Jumpers and Jazz all wrapped up

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Every July, the Southern Downs community of Warwick comes alive for its much-loved Jumpers and Jazz in July festival, and this year Darling Downs Health’s Oaks Residential Aged Care was proud to be part of it once again.

This year's festival theme was JAM, and our residents rose to the occasion in style, decorating a tree in the main street of Warwick with a jumper unlike any other: A Big Jar of Mixed Berry Jam. Recreation Officer at The Oaks Linda Gaiter, said "At the Oaks, we are a mixed bunch and that mix is exactly what made this year's tree so special.”

For a few months, residents, staff, family members, and volunteers came together to knit, make pompoms, and piece together the tree jumper, a true community effort from start to finish. As Linda explains, it's a fitting reflection of who we are,

"our residents come from all walks of life, from teachers to farmers, scientists, engineers, railway workers, dressmakers and homemakers. While our staff is also a mixed bunch, coming from all over the world and different walks of life.

- The Oaks Recreation Officer, Linda Gaiter

The jam theme itself has a story behind it too. Since late 2025, The Oaks has been involved in the Maggie Beer Mentoring Program, aimed at improving the nutrition and enjoyment of meals for residents, with Chef Training Mentor Ryan making regular visits to train cooks and staff.

As Linda shared, "residents have been more involved with menu planning, food choices, and cooking if they wish to participate. Over recent weeks, residents have been making jams, so it was only fitting that the tree jumper became a big jar of mixed berry jam!”

While this year's tree didn't take home a prize (the winning entries were truly spectacular), our residents were incredibly proud of what they created, and just as proud to be part of the festival spirit. Outings to view the trees around town, complete with a cuppa and cake at a local café, were a highlight for many.

Some of our male residents also ventured out with Recreation Officers Tahlia and Linda to The Grand Automobile Display, followed by fish and chips for lunch.

Being involved in Jumpers and Jazz each year gives our residents a meaningful way to stay connected to their community, and seeing their tree jumper on display in the main street brings real pride and purpose.

The Oaks theme for the Yarn Bombed Tree Exhibition was the Big Jar of Mixed Berry Jam. Ingredients: A mixed bunch of residents, A multi-cultural staff, A group of Wonderful Volunteers, A few hands full of creativity, A good portion of laughter, A pinch of imagination and A WHOLE LOT OF LOVE.