A wish comes true for Frances and John
19th May 2025 | 3 min read
A truly perfect day is a gift. And when it’s shared with those we love, our memories are so much sweeter.
For Frances and John, who live at Aldinga Beach Care Community in South Australia, the perfect day began with a dream they shared in our Wishing Well: to take a flight in a helicopter, followed by a wonderful lunch.
Our team quickly got to work planning every detail to make the couple’s wish come true. And on the big day, Adelaide itself honoured the sense of occasion by turning on one of its famous endless blue skies.
Frances and John arrived at Ekhidna Kitchen & Wines in the beautiful McLaren Vale, to be met by their daughter Fiona and son-in-law Mark before they boarded a Helivista helicopter for a scenic ride.
“The take-off was the most pleasant feeling and the commentary by Pip the pilot was very informative,” said John. “We felt safe and secure the entire experience. Pip circled our Care Community for us and it was wonderful to see people we know waving to us and with balloons.”
“The view was magnificent, the headsets made the flight more enjoyable and the flight time of 30 minutes was just perfect.”
After landing on the lawn at Ekhidna Kitchen & Wines, a three-course lobster lunch awaited Frances and John with a chilled bottle of pinot gris to compliment. And for Frances, the lunch had special meaning.
“The lobster was lovely and together with the wine made for a perfect day,” said Frances. “It reminded me of when my father used to catch lobster on Sundays during the summer at Port MacDonnell when I was young. And it was so nice to have Fiona and Mark join us to wave us off and enjoy lunch with us.”
“We’re so grateful for the efforts of Harvey, Melissa and our Aldinga Beach team, and to Helivista and Ekhidna Kitchen and Wines who treated us with such care and respect,” said John. “It was a wonderful day, from start to finish.”
Care Community stories
Bringing generations together through volunteeringHow shared time and kindness enrich life for residents and volunteers alikeVolunteering at our Care Communities enables people to make a real difference in the lives of older peopl…
17th June 2026 | 4 min read
Care Community stories
Support groups for families and carersWe established Dementia Connections Cafes to offer support groups for families and carers and foster connection and community for those families of residents who are living with de…
4th June 2026 | 4 min read
Care Community stories
Human connections at Blacktown TerraceAt Care Communities across Australia, you’ll find wonderful stories of human connection that unite us. At Blacktown Terrace Care Community in western Sydney, a beautiful friendship…
28th May 2026 | 4 min read
Care Community stories
Acknowledging National Sorry Day at Hamlyn TerraceResidents, team, and visitors at Hamlyn Terrace Care Community on the Central Coast of NSW gathered to acknowledge National Sorry Day, also known as the National Day of Healing, on…
26th May 2026 | 3 min read
Care Community stories
Stay safe from recruitment scamsAt Opal HealthCare, the safety and trust of people who want to join our team is important to us.Recruitment scams are unfortunately becoming more common. These scams may involve in…
21st May 2026 | 4 min read
Care Community stories
Wellbeing support for Tony at Kawana WatersMotorcross champion. Barefoot water-skier. Endurance athlete. World traveller. With highlights like these, it’s easy to see why former resident Tony swears by the motto: “Live life…
13th May 2026 | 4 min read
Care Community stories
Recycling strengthens community bonds at Wallarah PointFor decades, people have flocked to the Central Coast of NSW for the sea, the sun, and the fresh air. At Wallarah Point Care Community, recycling is one way our residents and team …
28th April 2026 | 4 min read
Care Community stories
Our second family at Geraldton ShoreIf you’re lucky enough to visit Geraldton Shore Care Community in Western Australia’s Mid West region, you’ll easily spot mother-and-son duo Peta and Edge. Just follow the laughter…
13th April 2026 | 4 min read
Care Community stories
Knitting with purpose: Building connection at Narraweena GroveFor people living with dementia, creative pursuits stimulate the mind and help maintain their dexterity for longer. And often the benefits extend beyond the individual. Being activ…
9th April 2026 | 4 min read