Tasmanian-based company Plants Management Australia raised the money by selling Dianthus ‘Memories’ plants, specifically developed to fund dementia research.

Led by UTAS Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre’s Dr Claire Eccleston, the project aims to build dementia-friendly communities by investigating what Tasmanians know about the condition.

The Wicking Centre will use the findings to develop targeted education programs to improve local dementia care and awareness.

Dr Eccleston said Agfest would provide the ideal opportunity to reach rural Tasmanian communities and encouraged patrons to participate in the project survey. 

“Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australians. More than 400,000 currently live with the condition, a number that is projected to increase,” she said.

“We know anecdotally that people generally don’t have a full understanding of the condition, including how to care for and communicate with people affected by it.

“In order for communities to become dementia-friendly, we have to uncover what people know about the condition, and tailor education where it is needed.

“However we know less about the awareness of certain groups, particularly residents from remote and rural communities, younger people and men. At Agfest, we can connect with these cohorts.”

A survey booth will be operating all three days of the event, collecting anonymous information from participants.

Wicking Centre researchers will also be taking expressions of interest for regional focus groups, allowing communities to talk further about their dementia education needs and how to be more supportive of people with the condition. 

Dr Eccleston and her research team will spend the next 12 months travelling across Tasmania visiting community centres, shopping precincts and attending major events to conduct further surveys for the project.