Gardens and friendships are growing as an intergenerational project at a Buderim aged care facility blossoms into national recognition.
Lutheran Services’ Immanuel Gardens’ intergenerational gardening program has been recognised as a finalist in the 2026 Australian Institute for Intergenerational Practice Awards, in the category of Intergenerational Innovation and Contribution.
Launched in February 2024, the program connects Immanuel Gardens Buderim residents with local school students. Through shared gardening, participants ranging in age from 10 to 98 plant trust, share stories and build friendships that span generations.
Lutheran Services creative lifestyle and volunteer coordinator Bhrett Baker said intergenerational programs like this one had become a heartfelt passion of hers.
“Seeing residents and students working side-by-side on shared projects – building gardens together, turning soil and clay, planting seeds and seedlings, and creating signage – is a beautiful reminder of what can be achieved across generations,” Ms Baker said.
“Walking past our flourishing gardens now, we don’t just see plants growing; we see the magic created through collaboration, care and shared purpose.
“Knowing these gardens were made by people ranging from 10 to 98 years of age is amazing.”
Beyond the garden, Ms Baker said the program had fostered a strong sense of connection with the school community.
“Familiar faces greet us at the school café, we’re invited to musicals and Christmas concerts, and we proudly wave and cheer for the students we know,” she said.
“Some students have even visited residents during the school holidays and one resident was invited to attend a student’s dance concert – moments that speak volumes about the depth of these bonds.”
Since early 2024, the program has been run weekly during school terms with 14 students each term paired with 14 residents.
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Lutheran Services creative engagement partner Claire Pearson said Immanuel Gardens’ intergenerational gardening program was the latest example of successful collaboration.
“Regular visits and curriculum-linked interactions through schools reflect the broader shift toward intergenerational living as part of sustainable, future-focused communities,” Ms Pearson said.
“Building on successful intergenerational initiatives throughout the years, the Immanuel Gardens intergenerational gardening program is the latest example of how Lutheran Services’ builds meaningful connections across our sites in Queensland.”
Lutheran Services plans to expand partnerships with local schools, kindergartens and community groups to embed intergenerational engagement as a part of everyday aged care living.
