Christmas is a time for celebrating moments that bring us joy and reminds us of the importance of the connections that fill our lives with meaning. A simple gift can remind a resident that they are a valued part of the community and is a sign that someone cares. This year, with your support, we are bringing gifts to a number of residents at Southern Cross Care Joseph Cooke House.

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Read more about the residents and their Christmas gift wishes below, and scroll down to choose a gift to pay forward.

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Val, age 81

Valerie was born in England and has a lifelong love for keeping her mind engaged. She enjoys reading, colouring in, and listening to music—especially the timeless tunes of Neil Diamond. Whether it's a good book, a colouring page, or a song that brings back memories, Valerie thrives on activities that keep her creativity flowing. For Christmas this year, Valerie would love to receive colouring books and pencils—perfect for continuing her favourite pastime and bringing even more colour and joy into her days.

Pencils, now kindly gifted

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Peter, age 80

Peter is a proud Perth native with a rich and varied life history. Having lived in Rockingham, he served in the army and later worked in retail and the mines, where his strong work ethic and resilience shaped his character. Now, he enjoys the quieter pace of life, reflecting on his experiences and memories. This Christmas, Peter’s wishes are simple yet thoughtful: a warm blanket, a room diffuser for a soothing atmosphere, and an electric shaver for his daily routine. These small comforts are a reminder of the care and peace he deserves as he enjoys his golden years.

Gift of warm blanket kindly purchased.

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Bill, age 90 Lego, now kindly gifted

Born in England, Bill has always had a passion for building and design. A former builder, businessman, and furniture designer, he’s spent a lifetime creating and shaping the world around him. He’s also known for his adventurous side, having raced cars in his younger years. Even now, his love for craftsmanship and creativity shines through, and he still enjoys building things with his hands. For Christmas this year, Bill is hoping to revisit his childhood joy with a gift of Lego or building blocks—something to fuel his passion for making, especially a car!

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Richard, age 80, Collared shirt and tracksuit now kindly gifted

Richard has lived a life full of hard work and dedication, starting as an electrician before driving trucks and operating skip bins. Through it all, he’s always been a steady presence, both at work and in the lives of those around him. These days, Richard enjoys a quieter life, spending his time reading the papers and catching up on magazines. His deep sense of practicality and comfort reflects in the simple joys he finds each day.

For Christmas this year, Richard is hoping for something that speaks to both his comfort and style: a collared shirt and loose elastic track pants—a gift that will let him relax in ease while enjoying his favourite reads.

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Joseph, age 78, Chocolate Hamper, now kindly gifted

Born in London, Joseph has lived a life filled with adventure and unique experiences, including time spent living on a boat. A man of varied interests, he enjoys the focus and skill of archery, the freedom of swimming, and the energy of classic rock and roll. His love for staying informed also keeps him tuned into the news, connecting him to the world around him. With a heart full of memories and a spirit that embraces life’s joys, Joseph brings a warm presence to everyone he meets.

For Christmas this year, Joseph is hoping for a treat to satisfy his sweet tooth—a hamper filled with chocolates and lollies, perfect for indulging in a little holiday joy.

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Ranjith, age 84 - Puzzle, now kindly gifted

Born in India and now a long-time Australian, Ranjith’s life has been rich with purpose and accomplishment. With a PhD in Demographics, he served as the Director of Public Health in India before transitioning to life in Australia, where he made a lasting impact as a lecturer at Curtin University. His love for learning never faded, and he finds joy in documentaries and movies that expand his mind and entertain his spirit. A man of intellect and heart, Ranjith has always dedicated himself to understanding the world around him.

For Christmas this year, Ranjith is wishing for a jigsaw puzzle —a thoughtful and relaxing gift that suits his love for puzzles and quiet moments of reflection.

Barbara, age 97, Pot plant now kindly gifted

Barbara is a kind and resilient woman whose life has been shaped by a love of family, hard work, and the simple joys of life. Growing up on a farm, she later became the manager of a country bakery before moving into the world of motor vehicle claims. Now living in a care home alongside her sister, Barbara enjoys reading the newspaper and staying connected to the world around her.

For Christmas this year, Barbara has a simple wish: pot plants to bring a touch of nature and beauty into her life.

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Coralie, age 86, Pencils and colouring books now kindly gifted

Coralie, 86, was born in North Fremantle, Australia, and has a rich cultural connection to Lebanon through her marriage to a Lebanese man. Having visited Lebanon many times, she cherishes the memories of her travels. Coralie enjoys reading, colouring, building large jigsaws, and painting—activities that bring her peace and creativity. This Christmas, Coralie would love to receive colouring books and pencils or new painting equipment to continue nurturing her artistic passions and adding more colour to her world.

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