Locals are being encouraged to take part in an open and informative discussion about end-of-life planning at an upcoming community event at the Byron Bay Community Centre.
Titled ‘Let’s Have a Conversation About End of Life Planning: Knowledge is Power,’ the event is the fifth in the Let’s Talk series organised by Sabine Muschter in collaboration with Byron Community Centre and HeyDay Supports.
Sabine, who brings more than 25 years of experience in intensive care nursing, said the session is inspired by what she has witnessed firsthand in hospital and also private settings.
‘I’ve seen families facing additional stress and confusion because important conversations hadn’t happened and documents weren’t in place,’ she said. ‘Planning ahead offers clarity, dignity and peace of mind – not only for ourselves, but for those we love.’
Experienced speakers
The evening will feature several experienced speakers covering the legal, practical and emotional aspects of preparing for times being temporarily ill or end-of-life care.
Zenith Virago, founder of the Natural Death Care Centre Charity, will outline key legal tools such as Advance Health Directives, Enduring Guardianship, Power of Attorney and Wills. A death-walker, ceremonialist and paralegal, Virago will also provide a general overview of Voluntary Assisted Dying and explain why understanding available options is essential for informed decision-making.
Sue McGuigan, an occupational therapist and Aged Care Assessment Clinical Lead for NSW Health on the Far North Coast, will guide attendees through the My Aged Care system. She will discuss how to connect with aged care services, explain the “Support at Home” program and outline the End-of-Life care pathway.
Peter Devine, CEO of HeyDay Supports – formerly known as Byron Respite – will speak about navigating the aged care journey locally. His organisation has provided aged, disability and dementia-specific services across Byron, Ballina, Tweed and Lismore shires for more than 30 years. Peter will focus on how individuals and families can access support when care needs arise, whether gradually or unexpectedly.
Questions welcome
Following the presentations, attendees will have the opportunity to speak directly with presenters and local care providers, to gather more information and ask questions.
‘This is not just a conversation for older people. A sudden accident – whether involving an e-bike styled as a motorbike or anything else – can leave anyone temporarily unable to make their own decisions,’ Sabine Muschter said.
‘It’s a discussion for people of all ages who want clarity, confidence and peace of mind about the future.’
The event will be held on Tuesday, 17 March, from 6pm to 7.30pm at Byron Community Centre, 69 Jonson Street, Byron Bay. Tickets $15 / $10 from BCC box office or https://events.humanitix.com/let-s-talk-end-of-life-planning.
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