Creativity and community: Carol’s story
Jul 18, 2024
Carol Brokate has found a new passion in her life through the CBS social hubs: diamond art. This intricate and colourful craft captured her interest, providing a source of joy and engagement. Her journey into this artistic hobby began after she was introduced to it by a fellow client a few years ago and Carol has not looked back since.
Each work shows her careful attention to detail and artistic talent. This hobby allows Carol to express herself and provides a calming, therapeutic activity she looks forward to each day at the social hub.
Growing up in Melbourne, Carol has fond memories of playing golf regularly with her grandmother before she moved to Tasmania with her parents. As an adult, Carol found employment at the Old Chapel Tea Rooms in Glenorchy, where she was a cherished staff member. The tea rooms were a hub of activity and community, and Carol’s warm nature made her a favourite among customers.
Beyond her love for diamond art, Carol is an avid bowler. Her dedication to the sport has taken her places, quite literally. Recently, she had the opportunity to travel to Canberra to participate in the 2024 National Disabilities Tenpin bowling competition. The experience was exhilarating for Carol, because of the competitive spirit and the camaraderie and sense of achievement it brought. Bowling has been a passion of hers for many years, and participating in such a significant event was a dream come true. She was still beaming about it and showing off trinkets from the trip when we chatted with her.
At the CBS social hubs, Carol’s enthusiasm for diamond art has proved contagious, with the popularity of diamond art growing among other attendees at the hub. The clients often gather to work on their pieces together, sharing tips and admiring each other’s creations. This shared activity has fostered a sense of community and camaraderie, and everyone’s artwork is proudly displayed on the walls of the New Town social hub.
As the youngest in her family, Carol has always valued her family connections. She has two living brothers and a brother who passed away during childhood. This loss was a significant event in her life, influencing her appreciation for family and friendships to this day.
Carol’s story is a testament to the power of creativity and community. Her involvement in diamond art and bowling has enriched her life, providing her with purpose and joy. She is an active and inspiring member of the hubs community, demonstrating the joy of discovering new passions at any stage of life. Carol recently completed her most complex diamond art piece yet, a beautiful colourful lion, just in time for her upcoming 70th birthday.
Carol has been quite prolific since she started creating diamond art. Here’s a small gallery of the amazing pieces she’s made so far, including that incredible lion.
Carol is an NDIS client and attends the CBS social hubs every day. Here she is below with the Tasmanian team at the 35th Australian Disabilities Tenpin Bowling Championship in Canberra.
