“The best thing about memories is making them”

~ unknown

We all know how fortunate we are to be living in WA right now. Unlike many regions throughout the world we are free to socialise, shop, travel and take in everything that our beautiful state has to offer. Whilst we need to remain vigilant and maintain social distancing, it is important to continue making memories with our loved ones.

At The Richardson, we are encouraging our residents’ families to visit as much as possible. Aside from the variety of activities and outings on offer via our lifestyle program, our residents can opt to go out on their own accord (if able) or with family & friends.

This week we wanted to share a few of the many wonderful things to do in Perth with your “coming of age” loved one.

Tea for 2 (…or 3 or more)

It’s always a good day for tea & scones and there are several places around Perth to indulge in such delights.

Cottage Tea Rooms and Lavender Bistro are known to have some of the best scones in Perth. Both located in the Swan Valley, they’re an ideal excuse for an afternoon drive.

The café at Masonmill Gardens have a substantial offering that includes freshly made scones and jam. Located 30 minutes from the city, Masonmill is set on ten acres of colourful gardens which include an 18 hole mini-golf course for added fun.

If you’re after something a little fancier (and closer to home), try a simply stunning High Tea at Rochelle Adonis in Highgate or a decadent afternoon tea at Epicurean located at Crown Perth.

Scones are a favourite for residents and staff alike here at The Richardson and are typically made weekly by our pastry expert, Faith. If you wish to try your hand at making scones at home, here is our very special scone recipe.

Road Trip It 

If it’s an adventure you and your loved ones are seeking, there are many wonderful and historical places to visit, just a short drive from Perth.

A renowned heritage town York, established in 1831, is just over 1hr drive east of Perth, making it a perfect day trip destination. Mid-August is the best time of year to see the fields of canola flowers or check out the old Gaol & courthouse.

Head North and experience Australia’s only monastic town, New Norcia. Just 1.5hrs drive from Perth, this unique town was founded in 1847 by Spanish Benedictine Monks. Explore the fascinating history and stop for a bite at the monastery owned, Salvado Roadhouse (don’t forget to pick up their world-famous nut-cake).

If no one feels like driving you can always jump on the train and head South to Mandurah. Our beloved coastal town has grown significantly over the past decade and if you haven’t visited in a while, we strongly suggest you do. Head to the marina for lunch, gelato and a spot of shopping. Or, travel a little further to enjoy a locally brewed beer at Three Rivers Brewing or Old Coast Rd brewery. You could also book a canal tour, which are a hit with young and old. You may even spot a pod of dolphins. 

Of course, for some beautiful non-aquatic scenery you can go east to the hills and visit one of the many amazing venues in this stunning region of WA.  Core Cider House is open Thursday – Sunday offering impressive locally brewed cider, a bistro with stunning views and rolling garden with a playground for the kids. Alternatively head to Mundaring Weir to experience one of the world’s greatest engineering projects and take in the surrounding bushland.

Strolling

There is nothing better than fresh air and a stroll through nature. Perth has many wheelchair friendly trails available to enjoy at any time of the year. With the magnificent Kings Park just a short distance away, it is a favourite for residents and families of The Richardson.

Check out this list of wheelchair friendly walks in Perth, rug up and find a walking adventure for you and your family

Places of interest

Some other fabulous outings, which are suitable for the whole family:

1. Head to the Aviation Museum if planes land well with you. This little known aviation heritage museum is located at the Air Force Memorial Estate in Bullcreek, just 20mins south of Perth.

2. Visit the Shipwrecks Museum in Fremantle to see their permanent Batavia Gallery exhibition. The gallery houses the reconstructed remains of the VOC ship Batavia, excavated by archaeologists in the 1970s and also features a skeleton of one of the people murdered on the Abrolhos Islands. If your loved one enjoys a bit of grim history – they’ll love this!

3. Perth Zoo remains one of the best zoos in Australia (if not the world) and with wheelchair and wagon hire available for the kids, it’s the perfect family day out. 

These are just a few options available to us in WA. 

Take advantage of the freedom to get out and about and enjoy this weekend with your nearest and dearest.

If you wish to speak to someone about your situation or that of a loved one, please don’t hesitate to contact us or book a tour online to view The Richardson Aged Care or The Queenslea Serviced Apartments for seniors.