Proud to Be Highlighted in Maroondah Council News!

I’m thrilled to share some exciting news with the Feel Better Music Therapy community!

I have recently been featured and acknowledged in the Maroondah City Council News for my work in delivering the Melodies and Memories program — a music therapy initiative designed to support people living with dementia and their carers. Being recognised in the Council’s news is a tremendous honour and a wonderful affirmation of the value that music therapy brings to our local community.

🎵 Melodies and Memories: A Completed Program with Impact

The Melodies and Memories program successfully ran over 10 weeks, engaging around 15 participants per session and achieving consistent attendance. Feedback from participants highlighted strong emotional and social benefits, with words like “fun,” “fantastic,” and “I felt part of a group.” One participant noted that singing “Amazing Grace” was especially meaningful, demonstrating the program’s impact on memory and personal connection. Participants consistently reported feeling “happy” and “relaxed,” with benefits extending beyond the sessions.

Staff observations reinforced these outcomes, noting increased engagement, confidence, and social interaction. One standout moment saw a participant volunteering to sing for the group, showing growing confidence and comfort within the program. Overall, 100% of feedback indicated enjoyment and improved mood, reflecting the program’s success in fostering wellbeing, social connection, and meaningful engagement for seniors living with dementia.

This program addressed a gap in accessible arts opportunities for older adults, leaving a lasting legacy in the Maroondah community by demonstrating the value of dementia-inclusive, person-centred music therapy.

💚 Heartfelt Thanks

I want to extend my sincere gratitude to:

• All participants for sharing their time and joining in making music,
• Our local partners, Maroondah City Council and Caladenia Dementia Care.
• And everyone who believes in the power of music to connect and uplift.

Your support made this program possible, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to bring Melodies and Memories to life.

Read the full Council feature here: 👉 Funding to support our community – Maroondah City Council News