Connection through the art of ageing

'Connecting through the Art of Ageing' is a partnership initiative of City of Victor Harbor, Alexandrina Council, and District Council of Yankalilla, supported by an Age Friendly SA grant from the Office for Ageing Well.

The project aimed to challenge ageism and reshape societal perceptions by promoting the idea that ageing is a natural, lifelong process. Through facilitated conversation and engagement activities, the initiative uncovered how ageing is perceived and encouraged intergenerational connections to build community inclusion.

Positive Ageing Project Officer, Michelle Fuller, played a key role in gathering community input and explained how the collaborative nature of the project, which brought together councils, consultants and the community, worked to deliver a tangible difference.

“Our approach was to initiate conversations about ageing through a variety of channels," Michelle said.

"This included hosting community workshops, conducting surveys, and organising intergenerational activities and showcase events. These platforms allowed for meaningful exchanges, enabling participants to share perspectives and learn from one another."

The project's success is evident in the strengthened collaboration and increased community capacity, achieved by celebrating community efforts and acknowledging the diverse voices within it. The enthusiastic participation and valuable contributions of community members significantly influenced the outcome of the project.

A survey participant involved in the project remarked: “Getting older, acquiring wisdom, making the most of every day, living life to the fullest. I look back on my life, my childhood, family, work and think how things have changed. My older body can’t do what my younger body did, but there is still so much I am capable of.”

The council now aims to empower local communities to continue their own inclusive and intergenerational initiatives, ensuring sustained efforts toward fostering connectedness and inclusivity.

The community-driven approach sets the stage for sustainable, locally informed projects that celebrate diversity and promote wellbeing at every age.

Find out more

City of Victor Harbor
Michelle Fuller, Collaborative Project Officer
Email: mfuller@victor.sa.gov.au