Villa Serena residents now eggsperts at raising a flock

Bolton Clarke Villa Serena residents have hatched a new passion for raising chickens with their newly established chicken coop.

The Robina aged care home started their poultry journey with the Henny Penny Program, watching the chicks hatch and raising them for the past few months.

While the program provides a rehoming service after the hatching process is complete, the residents of Villa Serena were eager to hold onto the chickens.

“From day one, the project had the residents, families and staff watching the chicks grow every day and was quite the talking point around the home,” Villa Serena Lifestyle Coordinator Bianca said.

“It sparked a lot of reminiscing for residents as many grew up on farms, collecting eggs before school, feeding chickens with their family and caring for them.

“Seeing the positive impact the chickens were having I had the idea of creating a permanent home for them at Villa Serena.

“We are hoping to see the chickens start laying after winter and the eggs will be available for a small donation that will go towards the ongoing care of the chickens.”

The idea to keep the chickens has now filled a space in the home’s courtyard while providing a new way for residents to enjoy the outdoors.

Resident Dela says residents, families and visitors enjoy keeping track of the chickens’ daily progress.

“I visit the chickens several times a day and always enjoy seeing how they’re doing,” Dela said.

“As a young girl I helped my family care for chickens where I grew up in Malta and now being around the coop brings back many happy memories from my childhood and younger years.

“I enjoy helping the staff with their care and feeding schedule. Even though I’m in a wheelchair it doesn’t stop me from being involved.”

Fiona’s Chicken Coop is fondly named after one of the team with lots in store for the future of the flock as it continues to grow and create new opportunities for residents.