Australia’s First Virtual Reality Intergenerational Program Launches in Port Macquarie
Australia’s first SilVR Adventures Intergenerational program is set to launch during Global Intergenerational Week. The launch was celebrated at a morning tea with seniors and students hosted at Heritage Christian School on Tuesday, 29 April.
“Embedding SilVR Adventures into our programs places Port Macquarie on the global map as an emerging leader in Intergenerational Best Practice,” said Intergen Connect Founder Casey Baldwin.
Virtual Voyagers is an eight-week program connecting Garden Village residents and students from Heritage Christian School for a shared VR travel experience, powered by SilVR Adventures.
It’s the first program of its kind in Australia using the SilVR Adventures technology to bridge generational gaps. Virtual Reality supports social connections, storytelling, and fun shared experiences.
Each week, students and residents take off on virtual journeys together, followed by themed activities inspired by the adventure.
Co-created by Casey Baldwin, Founder of Intergen Connect, and Jo McNamara, Communications and Community Engagement Manager at Garden Village, the program reflects a shared vision to build inclusive communities that connect generations and improve wellbeing for all ages. 
“Garden Village is thrilled to be part of Australia’s very first SilVR Adventures Intergenerational Program. We’re incredibly proud to lead the way in using innovative technology to strengthen connections between generations. Our partnership with Casey at Intergen Connect ensures that all programs involving students are grounded in Intergenerational Best Practice. Residents have loved virtually exploring the world—and now, we’re excited to take this journey to the next level,” said Craig Wearne, CEO of Garden Village.
Heritage Christian School students take on the role of digital travel guides, fostering leadership, empathy, and cross-generational friendships.
“We’ve seen magic happen—stories shared, laughter across generations, and new friendships,” said Casey Baldwin, who has facilitated three successful intergenerational projects across the Port Macquarie region.
The program is powered by SilVR Adventures, a global leader in immersive VR experiences for senior living. Their innovative platform allows people to explore the world virtually.
“I’m thrilled to see the thoughtful approach Garden Village has taken to extend last year’s campaign into a meaningful intergenerational initiative,” said Colin Pudsey, Founder of SilVR Adventures. “This aligns beautifully with our mission to bring joy and connection to older adults and across generations.”
With 30 per cent of Port Macquarie’s population over the age of 65—and Australia’s over-85 population expected to triple over the next 40 years—programs like this are vital for developing supportive communities and addressing social isolation.
Special thanks to the Garden Village Auxiliary and local businesses who hopped on board as destination sponsors to fund the program. Garden Village recently showcased the technology at the Future of Business Technology Summit at Charles Sturt University where Adam Spencer enjoyed a virtual skydive!
