Lockdown support for our residents

We know that it hasn’t been easy for residents across our four campuses in Victoria to face another lockdown. But when news of restrictions was announced, the Deakin Res team swung into action to provide additional support and entertainment during the coinciding with our study break and exam period.   

At our Melbourne Burwood Campus, our residents have benefited from a variety of door-drop items including fresh fruit, gingerbread men (supporting local bakery, Artisan Bakery in Burwood Heights), study packs and figurine paint kits. Our residents also relished the opportunity to participate in a pancake and PJ day via Zoom.  

In Geelong, at our Waurn Ponds and Waterfront campuses, the team delivered art and craft packs and food via socially distanced door-drops. Just last week, 77 paint by number kits, 65 embroidery kits and 158 study packs were delivered to grateful students. Study packs included some healthy – and not so healthy – treats and study items to prepare students for a successful SWOT-Vac period prior to exams, whilst arts and craft provided a creative outlet. At the Geelong Waterfront, residents also received ready-to-heat meals, and two of our volunteer Residential Leaders facilitated a Kahoot trivia night.   

In Warrnambool, our residential team also organized door drops to help ease exam and lockdown stress. Multiple door drops featured exam study packs with cue cards, tea and coffee, lollipops, and a sweet pastry treat, followed by a handy frozen meal, fruit, muesli, and finally catered lasagna and vegetarian stir fry meals. Residents were also kept entertained with an origami competition, sudoku and crossword puzzles.  

Following an easing of restrictions in regional Victoria, our Geelong Waurn Ponds residents also had access to an on-site coffee van – making the most of a quick coffee and muffin fix. In Burwood, lockdown may have continued a little longer, but that couldn’t stop us getting free coffee to our residents! Student’s collected free coffee cards from reception and made the short walk across to Fusion Café for some welcome fresh air, and of course the coffee too.   

Our Deakin Res team looks forward to reduced restrictions over coming days and weeks, with a hopeful return to normal event and activity programming by the beginning of Trimester 2.