Garden Village named a Finalist in National Future of Ageing Awards 2025
Garden Village has been named a finalist in the prestigious national Future of Ageing Awards 2025 for the innovative Virtual Voyagers program, delivered in partnership with Intergen Connect and powered by SilVR Adventures.
The Future of Ageing Awards, hosted annually by Inside Ageing, recognise innovation and excellence across Australia’s care sector. This year’s finalists, announced on 7 September, showcase leading programs and solutions shaping the future of aged care.
Garden Village has been shortlisted in the Community Engagement category alongside:
- Resthaven
- Regis Aged Care for Eco Fashion Week program
- St Vincent’s Care Services for Genesis College
- Lifeview for Reilly Art Prize
- Garden Village for Virtual Voyagers
- VMCH for Mannix Partnership
- Helping Hand Gleeson College Intergenerational Program
- Home Care Assistance (HCA) for their Personalised Model of Early Support
Virtual Voyagers – An Australian First
Launched in 2025, Virtual Voyagers is Australia’s first intergenerational virtual reality (VR) program with SilVR Adventures. In collaboration with Intergen Connect and Heritage Christian School, the program brings seniors and secondary students together for shared VR travel experiences.
From Paris to ancient Greece, participants embark on immersive journeys that break down generational barriers and create lasting friendships. Weekly activities combine “armchair travel” with real-world projects, such as building miniature boats after virtual kayaking trips.
“SilVR Adventures is proud to partner with Garden Village on the Virtual Voyagers program. It is inspiring to see residents and students connect so meaningfully through VR, building friendships across generations and proving that technology can bring real joy and inclusion. Being named a finalist is wonderful recognition of the Garden Village team’s creativity, dedication and vision.”
— Colin Pudsey, Founder, SilVR Adventures
Tackling Loneliness, Building Connection
Garden Village CEO Craig Wearne said:
“The eight-week intergenerational program takes seniors and students on virtual adventures and travel-themed group activities that strengthen social connections. With one in four older people experiencing loneliness this program plays a vital role in reducing isolation and enhancing residents’ mental health and wellbeing. Our partnership with Intergen Connect ensures all programs are grounded in Intergenerational Best Practice.”
The impact of Virtual Voyagers often continues after the program. Rex, a Garden Village resident, has formed a lasting friendship with student Ashton and his family. Rex was even invited as a guest to Heritage Christian School’s Father’s Day event, sitting alongside Ashton and his grandfather.
Another touching story came from Beau’s mum, who recently visited resident Marguerite. After their meeting, Marguerite shared that she “wants to adopt Beau as her grandson.” These stories show how Virtual Voyagers is creating meaningful bonds that extend well beyond the program.
“In a community like Port Macquarie, where the population is ageing and young people are seeking real connection, intergenerational programs are essential. They foster inclusion, understanding, and a sense of belonging for all. It’s exciting to put Port Macquarie on the global stage with SilVR Adventures and bring the generations together. The Future of Ageing Award is wonderful recognition for the program, which we are looking forward to facilitating again in 2026.”
— Casey Baldwin, Intergen Connect
The program encourages seniors to relive past memories, experience new virtual destinations, and engage with younger generations. Students act as digital travel guides, building valuable communication and soft skills. Together, they create more inclusive, age-friendly communities.
Garden Village also hosts SilVR Adventures Virtual Reality sessions with aged care residents every week giving them the opportunity to visit destinations all over the world from the comfort of their home.
Award Ceremony
The winners and highly commended will be announced at the Future of Ageing Awards Gala Dinner at Sydney’s Dockside Darling Harbour on Thursday, 27 November 2025.
