A new chapter for the Bessell family: finding comfort and joy in Shorewell Park
Rolling into connection: Bowls and afternoon tea help build local links
WA
TAS
This year, our Community Engagement team in Western Australia launched a simple yet powerful new initiative: bowls and afternoon tea sessions. Designed to reduce isolation and promote community connection, the initiative invited residents to join a volunteer at their local bowls club for a social afternoon—complete with tea, cake, and the chance to try something new. With all costs covered, including trial sessions and optional social memberships, residents could participate without barriers. The impact was immediate. One resident, John, who had been feeling particularly isolated, now attends weekly, finding both enjoyment and a growing social circle through his local club. These events have become much more than a casual outing. They’ve created spaces for residents to build confidence, connect with others, and feel a sense of belonging in their local communities. The program is a wonderful example of how small investments in wellbeing-focused activities can have lasting, positive ripple e ects.
After living in the same home in Smithton for 23 years, the Bessell family found themselves at a turning point. Health needs and the importance of family support meant a significant change was required—one that would bring them closer to essential medical services and extended family. Housing Choices was able to support the family through a planned transfer to Shorewell Park. The move has had a transformative impact—not only providing a more accessible and connected location, but also unlocking new opportunities for growth and wellbeing. One of the most powerful outcomes has been for Joan’s daughter, who enrolled in a hospitality training course through the Library Bean Café, a partnership initiative between Housing Choices Tasmania and the Burnie Library. This hands-on program gave her the skills and confidence to successfully gain employment at a local café—an important milestone in her professional journey and a proud moment for the family. The family now feels more supported, less isolated, and far better positioned to manage their daily lives. Their story is a strong example of how our housing services do more than providing a roof—they create pathways for stability, connection, and intergenerational opportunity.
Image: Western Australia residents John and Kandi at one of our Afternoon Tea and Bowls events
Image: Tasmania resident, Joan
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HOUSING CHOICES AUSTRALIA
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