Bringing carers together
This Monday, over 90 carers and partners came together to commemorate and highlight the invaluable work, dedication, and resilience of carers at a one-of-a-kind event. Attendees from across the region, along with partners such as Little Dreamers, Arafmi Queensland, Carers Queensland, The Carers Foundation and The Parkinson’s Centre, enjoyed a relaxing morning where carers were encouraged to take a moment to unwind, enjoy a delicious breakfast, and hear the inspiring story of this year’s keynote speakers, Judy and Tim Sharp, creators of the world-renowned Laser Beak Man brand.
A delicious breakfast and beautiful setting at The Lake House made for a perfect morning on the Sunshine Coast.
Wellways CEO Laura Collister said National Carers Week was a time for reflection on how advocates and organisations can support carers better.
“Carers Week is an opportunity to take a moment and remember why we do what we do, and that’s supporting carers in their lives and their caring journey,” she said.
“And my key message for carers this week is to make sure they care for their wellbeing, we know that caring for someone you love is an honour but can also be really hard work, so making sure you take care of yourself and stay true to yourself.”
The inspiring story of Judy and Tim Sharp
This year, guests had the privilege to hear from the talented creative duo of Judy and Tim Sharp and how they turned their journey of caring into a successful art career and a beloved art brand that has had major impact in Australia and around the world.
Ms Sharp, who is a carer herself, saw her life turned upside down after the birth of her first son Tim, who at the age of three was diagnosed with autism by several doctors who said he would never be able to speak.
“I was told I should just forget about him,” she said.
“Instead I wanted to find ways to communicate with my son.”
Keynote speakers Judy and Tim Sharp inspired and captivated the audience with their remarkable story.
She started drawing for Tim which completely engaged Tim and from then on not only did he start drawing but he spoke for the first time.
“I was told he would never say he loves me, that he couldn’t love me, but he did love me and I did get to hear those wonderful words,” she said.
By the age of 11 he created the superhero character Laser Beak Man and this creation would lead him to be the only Australian selected for the Very Special Arts Festival in Washington DC, a nomination for Young Australian of the Year, exhibiting his artwork across the world, even to Broadway and much more.
“This Carers Week I want to remind every carer that although they have the hardest job in the world, how beautiful is it that the person that you care for needs you just the way you are,” she said.
“There is kindness out there, we tend to think that kindness is a soft word, but it’s the most powerful thing. Do things your way, fight for the life you believe in, and as long as you do it with kindness and love, it’s all possible.”
She also relayed a message of hope and the importance of self-care to all carers on National Carers Week.
“It’s your life, stick to what you believe in, it’s going to be okay,” Ms Sharp said.
“As carers we never put ourselves first, but you need to. Start with one small thing, even if it’s just watching something that will make you laugh.”
A few breakfast surprises
On the morning, guests were also treated to some surprises, with the appearance of our outreach van Wanda, at the venue.
Attendees were able to get to know Wanda, get familiar with it, see how it looks on the inside and find out more about the services it offers as it continues its journey across Queensland and the Blue Mountains.
Guests enjoyed the chance to step outside and discover more about Wanda, the unique mobile carer service, during its appearance at The Lake House.
Another surprise was the first sneak peek into season 3 of Tune in to Care, Wellways Carer Gateway’s podcast exploring the lives of carers.
In the trailer, people got to see short clips of carer testimonials, were introduced to the new host Billy Bentley and got to experience the new video format that the new season will include.
Tune in to Care season 3 will be released soon and it’s available on all podcast platforms.
An event to recharge and reconnect
Keely, a mum and carer who attended the breakfast said it was very important to have events like the annual Carers Breakfast where people with similar experiences can get together, disconnect for a couple of hours and recharge to continue on their caring role.
“I would say to other carers to take the step and attend events like this, you can always get something out of it, even if you’re not ready to have a chat, you can still get a mean cup of coffee and a view, and it all helps,” she said.
“Caring changes and evolves but it never stops, it’s more than what you planned for and it can be challenging but things always get a little bit better.”
“My advice is, first, to look after yourself and that’s always the most difficult, we never put ourselves first but always remember to take care of yourself.”
Carers spent the rest of the morning enjoying live music, fresh coffee and recharging before leaving with an inspiring message – we’re ready, there’s support and community in their caring journey.