A world-class team of industry experts in meal delivery, community services, nutrition and the ageing population will assemble to discuss their vision of the future for older Australians, as part of a major national conference this month being held by the Australian Meals on Wheels Association (AMOWA).
These researchers and industry specialists will join hundreds of Meals on Wheels service staff and volunteers in Adelaide for the AMOWA 2015 National Conference to discuss trends and opportunities. To be held at the Adelaide Convention Centre from Wednesday 23 September to Friday 25 September, this biennial conference will enable delegates to exchange ideas and create a continued positive future for delivered meals as part of home support services, to promote independence.
Amongst the guest presenters is US researcher Dr Kali Thomas who will present her landmark work on the value of the Meals on Wheels service and take part in workshops, as part of the conference. Dr Thomas’ role in an interactive discussion with an expert panel, will examine and discuss her latest groundbreaking research on the value to an individual and the community of a delivered meal service, and its benefits in reducing social isolation and preventing or postponing admission to residential care.
Other conference speakers include AMOWA President Mr Nelson Mathews, Governor of South Australia and Patron of Meals on Wheels SA His Excellency the Honourable Hieu Van Le AO, The Right Honourable the Lord Mayor of Adelaide Mr Martin Haese, South Australian of the Year Dr Gill Hicks, renowned futurist Mr Phil Ruthven, researcher Dr Lisel O’Dwyer and culinary icon Mrs Maggie Beer.
A visiting delegation from Meals on Wheels Japan will also be attending the conference and will tour a number of local kitchens including Warradale, Mitcham and Happy Valley, to see the inspiring work of Meals on Wheels SA volunteers firsthand. AMOWA President Mr Nelson Mathews said the national conference would bring together a wealth of knowledge and experience in the one place.
“This year has been challenging for Meals on Wheels,” he said.
“In terms of keeping up with aged care reforms and the new Commonwealth Home Support Program, the strength and lobbying power of AMOWA has never been more important.
“The Meals on Wheels family across Australia is a valuable support network.
“Our national conference is an opportunity to showcase Meals on Wheels’ incredible strength, celebrate our innovations, learn about latest research in the field and forge a sustainable future for all our services.”
MoWSA Chief Executive Officer Mrs Sharyn Broer said Meals on Wheels SA was proud to be hosting this year’s national conference in South Australia.
“It goes without saying that Meals on Wheels is more than just a meal,” she said. “Living at home independently for as long as possible is precious. The Meals on Wheels service has assisted generations of Australians for over 60 years, and will continue to do so for many more.
“We are privileged to be hosting the 2015 National Conference and will take this as an opportunity to build on the ongoing efforts and dedication of more than 75,000 Meals on Wheels volunteers Australia-wide.”
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