A group of male residents of Aveo’s Shortland Waters Retirement Living community in the Hunter has discovered the recipe for wellness and friendship.
The retirees are savouring the joy and benefits of cooking healthy fresh meals under the guidance of retired chef and fellow resident Ken Harris.
After a long and distinguished career in kitchens in major hotels including Hilton and Hyatt, running his own restaurants and teaching at TAFE, Ken now shares his skills at the men’s cooking group he created.
“My wife and I moved to Shortland Waters in 2020 and I realised a lot of the older men in the community didn’t cook and if they did they had a limited repertoire of standard fare,’’ Ken said.
“So, I had an idea of getting them together to take part in a cooking group with the added benefit of friendship.
“I think our first meal was a two-course roast and apple crumble. Shortland Waters’ on-site commercial kitchen and large dining room has been perfect for us.
“We have a focus on learning to make meals that are balanced and healthy that include side salads and vegies.’’
The group of eight has grown in confidence and now caters for regular events for around 75 diners, including their partners and other residents.
“I plan the menus, organise the preparation and purchasing. We run like a restaurant and can’t keep the diners waiting,’’ Ken said.
“It has become so popular I’m often asked to organise more dinner events, but I have to remind everyone that I’m actually retired!’’
The men have moved on from roasts to lasagne, beef ragout, risotto and have mastered chicken roulade. Residents who attend the dinners pay $15 to cover the cost of ingredients.
Ken says any food leftover is frozen and provided to other members of the community who might need a little support.
“We created ‘wellness meals’ that are available free of charge to any resident who may have just left hospital and recovering from surgery,’’ he said.
Ken says the cooking group has been good for both body and mind.
“All the guys get along so well. Close bonds have been formed over the pots and chopping boards as we discuss anything and everything.
“Some who were just neighbours have now become firm friends who with their wives go away together on holidays and cruises.
Shortland Waters’ health and wellness focus extends to its lifestyle offering, set beside the 18-hole Shortland Waters Golf Club.
Several residents are keen golfers who enjoy the convenience of taking the short stroll from their front doors onto the course.
Shortland Waters is located at 33 Shearwater Drive, Shortland. For more information about two-bedroom premium apartments call 13 28 36 or visit aveo.com.au.
About Aveo
As Australia’s leading and most innovative retirement living provider Aveo owns and manages a diverse portfolio of communities. For over 30 years, Aveo has been dedicated to helping retired Australians be their best selves across every stage of their later life journey. Aveo is committed to delivering the best retirement living options, continually listening and learning about what our customers want so that we can provide and foster communities where you can truly live well.
