As autumn settles in, the participants at Chung Wah Community Care (CWCC)'s Evergreen College at the Willetton Community Hub enjoyed two excellent outings to celebrate the season. One adventure took them to a beautiful persimmon farm, where they basked in the warm autumn colours, and the other was a lovely stroll along the riverside, soaking in the peaceful early autumn vibes. Although the scenery and weather were different, both trips filled everyone's hearts with joy, brought them closer to nature, and created a wonderful sense of community!
On 15 May, a group of 19 seniors from the community centre travelled to Raeburn Orchards, a local farm on the outskirts of the city, just in time for the peak persimmon harvest. With the sweet fragrance of ripe fruit lingering in the air, the seniors wandered among the trees and picked persimmons with their own hands.
One participant shared, "It's that season again. Every year, I used to go picking persimmons with my grandchildren or friends. This year, joining the trip organised by CWCC's Evergreen College has been a special experience." For her, persimmons carry deep sentimental value. "I was born in a village whose name included the words' Persimmon Garden'. As a child, I grew up under persimmon trees. Every autumn and winter, my mother would send me out to gather fallen leaves for fuel to get us through the cold months." Those cherished memories resurfaced amidst the orchard's abundance, bringing a wave of warmth and nostalgia. "Seeing all these persimmons today feels like returning to my childhood," she added with a smile.
Earlier in the season, on 1 April, the Evergreen College members had already kicked off their autumn celebrations with a peaceful walk through the Canning River Regional Park. Unlike traditional sightseeing tours, this nature walk allowed seniors to truly immerse themselves in the fresh air and gentle landscapes—promoting both physical activity and mental relaxation.
Some participants strode ahead energetically, while others took their time—but no one was left behind. CWCC volunteers adjusted their pace with care, ensuring everyone could enjoy the journey at their own rhythm. The outing concluded with a hearty Chinese lunch at North River Chinese Restaurant, where stories and laughter were shared over plates of delicious food.
Together, the two excursions offered more than just a change of scenery—they rekindled joy and a sense of connection in the lives of seniors. Whether basking in the glow of a fruitful harvest or strolling along a serene riverbank, each experience became a moment of renewal. At CWCC Evergreen College, we believe that meaningful life experiences shouldn't be limited by age. Through activities like these, we encourage seniors to step outdoors, embrace the seasons, and rediscover belonging, vibrancy, and the beauty of life in the community.
