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
safeTALK – Suicide Prevention Awareness Program
safeTALK is a short, practical half-day workshop, run by LifeLine North Coast, which encourages suicide alert communities . The skills taught in safeTALK are designed to give participants a short, clear process, that anyone over the age of 15 can follow, to become a ‘suicide alert helper’ in their own community.
When: Tuesday 9th April, 9.30am -1.30pm
Where: Coffs Harbour – venue to be advised.
RSVP required. See the safeTALK flyer for more details.
Living Well Expo
The Coffs Coast Living Well Expo is on again in 2024 in a new location!
When: Wednesday, 6 March 2024 10am -3pm
Where: Coffs Harbour Showground Exhibition Pavilion
The Living Well Expo focuses on engaging older persons, people with a disability and their carers, to improve health outcomes and social connections. The Expo aims to inform and support the local community through expert speakers and access to relevant services and community organisations, that can enable everyone to live their best life. We will also be promoting access to health, recreational, educational, and social supports, through approximately 50+ information stalls.
We will be having some amazing and informative speakers on the day, discussing topics such as Advance Care Planning, Cyber Security and more!
Food and drinks will be available for purchase on the day.
Living Well Expo – Featured Speakers
Mental Health Carer Education Workshops February and March 2024
The Family and Carer Mental Health Program supports families and carers of people with a mental illness through a comprehensive range of supports and services.
Mission Australia runs monthly carer support meetings and educational workshops which range from social events, mindfulness walks and art therapy to education and training.
Click here to view the Upcoming workshops in the Coffs Harbour area.
Storytime for Kids at your local Coffs Coast Library
Join storytime for kids at your local library! Enjoy some wonderful stories and great fun. Suitable for ages 3-5 years, with parent/carer.
Storytime events happen regularly at Coffs Harbour Library, Woolgoolga Library, and Toormina Library.
For upcoming dates and times visit the Coffs Harbour Libraries 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.
Volunteer Opportunity – Bellingen Visitor Centre
Embrace your local pride – become a visitor information centre volunteer.
Are you passionate about our Shire’s beauty and local produce? Join us as a volunteer at one of our Visitor Centres, welcoming visitors, assisting with requests, and promoting local products in-store. Give a few hours weekly to celebrate all the shire has to offer.
Check out the Bellingen Shire Council webpage or contact tourism@bellingen.nsw.gov.au for more information
Service NSW Mobile Service Centre & Bellingen Services Stalls
The Service NSW Mobile Service Centre is coming to Dorrigo and Bellingen in March:
When: Tuesday, 5 March 2024, 10am – 3pm
Where: 51 Hickory Street Dorrigo
When: Wednesday, 6 March 2024, 9am – 3pm
Where: Cnr Hyde & Ford Streets Bellingen
**To complement the bus in Bellingen on 6 March, Bellingen Shire Council are also hosting a Service Stalls Day, from 9am to 3pm.
Read the Bellingen Service Stalls Flyer
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.
Suicide Prevention Training – Bowraville & Macksville
The Wesley Lifeforce Suicide Prevention training educates people about suicide, challenging attitudes, teaching basic engagement and suicide intervention skills. You will gain increased confidence in your ability to identify people who may be at risk of suicide, communicate appropriately, ask a person if they are considering suicide and conduct a suicide intervention.
Bowraville Training
When: Thursday 14 March
Time: 9am- 4pm
Where: Nambucca Valley Phoenix Limited, 88 High Street Bowraville, NSW 2449
To register please see the Bowraville training flyer
Macksville Training
When: Thursday 4 April 2024
Where: Macksville RSL, 16 Cooper Street Macksville, NSW 2447
Time: 9am -4pm
To register please see the Macksville training flyer
Macksville Music Muster – March 2024
The Macksville Music Muster is happening 4th to 11th March 2024 at Macksville Showground and nearby venues. Artists have been announced and the event will no doubt be incredible.
Tickets are on sale now, and you’ll need to get in quick to secure your site!
For more information visit the Macksville Music Muster website.
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.
International Women’s Day Event – Kempsey
Melville and Kempsey High Schools invite all women and girls to celebrate International Women’s Day on Friday the 8th of March.
The campaign theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is Inspire Inclusion. When women are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment.
The day includes guest speakers, workshops, activities and light refreshments.
When: 8th March, 10am – 1pm
Where: Dunghutti Elders Council, 17/23 South St, South Kempsey
RSVP by by 1st March.
For more information see the International Women’s Day Kempsey Event flyer
Macleay Youth Laneway Festival – Youth Artists, Stallholders and Performers Wanted!
The Macleay Youth Laneway Festival is back as part of our local celebrations for Youth Week NSW.
The festival is an opportunity for everyone to get together and celebrate our youth, admire their talents and recognise the contribution they make to our community.
When: Saturday, 13 April 2024, 2-6pm
Where: Clyde Street Mall, KempseyWe currently have some PAID opportunities for youth to be involved in the laneway festival.
Please see the attached posters or the Kempsey Shire Council website for more information.
Laneway Festival Youth Artists EOI
Laneway Festival Stallholders & Performers EOI
Ready Communities set to activate the Macleay
The Macleay Valley has been selected as the first Ready Communities program.
Ready Communities is an initiative supported by Evolve Network, Rural Economies Centre of Excellence at the University of Southern Queensland, and GEN Australia.
For more information visit the Ready Macleay website or read the Ready Communities media release.
Sit & Stitch: Kempsey Social Group
The Sit & Stich social group is for anyone who enjoys connecting with others at cafes, and yarn craft. Join us to meet crafty friends and learn new skills. Led by local crocheters, you can learn some basic stitches and create our own handmade items. Crocheting is an activity that encourages focus, mindfulness and creativity, while meeting new people and building friendships.
Please bring any crochet supplies you have, though we will have spare crochet hooks and yarn to help get you started.
Participation in creative activities is completely optional, come along for a coffee and great conversation.
For more information check out the Sit & Stitch Group flyer.
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.
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.
Mid North Coast Police Recruitment Open Day
The NSW Police Force Recruitment Branch invites you to an information event on the requirements to join NSW Police. You will gain insight into the application process and be given an opportunity to take part in a practice Physical Capacity Testing (PCT) session.
Qualified NSW Police officers will be on hand to answer your questions.
When: Saturday, 9th March
Where: Port Macquarie Police Station
Have a look at the NSW Police recruitment website for more information.
2024 Seniors Festival
This festival offers our seniors the chance to form new friendships and reunite with friends at a range of community events.
We’re excited to unveil our program of events, designed to encourage our seniors to reach beyond and embrace new experiences. Best of all, it’s completely free! From aqua aerobics to African dancing, and from writing workshops to weaving sessions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Browse the full program of events on the Seniors Festival website, and don’t forget to register your interest to secure your spot at the activities that catch your eye.
Our Place Hub
‘Our Place’ is run every fortnight by the Port Macquarie-Hastings Homelessness Collective. The Collective is a group of services that have come together to support local people who are either experiencing homelessness, struggling with the cost of living, or in need of somewhere safe to spend some time. People who attend ‘Our Place’ have access to several services such as mental health support, housing support, food, clothing, showers, laundry, pet supplies, and more.
We operate from the St Agnes Parish Youth Hub, 140 Horton St, Port Macquarie every second Thursday, from 8am -to 1pm.
See the Our Place flyer for more information and upcoming dates.
Walking and Cycling Review
The Port Macquarie Hastings Council is conducting a Walking and Cycling Review to make walking, cycling and personal mobility accessible and safe in the growing Port Macquarie-Hastings region. You may know a certain route in your area that many people use which could benefit from pedestrian or cycling infrastructure to enhance safety, accessibility and community wellbeing.
To find out more read the FAQs factsheet or check out the website to have your say.
Submissions close Monday, 11 March 2024.
Port Macquarie Anxiety Support Group
Port Macquarie Anxiety Support Group is a small group of people who come together to share personal experiences and information in a safe, friendly and supportive environment.
Join Carli and Meredith and members on the first Wednesday of the month at 6pm at Port Macquarie Library on Grant Street.
For more information visit the WayAhead website.
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.
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.
Employment Opportunity: Manning Valley Neighbourhood Services Inc
Midcoast/Port Macquarie-Hastings Cooperative Legal Services Delivery
Regional Coordinator
8 hours per week – based in Wingham
We are seeking to employ a self-directed, enterprising individual to be part
of our team to:
- convene an established regional partnership of key legal & community service providers in the CLSD region to ensure the ongoing delivery of CLSD objectives, services & events
- assist CLSD Regional Partners to work together cooperatively in planning
& delivering legal services to improve access to justice for economically &
socially disadvantaged people & communities in the region.An information package must be obtained by emailing manager@mvns.org.au
Applications close: 5pm Monday, 4th March 2024.
Australian Government Indigenous Apprenticeships Program
A pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to start their career in the Australian Public Service (APS).
This program is an exciting opportunity for people new to the APS who want to:
- learn new skills
- gain valuable workplace experience
- complete a formal qualification.
The Australian Government Indigenous Apprenticeships Program 2024 applications close Friday 22 March 2024.
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.
Have Your Say – Inclusive and Accessible Community Social Groups
Blue Sky Community Services, the Mid North Coast NDIS Local Area Coordination Partner in the Community, is looking to enhance local, inclusive and accessible social and interest groups. We want to know what people want and where they want it!
We believe every individual deserves to be part of a vibrant and supportive community. That is why we are committed to creating opportunities for people with disabilities to connect with others who share similar interests and passions. Our goal is to enable a safe and welcoming environment where everyone can feel accepted and valued.
Whether it’s art, music, sport, or simply socialising, we want to hear from you! So if you have an idea for a social/interest group, or if you want to let us know what you would like to see in your area, check out the Accessible Groups Survey flyer to have your say!
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.
safeTALK – Suicide Prevention Awareness Program
safeTALK is a short, practical half-day workshop, run by LifeLine North Coast, which encourages suicide alert communities . The skills taught in safeTALK are designed to give participants a short, clear process, that anyone over the age of 15 can follow, to become a ‘suicide alert helper’ in their own community.
When: Tuesday 9th April, 9.30am -1.30pm
Where: Coffs Harbour – venue to be advised.
RSVP required. See the safeTALK flyer for more details.
Living Well Expo
The Coffs Coast Living Well Expo is on again in 2024 in a new location!
When: Wednesday, 6 March 2024 10am -3pm
Where: Coffs Harbour Showground Exhibition Pavilion
The Living Well Expo focuses on engaging older persons, people with a disability and their carers, to improve health outcomes and social connections. The Expo aims to inform and support the local community through expert speakers and access to relevant services and community organisations, that can enable everyone to live their best life. We will also be promoting access to health, recreational, educational, and social supports, through approximately 50+ information stalls.
We will be having some amazing and informative speakers on the day, discussing topics such as Advance Care Planning, Cyber Security and more!
Food and drinks will be available for purchase on the day.
Living Well Expo – Featured Speakers
Mental Health Carer Education Workshops February and March 2024
The Family and Carer Mental Health Program supports families and carers of people with a mental illness through a comprehensive range of supports and services.
Mission Australia runs monthly carer support meetings and educational workshops which range from social events, mindfulness walks and art therapy to education and training.
Click here to view the Upcoming workshops in the Coffs Harbour area.
Storytime for Kids at your local Coffs Coast Library
Join storytime for kids at your local library! Enjoy some wonderful stories and great fun. Suitable for ages 3-5 years, with parent/carer.
Storytime events happen regularly at Coffs Harbour Library, Woolgoolga Library, and Toormina Library.
For upcoming dates and times visit the Coffs Harbour Libraries 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.
Volunteer Opportunity – Bellingen Visitor Centre
Embrace your local pride – become a visitor information centre volunteer.
Are you passionate about our Shire’s beauty and local produce? Join us as a volunteer at one of our Visitor Centres, welcoming visitors, assisting with requests, and promoting local products in-store. Give a few hours weekly to celebrate all the shire has to offer.
Check out the Bellingen Shire Council webpage or contact tourism@bellingen.nsw.gov.au for more information
Service NSW Mobile Service Centre & Bellingen Services Stalls
The Service NSW Mobile Service Centre is coming to Dorrigo and Bellingen in March:
When: Tuesday, 5 March 2024, 10am – 3pm
Where: 51 Hickory Street Dorrigo
When: Wednesday, 6 March 2024, 9am – 3pm
Where: Cnr Hyde & Ford Streets Bellingen
**To complement the bus in Bellingen on 6 March, Bellingen Shire Council are also hosting a Service Stalls Day, from 9am to 3pm.
Read the Bellingen Service Stalls Flyer
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.
Suicide Prevention Training – Bowraville & Macksville
The Wesley Lifeforce Suicide Prevention training educates people about suicide, challenging attitudes, teaching basic engagement and suicide intervention skills. You will gain increased confidence in your ability to identify people who may be at risk of suicide, communicate appropriately, ask a person if they are considering suicide and conduct a suicide intervention.
Bowraville Training
When: Thursday 14 March
Time: 9am- 4pm
Where: Nambucca Valley Phoenix Limited, 88 High Street Bowraville, NSW 2449
To register please see the Bowraville training flyer
Macksville Training
When: Thursday 4 April 2024
Where: Macksville RSL, 16 Cooper Street Macksville, NSW 2447
Time: 9am -4pm
To register please see the Macksville training flyer
Macksville Music Muster – March 2024
The Macksville Music Muster is happening 4th to 11th March 2024 at Macksville Showground and nearby venues. Artists have been announced and the event will no doubt be incredible.
Tickets are on sale now, and you’ll need to get in quick to secure your site!
For more information visit the Macksville Music Muster website.
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.
International Women’s Day Event – Kempsey
Melville and Kempsey High Schools invite all women and girls to celebrate International Women’s Day on Friday the 8th of March.
The campaign theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is Inspire Inclusion. When women are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment.
The day includes guest speakers, workshops, activities and light refreshments.
When: 8th March, 10am – 1pm
Where: Dunghutti Elders Council, 17/23 South St, South Kempsey
RSVP by by 1st March.
For more information see the International Women’s Day Kempsey Event flyer
Macleay Youth Laneway Festival – Youth Artists, Stallholders and Performers Wanted!
The Macleay Youth Laneway Festival is back as part of our local celebrations for Youth Week NSW.
The festival is an opportunity for everyone to get together and celebrate our youth, admire their talents and recognise the contribution they make to our community.
When: Saturday, 13 April 2024, 2-6pm
Where: Clyde Street Mall, KempseyWe currently have some PAID opportunities for youth to be involved in the laneway festival.
Please see the attached posters or the Kempsey Shire Council website for more information.
Laneway Festival Youth Artists EOI
Laneway Festival Stallholders & Performers EOI
Ready Communities set to activate the Macleay
The Macleay Valley has been selected as the first Ready Communities program.
Ready Communities is an initiative supported by Evolve Network, Rural Economies Centre of Excellence at the University of Southern Queensland, and GEN Australia.
For more information visit the Ready Macleay website or read the Ready Communities media release.
Sit & Stitch: Kempsey Social Group
The Sit & Stich social group is for anyone who enjoys connecting with others at cafes, and yarn craft. Join us to meet crafty friends and learn new skills. Led by local crocheters, you can learn some basic stitches and create our own handmade items. Crocheting is an activity that encourages focus, mindfulness and creativity, while meeting new people and building friendships.
Please bring any crochet supplies you have, though we will have spare crochet hooks and yarn to help get you started.
Participation in creative activities is completely optional, come along for a coffee and great conversation.
For more information check out the Sit & Stitch Group flyer.
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.
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.
Mid North Coast Police Recruitment Open Day
The NSW Police Force Recruitment Branch invites you to an information event on the requirements to join NSW Police. You will gain insight into the application process and be given an opportunity to take part in a practice Physical Capacity Testing (PCT) session.
Qualified NSW Police officers will be on hand to answer your questions.
When: Saturday, 9th March
Where: Port Macquarie Police Station
Have a look at the NSW Police recruitment website for more information.
2024 Seniors Festival
This festival offers our seniors the chance to form new friendships and reunite with friends at a range of community events.
We’re excited to unveil our program of events, designed to encourage our seniors to reach beyond and embrace new experiences. Best of all, it’s completely free! From aqua aerobics to African dancing, and from writing workshops to weaving sessions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Browse the full program of events on the Seniors Festival website, and don’t forget to register your interest to secure your spot at the activities that catch your eye.
Our Place Hub
‘Our Place’ is run every fortnight by the Port Macquarie-Hastings Homelessness Collective. The Collective is a group of services that have come together to support local people who are either experiencing homelessness, struggling with the cost of living, or in need of somewhere safe to spend some time. People who attend ‘Our Place’ have access to several services such as mental health support, housing support, food, clothing, showers, laundry, pet supplies, and more.
We operate from the St Agnes Parish Youth Hub, 140 Horton St, Port Macquarie every second Thursday, from 8am -to 1pm.
See the Our Place flyer for more information and upcoming dates.
Walking and Cycling Review
The Port Macquarie Hastings Council is conducting a Walking and Cycling Review to make walking, cycling and personal mobility accessible and safe in the growing Port Macquarie-Hastings region. You may know a certain route in your area that many people use which could benefit from pedestrian or cycling infrastructure to enhance safety, accessibility and community wellbeing.
To find out more read the FAQs factsheet or check out the website to have your say.
Submissions close Monday, 11 March 2024.
Port Macquarie Anxiety Support Group
Port Macquarie Anxiety Support Group is a small group of people who come together to share personal experiences and information in a safe, friendly and supportive environment.
Join Carli and Meredith and members on the first Wednesday of the month at 6pm at Port Macquarie Library on Grant Street.
For more information visit the WayAhead website.
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.
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.
Employment Opportunity: Manning Valley Neighbourhood Services Inc
Midcoast/Port Macquarie-Hastings Cooperative Legal Services Delivery
Regional Coordinator
8 hours per week – based in Wingham
We are seeking to employ a self-directed, enterprising individual to be part
of our team to:
- convene an established regional partnership of key legal & community service providers in the CLSD region to ensure the ongoing delivery of CLSD objectives, services & events
- assist CLSD Regional Partners to work together cooperatively in planning
& delivering legal services to improve access to justice for economically &
socially disadvantaged people & communities in the region.An information package must be obtained by emailing manager@mvns.org.au
Applications close: 5pm Monday, 4th March 2024.
Australian Government Indigenous Apprenticeships Program
A pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to start their career in the Australian Public Service (APS).
This program is an exciting opportunity for people new to the APS who want to:
- learn new skills
- gain valuable workplace experience
- complete a formal qualification.
The Australian Government Indigenous Apprenticeships Program 2024 applications close Friday 22 March 2024.
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.
Have Your Say – Inclusive and Accessible Community Social Groups
Blue Sky Community Services, the Mid North Coast NDIS Local Area Coordination Partner in the Community, is looking to enhance local, inclusive and accessible social and interest groups. We want to know what people want and where they want it!
We believe every individual deserves to be part of a vibrant and supportive community. That is why we are committed to creating opportunities for people with disabilities to connect with others who share similar interests and passions. Our goal is to enable a safe and welcoming environment where everyone can feel accepted and valued.
Whether it’s art, music, sport, or simply socialising, we want to hear from you! So if you have an idea for a social/interest group, or if you want to let us know what you would like to see in your area, check out the Accessible Groups Survey flyer to have your say!