A truly special friendship has bloomed in Bright: one which stretches across generations, cultures and continents.

Retired teacher Hilly Avery-Hart, a joyful and energetic woman in her 70s who is originally from Germany, felt the urge to give back to her Bright community.

That’s when she discovered the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS), which is a national program that matches volunteers with older people living in aged care to help reduce social isolation.

“I’ve always loved being around people,” Hilly said with a smile.

“And I thought, what better way to spend my time than making someone else's day a little brighter?”

Little did she know that volunteering through the ACVVS would not only brighten someone else’s life, but her own as well.

Enter Inga Bailey, a spirited 97-year-old resident of the aged care home, with a sharp wit, a twinkle in her eye and a rich history of her own.

Like Hilly, Inga was also born in Germany.

When the two met through the program, it was as if they had known each other for years.

“We started chatting in German right away,” Hilly said.

“It felt like coming home.”

From that moment on, the bond between Hilly and Inga only grew stronger.

They shared stories, laughed at old memories, and supported each other through life’s ups and downs.

“Hilly talks too much, but I wouldn’t have her any other way," Inga said.

Their connection has extended far beyond the walls of the nursing home.

Hilly has even travelled to Germany to meet Inga’s extended family.

“We FaceTime her family all the time now,” Hilly said.

“They’re beautiful people and I’m honoured to be welcomed into their world.”

Together, Hilly and Inga record video messages to send to loved ones overseas and use technology to stay connected with those who matter most.

Thanks to the ACVVS, these two remarkable women were brought together through a simple act of kindness and have discovered a friendship that defies age, distance, and time.

Their story is a beautiful reminder of what volunteering can bring: unexpected friendships, moments of joy and bonds that transform lives.

“It’s never too late to make a new best friend,” Inga said.

To find out how to become a volunteer, call 1300 843 236 or email acvvs@thecentre.vic.edu.au.