Patients receiving care through the Palliative Care Service at Calvary Mater Newcastle are beginning to experience new possibilities beyond the hospital walls through the use of mixed reality headsets, generously funded by Dry July and its supporters.

The technology is now being used within the hospice and by attendees of the Fig Tree Day Hospice Program, giving patients the opportunity to explore new places, revisit meaningful memories and enjoy immersive experiences from around the world.

The project is led by Palliative Care Clinical Nurse Consultant Peter Kozaczynski, with support from the broader palliative care team.

"The headsets allow patients to immerse themselves in a range of experiences, whether that's visiting places around the world, exploring natural environments, or simply escaping to a calm and peaceful setting for relaxation and guided meditation," Peter said.

For some patients, the technology provides an opportunity to reconnect with important places and cherished memories.

"As we continue to embed this technology into the palliative care service, we hope it will allow patients to revisit their hometown, no matter where it is in the world, or even see their own home one last time using footage captured by staff and viewed through the headset," Peter said.

"It's been incredibly rewarding to see the impact these experiences can have. Sometimes it's simply about making a wish come true."

Whether patients are bedbound or mobile, the headsets are lightweight, comfortable and easy to use.

"They are a wonderful addition to our service," Peter said. "They bring joy, support patient wellbeing and provide a welcome escape for people experiencing grief and sadness."

Don, 93, who attends the Fig Tree Day Hospice Program, recently tried one of the headsets.

"It was a great experience," Don said. "I really enjoyed being in the jungle with the elephants."

The technology has been warmly received by patients, providing moments of comfort, enjoyment and connection when they are needed most.

"We are very grateful to Dry July and its supporters for helping fund this project," Peter said. "We couldn't do it without them."

Thank you to Dry July and its supporters for helping make these experiences possible.