PORT MACQUARIE is at the forefront of a national innovation in aged care and youth engagement.
Australia’s first SilVR Adventures Intergenerational Program was launched at Garden Village on Tuesday 29 April, during Global Intergenerational Week.
It marks the beginning of Virtual Voyagers, an eight-week virtual reality (VR) travel program connecting students with aged care residents, to bridge generational gaps.
Garden Village CEO Craig Wearne, told News Of The Area that everyone is thrilled to be a part of the program.
“We’re incredibly proud to lead the way in using innovative technology to strengthen connections between generations,” he said.
“Residents have loved virtually exploring the world—and now, we’re excited to take this journey to the next level.”
Each week, students and residents embark on shared VR journeys, followed by creative, themed activities, designed to spark conversation, storytelling and friendship.
The program was created with a focus on building inclusive, age-friendly communities.
Intergen Connect Founder Casey Baldwin said, “Embedding SilVR Adventures into our programs places Port Macquarie on the global map as an emerging leader in Intergenerational Best Practice.
“We’ve seen magic happen—stories shared, laughter across generations, and new friendships.”
With one in three Port Macquarie locals aged over 65, and Australia’s over-85 population set to triple by 2065, programs like Virtual Voyagers are vital in combating social isolation.
Garden Village recently showcased the technology at the Future of Business Technology Summit at Charles Sturt University where Adam Spencer, MC and Keynote Speaker, enjoyed a virtual skydive.
Local businesses and the Garden Village Auxiliary generously supported the initiative as destination sponsors.
By Sis HIGGINS
