In October, PresCare’s Yaralla Place enjoyed a special visit from the 5th Light Horse Regiment Hervey Bay Troop. Volunteers from the troop made history come alive for residents on a day they’ll never forget.
Dressed in wartime military and nurse uniforms, the troop re-enacted authentic Light Horse drills and thrilling bayonet charges for the excited residents. Mounted on their beautiful horses and wearing their famous slouch hats decorated with emu plumes, the volunteers also brought two medic dogs along for the visit.
Residents were able to get up close to the horses and dogs, feeding and patting them. With many Yaralla Place residents formerly farmers, seeing, smelling and touching these horses brought back fond memories.
When one of the troop members, 15-year-old Lachie, learned that a resident was unable to leave her room to see the performance, he decided to bring the performance to her! He carefully negotiated the hallways of Yaralla Place, ducking into the resident’s suite so she could also enjoy this amazing experience. This resident’s grandfather was a Light Horseman in the Boer War, making this visit even more special and emotional.
Lifestyle Officer, Ivy, said this event was a highlight for residents.
“It meant so much to them and the joy on their faces was wonderful to see. The visit sparked many memories and many conversations, and we are very grateful to the 5th Light Horse for volunteering their time,” she said.
Residents at PresCare’s other Maryborough community, Groundwater Lodge, are looking forward to a similar visit next year.