As we step into the freshness of spring, I’m delighted to share the latest updates from across the IHHC.

“Fork in the Road – Why Mealtimes Matter More Than Ever”

We were privileged to welcome Dr Cherie Hugo from the Lantern Alliance as part of our national webinar series. Dr Hugo explored how food, nutrition and the dining experience profoundly influence wellbeing and quality of life. The session unpacked key changes in the Standards, highlighted valuable measurement tools and data and shared practical strategies to enhance the aged care dining experience.

Melbourne 2025 Conference: Planning in Full Swing

Our Melbourne 2025 National Conference is shaping up to be one of our best yet. Planning is well underway and we are thrilled to have already announced our keynote speakers Jodie Cranham, David Fechner and Glenn Flood. Alongside these keynote sessions, delegates can look forward to engaging workshops, panel discussions and networking opportunities that connect peers from across the country.

Melbourne promises to deliver a vibrant and thought-provoking conference that inspires us to keep moving healthcare hospitality forward.

IHHC Excellence Awards: Why Nominations Matter

The State Excellence Awards have all been judged and we look forward to announcing the National Winners at the conference dinner.

While on the topic of the Excellence Awards, I’d like to share a personal story that highlights the importance of nominating your team members.

My mum, who has Alzheimer’s, recently moved into an aged care facility. Those first weeks were incredibly difficult for my family as we adjusted to no longer being directly responsible for her care. During that time, many people made an impact – but I’ll never forget a lovely cleaner I first chatted with about her trolley and cleaning products. The following week she called me by name as I walked down the corridor. That small act made such a difference for me as I let go of the tight hold I had on mum’s care. Every interaction mattered – it gave me reassurance she was in safe hands.

This is the difference your teams make every day. Every moment, every connection, every act of care leaves a lasting impact. Please take the time to nominate your staff next year for the Excellence Awards – they deserve to be recognised.

Supporter Referral Program

A quick reminder that our Supporter Referral Program is live! We deeply value our Supporters and want to reward them for helping us grow the IHHC community. For every new member referred, Supporters receive a discount on their annual payment.

Meet the Board

Ahead of our August Board meeting we hosted a Meet the Board event, inviting supporters to join us in open discussion about how we can grow together. Collaboration was the main theme – how do we strengthen our partnerships and create mutual value? The evening was a great success, with many thoughtful ideas for the National Board to take forward.

·       IHHC Supporter program

·       Membership flyer and pack to be developed for supporters to give to prospective members

·       IHHC to work closely with Supporters to help educate our members through workshops or educational event.

As always, thank you to our members and volunteers across the country who continue to contribute time, knowledge, and passion to our shared mission. Let’s keep moving forward together.

Warm regards,

LISA CRANHAM National President