A Celebration of Colour and Connection
In March 2026 Garden Village Port Macquarie will host a vibrant creative ageing and intergenerational celebration as part of the NSW Seniors Festival.
This program partners with Arts Mid North Coast, Hello Koalas and Heritage Christian School to create intergenerational connections through art and boost wellbeing.
Garden Village has been awarded a $5,000 grant from the NSW Seniors Festival Department of Communities and Justice for our ongoing commitment to excellence in community engagement. Minister Jodie Harrison (Minister for Women and Seniors) publicly announced the successful events for NSW Seniors Festival 2026 on Tuesday 18 November.
Garden Village is delighted to collaborate with award winning local organisations to bring colourful projects to life. The event, Paint and Connect: Koalas, Van Gogh and Virtual Adventures, brings seniors and students together for a series of social gatherings supporting creativity, connection and fun.
Participants get the opportunity to take part in different creative ageing projects including:
- Co-create a giant mural featuring a butterfly motif — a symbol of transformation, memory and renewal. The artwork will honour past residents and celebrate Garden Village’s long-standing commitment to ageing in place.
- Paint-your-own mini koala workshop alongside the guest appearance of a full-sized Hello Koala sculpture on site.
- Explore the world of Virtual Reality with an immersive journey through the colourful world of Vincent van Gogh — visiting iconic artworks such as Sunflowers and The Bedroom.
The event concludes with a joyful “Live Life in Colour” social gathering, featuring bright floral settings, music and displays of participants’ creations.
Creative ageing
The program aims to promote creative ageing, reduce isolation, and strengthen intergenerational connections. It supports seniors’ wellbeing through art, technology and shared storytelling.
The project supports the Village’s commitment to community engagement and innovation.
The Garden Village Live Life in Colour celebration brings together art, technology and friendship. It’s a joyful way to celebrate the NSW Seniors Festival, inspire creativity and connect generations through shared experiences.
Stay tuned. More information will be shared with residents about the program in 2026.
