The Pulse: April 2025 - Reflections at Eppalock
Special Edition:
A Celebration of Community and Connection at Reflections at Eppalock
Our recent event at Reflections at Eppalock was a true celebration of community, care and connection—with more than 80 people in attendance and overwhelmingly positive feedback from all who joined us. The day brought together carers, partners, community members, and supporters to experience firsthand the power of inclusive, culturally responsive respite.
Let’s dive into the latest highlights!
Smoke, Spirit and Story
A Cultural Welcome from Troy Fireplace
We had the honour of being welcomed by Troy Fireplace, a proud Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Wurrung man and Traditional Owner of the land on which Reflections at Eppalock stands. Troy opened our gathering with a traditional Welcome to Country in the Dja Dja Wurrung way—a powerful reminder that every day we live, work and dream on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander lands.
Troy also led us in a Smoking Ceremony, an ancient custom practiced by Aboriginal peoples for thousands of years. Using smouldering native plants, the smoke is believed to have cleansing properties—not only to ward off bad spirits, but also to bring healing, peace and connection to people and place.
This deeply moving ceremony set the tone for the day, grounding us in the significance of Country, culture, and shared respect. It was a moment of reflection and gratitude, and a reminder that Reflections at Eppalock is not just a place—it’s part of something much older, richer, and enduring
“Reflections at Eppalock is amazing!! I was actually talking to a few people about how important spaces like this are, and what they can truly do! Fantastic place!” Troy Fireplace
John Landmark Dementia Alliance board member and MC responded and acknowledged Troy’s Welcome to Country
“Bangek Knoorarook Bunjil Dja Dja Wurrung” / (Ban-Jek, K-noor-r-ook, Boon-jil, Dja Dja Were-rung)
“Willam talle tallingingorak wirrmbool bunjil” / Will-am, tell-e, telling-gor-ak, wirr-m-bool boon-jil). We honour the wisdom of the Dja Dja Wurrung. We will speak words of truth and listen to your wisdom
A Vision Realised – Sandra’s Welcome
Sandra warmly welcomed everyone to the event, reflecting on the journey that brought Reflections at Eppalock to life. From the very beginning, the vision was clear: to create a space grounded in inclusivity, cultural safety, and respect for diversity—a place where all members of the community, regardless of background, feel welcome and supported.
She spoke of Reflections as more than just a respite facility—it is a safe, secure and enriching environment where carers, care groups, and service providers can bring their loved ones or clients for relaxed outings or structured group activities. Surrounded by natural beauty and designed with purpose, Reflections sets a new standard for community-driven, inclusive respite and support.
Sandra expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone who had supported the vision—from early conversations to funding, partnerships, and hands-on help. She reminded us that while we were celebrating what has been built, we were also recognising something deeper: the connections, support and hope we are creating for people living with dementia, their carers, and the broader community.
It was a powerful moment that captured the spirit and purpose behind everything Reflections at Eppalock stands for.
The Carer’s Perspective
Marg Rae’s Reflections
Marg Rae, our Carer Coordinator and long-time carer for Dot—her partner of over 9 years—spoke with heartfelt honesty about the real-life impact Reflections at Eppalock will have on both carers and the people they support.
Marg emphasised that this project is not just a place—it’s a lifeline for those navigating the challenges of dementia care. She reflected on the emotional and physical toll of caregiving, and how vital it is to have spaces that offer not only respite, but dignity, connection, and understanding.
She praised the Dementia Alliance team for the way they involve and listen to carers, ensuring their voices, insights, and needs are respected at every step. Marg’s words were a powerful reminder that carers are not an afterthought—they are central to this work, and their lived experience has helped shape Reflections into the inclusive, responsive space it is today.
A Voice That Moved Us All
Phannika’s Story
At just 14 years old, Phannika, who is autistic, , stood before an audience of over 80 people in the open air at Reflections and delivered a speech that brought many to tears. She shared how she once wasn’t sure where she fit in—or if she belonged at all—but found kindness, encouragement, and connection through this project. “The people I met helped me feel comfortable enough to join in, learn, and grow,” she said.
She spoke with wisdom well beyond her years, drawing a powerful parallel between dementia and autism—“No two people experience it the same way, and that’s what makes us special.” Working alongside her Granny and the team, she said she learned about respect, support, and what it means to be part of something bigger than yourself. Standing tall, she finished by saying she felt proud of how far she had come, and excited for what’s ahead. She thanked everyone who helped her believe in herself. It was a deeply moving moment that captured the heart of everything Reflections represents.
Phannika was presented with Shining Star Award in recognition of her outstanding dedication, passion and commitment and voluntary support towards the creation of Reflections at Eppalock
A Vision with National Impact
Denis Moriarty’s Reflections
Dennis spoke passionately about the importance of communities coming together to create solutions that benefit not just one group, but many. Projects like this, he noted, often achieve what government alone cannot—delivering high-quality, inclusive infrastructure and services at a fraction of the cost, free from red tape and delays.
Denis also reminded us that volunteering and being part of something bigger adds years to your life, reinforcing the incredible value of the people who’ve given their time, skills and heart to make this vision a reality.
He closed by saying how genuinely impressed he was—not just with what has been built, but with the sheer scope and potential of Reflections. In his words, this is a world-class template for inclusive respite and community care—one that could, and should, be replicated across Australia and beyond.
Walking Together
Josh Hercus on Inclusion and Country
To have a place like Reflections at Eppalock—a space where they feel welcomed, respected, and culturally safe.
Josh acknowledged the genuine partnership between BDAC and Dementia Alliance, and how closely his team has worked to ensure that First Nations voices have been heard and embedded throughout the project. From co-designing on-Country activities to ensuring cultural protocols are honoured, this collaboration reflects what can be achieved when we walk together with respect and purpose.
His words reminded everyone that inclusion is not just a goal—it’s a daily practice. And when done right, it creates spaces where people feel they truly belong.
Reflections at Eppalock is the perfect place for a dose of peace and tranquillity.
“Reflections at Eppalock is the perfect place for a dose of peace and tranquillity. It has been created with passion, purpose and above all, dedication and commitment to those that will enjoy the space—now and into the future. It welcomes all, built for inclusion with respect to the rich and diverse community it seeks to serve.”
This event marked not just a milestone in the project, but a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when community leads the way. I look forward to working with this group and helping to ensure the space is used by all who can enjoy the wellbeing benefits of such a welcoming, relaxing and nurturing environment.
Bronwyn Parsons Bendigo Health Carer Services
Costerfield House – All we had heard + more
Costerfield House, a CareVilla that we had been looking forward to seeing for several months, is exactly as described; a space with every inch intentionally designed to support the way the brain works for a person living with dementia. This team has put into practice the research and recommendations for supporting maximum independence for a person living with dementia. Everything we had read about in theory was a reality here, a person living with dementia would have no trouble getting oriented. From the color of the walls to the orientation of the bathroom and everything in between. The use of AI tools to support independence and freedom, to the additional non-intrusive space for a carer to stay. The list of every thoughtful feature is much too long to list here.
Debbie & Dawn Jae – Seattle USA
Forest Bathing
Mayor Andrea Metcalf beautifully likened her experience at Reflections at Eppalock to forest bathing—a moment to slow down, be present, and connect deeply with nature. She spoke of the power in simply appreciating your surroundings, listening to the twittering birds and the rustling bush, and allowing the environment to restore calm and clarity. Mayor Metcalf congratulated Sandra and the Dementia Alliance team on their extraordinary achievements in such a short time, acknowledging the project’s unique vision and inclusive values. She expressed her intention to organise a council delegation to visit Reflections, to understand Reflections vision into the future.
The success of our Stage 1 Open Day was a true reflection of what can be achieved when community, culture, and care come together. With over 80 people in attendance, heartfelt speeches, powerful moments of connection, and overwhelming support from across sectors, it was clear that Reflections at Eppalock has already begun making a meaningful impact. If you would like to be involved in the next stage of this journey—whether through partnership, volunteering, or program delivery—we’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch at hello@dementiaalliance.au. Together, we’re building something truly special.
