Imagine a place where age is just a number, and the barriers between generations fade away. This is the story of Bungendore, a country town with a heartwarming initiative that's breaking down stereotypes and building bridges.
In a cozy community hall, a unique gathering takes place every Thursday afternoon. Students from Bungendore High School and older members of the community come together, creating an intergenerational hub of knowledge and friendship.
Carmela Moore, in her late 70s, waits eagerly with her knitting needles, ready to share her wisdom and learn from the younger generation. Initially, she admits, "I was a bit scared. Meeting these young girls, I wondered what we'd talk about." But her fears were unfounded. "They're so friendly and open-minded. It's easy to forget their age and just enjoy the conversation."
This program, a collaboration between BaptistCare and the high school, is all about bridging the generation gap. And it's doing just that, with remarkable results.
Nalda Barrett, a Year 9 student, shares her experience: "At first, I thought it would be a nice thing for my resume. But it became so much more. It gave me a break from school and a chance to connect with a different part of our community."
But here's where it gets interesting: the program isn't just about making friends. It's also about learning new skills. Ms. Barrett, for instance, has been learning to knit from Ms. Moore. "It's been a fun experience to talk about with my friends. Some of them were hesitant, but now we can say we know how to knit!" she exclaims. "I've gained so much more than knitting skills. I've learned how to communicate and connect with people in new ways."
The students have been crafting "trauma teddies," a special project that Sophia Duffy describes as "calming and relaxing once you get the hang of it."
Ms. Moore is delighted to pass on her knitting expertise to a younger generation. "You don't see many people knitting these days," she observes. "The students have done a marvelous job. I'm proud of them for finishing what they started."
Susie Hall, a teacher at Bungendore High School, has witnessed the program's positive impact. "At the beginning, students are a bit nervous and unsure. But by the third week, they're running into the hall, eager to work with the older participants." She adds, "There's a beautiful respect that develops. The students learn to listen and appreciate the wisdom of their elders."
Andrew Selmes from BaptistCare agrees, calling the program a "tremendous success." He explains, "It's opened up our clients' personalities and given them a platform to share their stories. The connection has extended beyond the program, with students meeting and communicating with our clients outside of these sessions."
The program has inspired participants like Lyn Mitchell, in her 80s, to write a song for the teenagers, helping them understand the experiences of old age. "Conversing with the teens ... and the memories they bring ... these are a few of my favorite things," she sings with a smile.
Ms. Mitchell believes the program has been an "eye-opener" for many of her peers. "We've gained a deeper understanding of the challenges and differences in the lives of young people today."
As the 2025 intergenerational program concluded with a showcase of projects based on the life stories of the older participants, the hope is that this initiative will continue to grow and thrive.
So, what do you think? Is this a program worth replicating? Should more communities embrace such intergenerational initiatives? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
