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CVA Nature Hub: Frequently Asked Questions

Who is CVA Nature Hub for? 

CVA Nature Hub is for people living with dementia, their carers, care partners, family members or friends, and community volunteers who want to support a welcoming outdoor program. It is most suitable for people with interest in gardening, nature, birdlife and tending the environment. 

Do I need gardening or volunteering experience? 

No. You do not need any gardening, conservation or volunteering experience. Activities are simple, supported and optional. 

Can carers take part too? 

Yes. Carers and care partners are encouraged to participate alongside the person they support. The program is designed as a shared, positive experience. 

What happens during a session? 

Each session includes a welcome, safety briefing, gentle outdoor activities, morning tea and time to talk. Activities may include gardening, planting, nature walks, bird watching, art, journalling or quiet time outdoors. 

Do I have to stay for the whole session? 

No. Sessions are expected to run from 10am to 1pm, but participants are welcome to stay for the full session or join for part of the morning. 

Where does the program happen? 

Sessions start at Chigwell Community Garden, 11 Karambi Street, Chigwell. Some optional activities will take place in nearby natural areas. 

When does the program start? 

The project will commence on October 5th and will run for 12 weeks.  

What does a 12 week program look like? 

Week 1: Intro and site orientation – garden and nearby areas 

Week 2: Tending the garden beds, weeding in bushland area 

Week 3: Bird Watching with Eirc 

Week 4: Origami pot making and decoration, plant propagation (vegetable and native plants  – aiming for sensory plants).  

Week 5:  Tending the garden beds, weeding the nearby bushland 

Week 6: Field Trip: Understorey Nursery – tour and propagation 

Week 7: Weeding in the nearby bushland and kokedama 

Week 8: Veggie planting, weeding nearby bushland, nature drawing with a talented volunteer  

Week 9: Planting our propagated veggies into the garden. Nature art/mandalas, bio-char making 

Week 10:  Tending the garden beds,Nature photography with a talented volunteer 

Week 11: Field trip: piyura kitina (weeding the food  garden beds) 

Week 12:  Tending the garden beds,, weaving with reeds, or natural fibres, end of program celebration lunch 

Is the site accessible? 

The garden has grassy areas, formed pathways suitable for mobility aids, seating, toilets and shelter. Nearby bushland areas may have wet, uneven ground, long grass and a nearby small creek, so participation in those activities is optional. 

What should I bring? 

Please wear comfortable clothing (with long sleeves and long pants) and enclosed shoes suitable for being outdoors. You may also like to bring a hat, water bottle, sunscreen, weather-appropriate layers and any personal items and medications you need during the morning. 

Will food and drinks be provided? 

Yes. Morning tea and hot and cold drinks will be provided at each session. 

Is this a clinical or respite service? 

No. CVA Nature Hub is a community-based outdoor activity program. It does not provide clinical treatment, diagnosis, personal care or medical support. 

How are volunteers prepared? 

Community volunteers receive guidance from CVA staff and dementia inclusivity education from the Venture Out team before supporting program sessions. 

How do I express interest? 

To express interest as a participant, carer or volunteer, contact Renae Riviere at Conservation Volunteers Australia: [email protected]