff who have served for more than five years is a highlight of the celebrations.
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