Free 2-hour workshops for Parents & Carers of Teens
Groundworks Youth Service is offering free 2-hour workshops for parents & carers
* Age of Rage – Responding to your teen’s anger and aggression – Learn practical skills to intervene effectively before behaviour escalates. Help your teen manage their anger and develop the skills and motivation to improve their behaviour.
* School Can’t – Supporting our kids through school anxiety and refusal.
* Sneaking Out – Navigating teenage defiance, peer pressure and risk–taking
* #Addicted - Raising teens in an age of social media addiction
* Breathing Space – Practical mindfulness and meaningful self – care for parents & carers.
Click here to read the Information Flyer
For more information, please contact Jaid – jaidroden@bluesky.org.au
Our Living Coast – Living Sustainably in our Region Events
Our Living Coast is your sustainable living hub for the Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca Council areas.
Here you can find out about local events and get tips to inspire you to live sustainably and enjoy a happy, healthy and meaningful life.
Everything from community movie nights to growing healthy and sustainable food!
Find out what's on in your area by visiting the Our Living Coast website.
What’s On at the YAM – Yarrila Art & Museum
At YAM their vibrant range of programs and events offers something for everyone. Join them for one of their engaging programs, from artist talks to workshops, and activities as we come together to inspire, learn, and create.
Take a look at their upcoming programs and event at their website: Programs & Events - Yarrila Arts and Museum
Introduction to FASD – Understanding behaviour, diagnosis and support
Coffs Harbour $180
Tuesday, 2nd July 2024, 9:30am -12:30pm. Light refreshments available.
This introductory workshop is designed for those who work with or care for those with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum disorder especially those working in early childhood education, disability services and human services and will cover the following:
- Understanding the impact of prenatal alcohol exposure on the developing foetus.
- Insight into diagnosis
- How FASD presents
- How to work effectively with those with FASD
- Links to online resources and referral pathways for ongoing support
- Celebrate the unique skills and contributions that those with FASD offer.
"This workshop was invaluable in deepening my understanding of how to best support the young people and their carers that I work with daily. The training was engaging, informative and thought-provoking" (Foster Care Support Worker)
Introduction to Trauma Attachment and Positive Behaviour Support Workshop
Coffs Harbour $180
Wednesday, 3rd July, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Light refreshments are available.
Join ThIS Training for an immersive and informative training session on introducing foundational concepts of Trauma, Attachment & Positive Behaviour Support. This introductory event is designed to equip early childhood professionals, education, community service workers and caregivers with essential and foundational knowledge and practical strategies to better understand and support individuals affected by trauma and attachment challenges.
This introductory training is essential for those who work with children and young people displaying complex behaviours. Covering concepts of the neuroscience of trauma, developmental trauma and key behaviour support strategies, this evidence-informed introduction to trauma gives workers an understanding of trauma-based behaviours and the best ways to respond.
“This training made sense of the behaviours I see every day and gave real-time strategies in how to best respond” Hands & Hearts Early Childhood
Check Out What’s Happening at Libraries on the Coffs Coast!
There are so many free and inclusive events happening at libraries on the Coffs Coast. There's something for all ages.
Whether you want to learn to play the ukelele, take your little one to a play activity, or you're looking to attend a workshop - there's always something on offer.
Locations include Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga and Toormina.
For more information head to the Coffs Harbour Libraries website.
Community Connections Guide – Inclusive Activities and Groups
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.
Our Living Coast – Living Sustainably in our Region Events
Our Living Coast is your sustainable living hub for the Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca Council areas.
Here you can find out about local events and get tips to inspire you to live sustainably and enjoy a happy, healthy and meaningful life.
Everything from community movie nights to growing healthy and sustainable food!
Find out what's on in your area by visiting the Our Living Coast website.
Do you need more volunteers?
Bellingen Shire Council is updating its website to list volunteering opportunities locally in the Shire. We have a number of community groups and organisations already listed but want to make sure this info is up to date and accurate and also includes links to current social media sites etc.
To list your organisation and or update details, please complete this form here: Volunteer Information Form
You will find existing local volunteer opportunities broken down into categories on the Bellingen Shire Council Volunteering webpage.
Neighbourhood Centres of Bellingen, Dorrigo & Urunga – so much to offer!
The Neighbourhood Centres of the Bellingen Shire have so much to offer community members in Bellingen, Dorrigo and Urunga!
Check out their Neighbourhood Centres website to find out all the ways they might be able to assist you.
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.
Our Living Coast – Living Sustainably in our Region Events
Our Living Coast is your sustainable living hub for the Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca Council areas.
Here you can find out about local events and get tips to inspire you to live sustainably and enjoy a happy, healthy and meaningful life.
Everything from community movie nights to growing healthy and sustainable food!
Find out what's on in your area by visiting the Our Living Coast website.
DV-alert Workshop – ‘1-Day DV-aware’
Lifeline North Coast is holding a 1-day DV-Alert Workshop in Nambucca this June. To find out more about this training opportunity and how to book your place, visit the DV-alert Workshop Lifeline North Coast website
When: Thursday 13th June 2024
Time: 9am - 5pm
Where: Nambucca Heads RSL Club, 3 Nelson St, Nambucca Heads, NSW 2448
Trivia Night – Mujaay Ganma Foundation
The Mujaay Ganma Foundation is hosting a Trivia night on Friday, 21st June. This is a wonderful opportunity to grab a few friends or work colleagues and have a night out in Bowraville while supporting a great community initiative! This Trivia night is a special one with the dress-up theme being 70s disco. Dust off those bellbottoms and pull out your highest platforms for a night you won’t forget!
The trivia tables will be set in groups of eight with a $10 per person fee to participate.
All funds raised will be going to The Mujaay Ganma Foundation to continue their wonderful work in the Nambucca Valley of improving the wellbeing of country and community.
This event will be hosted by Oppy Entertainment.
When: Friday, 21st June 2024
Time: 6pm
Where: Bowraville Recreation Club, 2 South Arm Road, Bowraville.
To book your table contact Wurinda on 0439650304 or email aunty@mujaayganmafoundation.org.au
More information can be found on this Trivia Night flyer.
Phoenix Art Prize
We are pleased to announce that the Phoenix Art Prize is now open to artists 16+ living with a disability on the Mid North Coast. This is a free entry event, there is no theme and all mediums will be accepted within the size restriction of 1m x 1m.
The Phoenix Art Prize is part of Ability Arts Connect MNC, a major event this year in August. The project aims to connect, celebrate, and inform artists, their carers and support organisations, through a two-day event including conferences, art workshops, an exhibition, and an art prize to be held at Nambucca Valley Phoenix, in Bowraville NSW. We will have more information closer to the date and a registration form available.
This project is possible thanks to the support of Regional Arts Australia, and Arts Mid North Coast. Judges include Curator from Coffs Regional Gallery Ashleigh Frost, Doctor Emma Gentle and Director of Arts MNC Olivia Parker.
We hope you can share this with your clients and within your art programs to get everyone involved. Cash prizes will be available and announced soon.
For further information, and to apply, visit the Nambucca Valley Phoenix website and fill out the submission form.
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.
KBHAC National Sorry Day Event
Kinchela Boys Home Aboriginal Corporation is hosting a gathering for National Sorry Day on Dunghutti country.
For more information check out the KBHAC National Sorry Day event flyer.
When: Monday, 3rd June
Time: 11.30am
Where: Kempsey Railway Station, Kemp St
Kempsey District Hospital & UHA Spring Fair
Kempsey District Hospital and the United Hospital Auxiliary are hosting a Spring Fair, with market stalls, live entertainment, sausage sizzle, lots of activities for the kids and fun for all the family. All proceeds will go back to the hospital.
DATE: Saturday, 16th September 2023
TIME: 9am - 2pm
LOCATION: Kempsey District Hospital
A silent auction is being held with lots of great memorabilia and surprise packages up for grabs.
We've got lots of prizes for our raffle as well thanks to our community sponsors. This will be a fun and fabulous event for the whole community.
For more information check out the Kempsey Hospital & UHA Spring Fair Facebook page.
Baby Bounce for the Little Ones at Kempsey Library
Singing and rhymes are a part of early literacy. Early literacy is the foundation of learning to read. Singing develops your child's communication, voice development and helps with their emotional wellbeing.
At Baby Bounce you and your bub enjoy stories, rhymes, movement, and lots of fun. The sessions are interactive, fun and beneficial to both parent and child.
Baby Bounce is for children aged 0-3 years, and is held every second Friday at Kempsey Library, starting at 10.00am.
For dates and more information go to the Kempsey Library website.
So Much on Offer for all Ages at Kempsey Library!
There are so many free activities on offer for people of all ages at Port-Hastings Libraries!
For the little ones there's storytime and baby bounce. For kids and teens there's the summer reading club, gaming and virtual reality, digital kids and school holiday activities.
For the older community there are regular tech savvy seniors workshops.
So check out the regular events on offer at the Kempsey Library website.
ArtWalk 2024
ArtWalk is an annual event held in Port Macquarie, Australia, that celebrates the town's vibrant art scene. During ArtWalk, the streets of Port Macquarie come alive with a variety of artworks displayed in galleries, shops, and public spaces. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of art, including painting, sculpture, photography, live performances, exhibitions, illuminations, artist markets, creative installations, and more.
When: Friday 7th June
Time: 5 - 9pm
Where: Port Macquarie
For more information and to stay up to date with the program as its released head to the Port Macquarie Hastings Council website.
Clothing Swap & Sell Markets & Recycle Revive Repair Cafe
Join us during our bimonthly Recycle, Revive, Repair Café and Clothes Swap Market as each of us journey into the world of upcycling and sewing! Our Upcycled Sewers Group is dedicated to transforming old, forgotten items into new treasures through the art of sewing. Bring your own project to work on or contribute to a collaborative project or assist others to make repairs. Connect with fellow upcycling enthusiasts, share ideas, and inspire one another to unleash creativity.
Whether you're a seasoned sewing pro or a complete beginner, everyone is welcome!
For more information or to register head to our Humantix webpage.
What’s Happening at headspace Port Macquarie
Stay in the know with what's happening at headspace Port Macquarie!
For more information keep an eye on the headspace Port Macquarie website.
Out of the Shadows Walk – Port Macquarie
The Out of the Shadows Walk is happening again in Port Macquarie. Each year we gather at the sunrise of World Suicide Prevention Day on the shores of Town Beach at Port Macquarie to honour those lost to suicide and to bring their memory into the light, to remove the stigma around suicide.
WHEN: Sunday, 10th September 2023
TIME: 5.30am start
WHERE: Town Beach Port Macquarie
For more information, and to register, go to the Out of the Shadows Walk website.
So Many Free Activities at Port-Hastings Libraries!
There are free activities on offer for people of all ages.......
For the little ones there's storytime, baby bounce and the kids' play area. For kids and teens there's access to digital technology, reading incentives and school holiday activities.
For the older community there are regular health and wellbeing activities and information workshops.
So check out the regular events on offer on the Mid North Coast Library Service website.
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.
Ethical Jobs: Find a job you can be truly passionate about
Looking for a job? Find an ethical job that contributes for a more equitable, more just or more sustainable world.
For more information click HERE.
TAFE Community Services courses Term 3 2024
TAFE NSW have some great upcoming courses for Term 3 2024!
Where: CHEC (Coffs Harbour Education Campus)
Commence Term 3
Diploma of Community Services – Generalist
Diploma of Community Services – Case Management
Diploma of Community Services – Child Youth & Family
Cert IV in Community Services – Virtual
Commence Term 4
Cert. III in Individual Support (Disability)
2 separate courses
1st – Thursday & Friday – 9am to 1pm
Cert !I in Individual Support (Disability)
2nd – Thursday & Friday – 1pm to 5pm
Cert III in Individual Support (Disability)
Commence Term 3
Financial Wellbeing Service
Blue Sky Community Services' Financial Wellbeing Service is currently at full capacity, and fully booked until mid July. If you are interested in making an appointment, please try us again in early July. If you'd like further information in the meantime please contact us by phone at: (02) 6651 1788 or email: contact@bluesky.org.au
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.
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!
Blue Sky NDIS Support Services
Blue Sky Community Services offers NDIS Support Coordination, Plan Management and Psychosocial Recovery Coaching in the Manning-Great Lakes and Forster areas. 
As a registered NDIS provider Blue Sky delivers best practice Plan Management, Support Coordination and Psychosocial Recovery Coaching services to NDIS participants in the Manning-Great Lakes and MidCoast areas.
The services support NDIS participants through a strengths-based and person-centred approach, ensuring that participants maintain full choice and control over their plans.
For more information visit the Blue Sky NDIS Support Services pages on the Blue Sky Community Services website.
