In an increasingly complex society, the importance of a safe and harmonious neighbourhood for the well-being of older adults cannot be overstated. Chung Wah Community Care (CWCC) has taken a proactive step by partnering with local councils to host two safety sessions, one in the north and one in the south of river. These sessions provided seniors from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds with practical tips, valuable resources, and real-life guidance. The enthusiastic turnout and strong positive feedback from the community highlight the effectiveness of these initiatives in supporting our seniors.
On 6 August at CWCC's Balcatta Community Hub, representatives from the City of Stirling's Community Safety Business Unit introduced their wide-ranging services, from patrols and emergency responses to environmental management. Seniors were surprised and impressed to learn that the city's Community Patrols operate 365 days a year, working closely with police to monitor neighbourhoods, support residents, and even offer a Holiday Watch service for families travelling overseas.
Meanwhile, Ranger Services cover essential day-to-day needs such as pet control, rubbish management, parking enforcement, and fire safety inspections. While often overlooked, these small details are crucial in keeping the community running safely and smoothly.
Beyond these services, the City of Stirling actively encourages residents to get involved in safety awareness through expos, themed campaigns, and preparedness events. For many seniors, this was their first time learning about these opportunities and realising that they aren't just recipients of safety measures but empowered safety network members.
On 20 August, a second session at CWCC's Willetton Community Hub took a deeper dive into personal safety. City of Cannington officers used real-life examples to raise awareness around common risks, especially for seniors living alone, answering phone calls, or going out.
For home safety, simple yet powerful reminders, like always locking doors and never hiding spare keys outside. Regarding phone and internet scams, attendees were urged to never share personal information with unknown callers and to always "hang up and verify" when contacted by someone claiming to be from a bank or government department. In public, seniors were advised to carry only essentials and prioritise personal safety.
One of the most talked-about segments was recognising legitimate police officers, an especially valuable topic for residents from migrant backgrounds who may not be familiar with local enforcement protocols. Seniors appreciated the clarity and practicality of the session, sparking plenty of questions and conversation.
For many migrants, language and cultural barriers often prevent them from accessing vital safety information. These collaborative initiatives by CWCC and local councils bridged that gap and strengthened community bonds, helping seniors feel safer, better informed, and more connected than ever.
