When Headway Gippsland introduced SilVR Adventures into its disability programs, the intention was clear: to give clients access to experiences that may never be possible in everyday life.
For General Manager Wendy Matthews, the idea began at home. After using a VR headset with her grandchildren, she quickly recognised its potential for the people Headway supports.
“Our clients tend to be lower socioeconomic. They’re on a disability pension,” Wendy explains. “So the chances of ever going overseas are very slim.”
VR became a way to remove those barriers, even if only for a moment.
Turning Virtual Travel into a Shared Experience
At Headway Gippsland, VR sessions are designed as more than just headset time. Staff extend each session with simple, familiar activities: passports, stamps, and word searches, to encourage conversation and connection.
“It’s not just look, but talk about it,” Wendy says.
These additions help turn virtual travel into something social, interactive, and memorable, particularly for clients who attend regularly.
This story is about accessibility, dignity, and creating meaningful experiences, even when circumstances are complex
Embedded into Everyday Disability Programs
Client Engagement and Quality Team Leader Amy Comber runs VR sessions as part of Headway’s monthly activity calendar, with multiple sessions available each week.
“It gives them the opportunity to go places they might not be able to go due to their disability,” Amy says.
Participants might explore Ancient Egypt, ski through forests, or take a rollercoaster ride. Sessions are also displayed on a TV so others can watch along, ensuring the experience remains inclusive even for those who choose not to wear the headset.
Barb’s Story: Escape, Routine, and Something to Look Forward To
One of the most meaningful impacts of VR at Headway Gippsland has been for a client named Barb.
“It was a whole experience,” Wendy recalls.
For Barb, sessions included arriving for VR, having a cup of tea or coffee, completing a word search, talking about what she’d seen, and having her passport stamped.
“Her home life isn’t great, so for her it was an absolute escape from the family she lived with,” Wendy says. “Seeing her smile and seeing her look forward to the next session — that was pretty special.”
For Wendy and the team, Barb’s story reinforced that VR wasn’t just an activity — it was a moment of relief, joy, and anticipation.
About Headway Gippsland
Headway Gippsland is a community-based not-for-profit organisation with a long history of supporting people living with disability, ageing Australians, and their families across Victoria. Established in 1981 as a support group for individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI), Headway has grown into a trusted provider offering plan management, personalised support coordination, one-to-one support, and regular social programs. With strong local roots in Gippsland and a highly qualified, person-centred team, Headway is committed to supporting people to live independent, meaningful, and enriched lives.
For more information, please visit: https://headwaygippsland.org.au
