Mini-expo supports locals living with dementia
Published on 10 November 2025
Fraser Coast residents living with dementia, along with their families and carers, are invited to the free These Hands Dementia Mini-Expo at the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre in Pialba next week (Monday 17 November).
Fraser Coast Regional Council Seniors Liaison Officer Juls de Waard said the mini-expo would offer practical, hands-on information about local services, supports and resources.
“Dementia can feel overwhelming, but no one has to walk that path alone,” Ms de Waard said.
“This mini-expo brings together trusted local services and lived experience so people can get answers, feel supported and be reminded that every person living with dementia has a life story, talents and contributions that matter.”
The event will include guest speakers Gaynor and Dennis, who will share their lived experience of dementia, while HBNC CEO Ms Tanya Stevenson will discuss insights from her visit to the Hogeweyk Dementia Village in Amsterdam.
The event will also launch the annual These Hands photographic exhibition by local photographer Rowena Allen—a powerful series of black-and-white portraits focused on the hands of people living with dementia, accompanied by storyboards that celebrate each person’s life and achievements.
“These Hands invites us to look beyond a diagnosis,” Ms de Waard said. “It’s a reminder that identity, connection and contribution remain at the heart of who we are.”
A range of community organisations will be available on the day to provide information about dementia support, therapy, legal assistance, carer support and social connection programs.
This includes dementia advisors, occupational therapists, community centres, senior support services and carer organisations, along with printed resources from Dementia Australia, the Office of the Public Guardian and the Dementia Online shop.
“The mini-expo is an opportunity to learn, connect and help create a more dementia-aware and compassionate community,” Ms de Waard said.
The free These Hands Dementia Mini-Expo will be held on Monday 17 November 2025 from 10am to 12 noon at the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre in Charles Street in Pialba. Morning tea will be provided.
For RSVP for catering purposes, and for more information, please contact Juls de Waard on 4194 2441 or email at juls.dewaard@frasercoast.qld.gov.au
The mini-expo is being organised by the Fraser Coast Dementia Alliance, with support from Aged and Disability Advocacy Australia (ADA Australia), the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre (HBNC), and Council.