Our Yarriambiack Lodge residents are rejoicing today following the official re-opening of Jean’s Shop.
Opened on February 28, 2013, the shop was named in honour of Yarriambiack Lodge resident Jean Barnett who, due to both her love of an ice cream and her work in manning an ice cream cart for her fellow residents, was fondly known as “the Ice Cream Queen”.
Following Jean’s passing, RNH Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapist Katie Ramsdale suggested she be honoured with a permanent ice cream and lolly shop, and Jean’s Shop was developed.
Designed to provide our residents with an opportunity to work in the shop, while also reminiscing, the shop artwork was completed by Phil Rigg and depicts older-style lollies.
Unfortunately, when Covid restrictions meant that visitors and staff working outside the lodge were not allowed to enter, the decision was made to sadly close the shop temporarily.
However, with new residents and families asking what the shop was all about, and staff asking when it may re-open, the time felt right now to bring the shop back to life.
Leisure and Lifestyle Team Leader Bronwyn McIntyre welcomed residents and their families to the re-opening today.
Protected by “guard dog” Rufus, the shop will be open 7 days a week from 2.15-2.45pm.
All of the lollies are colour coded, rather than individually priced, to make things easier for our residents.
Today’s re-opening also featured a treasure hunt, with 6 vouchers hidden around the shop and lodge for lucky shoppers to find.
Bronwyn encourages all to visit the shop and, if anyone has suggestions for lollies they would like, please let us know.