Tears will be shed at Belrose Country Club this month as beloved Diversional Therapist Jo Fiore retires.
Jo has devoted 22 years to enhancing the psychological, emotional and physical wellbeing of residents through regular social interaction and activity.
Her bi-weekly art groups will be particularly missed when she hangs up her paintbrush on 21st November.
Village Manager Mary Matakitoga said Jo has been an invaluable member of the Belrose Country Club family.
“Jo is the loveliest person and has helped so many people,” she said.
“She will be hugely missed.”
Jo said the key to being a Diversional Therapist is the simple act of treating residents as individuals.
“I don’t see them as old people, just people,” she said.
“Our residents have so much to offer, and it took me a long time to decide to retire because I couldn’t bring myself to leave them.”
Caitlin Beyer, Lifestyle Activities Officer at Belrose Country Club, said Jo has used her impressive talents to make many positive changes.
“I’ve seen Jo help ladies progress from barely being able to draw to painting the most beautiful pictures,” she said.
Doreen Wright has been a member of Jo’s weekly art group since moving to Belrose seven years ago.
“She just puts people at ease, brings out the best in everyone, and is always so kind and gentle,” she said.
“We’re all going to miss her terribly.”
Residents are marking Jo’s retirement with a group outing to Bobbin Head and a celebratory afternoon tea in the village community centre.
Jo said that while she will miss her many friends at Belrose, she is looking forward to having time to enjoy other things.
“I’m going to travel more and spend time with my seven grandchildren.”
For more information about Belrose Country Club, click here.
