Our History

The Western Soaring Falcons Dementia Alliance (formerly the Hobsons Bay Soaring Falcons Dementia Alliance) was established in 2023 by Natalie Ive, an experienced special education professional, prominent dementia advocate, and current Vice Chair of the Dementia Australia Advisory Committee.

Natalie was diagnosed with Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) in 2021. PPA is a form of dementia in which changes in language and communication are among the earliest and most prominent symptoms. Since her diagnosis, Natalie has passionately advocated for people living with dementia.

Recognising a gap in Melbourne’s west for a local, community-led network that brings together people living with dementia, carers and local organisations, Natalie was inspired to establish the Alliance. Her vision was to create a community where people affected by dementia could connect with others, share their experiences, access meaningful opportunities, and have their voices heard in shaping the communities in which they live.

As the Alliance’s first community action, and with support from the Hobsons Bay Community Fund, we hosted a community forum in March 2024 to listen to the experiences and perspectives of people affected by dementia and understand local priorities. The forum brought together people living with dementia, carers, service providers, local businesses and community members to identify gaps, needs and practical opportunities to strengthen dementia awareness, inclusion and support across Hobsons Bay.

The insights gathered through this consultation provided an important foundation for shaping the Alliance’s priorities, programs and future actions.

Building on this strong community foundation, we worked behind the scenes to establish the Alliance, develop our local partnerships and meet the requirements for formal recognition by Dementia Australia as a dementia-friendly community group in late 2024.

In early 2026, the Alliance expanded its scope and adopted its current name to reflect growing collaboration across the Hobsons Bay and Wyndham local government areas.

Where we are today?

Today, the Western Soaring Falcons Dementia Alliance is a passionate, volunteer-led community group. Our committee members include people living with dementia, carers, local business owners, and professionals working in dementia support, research and advocacy. This diverse membership ensures that the voices, perspectives and lived experiences of people affected by dementia remain at the heart of our work.

We meet monthly to develop and coordinate initiatives that raise awareness and understanding of dementia, advocate for the needs and rights of people living with dementia, and create opportunities for meaningful connection and participation for people living with dementia and their carers.

Our current activities include weekly Dementia-cise fitness classes, regular community information and awareness stalls, and ongoing advocacy and collaboration with local organisations and services.

Want to stay connected? Explore our website, follow us on social media, or subscribe to our email newsletter for the latest news, programs, events and activities from the Alliance.

Why are we the 'Soaring Falcons' ?

The name Western Soaring Falcons Dementia Alliance has a very personal meaning. “Western” reflects the communities of Melbourne’s west that we come from and work alongside, while “Soaring” represents possibility, freedom, resilience and looking beyond the limitations often placed on people living with dementia.

Falcons have always held a special place for me. I love their strength, independence and strong family values. The name became even more personal when my daughter told me I was a “falconess” because falcons reminded her of me. For me, the falcon represents strength, perspective and the ability to see things differently, values that are at the heart of our Alliance.

~ Natalie Ive, Founder

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