GreenConnect Participants Explore Australian Inland Botanic Gardens on Guided Tractor Train Tour
Story by Kaye Matthews, Respite Care Coordinator Mildura
GreenConnect Mildura participants recently enjoyed a delightful late-autumn outing to the Australian Inland Botanic Gardens in Mourquong, NSW.
Held during the week following National Volunteers Week, the gathering provided a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the vital role of volunteers while enjoying a relaxing morning together.
The day began in the beautiful Magenta Shearing Shed, where tables had been thoughtfully arranged, wall heaters created a cosy atmosphere, and fairy lights twinkled from the soaring beams above.
Participants were treated to a delicious morning tea featuring house-made savoury scones, traditional scones with jam and cream, mixed sandwiches and sweet mandarins picked from one of the volunteers’ own citrus trees. Anthony Fotia was also in attendance with his Piaggio coffee cart, serving piping hot coffee and tea.
The Mildura Respite Care Coordinator warmly welcomed another new couple to the group, joining twenty-eight participants, seven volunteer care friends and an additional GreenConnect staff member for the outing.
The morning was filled with chatting, laughter and catching up. Long-time participants Bev and Leigh were delighted to recognise the new couple as friends from their primary school days in Robinvale – a wonderful reminder of the connections that can emerge through GreenConnect gatherings.
Volunteer tractor train guide Vic Eddie kindly shared the history behind the establishment of the Gardens, along with the ongoing activities, partnerships and collaborations required to maintain and sustain the extensive grounds.
The guided tractor train tour meandered through the diverse and expansive Australian Inland Botanic Gardens. Vic’s friendly and knowledgeable commentary set a positive tone for the enjoyable 45-minute journey, with participants also noting the many improvements and maintenance works completed since the group’s previous visit in October 2024.
Participants completed satisfaction surveys at the end of the outing, with overwhelmingly positive feedback:
“Such a lovely day — we just haven’t been here for years.”
“Loved meeting new people in our same situation. It normalises things again.”
“What a joy, and right on our own doorstep. I took a wrong turn coming here, but it was all part of the fun.”
The outing highlighted the value of shared experiences, local knowledge and community connection, while also recognising the important contribution volunteers make in helping create welcoming and meaningful opportunities for people living with dementia and their carers.
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.