General News
15 July, 2025
Donation benefits generations
The wooden toys presented to Havilah’s intergenerational playgroup were shaped by the organisation’s residents, with the help of the community, for the joyful hands of any generation.
Three community groups joined forces over the last eight weeks to present handmade wooden toys to Havilah’s intergenerational playgroup last week.
A handful of the organisation’s residents have been having their own fun making wooden toys with the Dunolly and District Community Centre’s wood turners group.
Coordinator of the Dunolly Wood Turners Natalie Smith said it was heartwarming to see the smiles on people’s faces, young and old, across the collaboration.
“These handcrafted toys will spark joy for the children and also spark joy for our residents,” she said.
“I just love the fact the whole collaboration … from the oldest to the youngest and everyone in between are all working together for the same purpose.”
Havilah’s director of care Stacey Perry said the project, driven by community liaison officer Marty Mark, celebrated community spirit, creativity, and connection.
“To see older residents and local craftspeople working together to create something so meaningful is a beautiful example of our passion to keep our residents at Havilah involved in the community,” she said.
Longtime attendee James Pettigrew said the children inspired the residents to leave their comfort zone, get their hands dirty, and contribute to this “amazing outcome”.
“Some of the people here have been doing woodworking before and they came again just to remember what it was like in the old days,” he said.
Playgroup Victoria’s own Flick Vaillard emphasised the universal importance of play.
“Intergenerational playgroup provides that opportunity for all generations to come together to learn from one another, to care for one another, to connect with one another,” she said.
“From Playgroup Victoria we want to say a big thank you for inviting us and having us be a part of the collaboration.”
Ms Vaillard said play is an essential part of children’s development — through it the handmade wooden blocks become a tool to connect.
“You learn a lot by watching people, hearing the stories, and sharing experiences,” she said.