‘Amazing’ stories a worthwhile exercise

HENRY Henare, 77, walks everywhere, has his own gym at home, is mindful of his posture and believes breathing correctly is key to a successful exercise routine.

Seniors Week 2018 is an opportunity to celebrate seniors and the numerous benefits they bring to Hobart and a new council project hopes to share the wisdom of older Tasmanians like Mr Henare.

Mr Henare is one of many who have passed through the Wayfinder Mobile Story Telling Studio at Mathers House as part of the project.

Story collector Helene Thomas, who created her studio in June, said the experience had been incredible.

“There’s no expectation around what I’m going to get from them and I am continuously amazed and blown away by the depth and breadth of their experiences,” she said.

“Today I interviewed Henry Henare about his exercise routine.

“Another man with a disability came in saying I have this problem; I’m addicted to unconditional love.

“He believes his purpose in life is to make people feel good.”

Artist Matt Daniels, with his son Ned, have created beautiful line drawings of people that they have spoken to.

Hobart Lord Mayor Ron Christie officially launched the project yesterday and said he had listened to some of the recordings, which he described as ‘beautiful’.

The collection of recordings will be later shared on a website.