Resthaven Mount Gambier recently held its own show day to coincide with the start of the Mount Gambier Spring Show.

The day included a virtual rollercoaster ride, morning tea, show bags, side show games and even an indoor display, which residents took the time to enter and judge in different categories.

The residents particularly enjoyed the animals brought in by staff, which were guinea pigs, chickens and a rabbit.

Resthaven lifestyle coordinator Isurika Wijewardena said due to COVID-19 and visitor restrictions, the residents had not been able to have animals visit the facility for a long time.

“Since things are going back to normal, this was a great opportunity for residents to have animals back to visit,” she said.

“We put on the event because most of the residents were unable to attend the Mount Gambier Spring Show.

“One of the residents mentioned that it is as though they have been to the actual show.”

Mrs Wijewardena said staff, volunteers and residents were all part of the event, especially with the indoor entries.

“We wanted to get residents, staff as well as volunteers involved in the indoor entries, so we decided on the different categories, and then had staff and residents bring their entries in,” she said.

“Some residents made entries especially for the show day.

“Residents were selected to judge the categories for placings based on their capabilities and skills, which made them feel recognised and respected.”

Mrs Wijewardena said prior to the show day, residents had a session with the Mount Gambier Library to discuss the history of the Mount Gambier Spring Show.

“We had photos of the past Mount Gambier shows displayed on the day, courtesy of the Mount Gambier Library,” she said.

“When some of the residents were looking at the old photos, they recognised they were in the show that year, whether it was the 1930s or 1940s.

“They loved seeing the old photos.

“It was a lovely event and they enjoyed it a lot.”