Castlemaine now has its own Parkinson’s support group, affectionately known as ‘Parky Pals’.
The group formed in late 2023 and is fast gaining momentum with about 30 regular participants from across the Mount Alexander Shire and beyond.
Dhelkaya Health community health nurse, Bron Grieve, said Parkinson’s disease was a progressive, degenerative neurological condition that affected a person’s control of their body movements.
“In Australia, 38 people are diagnosed every day (Shake it up Australia Foundation),” she said.
“The incidence of Parkinson’s has doubled since 2015 in Victoria and Castlemaine is no exception.
“Parky Pals is for anyone who has any type of connection to the disease – family, friends, carers and those living with Parkinson’s disease. Everyone is welcome.
“The group has movement sessions, guest speakers, tea and coffee and plenty of time and space to connect with others.”
At last week’s gathering, Parky Pals enjoyed a talk from a member of the Dhelkaya Health Adult Day Services team and next month they will have a visit from the Nordic Pole Walkers group. Bron said the group was open and friendly, and feedback and ideas were always encouraged.
Parky Pals meet on the third Monday of each month at 10.30am at the Castlemaine Golf Club, Pyrenees Highway, Muckleford.
Anyone interested in finding out more about the friendly local group can contact Bron Grieve on 0439 187 051 or email BGrieve@castlemainehealth.org.au
