DATES TO DIARISE- MAY 2026

ISFAF MONTHLY MEETING 7pm start Tuesday 12th May

VENUE: LEVEL 1, 607 ST KILDA ROAD, MELBOURNE

Join us for a light supper and chat from 7pm.  Meeting starts 7:30pm

For security, we are required to pay a concierge at the door of the building. Latecomers after 8pm may not be able to enter.

GUESTS: Alice Ryan – Nurse Practitioner &  Elissa Rossimel – Senior Dietitian

Alice and Elissa work with the physical health team at Alfred’s adult mental health outpatient team

TOPIC:    You are what you eat – the metabolic of it

·      The Gap  People with schizophrenia die on average between 11 – 23yrs sooner than general population.  Equally Well Victoria framework addresses this and will be discussed.
·      The Causes This is not only due to metabolic illness, mental health issues but lack of preventative measures such as cancer screening.
·      Ways to help  Discussion of diet, exercise and screening that should be addressed.
 
Upcoming Event – Forest Therapy Sunday 17th May, 2pm start @ Botanical Gardens express your interest by Wed 13th May

We are offering an opportunity to experience a unique 2-hour forest therapy, a preventative health practice originating from Japan which has become  popular in recent times. It’s also simply a lovely way to slow down, unwind, and enjoy time in nature!

What to expect!

During the session you will feel a connection to nature and experience sensory and creative ways to help calm your mind. Regular practice may also be associated with  boosting your immune system, reduced stress levels, and encouraging better sleep.

The session is small and welcoming for carers and a loved one. Limited to 15 people

Sound your thing? 

Please email isfaf@alfred.org.au include your name and phone number,  to express your interest by Wed 13th May, note: request a small donation of $10 per person attending is requested.

We will confirm your place via email  on 14th May and further information will be communicated.

Any queries only call Karen on 0408 140 322.

 https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/melbourne-gardens/whats-on-melbourne/forest-therapy/

THE DINING CLUB:  Wednesday 27th May RSVP due Thu 21/05
6:30pm – The Racecourse Hotel. 895 Dandenong Road, Malvern East Vic 3145
We are very grateful for our grant from Carers Vic which is providing funding for this event. Ends in June.

Food to the value of $40 will be funded. Drinks and extras can be paid for individually by attendees.

Please send expression of interest to office by Thursday 21st May – isfaf@alfred.org.au

Confirmation of place will be issued by Sat 23/05. https://www.racecoursehotel.com.au

 WALK ‘N CHAT – ST KILDA  Tuesday 16th May

ON THE 1ST AND 3RD  TUESDAY OF THE MONTH Walkers generally meet at 1:30pm, for a drink provided by ISFAF.  Family members, including canines are very welcome.

West Beach Pavilion at 330 Beaconsfield Pde, St Kilda West.

Please book on the day prior to walk or by 10am on the day of the walk via WhatsApp group message.  For new members to the group, Ph: Alexis 0423 939 949 for a quick chat and to be added to the group.

WALK ‘N CHAT – MIDDLE PARK  Thursday 28th May

LAST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH.  THE SANDBAR – 10:30am 175B Beaconsfield Parade Middle Park

Please book on the day prior to walk or by 9am on the day of the walk. A WhatsApp group message is set up to communicate who can attend on the day and any changes to venue.

For new members to the group, Ph: Penny 0400 979 976  for a quick chat and to be added to the group

ISFAF Carers Biking Group– Monday  1st June – Join us for a fun, relaxed group 
Meeting point:
West Beach Pavilion, 330A Beaconsfield Pde, Middle Park. Easy free parking on the opposite side of the road, or along nearby side streets.
 
Time: Meet at 10:00 am returning 12:00 pm approx., ride usually on the first Monday of every month.

Please Contact Karen 0408 140 3228 or Viv 0449 164 040 for confirmation of date and further information.

 

Please Diarise the 2nd Tuesday of the Month for ISFAF monthly member meetings. 

Lots of interesting topics are covered, including a Political Forum scheduled in August before the upcoming 2026 State Election.