A new short film is bringing the stories, resilience, and aspirations of older Western Australians to the forefront, highlighting the enduring impact of ageism while celebrating the richness of life in later years.

Wise: The Voice of Older Western Australians will debut at the WA Made Film Festival in Perth on February 22. Produced by tsp studio in collaboration with Juniper Aged Care, the film is a compelling blend of art, storytelling, and research, offering a fresh perspective on aging.

At the heart of the film are six older Western Australians—Brian O’Grady, Jill Jack, Pat Edmonds, Lionel Wilson, Di Annear, and Margaret Halsmith—who share their personal experiences and hopes for the future. Their stories are accompanied by stunning portraits created by renowned photographer Steve Wise, whose award-winning artistry brings their narratives to life. Wise describes the project as his “proudest set of portraits,” praising the individuals’ vitality and the life lessons they shared.

Interwoven with these stories are findings from CoreData WA’s research on ageing, commissioned by Juniper to mark its 75th anniversary. The research includes a “Happiness Index,” which measures the activities that bring older Western Australians joy and their ability to engage in them. The results underscore the importance of staying connected with loved ones and remaining physically active, supported by aged care services that help preserve these essential aspects of life.