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
Building Big Imaginations with Duplo – Free Activity for Kids!
Is your child a budding builder who loves to create with blocks?
Come along for Duplo at the Woolgoolga and Toormina libraries every Wednesday from 10am to 12pm!
The children’s area provides the perfect space for your little ones to unleash their imaginations and explore, learn and play with Duplo.
For more information head to the Coffs Harbour Libraries website.
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.
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.
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.
‘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.
A Great Morning Out at the Dorrigo Community Markets
The Dorrigo Community Markets are a great morning out and an awesome way to support the local community.
The markets are held from 8am to 12pm on the first Saturday of the month in Hickory Street, Dorrigo.
Local organic fruit and veg, re-cycled and up-cycled goods, clothes, and bric-a-brac, as well as support to community organisations for their fundraising activities in support of local projects.
Many other unique stalls which vary monthly/seasonally. So come and check out some fair dinkum country hospitality in the beautiful village of Dorrigo!
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.
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.
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.
Storytime for Kids at Kempsey Library
Storytime sessions are held in the Koala Cottage at Kempsey Library. The sessions include book readings, craft and often a musical activity. The sessions are designed for children aged from 3 to 6 years of age, and aim to develop early literacy skills in a fun and social environment. No bookings are required.
Storytime sessions are held fortnightly on a Friday from 10.30am to 11am.
For upcoming dates and times go to the Kempsey Library 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.
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.
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.
Soldier On Coffee Catch-up
.Join Soldier On at The Hill Cafe for a chat and catch-up with other current and ex-serving Defence personnel and their family members. Children are also welcome and we look forward to seeing you on the day. No need to RSVP. Parents/guardians must provide supervision of all children and young people.
WHEN: Wednesdays each week
TIME: 9.30am – 11am
WHERE: The Hill Cafe, 5 Chancellors DriveThrumster
For more information click HERE.
Cuppa with Colour Social Group – Port Macquarie
Come and join in the quiet, inner happy revolution at our regular catch-up: Colouring in for Grown-ups!
Meet new friends, enjoy a beverage, let your mind go free and create a beautiful piece of art.
Not keen on colouring & paper crafts? No problem, come along for a coffee and a chat.
All materials are provided at no cost. However, feel free to bring your own as well.
All are welcome, and it’s free!
For more information check out the Cuppa with Colour flyer.
Baby Bounce for the Little Ones at Port-Hastings Library
Join Baby Bounce at your local library for fun songs, rhymes, finger play, and music. For infants from birth to 1 year.
Baby Bounce events happen regularly at Wauchope Library, Laurieton Library, and Port Macquarie Library.
For upcoming dates and times go to the Mid North Coast Library Service website.
Storytime for Kids at your local Port-Hastings 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 Wauchope Library, Laurieton Library, and Port Macquarie Library.
For upcoming dates and times go to the Mid North Coast Library Service website.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
A Great Disability Etiquette Starting Guide!
Disability: IN have released a great Disability Etiquette Starting Guide . . . check it out here!
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.
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.
Building Big Imaginations with Duplo – Free Activity for Kids!
Is your child a budding builder who loves to create with blocks?
Come along for Duplo at the Woolgoolga and Toormina libraries every Wednesday from 10am to 12pm!
The children’s area provides the perfect space for your little ones to unleash their imaginations and explore, learn and play with Duplo.
For more information head to the Coffs Harbour Libraries website.
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.
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.
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.
‘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.
A Great Morning Out at the Dorrigo Community Markets
The Dorrigo Community Markets are a great morning out and an awesome way to support the local community.
The markets are held from 8am to 12pm on the first Saturday of the month in Hickory Street, Dorrigo.
Local organic fruit and veg, re-cycled and up-cycled goods, clothes, and bric-a-brac, as well as support to community organisations for their fundraising activities in support of local projects.
Many other unique stalls which vary monthly/seasonally. So come and check out some fair dinkum country hospitality in the beautiful village of Dorrigo!
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.
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.
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.
Storytime for Kids at Kempsey Library
Storytime sessions are held in the Koala Cottage at Kempsey Library. The sessions include book readings, craft and often a musical activity. The sessions are designed for children aged from 3 to 6 years of age, and aim to develop early literacy skills in a fun and social environment. No bookings are required.
Storytime sessions are held fortnightly on a Friday from 10.30am to 11am.
For upcoming dates and times go to the Kempsey Library 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.
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.
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.
Soldier On Coffee Catch-up
.Join Soldier On at The Hill Cafe for a chat and catch-up with other current and ex-serving Defence personnel and their family members. Children are also welcome and we look forward to seeing you on the day. No need to RSVP. Parents/guardians must provide supervision of all children and young people.
WHEN: Wednesdays each week
TIME: 9.30am – 11am
WHERE: The Hill Cafe, 5 Chancellors DriveThrumster
For more information click HERE.
Cuppa with Colour Social Group – Port Macquarie
Come and join in the quiet, inner happy revolution at our regular catch-up: Colouring in for Grown-ups!
Meet new friends, enjoy a beverage, let your mind go free and create a beautiful piece of art.
Not keen on colouring & paper crafts? No problem, come along for a coffee and a chat.
All materials are provided at no cost. However, feel free to bring your own as well.
All are welcome, and it’s free!
For more information check out the Cuppa with Colour flyer.
Baby Bounce for the Little Ones at Port-Hastings Library
Join Baby Bounce at your local library for fun songs, rhymes, finger play, and music. For infants from birth to 1 year.
Baby Bounce events happen regularly at Wauchope Library, Laurieton Library, and Port Macquarie Library.
For upcoming dates and times go to the Mid North Coast Library Service website.
Storytime for Kids at your local Port-Hastings 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 Wauchope Library, Laurieton Library, and Port Macquarie Library.
For upcoming dates and times go to the Mid North Coast Library Service website.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
A Great Disability Etiquette Starting Guide!
Disability: IN have released a great Disability Etiquette Starting Guide . . . check it out here!
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.