Australian Government Funding Secures Another Year of GreenConnect Support
Story by Catherine Hyett, GreenConnect Project Manager
Participants enjoying a recent GreenConnect activity in the Bendigo-Heathcote region
People living with dementia and their carers across the Loddon Mallee region will continue benefiting from GreenConnect after the Australian Government committed more than half a million dollars through the Aged Care Support Program to extend the program until 30 June 2027.
The funding provides certainty for participants and families while enabling GreenConnect to continue delivering its unique nature-based dementia support program across the Mildura and Bendigo-Heathcote regions.
Delivered through a partnership between Princes Court, Heathcote Health and La Trobe University’s John Richards Centre for Rural Ageing Research, GreenConnect brings together people living with dementia and their carers to enjoy nature-based activities, build friendships and remain actively connected with their local communities.
Officially launched in April 2024 following an extensive co-design process with people living with dementia, carers and community partners, the program was developed in response to gaps identified in support available following a dementia diagnosis.
GreenConnect participants connect during a recent group activity in Mildura
Built on connection
One of GreenConnect’s defining features is that people living with dementia and their carers participate together.
Rather than separating carers from those they support, GreenConnect creates opportunities to enjoy meaningful experiences side by side through community outings, social gatherings and nature-based activities designed to strengthen confidence, maintain wellbeing and reduce social isolation.
For Mildura participant and carer Judi Hyde, those shared experiences have created friendships that have become an important part of everyday life.
“It’s the friendships we make with others, the support we need as carers and friends, dealing with the same pressure and pain and not feeling alone – we come together as a caring group who understand our daily heaviness.”
Participants from the Bendigo-Heathcote region also described the value of connecting with others who truly understand their experiences.
“I like the companionship and the stories we hear ... you’ll always find someone who you can connect with, someone who has the same issues as you. And that’s a very good feeling.”
Another participant reflected:
“I initially didn't think we were ready for any respite support ... but GreenConnect is very different. It’s about connection. We really enjoy coming to the events together and meeting others who understand.”
Participants and carers gathering for a GreenConnect morning tea in Mildura
A growing impact
Since commencing, GreenConnect has:
Delivered 57 community activities
Supported more than 150 active participants
Recorded more than 1,100 participant engagements
Seen 98.7% of participants say they were extremely likely to recommend the program
Maintained participation by a strong core group, with 85% continuing to attend activities regularly.
People living with dementia and their carers connecting during a GreenConnect community activity
Independent evaluation led by La Trobe University’s John Richards Centre for Rural Ageing Research found improvements in quality of life for many participants despite the progressive nature of dementia, while carers reported consistently low levels of burden throughout the program.
Dr Tshepo Rasekaba said the funding extension recognised the importance of delivering dementia support shaped by the experiences of people living with dementia, carers and regional communities.
“At La Trobe Rural Health School, we are proud to contribute research that not only evaluates the impact of programs like GreenConnect but also helps build the evidence for innovative, community-based models of care. Our evaluation has shown that participants experienced improvements in quality of life, while carers reported consistently low levels of burden throughout the program.”
Powered by community
While participants are at the heart of GreenConnect, every activity is supported by a dedicated team working behind and alongside the scenes to create welcoming, safe and meaningful experiences.
The program is led by Project Manager Catherine Hyett, who works across the consortium to coordinate the delivery of GreenConnect and support its continued growth across the Mildura and Bendigo-Heathcote regions. Working alongside Catherine, local Care Coordinators build relationships with participants, carers, community organisations and a committed group of volunteers to plan and deliver each activity.
Together, they help ensure participants feel supported, activities are delivered safely, and every outing provides opportunities for connection, confidence and community participation.
Their collective efforts have helped create the welcoming environment that has made GreenConnect such an important part of life for many participants and their families.
GreenConnect Bendigo Care Coordinator Jade Field with GreenConnect Project Manager Catherine Hyett
Looking to the future
GreenConnect Project Manager Catherine Hyett said the extension means participants can continue accessing a program that provides connection, confidence and meaningful opportunities to remain engaged in community life.
“Over the past three years, we have seen people form genuine friendships, build confidence and develop supportive networks with others who understand the experience of living with dementia.”
“For many participants, GreenConnect provides opportunities to remain active, connected and involved in their community at a time when people can often become socially isolated following a diagnosis.”
“We are delighted to be able to continue offering those opportunities over the next 12 months and to keep supporting the participants and carers who have helped shape this project.”
GreenConnect Mildura Care Coordinator Kaye Matthews with Princes Court Chief Executive Officer Anthony Couroupis
Princes Court Chief Executive Officer Anthony Couroupis said the extension would allow the consortium to continue building on a model designed around the needs of participants and their families.
“GreenConnect was shaped by the experiences of people living with dementia and their carers, helping ensure the program responds to the realities families face following a diagnosis.”
“The program has demonstrated the value of bringing people together in welcoming community settings where they can share experiences, learn from one another and build meaningful relationships.”
“We are grateful to the Australian Government for extending this funding and enabling GreenConnect to continue supporting people living with dementia and their carers across the Loddon Mallee region.”
The funding extension will allow GreenConnect to continue delivering activities across the Mildura and Bendigo-Heathcote regions over the next 12 months while planning for the future of the project beyond June 2027.
GreenConnect: Building Community and Connection
GreenConnect is dedicated to providing meaningful, nature-based activities for individuals living with early to mid-stage dementia. Our dementia activities in nature offer participants a chance to relax, foster friendships, and enjoy a sense of belonging in a safe and supportive environment.
Get Involved with GreenConnect
GreenConnect is always looking for new business partners, accommodation providers, and care organisations to join the network. If you’re interested in supporting the project and helping provide vital services to individuals living with dementia, reach out today to learn more about how you can contribute.