With the arrival of spring, Perth transforms into a canvas of colour as wildflowers bloom across Kings Park. Recently, seniors from Chung Wah Community Care (CWCC) had the chance to experience this beauty firsthand. Through its Evergreen College program, CWCC organised three spring outings, encouraging older community members to get outside, enjoy nature, and share in the simple joy of being together in the fresh air.
Each spring, Kings Park attracts visitors with its colourful floral displays and nature-themed activities. For CWCC, these outings offered more than an opportunity to admire the flowers. They also gave seniors a chance to explore their local surroundings, learn more about Australia’s natural environment and community life, and strengthen their sense of connection and belonging.
The outings proved incredibly popular, with places filling up shortly after registrations opened. Throughout the visits, participants were encouraged to explore the park at their own pace, considering their individual mobility and comfort. Some walked slowly with walking frames, while others paused along the way to rest and take in the scenery. No one needed to rush, and everyone could enjoy the experience in their own way.
Throughout the visits, participants were encouraged to explore the park at their own pace, considering their individual mobility and comfort. Some walked slowly with walking frames, while others paused along the way to rest and take in the scenery. No one needed to rush, and everyone could enjoy the experience in their own way.
CWCC volunteers accompanied the groups throughout the outings, providing directions, offering assistance, and capturing special moments in photographs. Along the way, conversations flowed as participants admired the flowers, shared stories and stopped for photos.
When someone needed a break, there was time to sit and rest. When a particular view caught their eye, they could pause a little longer to enjoy it. The day was not about how far everyone walked, but about enjoying the journey together.
For many participants, stopping for a coffee was another highlight. Taking time to sit down with a warm drink and chat with friends added a relaxed, everyday pleasure to the experience, a reminder that sometimes the simplest moments are the most enjoyable.
At lunchtime, the groups gathered at a Cantonese-style restaurant for a shared meal. From the colourful spring scenery of Kings Park to the familiar flavours around the dining table, the day offered a lovely balance of exploring new surroundings and enjoying the comforts of good food and companionship. People exchanged stories over lunch, accompanied by plenty of laughter.
For many older people, a community outing's value goes far beyond the destination. What matters just as much is having someone to share the experience with, opportunities to connect with others, and a reason to step outside and be part of the community.
Through its Evergreen College program, CWCC aims to provide a diverse range of activities that encourage older people to stay active, explore their interests and build meaningful social connections. By creating opportunities that accommodate different interests, abilities, and individual needs, CWCC helps participants stay engaged with the community while enjoying life at a pace that feels comfortable for them.
With warmer weather arriving, more outings and shared experiences are on the horizon. CWCC will continue creating opportunities through Evergreen College for older community members to explore, learn and connect — bringing people together through everyday experiences and helping to build a more vibrant, welcoming and connected community.
