Accessible Wellbeing Programs and Products that Bring People Together.
We support genuine connection to self, community and the world around us, at every age and stage. Our vision is simple: a world where everyone feels connected, supported and part of something meaningful.
It all began with an idea
Welcome, I'm Catherine, the founder of Gentle Presence. After experiencing serious illness, I came to appreciate even more deeply the healing power of connection with others and connection with nature.
That led me to build a platform connecting people of all ages through meaningful experiences with community and nature. We help people of all abilities feel the emotional and physical benefits of that connection, particularly its role in building resilience and fostering community.
And we bring generations together, to strengthen community and help both young and old feel seen, valued and connected.
Because better connection to each other leads to better health and happiness.
Who we are
We're a team of Educators and Wellbeing providers with more than 30 years of combined experience across Melbourne. We love working in community, creating programs that bring people of all ages together in a supportive, inclusive and nurturing environment. Based on peer-reviewed research and studies, each experience encourages calm, joy and a connection with each other or nature. Gentle Presence is based in Melbourne, Victoria, and delivers inclusive wellbeing experiences for schools, aged care communities, workplaces and individuals.
What we hold to
Everyone belongs
Programs are designed so people of all ages and stages can take part fully. Resources help all abilities to feel calm and engage.
Connection is
preventative health
Relationships and time in nature are not extras, they are the most cost-effective wellbeing tools we have.
All generations benefit
We connect people of all ages through meaningful experiences with community and nature, experiencing the emotional and physical benefits.
Evidence, then warmth
We build on published research and evidence-based learnings, then deliver with care, humour, kindness, authenticity, and a cup of tea.
Meet the team
We’re passionate educators and wellbeing providers with over 30 years of experience, creating inclusive programs for schools, aged care, NDIS participants, and workplaces.
Our experiences bring people together through connection, nature, creativity, and calm.
Because better connection leads to better health and happiness.
Catherine
Founder, Educator & Nature Practitioner
With over 18 years in teaching, plus experience in corporate, aged care, and disability settings, Catherine brings a deep understanding of people and connection. Inspired by her own health journey and years of Shinrin-yoku practice, she founded Gentle Presence to create inclusive experiences that nurture connection, calm, resilience, and wellbeing. Bachelor of Education, Immersive Nature Education - Nature Leader & Educator, Masters Marketing.
Tom
Educator & Nature Facilitator
With a background in teaching and a lifelong connection to the outdoors, Tom creates welcoming experiences that bring learning, nature, and community together. He supports people of all ages to build curiosity, resilience, wellbeing, and meaningful connection.
Emily McCoy
Photographer & Visual Storyteller
Emily is a Melbourne-based photographer and graphic designer with a passion for nature, people, and authentic storytelling. Through her lens, she captures the joy, connection, and restorative moments that make each Gentle Presence experience meaningful.
Wayne Dyson
Intergenerational Program Facilitator
Wayne brings extensive leadership, collaboration, and nature experience to creating meaningful connections between generations. Founder of the Bridge Builders Program, he creates safe and engaging experiences where people can share stories, build empathy, and feel seen, valued, and connected.
Lauchie
Chief Cuddle Officer
At 13 years young, Lauchie is our much-loved Border Collie and resident expert in comfort, connection, and cuddles. Whether joining a walk or offering a perfectly timed lean-in, he reminds us of the simple joy and healing presence animals bring.
Shinrin-yoku
Originating from Japan, Shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing,” is a preventative health practice that improves and strengthens mental and physical wellbeing.
Recognised as a public health practice in Asia and Europe, Forest Therapy is gaining global acclaim as an evidence-based, cost-effective and natural remedy, a “green prescription” for a healthier you.
Shinrin-yoku is the simple and therapeutic act of spending time in nature.
Forest Therapy offers a natural, evidence-based approach to supporting your wellbeing by creating opportunities to slow down, reconnect and experience the restorative qualities of nature.
Benefits
A natural evidence-based therapy for your wellbeing.
Nature is closer than we think.
Fortunately, even brief encounters with nature, whether in urban areas or indoor settings, can bring positive effects.
Access to nature has a direct protective effect on health, which means that we can all benefit.
We create an innovative, inclusive learning environment with nature at its core, which promotes active participation, social inclusion, and community engagement.