Alison Gilchrist

GFS Perth is a Western Australian not for profit with a proud history stretching back to 1888. Today, we are building on that legacy with a contemporary mission: to catalyse a friendship revolution and care for creation. We believe friendship is essential community infrastructure. Strong relationships help people thrive, protect health and wellbeing, reduce loneliness and build more connected, resilient communities. Our work brings people together across ages, backgrounds and life experiences through welcoming programs, volunteering, intergenerational activities, community partnerships and opportunities to learn, grow and contribute. Friendship Central in West Swan, our new social hub is being developed as a living demonstration of what connection can look like in practice. It will combine social programs, a community café, permaculture and regenerative growing, education, volunteering, events and shared spaces where people can meet naturally and friendships can take root. It will also showcase practical ways of caring for the environment, including waterwise gardening, composting, biodiversity and sustainable food production. GFS Perth’s Social Fitness framework helps people strengthen six essential “social muscles.” This preventative, strengths-based approach recognises that meaningful connection is something communities can intentionally create and nurture. Working with volunteers, community organisations, businesses and government, GFS Perth is creating opportunities for people to belong, participate and make a difference. Our vision is simple but ambitious: a future where nobody is left without meaningful connection, and where friendship and a greener tomorrow meet. We invite everyone to become part of this movement for connection and care.