Almost 250 people assembled on the Gold Coast on 24 June to attend the Mayoral Intergenerational Forum. Eva Milic from Channel 9 Gold Coast News was the MC for the day, introducing a great line up of speakers.
Mayor Tom Tate kicked off the forum with a heart-warming speech about the benefits of intergenerational practice and the importance of incorporating those practices in childcare and aged care as the norm in Australia followed by an introductory speech from Griffith Business School Dean (Engagement), Professor Ruth McPhail.
Professor Susan Kurrle joined participants via video link. Susan was the medical advisor for the ABC series Old People’s Homes for 4 Years Olds, as well as the designer of the clinical research undertaken during series 1 and 2.
“Having grown up in an intergenerational household myself, I can vouch personally for the positive impact intergenerational relationship can have throughout life.”
Eva Milic
Emeritus Professor Anneke Fitzgerald spoke about what we know about intergenerational practice and research to date in the lead up to the expert panel session where she elaborated on the establishment of the Australian Institute for Intergenerational Practice (AIIP).
Diana Olsberg was one of the stars of the ABC Season 2 Old Peoples Homes for 4 Year Olds, Diana (or Didi to her friends!) is also an associate professor of economic sociology and has become a public advocate for intergenerational programs. Diana flew up especially from Sydney to take part in the panel, accompanied by Greg Cronan, founder of Intergenerational Learning Australia, a company where video conferencing is used to facilitate intergenerational connections. Greg was also on the panel and spoke about how he sustained intergenerational practice during COVID-19.
Gwen Rayner is a Gold Coast local who is an experienced early childhood and primary educator and is known for her fun and interactive workshops. Gwen has run a number of intergenerational programs and spoke about the “Koala Club” she ran for many years on the Gold Coast.
As an expert in workforce development, Katrina Radford spoke about the opportunities for workforce development and intergenerational programs. Katrina also showcased her new children’s book “My grandfriends are coming” available in paperback, ebook and activity book.
Following the panel discussion, Emma Woods, interim CEO, spoke about the benefits of becoming a member of AIIP. Emma is the principal solicitor of Woods Law Group and has been heavily involved with the establishment and growth of the institute.
To finish off the day, Associate Professor Jennifer Cartmel led a session through a working lunch and followed up with a summary of the feedback received.
Below is a photo gallery of the day for you to enjoy. If you would like to view the videos, please visit our website.
