Marra Elders Playgroup builds bridges across generations

A playgroup at Adelaide's only First Nations aged care home is fostering meaningful connection between Elders and local children, celebrating the world's oldest continuous culture in a setting filled with laughter, language and cultural learning.

Published: 6 July 2025
  • sa
  • 6 July 2025
  • National Indigenous Times

Organisers of the Marra Elders Playgroup say it is where Dreaming stories are passed on, language is heard, and the deep role of Elders in teaching and guiding is honoured.

Every fortnight, Elders from the Aboriginal Elders Village, operated by Aboriginal Community Services in Davoren Park, are joined by local children up to five years-old and their carers.

It's the only playgroup in South Australia hosted in a First Nations-specific aged care home and offers a rare opportunity for children to learn directly from cultural custodians, fostering respect, identity and belonging from an early age.