Get on board to mark Dementia Action Week 2025
Hornsby Shire Council invites people living with dementia, along with their families and dedicated carers, to a complimentary lunch cruise on the Hawkesbury River, as part of a series of events planned to mark Dementia Action Week. The much-anticipated cruise on 16 September, set aboard the iconic Riverboat Postman, will be a highlight of the week.
Dementia touches the lives of close to half a million Australians, with 1.7 million individuals involved in the care of someone living with dementia. The theme for this year’s Dementia Action Week, which runs from 15 to 21 September, is ‘Nobody can do it alone’.
Research demonstrates that communities embracing a dementia-friendly approach experience reduced fear and a greater understanding of dementia, less stigma and discrimination, and improved support systems for people living with dementia to live well in their community for longer.
Aligned with Council’s ‘Hello Hornsby’ initiative, which fosters social inclusion for seniors within the Shire, this Riverboat Postman cruise is specifically tailored to cater for the accessibility needs of people with dementia, a group that can be under catered for.
“Embracing the spirit of Dementia Action Week, we are dedicated to brightening the lives of those living with dementia. It provides a helping hand to assist them to get out and about to enjoy the beauty of the Bushland Shire,” said Hornsby Shire Mayor, Warren Waddell.
“This cruise also offers a valuable support system for caregivers, giving them a chance to unwind and connect with others who understand their journey.”
The Dementia Action Week 2025 Riverboat Postman cruise will run from 10am to 1pm on Tuesday, 16 September. Tickets are free and strictly limited to Hornsby Shire residents with dementia and their carers. The cruise will depart from and return to the marina, close to Hawkesbury River train station. A three-course lunch is included.
A Dementia Awareness Seminar will also be held at Hornsby Library on Friday 12 September to mark the start of Dementia Action Week. This free event will feature a presentation and Q&A with a dementia specialist.
There will also be a screening of the award-winning documentary Everybody’s Oma on Thursday 18 September at Hornsby Library. Everybody’s Oma is a beautiful dementia care story about filmmaker, Jason van Genderen’s ageing mother, Oma.
The events during Dementia Action Week are part of Hornsby Shire Council’s ongoing work in supporting people living with dementia and their carers, as Council actively works towards becoming a Dementia Friendly Community. There are also ongoing weekly ‘DCaf’ café catch ups in Galston, Hornsby and Waitara, providing a safe, welcoming and enjoyable space for those experiencing dementia and their carers who may be feeling isolated. More information can be found here: https://www.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/dcaf-cafe.
Hornsby Shire Deputy Mayor Janelle McIntosh, said: “Creating a Dementia Friendly Community has been an important goal for me. It’s about ensuring that everyone – regardless of age or ability – feels seen, supported and included. These inclusive activities help reduce isolation, foster understanding, and strengthen a sense of community.”
Meanwhile, the Hello Hornsby initiative has an array of other exciting events coming up, including two Coffee & Chat mornings, a morning tea for Carers Week, and a celebration of Grandparents Day in October. These events will be listed on the website nearer the time.
Tickets for the Dementia Action Week events will be available from 1 August. To secure a ticket for Dementia Action Week events and find out about other Hello Hornsby events, visit: https://www.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/hellohornsby.
