Welcome to Connections, a newsletter for community members and services across the Mid North Coast, full of useful information to keep us connected and up to date with what’s going on in our communities.
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we live and work, and their continuing connection to land, water, sea and community.
We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
What’s on in the Coffs Harbour area
What’s on in the Bellingen area
What’s on in the Nambucca area
What’s on in the Kempsey area
What’s on in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area
Employment Opportunities
What’s on in the wider community
Find a Service
Spectrum Spectacular Gala Ball
Blue Sky Community Services is proud to be a sponsor of the Spectrum Spectacular Gala Ball.
Come as your Spectacular Self! …. formal attire, costume, flamboyance…. however you like to best represent yourself.
An inclusive night to remember, with celebrity guest speaker Michael Theo (from ‘Love on the Spectrum’) and music from Aspy Jones and the band.
When: Saturday, 29th April
Time: 6pm for 6.30pm start
Where: C.ex Coffs, Vernon St, Coffs Harbour
Tickets: $135 (or $100 for concession holders) includes delicious 3-course meal.
For more info and to book, check out the flyer here.
Screenwave International Film Festival – Coffs Harbour & Bellingen
The Screenwave International Film Festival is now on! The festival runs through to 6th May 2023, with more than 140 films screenings and special events in Coffs Harbour and Bellingen.
To check out what’ included in this year’s SWIFF, and to book your tickets, click HERE.
RALLY4EVER Free & Fun Tennis – Coffs Harbour
Carers NSW is partnering with RALLY4EVER to connect carers through the game of tennis. For one hour each week during the school term you will have the opportunity to join the RALLY4EVER tennis program designed to get you moving and provide an opportunity to form long-lasting friendships and connections with other carers.
You don’t need to have any previous tennis experience to join, and all necessary equipment will be supplied. It is also not a requirement to attend each session, just come when you can!
Join us for the launch!
To celebrate the launch of the tennis programs, Carers NSW would like to invite you to join us at The Harbour Tennis Academy on Thursday, 04 May 2023 between 10.00am – 11.00am. A free morning tea and light refreshments will be provided. You will also have the opportunity to have a chat with our team about the program!
How to register:
To register your interest visit the webpage HERE. Alternatively, you can contact Carers NSW Carer Gateway Peer Facilitator and Carer Coach, Sally Pannifex on email sallyp@carersnsw.org.au or phone 0438 057 261.
Youth Volunteers Visual Storytelling Workshop
An awesome free Workshop series for people aged 18-26 years who volunteer on the Coffs Coast. These workshops are for people to share their stories of volunteering through photography and storytelling.
There are three sessions of 3 hours to attend, with lunch provided. Each session will cover theory and practical activites of; photography skills, storytelling skills and design skills.
The workshop is being facilitated by Lauren Mills and Donna Hunt form the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre. Lauren and Donna both have a background in videography, film, photography, graphic design, media, promotion and creative writing.
An exhibition will be held at the end of the workshop to celebrate youth volunteering and building values through shared experience for youth volunteers.
Everyone is welcome to use their own phones or camera or use a supplied tablet to capture their photos to tell their story.
The dates for the three sessions are Thursday 18th May, Thursday 25th May, and Thursday 1st June.
For more information and to register click HERE.
Smart Recovery – Choose Your Own Path to a Healthier Future
Smart Recovery is a free, practical support group that trains you to champion your own behaviour change around alcohol, drug use, gambling or any behaviour of concern.
Meetings are held every Wednesday 10.30am to 12pm at Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre, Community Village, Earl Street Coffs Harbour.
For further information call Drug & Alcohol on 1300 662 263, or the Neighbourhood Centre on 6648 3694.
Coffs Harbour & Bellingen Clinical Society – Child & Youth Addictions
Join the Coffs Harbour & Bellingen Clinical Society for dinner and localised discussion on social media & gaming addictions in young people.
Date: Tuesday, 6th June 2023
Time: 6pm – 8.15pm
Location: Jetty Beach House, 1 Jordan Esplanade, Coffs Harbour
For more information and to book click HERE.
Coffs Coast Community College
Are you looking to build knowledge and skills? Looking to meet new people?
Your local community college has so many nationally recognised training opportunities and short courses on offer.
Why not take a look to see what interests you on the Coffs Coast Community College website.
‘Breaking Bread’ Brochure
The ‘Breaking Bread’ brochure contains a list of groups and services who provide essential support in the Coffs Harbour area.
Please find the most recent ‘Breaking Bread’ brochure here.
Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre – so much to offer!
Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre has so much to offer to the community!
Find out about the ways they may be able to assist you by visiting the Neighbourhood Centre website.
Screenwave International Film Festival – Coffs Harbour & Bellingen
The Screenwave International Film Festival is now on! The festival runs through to 6th May 2023, with more than 140 films screenings and special events in Coffs Harbour and Bellingen.
To check out what’ included in this year’s SWIFF, and to book your tickets, click HERE.
Coffs Harbour & Bellingen Clinical Society – Child & Youth Addictions
Join the Coffs Harbour & Bellingen Clinical Society for dinner and localised discussion on social media & gaming addictions in young people.
Date: Tuesday 6th June 2023
Time: 6pm – 8.15pm
Location: Jetty Beach House, 1 Jordan Esplanade, Coffs Harbour
For more information and to book click HERE.
Bellingen Growers Market
The Bellingen Growers Market is held at the Bellingen Showground on the second and fourth Saturday of each month between 8am and 1pm.
The market’s purpose is to encourage/promote local growers and services, and to give the community reliable access to organic and chemical-free produce within a multi-faceted marketplace which supports a healthy lifestyle and a more sustainable future.
You’ll find an amazing range of freshly-picked produce – mostly certified organic – fruit, vegetables, salad greens, nuts, flowers… all direct from local growers. The café has delicious locally-baked bread and pastries and will serve you a hearty organic breakfast. Order an organic coffee or freshly squeezed juice and enjoy the live music whilst browsing the newspapers or meeting with old and new friends. The kids love our famous storyteller (and the smoothies and waffles too). There are also plenty of second-hand clothes and quality bric-a-brac to choose from.
For more information head to the Bellingen Growers Market website.
Woodstock in the Valley
Woodstock in the Valley is a tribute to 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair and the music and culture that shaped our future. It is a community-focused not-for-profit event designed to develop and nurture the local entertainment industry, promote local tourism and retail whilst highlighting our beautiful Nambucca Valley as a destination of choice.
Date: Saturday 13th May 2023
Time: Midday until late
Location: Macksville Showground, Rodeo Drive, Macksville
For more information and to get your ticket click HERE.
Nambucca & Macksville Clinical Society – Child & Youth Addictions
Join the Nambucca & Macksville Clinical Society for dinner and a localised discussion on vaping & AOD in the youth of the Nambucca Valley.
Date: Wednesday, 31st May 2023
Time: 6pm – 8.15pm
Location: Hemmingways, The Cubana Resort, 56-58 Riverside Drive, Nambucca Heads
Cost: Free
For more information and to book click HERE.
Valla Beach Community Markets
The Valla Beach Community Association (VBCA) holds a market from 8:00am to 1:00pm on the first Saturday of every even month (Feb, Apr, Jun, Aug, Oct, and Dec) focusing on homemade and homegrown local produce, arts, crafts and fantastic musical talent.
It runs at the Valla Reserve (also known as ‘Lions Park’), at Valla Beach, a serene and peaceful seaside village.
The location is next to the footbridge across Deep Creek, at the end of Ocean View Drive, just off the Pacific Highway. Head towards the Valla Beach Tourist Park and turn left just before the entry – just follow the Market signs!
You can follow the markets on Facebook or check out the Valla Beach Community Markets website.
Kempsey Macleay Clinical Society – Child & Youth Addictions
Join the Kempsey Macleay Clinical Society for dinner and localised discussion on social media & gaming addictions in young people.
Date: Wednesday 7th June 2023
Time: 6pm – 8.15pm
Location: The Garden Bar & Kitchen, 1/5 Remembrance Way, Frederickton
For more information and to book click HERE.
Carer Wellness Program – Kempsey
Dementia Australia is delivering this one-day group session designed to inform strategies to support positive health and wellbeing outcomes for a carer, family or friend of a person living with dementia. Participants will be empowered to build self-care skills which improve quality of life in a caring role. An individual follow-up session will be offered to review progress in achieving your goals.
Suitable for: Family carers and family members of people living with dementia. This program is not suitable for professionals employed in the health or aged care sectors.
Date: Monday, 22nd May 2023
Time: 9.30am – 3pm
Location: Kempsey Macleay RSL Club 1 York Lane Kempsey
For more information and to book click HERE.
Baby Bounce – Kempsey
Baby Bounce is for children aged 0 – 3 years of age, and is held fortnightly on a Friday at Kempsey Library, starting at 10am.
At Baby Bounce, you and your little one will enjoy stories, rhymes, movement, and lots of fun. The sessions are interactive, fun and beneficial to both parent and child.
April dates are Friday 7th and Friday 21st. No bookings are required. For enquiries please call Kempsey Library on (02) 6566 3210.
Kempsey Neighbourhood Centre – so much to offer!
The Centre provides a range of services to address and support the community’s needs.
Check out the Kempsey Neighbourhood Centre website to find out more.
Grand Opening! Mid North Coast Legal Centre & Disability Advocacy, New Office in Port Macquarie
Mid North Coast Legal Centre and Disability Advocacy invite you to celebrate the opening of their new office, and look forward to welcoming you and showing you around.
DATE: Wednesday 3rd May
TIME: 10am
LOCATION: Suite 7, Level 1, 68 Clarence Street Port Macquarie (entry on Short Street, opposite Centrelink)
Light refreshments will be provided.
For catering purposes please RSVP by 27 April 2023 to info@mnclegal.org.au or by calling 6580 2111.
Parenting Groups & Courses with Uniting Port Macquarie
Uniting Port Macquarie offers a number of parenting courses and groups, both in person and online.
For information about term 2 courses check out the flyer below.
RALLY4EVER Free & Fun Tennis – Port Macquarie
Carers NSW is partnering with RALLY4EVER to connect carers through the game of tennis. For one hour each week during the school term you will have the opportunity to join the RALLY4EVER tennis program designed to get you moving and provide an opportunity to form long-lasting friendships and connections with other carers.
You don’t need to have any previous tennis experience to join, and all necessary equipment will be supplied. It is also not a requirement to attend each session, just come when you can!
Join us for the launch!
To celebrate the launch of the tennis programs, Carers NSW would like to invite you to join us at West Port Macquarie Tennis Club on Friday, 05 May 2023 between 11.00am – 12.00pm. A free morning tea and light refreshments will be provided. You will also have the opportunity to have a chat with our team about the program!
How to register:
To register your interest visit the webpage HERE. Alternatively, you can contact Carers NSW Carer Gateway Peer Support & Coaching Team Leader, Rebecca Smith on email rebeccas@carersnsw.org.au or phone 0437 690 140.
Younger Onset Dementia Project
We have developed a survey to gather information from people living with younger onset dementia and their carers, to assist us in “Understanding the social needs of people living with younger onset dementia and their carers.”
The information gathered will inform recommendations for future social supports and needs to assist this group of people to have an improved quality of life.
If you can assist us, we would very much appreciate you informing people of this project and suggesting that their participation would be very helpful if they could take a few minutes to complete the survey. Take the survey by clicking HERE.
Caring for a Parent with Dementia – Port Macquarie
Dementia Australia is delivering this therapeutic program is designed to help sons and daughters navigate the practical, psychological, and emotional issues that arise when caring for a parent with dementia.
The program aims to improve relationships and mental and emotional wellbeing. It combines education and strategies with deep listening, sharing, reflection and guided meditation. Participants will be challenged to reimagine the parent, themselves, and their situation in a supportive peer environment.
This program runs over four sessions throughout May.
For more information about the sessions and to book click HERE.
Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre Playtime
Free for children 0-5 years and their caregivers. Tea, coffee, toys and activities are provided. Please bring snacks and water for your child.
When: Monday mornings from 9:30 am to 11:30 am
Read more in the Hastings Neighbourhood Services Playtime flyer.
Neighbourhood Centres of Port Macquarie, Wauchope & Lake Cathie – so much to offer!
The Hastings Neighbourhood Centres have so much to offer a variety of services to the local community members.
Check out the Hastings Neighbourhood Services website to find out more.
Mid North Coast Community College
Are you looking to build knowledge and skills? Looking to meet new people?
Your local community college has so many nationally recognised training opportunities and short courses on offer.
Why not take a look to see what interests you on the Mid North Coast Community College website.
Launch of the Intellectual Disability Mental Health Connect Website
The Intellectual Disability Mental Health Connect website was recently launched and is an amazing resource! This website assists people with intellectual disability, family and support people, and health professionals to find the mental health resources they need.
Visit the website by clicking HERE.
A Great Disability Etiquette Starting Guide!
Disability: IN have released a great Disability Etiquette Starting Guide . . . check it out here!
Join the Push-up Challenge and Support Lifeline Mid Coast
Support Lifeline Mid Coast and the important work they do by taking part in this year’s Push-up Challenge! Take on the challenge as an individual or as part of a team, have fun and enjoy doing something good for your health.
For more information and to register click HERE.
Variety’s ‘We Care Therapy’ Grants available now
Variety’s ‘We Care Therapy’ grant aims to assist families in accessing interventions and services for their child after they have received a diagnosis but are awaiting the approval of their NDIS plan.
Grants of up to $2,000 per child are available and are valid for a 12-month period, or until an approved NDIS plan is activated. Children and young people ineligible for NDIS assistance may also apply for this grant.
For more information and to apply head to Variety’s website.
Discrimination for Community Workers – A Free Information Session
A free information session for community workers on Discrimination. The session will be presented by Mid North Coast Legal Centre.
The session will take place 1st May 2-3pm.
For more information and to register click HERE.
Police Powers for Community Workers – A Free Information Session
A free information session for community workers on Discrimination. The session will be presented by Mid North Coast Legal Centre.
The session will take place 13th July 10-11am.
For more information and to register click HERE.
Head to Health – Connect to the Right Mental Health Supports
Healthy North Coast’s Head to Health is supporting our communities to connect to the right mental health advice.
Call Head to Health on 1800 595 212 where experienced staff can help connect you to the right information or mental health support that best meets your needs, including referral to telehealth and in-person services.
Head to Health is available Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm.
Community Connections Guide – a Wonderful Resource for the Community
The Community Connections Guide has been created by Blue Sky Community Services to encourage social inclusion across the Mid North Coast. The guide contains profiles of local groups and includes information on how you can join, what to expect, and a list of accessibility features.
If you are a person looking to make inclusive community connections this guide can help!
If you are a member of a community group on the Mid North Coast, you might like to be featured in the Community Connections Guide. It’s totally free to list and is a great way to promote social inclusion in our community. Our Inclusive Communities Coordinators can also assist you with easy practical ways your group can celebrate diversity, promote inclusion and, most importantly, make people feel like they belong.
For more information and to access the guide go to the Community Connections Guide page on the Blue Sky Community Services website.
Inclusive Community Connections Facebook Page
Inclusive Communities Coordinators from Blue Sky Community Services have created an Inclusive Community Connections Facebook page for community members to like and follow.
The page provides information about inclusive places and events on the Mid North Coast. So why not check out the page and increase your positive community connections!
Hospital Care Resources – Download and Complete Yours Now!
The Hospital Care Resources have been developed as part of the ‘Enhancing Inclusion in the Health System’ project, delivered by Blue Sky Community Services in partnership with the Mid North Coast Local Health District. The project aims to develop a best practice model for enhancing the inclusion of people with disability in the mainstream health system.
The Hospital Care Resources assist patients with disability, and Health staff supporting them, to collaborate in a more positive way to better meet the needs of the patient.
For more information about the resources, and to download and complete yours go to the click Enhancing Inclusion in the Health System page on the Blue Sky Community Services website.
FIND A SERVICE
Blue Sky Community Services enables people by sharing information, knowledge and resources.
Blue Sky Community Services would like to advise that the Service Directory on our website has now closed.
Due to changes to our program guidelines, we are no longer able to offer this service. We would like to thank everyone who has submitted entries over the years.
There are a number of other Service Directories in our geographical area, some of which are listed below. If you haven’t already, we encourage you to submit your organisational information to any relevant directories.
“My Community Directories” for Mid North Coast Local Government Areas
- Coffs Harbour City Council Community Directory
- Bellingen Shire Council Community Directory
- Nambucca Shire Council Community Directory
- Kempsey Shire Council Community Directory
- Port Macquarie-Hastings Community Directory
- MidCoast Community Directory
Other Directories
Ask Izzy is a mobile website that connects people who are in crisis with the services they need right now and nearby.
Spectrum Spectacular Gala Ball
Blue Sky Community Services is proud to be a sponsor of the Spectrum Spectacular Gala Ball.
Come as your Spectacular Self! …. formal attire, costume, flamboyance…. however you like to best represent yourself.
An inclusive night to remember, with celebrity guest speaker Michael Theo (from ‘Love on the Spectrum’) and music from Aspy Jones and the band.
When: Saturday, 29th April
Time: 6pm for 6.30pm start
Where: C.ex Coffs, Vernon St, Coffs Harbour
Tickets: $135 (or $100 for concession holders) includes delicious 3-course meal.
For more info and to book, check out the flyer here.
Screenwave International Film Festival – Coffs Harbour & Bellingen
The Screenwave International Film Festival is now on! The festival runs through to 6th May 2023, with more than 140 films screenings and special events in Coffs Harbour and Bellingen.
To check out what’ included in this year’s SWIFF, and to book your tickets, click HERE.
RALLY4EVER Free & Fun Tennis – Coffs Harbour
Carers NSW is partnering with RALLY4EVER to connect carers through the game of tennis. For one hour each week during the school term you will have the opportunity to join the RALLY4EVER tennis program designed to get you moving and provide an opportunity to form long-lasting friendships and connections with other carers.
You don’t need to have any previous tennis experience to join, and all necessary equipment will be supplied. It is also not a requirement to attend each session, just come when you can!
Join us for the launch!
To celebrate the launch of the tennis programs, Carers NSW would like to invite you to join us at The Harbour Tennis Academy on Thursday, 04 May 2023 between 10.00am – 11.00am. A free morning tea and light refreshments will be provided. You will also have the opportunity to have a chat with our team about the program!
How to register:
To register your interest visit the webpage HERE. Alternatively, you can contact Carers NSW Carer Gateway Peer Facilitator and Carer Coach, Sally Pannifex on email sallyp@carersnsw.org.au or phone 0438 057 261.
Youth Volunteers Visual Storytelling Workshop
An awesome free Workshop series for people aged 18-26 years who volunteer on the Coffs Coast. These workshops are for people to share their stories of volunteering through photography and storytelling.
There are three sessions of 3 hours to attend, with lunch provided. Each session will cover theory and practical activites of; photography skills, storytelling skills and design skills.
The workshop is being facilitated by Lauren Mills and Donna Hunt form the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre. Lauren and Donna both have a background in videography, film, photography, graphic design, media, promotion and creative writing.
An exhibition will be held at the end of the workshop to celebrate youth volunteering and building values through shared experience for youth volunteers.
Everyone is welcome to use their own phones or camera or use a supplied tablet to capture their photos to tell their story.
The dates for the three sessions are Thursday 18th May, Thursday 25th May, and Thursday 1st June.
For more information and to register click HERE.
Smart Recovery – Choose Your Own Path to a Healthier Future
Smart Recovery is a free, practical support group that trains you to champion your own behaviour change around alcohol, drug use, gambling or any behaviour of concern.
Meetings are held every Wednesday 10.30am to 12pm at Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre, Community Village, Earl Street Coffs Harbour.
For further information call Drug & Alcohol on 1300 662 263, or the Neighbourhood Centre on 6648 3694.
Coffs Harbour & Bellingen Clinical Society – Child & Youth Addictions
Join the Coffs Harbour & Bellingen Clinical Society for dinner and localised discussion on social media & gaming addictions in young people.
Date: Tuesday, 6th June 2023
Time: 6pm – 8.15pm
Location: Jetty Beach House, 1 Jordan Esplanade, Coffs Harbour
For more information and to book click HERE.
Coffs Coast Community College
Are you looking to build knowledge and skills? Looking to meet new people?
Your local community college has so many nationally recognised training opportunities and short courses on offer.
Why not take a look to see what interests you on the Coffs Coast Community College website.
‘Breaking Bread’ Brochure
The ‘Breaking Bread’ brochure contains a list of groups and services who provide essential support in the Coffs Harbour area.
Please find the most recent ‘Breaking Bread’ brochure here.
Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre – so much to offer!
Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre has so much to offer to the community!
Find out about the ways they may be able to assist you by visiting the Neighbourhood Centre website.
Screenwave International Film Festival – Coffs Harbour & Bellingen
The Screenwave International Film Festival is now on! The festival runs through to 6th May 2023, with more than 140 films screenings and special events in Coffs Harbour and Bellingen.
To check out what’ included in this year’s SWIFF, and to book your tickets, click HERE.
Coffs Harbour & Bellingen Clinical Society – Child & Youth Addictions
Join the Coffs Harbour & Bellingen Clinical Society for dinner and localised discussion on social media & gaming addictions in young people.
Date: Tuesday 6th June 2023
Time: 6pm – 8.15pm
Location: Jetty Beach House, 1 Jordan Esplanade, Coffs Harbour
For more information and to book click HERE.
Bellingen Growers Market
The Bellingen Growers Market is held at the Bellingen Showground on the second and fourth Saturday of each month between 8am and 1pm.
The market’s purpose is to encourage/promote local growers and services, and to give the community reliable access to organic and chemical-free produce within a multi-faceted marketplace which supports a healthy lifestyle and a more sustainable future.
You’ll find an amazing range of freshly-picked produce – mostly certified organic – fruit, vegetables, salad greens, nuts, flowers… all direct from local growers. The café has delicious locally-baked bread and pastries and will serve you a hearty organic breakfast. Order an organic coffee or freshly squeezed juice and enjoy the live music whilst browsing the newspapers or meeting with old and new friends. The kids love our famous storyteller (and the smoothies and waffles too). There are also plenty of second-hand clothes and quality bric-a-brac to choose from.
For more information head to the Bellingen Growers Market website.
Woodstock in the Valley
Woodstock in the Valley is a tribute to 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair and the music and culture that shaped our future. It is a community-focused not-for-profit event designed to develop and nurture the local entertainment industry, promote local tourism and retail whilst highlighting our beautiful Nambucca Valley as a destination of choice.
Date: Saturday 13th May 2023
Time: Midday until late
Location: Macksville Showground, Rodeo Drive, Macksville
For more information and to get your ticket click HERE.
Nambucca & Macksville Clinical Society – Child & Youth Addictions
Join the Nambucca & Macksville Clinical Society for dinner and a localised discussion on vaping & AOD in the youth of the Nambucca Valley.
Date: Wednesday, 31st May 2023
Time: 6pm – 8.15pm
Location: Hemmingways, The Cubana Resort, 56-58 Riverside Drive, Nambucca Heads
Cost: Free
For more information and to book click HERE.
Valla Beach Community Markets
The Valla Beach Community Association (VBCA) holds a market from 8:00am to 1:00pm on the first Saturday of every even month (Feb, Apr, Jun, Aug, Oct, and Dec) focusing on homemade and homegrown local produce, arts, crafts and fantastic musical talent.
It runs at the Valla Reserve (also known as ‘Lions Park’), at Valla Beach, a serene and peaceful seaside village.
The location is next to the footbridge across Deep Creek, at the end of Ocean View Drive, just off the Pacific Highway. Head towards the Valla Beach Tourist Park and turn left just before the entry – just follow the Market signs!
You can follow the markets on Facebook or check out the Valla Beach Community Markets website.
Kempsey Macleay Clinical Society – Child & Youth Addictions
Join the Kempsey Macleay Clinical Society for dinner and localised discussion on social media & gaming addictions in young people.
Date: Wednesday 7th June 2023
Time: 6pm – 8.15pm
Location: The Garden Bar & Kitchen, 1/5 Remembrance Way, Frederickton
For more information and to book click HERE.
Carer Wellness Program – Kempsey
Dementia Australia is delivering this one-day group session designed to inform strategies to support positive health and wellbeing outcomes for a carer, family or friend of a person living with dementia. Participants will be empowered to build self-care skills which improve quality of life in a caring role. An individual follow-up session will be offered to review progress in achieving your goals.
Suitable for: Family carers and family members of people living with dementia. This program is not suitable for professionals employed in the health or aged care sectors.
Date: Monday, 22nd May 2023
Time: 9.30am – 3pm
Location: Kempsey Macleay RSL Club 1 York Lane Kempsey
For more information and to book click HERE.
Baby Bounce – Kempsey
Baby Bounce is for children aged 0 – 3 years of age, and is held fortnightly on a Friday at Kempsey Library, starting at 10am.
At Baby Bounce, you and your little one will enjoy stories, rhymes, movement, and lots of fun. The sessions are interactive, fun and beneficial to both parent and child.
April dates are Friday 7th and Friday 21st. No bookings are required. For enquiries please call Kempsey Library on (02) 6566 3210.
Kempsey Neighbourhood Centre – so much to offer!
The Centre provides a range of services to address and support the community’s needs.
Check out the Kempsey Neighbourhood Centre website to find out more.
Grand Opening! Mid North Coast Legal Centre & Disability Advocacy, New Office in Port Macquarie
Mid North Coast Legal Centre and Disability Advocacy invite you to celebrate the opening of their new office, and look forward to welcoming you and showing you around.
DATE: Wednesday 3rd May
TIME: 10am
LOCATION: Suite 7, Level 1, 68 Clarence Street Port Macquarie (entry on Short Street, opposite Centrelink)
Light refreshments will be provided.
For catering purposes please RSVP by 27 April 2023 to info@mnclegal.org.au or by calling 6580 2111.
Parenting Groups & Courses with Uniting Port Macquarie
Uniting Port Macquarie offers a number of parenting courses and groups, both in person and online.
For information about term 2 courses check out the flyer below.
RALLY4EVER Free & Fun Tennis – Port Macquarie
Carers NSW is partnering with RALLY4EVER to connect carers through the game of tennis. For one hour each week during the school term you will have the opportunity to join the RALLY4EVER tennis program designed to get you moving and provide an opportunity to form long-lasting friendships and connections with other carers.
You don’t need to have any previous tennis experience to join, and all necessary equipment will be supplied. It is also not a requirement to attend each session, just come when you can!
Join us for the launch!
To celebrate the launch of the tennis programs, Carers NSW would like to invite you to join us at West Port Macquarie Tennis Club on Friday, 05 May 2023 between 11.00am – 12.00pm. A free morning tea and light refreshments will be provided. You will also have the opportunity to have a chat with our team about the program!
How to register:
To register your interest visit the webpage HERE. Alternatively, you can contact Carers NSW Carer Gateway Peer Support & Coaching Team Leader, Rebecca Smith on email rebeccas@carersnsw.org.au or phone 0437 690 140.
Younger Onset Dementia Project
We have developed a survey to gather information from people living with younger onset dementia and their carers, to assist us in “Understanding the social needs of people living with younger onset dementia and their carers.”
The information gathered will inform recommendations for future social supports and needs to assist this group of people to have an improved quality of life.
If you can assist us, we would very much appreciate you informing people of this project and suggesting that their participation would be very helpful if they could take a few minutes to complete the survey. Take the survey by clicking HERE.
Caring for a Parent with Dementia – Port Macquarie
Dementia Australia is delivering this therapeutic program is designed to help sons and daughters navigate the practical, psychological, and emotional issues that arise when caring for a parent with dementia.
The program aims to improve relationships and mental and emotional wellbeing. It combines education and strategies with deep listening, sharing, reflection and guided meditation. Participants will be challenged to reimagine the parent, themselves, and their situation in a supportive peer environment.
This program runs over four sessions throughout May.
For more information about the sessions and to book click HERE.
Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre Playtime
Free for children 0-5 years and their caregivers. Tea, coffee, toys and activities are provided. Please bring snacks and water for your child.
When: Monday mornings from 9:30 am to 11:30 am
Read more in the Hastings Neighbourhood Services Playtime flyer.
Neighbourhood Centres of Port Macquarie, Wauchope & Lake Cathie – so much to offer!
The Hastings Neighbourhood Centres have so much to offer a variety of services to the local community members.
Check out the Hastings Neighbourhood Services website to find out more.
Mid North Coast Community College
Are you looking to build knowledge and skills? Looking to meet new people?
Your local community college has so many nationally recognised training opportunities and short courses on offer.
Why not take a look to see what interests you on the Mid North Coast Community College website.
Launch of the Intellectual Disability Mental Health Connect Website
The Intellectual Disability Mental Health Connect website was recently launched and is an amazing resource! This website assists people with intellectual disability, family and support people, and health professionals to find the mental health resources they need.
Visit the website by clicking HERE.
A Great Disability Etiquette Starting Guide!
Disability: IN have released a great Disability Etiquette Starting Guide . . . check it out here!
Join the Push-up Challenge and Support Lifeline Mid Coast
Support Lifeline Mid Coast and the important work they do by taking part in this year’s Push-up Challenge! Take on the challenge as an individual or as part of a team, have fun and enjoy doing something good for your health.
For more information and to register click HERE.
Variety’s ‘We Care Therapy’ Grants available now
Variety’s ‘We Care Therapy’ grant aims to assist families in accessing interventions and services for their child after they have received a diagnosis but are awaiting the approval of their NDIS plan.
Grants of up to $2,000 per child are available and are valid for a 12-month period, or until an approved NDIS plan is activated. Children and young people ineligible for NDIS assistance may also apply for this grant.
For more information and to apply head to Variety’s website.
Discrimination for Community Workers – A Free Information Session
A free information session for community workers on Discrimination. The session will be presented by Mid North Coast Legal Centre.
The session will take place 1st May 2-3pm.
For more information and to register click HERE.
Police Powers for Community Workers – A Free Information Session
A free information session for community workers on Discrimination. The session will be presented by Mid North Coast Legal Centre.
The session will take place 13th July 10-11am.
For more information and to register click HERE.
Head to Health – Connect to the Right Mental Health Supports
Healthy North Coast’s Head to Health is supporting our communities to connect to the right mental health advice.
Call Head to Health on 1800 595 212 where experienced staff can help connect you to the right information or mental health support that best meets your needs, including referral to telehealth and in-person services.
Head to Health is available Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm.
Community Connections Guide – a Wonderful Resource for the Community
The Community Connections Guide has been created by Blue Sky Community Services to encourage social inclusion across the Mid North Coast. The guide contains profiles of local groups and includes information on how you can join, what to expect, and a list of accessibility features.
If you are a person looking to make inclusive community connections this guide can help!
If you are a member of a community group on the Mid North Coast, you might like to be featured in the Community Connections Guide. It’s totally free to list and is a great way to promote social inclusion in our community. Our Inclusive Communities Coordinators can also assist you with easy practical ways your group can celebrate diversity, promote inclusion and, most importantly, make people feel like they belong.
For more information and to access the guide go to the Community Connections Guide page on the Blue Sky Community Services website.
Inclusive Community Connections Facebook Page
Inclusive Communities Coordinators from Blue Sky Community Services have created an Inclusive Community Connections Facebook page for community members to like and follow.
The page provides information about inclusive places and events on the Mid North Coast. So why not check out the page and increase your positive community connections!
Hospital Care Resources – Download and Complete Yours Now!
The Hospital Care Resources have been developed as part of the ‘Enhancing Inclusion in the Health System’ project, delivered by Blue Sky Community Services in partnership with the Mid North Coast Local Health District. The project aims to develop a best practice model for enhancing the inclusion of people with disability in the mainstream health system.
The Hospital Care Resources assist patients with disability, and Health staff supporting them, to collaborate in a more positive way to better meet the needs of the patient.
For more information about the resources, and to download and complete yours go to the click Enhancing Inclusion in the Health System page on the Blue Sky Community Services website.