30 March 2026
For over two years, our Intergenerational Program at Illoura Village at Chinchilla has been bringing teenagers and seniors together, showing that despite the decades between them, these two groups have plenty in common and much to learn from one another.
Run in partnership with Southern Queensland Rural Health (SQRH), this program is led by third and fourth-year Occupational Therapy students, Rieley Bloor and Hannah Lenton, during their clinical placements. Over six to eight weeks, Year 7 and 8 students from Chinchilla State High School visit our Chinchilla home for an hour of connection and activities.
The sessions kick off with “speed conversations” between the students and residents, to break the ice, followed by a variety of fun activities ranging from “Illoura Olympics” and scavenger hunts to paper plane competitions and pot plant painting and planting.
One of the most unique additions to the program is the “Pop-Up Shop.” In collaboration with St Vincent de Paul Society QLD, students set up a simulated boutique where residents can shop for clothes at no cost. To complete the experience, our staff serve fresh pancakes and coffee, creating the bustling atmosphere of a local café.
For resident Sylvia Johnson, a retired teacher, the sessions are particularly meaningful. “It is delightful to meet the students from my old high school,” Sylvia shared. “It opens my eyes to see where they are at these days. I have even met the grandchildren of students I taught in the past, and it makes me feel there is hope for the future.”
Residential Manager Andrew Moss notes that the impact goes both ways. “The big takeaway for me is how much the students learn from our residents, and the residents love the chance to pass on their knowledge to them,” he said.
The legacy of this program remains in the smiles and the newfound respect shared across the generations. As Resident Betty Wolski beautifully shared, “They make me feel very comfortable and create a joyful atmosphere. I look forward to them coming each week.”
