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November 2024

Welcome to Connections

This newsletter is for community members and services across the Mid North Coast, it’s full of useful information to keep us connected and up to date with what’s going on in our communities.

Empower your Health Forum – Coffs Older Women’s Network

Empower Your Health Forum

Coffs Harbour Older Women's Network has teamed up with Health Voyage/Coffs Harbour Women's Health to assist you on your personal-centred health care journey.

The aim of this forum is to give all of us more help, more ideas, and learnings to not only manage our everyday health but improve our health and our mental wellbeing.

When: Wednesday 13th November 2024

Time: 10am to 2pm

Where: Shoreline Luxury Retirement Living - Pavilion Room

Read the Information Flyer here.

Registrations are essential: RSVP/book by: 11/11/2024 via the Humanitix event booking site.

Adulting on the Spectrum Social Group

Are you an adult who has been recently diagnosed with autism or neurodivergence? If so, we warmly invite you to join our supportive community. Here, you'll find others who understand your unique experiences and challenges. Whether you're looking for advice, friendship or simply a place to share your story, our group is here for you. Let's connect, support each other and celebrate our neurodiversity together.

  • Meet up fortnightly
  • Make a safe and inclusive environment
  • Share tips on managing daily life
  • Create social connections

When: From Thursday 7th November 2024

Time: 10.30am - 11.30am

Where: 2D Coffeehouse, Yarilla Place ( Library), 27 Gordon Street, Coffs Harbour.

For more information and any requests, please contact;

Lynda Warwick - 0417 878 391 - lynda.warwick@ndis.gov.au or Julie Ferguson - 0421 430 175 - coffsact@gmail.com

Vicarious Trauma and Resilience Workshop

Join ThIS Training for a one day, in-person, Vicarious Trauma and Resilience Workshop in Coffs Harbour on Thursday, 12th December.  Designed for practitioners, managers and organisations, this training will help in understanding the impacts for people working with those who have experienced significant trauma, and for practitioners who are faced with traumatic materials in the course of their work.  The training will also cover organisational responsibilities protecting staff relative to psychosocial hazards workplace changes.  Ideal for those who work in health, housing, foster care, education and community services, participants will learn about the factors that cause vicarious trauma, and that enable vicarious resilience.  

To register, visit the Humanitix booking site.

Read the Information flyer here.

Aspect – Virtual Playgroups & Sensory Story Time

Upcoming sessions for Term 4 for Aspect Building Tots (Online) Sensory Story Time and Virtual Playgroups for families living in Coffs Harbour and surrounds.

The weekly Online Story Time sessions are facilitated by an Early Childhood Educator and are open to attendance for children aged 0-3years not yet attending early childhood education and care settings (e.g. childcare) and their families.

The weekly Online Playgroup sessions are facilitated by an Occupational Therapist and are open to attendance for children aged 0-3years not yet attending early childhood education and care settings (e.g. childcare) and their families.

Families can attend either one or both of these groups weekly, or as they’re able to make it.

Sessions for playgroup commence Wednesday 23rd and Thursday 24th October, and run through until 21st November, 9:30-10:30am.

Sessions for sensory story time commence Monday 28th October and run through until Monday 16th December, 2-2:30pm.

Attendance is FREE (fully funded by the Department of Education).

Families can register for either of the ongoing programs by filling out and submitting the

Link: Building Tots Intake Form

Playgroup Email: mboyd@aspect.org.au

Sensory Story Time Email: kosborne@aspect.org.au

Virtual Sensory Story Time Flyer

Virtual Playgroup Flyer

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence 2024

Community Service Workers Forum.

To mark the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence in 2024, a full-day educational forum will be offered to community service workers on the Mid North Coast. This year, the sector training activity will run face to face! The professional development activity will focus on domestic and family violence prevention and how we can keep children and their families safe. The forum will feature presentations by Ashlee Donohue, Dr Michael Flood, Sarah Dahlenburg from The Mid North Coast Legal Centre, Michelle Stocks from Kirinari, and break-out workshops by the local DFV Specialist Services.

For further information, please access the booking link or contact Tivoli Dovers or Oonagh Connor at (02) 6651 1788 or sdo@@bluesky.org.au

When: 27th November 2024

Time: 9am - 4pm

Where: C.ex Club Coffs Harbour.

Check out the Blue Sky Community Services website for more information on the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence schedule of events: 16 Days of Activism 2024 - Blue Sky Community Services

Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention Training – Toormina

When: Tuesday, 3rd December 2024

Time: 9am - 4pm

Where: The Link, 631 Hogbin Drive, Toormina, NSW 2452


Wesley deliver a robust and evidence-based program which focuses upon educating people about suicide, challenging attitudes, and teaching basic engagement and suicide intervention skills. 

Participants will have increased confidence in their ability to identify people who may be at risk of suicide, communicate appropriately with a suicidal person, ask a person if they are considering suicide and conduct a suicide intervention.

Lunch will be provided on the day.

Please see the training flyer for more information. 

Feel the Vibe – Lifting the Lid on Sexuality and Disability

Experience a night like no other at Feel the Vibe, where we will be lifting the lid on sexuality and disability. Join us for an unforgettable evening. 

When: Thursday, 7th November 2024

Time:  4pm - 8:30pm 

Where: C.ex Coffs, 2-6 Vernon St, Coffs Harbour

A range of industry experts will be there to answer all your questions about sexuality, sexual health, and sexual fulfilment. We'll also be spicing things up with entertainment, interactive activities, and exhibitor stalls showcasing adult products. 

This is a welcoming and inclusive expo for adults with disability, their support networks, and disability professionals. It's a chance to connect, learn, and have fun together. And the party doesn't stop there.  After the expo, we'll be heading over to the Hoey Moey for an unofficial after party from 8:30pm until late. It's the perfect opportunity to continue the conversation and connect with other attendees from Feel the Vibe. 

So, mark your calendars and get ready to Feel the Vibe. This is an evening you won't want to miss. See you there!

PLEASE NOTE: This is an 18+ event. Adults only. 

You can register for the evening via the Feel the Vibe Registration Form

For more information about this event read the Feel the Vibe Flyer

Harbourside Markets – Jetty Foreshores – December 2024

The Harbourside Markets are held at the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshores every Sunday between 8am and 2pm.

To learn more about what's happening this month, please visit the website: Harbourside Markets - A Boutique Sunday Market In Coffs Harbour.

Whats coming up at the markets:

DECEMBER

1st - Tennyson King

https://tennysonking.com

8th - Mal Eastick & Andrew Hegedus

https://mal-eastick.com/

15th - Saije

https://www.saijemusic.com

22nd - SPECIAL EVENT

Santa's Christmas Parade & The Big Big Boogie & Brass Bands

https://harboursidemarkets.com.au/events/santas-christmas-parade-at-harbourside-markets/

29th - Icebreakers

https://www.facebook.com/GeoffLittlemoreAndTheIcebreakers

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

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.

Bellingen Shire Town Signage Design – Expressions of Interest

Expressions of interest are being sought for Gumbaynggirr artists, designers or art collectives to design new town entry statement signage for the Bellingen Shire. The town entry sign designs will be informed by Bellingen Shire Council signage and branding strategies to ensure they reflect the extensive feedback from the community and align with our destination branding.

The deadline is 11.59pm on Friday, 8th November 2024

Visit the Bellingen Shire Council webpage:  Expression of Interest - Gumbaynggirr art commission to learn more.

Peter and the Wolf: Orchestral Magic for Young Hearts

Come join us on a FREE musical journey at this family-friendly event from Bellingen Youth Orchestra (BYO)!

When: Sunday, 10th November 2024

Time: 2 matinee performances at 1pm and 3.30pm

Where: Bellingen Memorial Hall Bellingen NSW

Book on the Humanitix Peter and the Wolf event booking page.

Peter and the Wolf by Sergei Prokofiev – Participate in a timeless tale of Peter and his animal friends, brought to life through interactive narration to spark children’s imaginations!

🎷 Featuring the BYO  –  including showcasing the talents of our youngest and newest musicians, proving that music truly is for everyone.
🎵 Engaging and Interactive – perfect for families and young children new to classical music, with a repertoire designed to inspire creativity and excitement.

✨ Two matinee concerts will be held, creating an intimate setting for young audiences to connect with the orchestra and experience the magical world of classical music.

With thanks to the Bellingen Shire Council! 

Farm Safety Day in Dorrigo

When: Friday, 15th November 2024

Where: Dorrigo Showgrounds

Time: 9:15am onwards.

Chainsaw use, first aid and emergencies, fires safety, chemical use and more…free sausage sizzle, tea/coffee. Interested in being part of the day? Contact Sara Hankin: 82capella@gmail.com 

For further information please see the Farm Safety Day Flyer

Ian J. Cooper Awards for Access and Inclusion 2024 – Nominations now open

Nominations are NOW OPEN for the Ian J. Cooper Awards for Access and Inclusion 2024.

Held every two years, these awards are the opportunity to acknowledge local individuals, businesses, organisations, and services that are working towards making Bellingen Shire more accessible and inclusive for people of all abilities.

Nominations close: Monday, 11th November 2024.

For more information on the awards and how to nominate please see this Information Flyer.

What’s on at the Bellingen Memorial Hall

Keep up to date with what is coming up at the newly refurbished Bellingen Memorial Hall by visiting their website: Bellingen Memorial Hall

The Bellingen Memorial Hall holds everything from films, to live music, workshops, to dance and martial arts classes!

Volunteers Needed: Original Nations & Peoples InterNational Earth Summit 2024

Event Overview: Continuing 25 years of Stories and Songs of the People, we invite all friends, allies, and relatives to gather on Gumbaynggirr Country over the summer solstice. This event will feature intercultural and interfaith sharing of cultural knowledge through storytelling, song, dance, art, film, and talking circles. By working together, we can find new possibilities for responding to the profound challenges facing our collective Nations and future generations.

More information and tickets are available at: www.storiesandsongs.org

Volunteer Details:

  • Dates: 7 - 21 December, registrations now open
  • Location: Budaabang Gumbaynggirr Waajar - Bellingen Showground
  • Hosted by: The Gumbaynggirr Peoples
  • Artwork: Connection to Country by Gumbaynggirr artist Brentyn Lugnan

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.

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.

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.

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 on Hickory Street, Dorrigo.

Local organic fruit and veg, recycled and upcycled 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!

Bowraville Youth Hub – Girls & Boys Groups

Bowraville Youth Hub has some fantastic groups running! Everything from playgroups for toddlers to teens groups. Check out what they have to offer by visiting their Facebook page: JBBowraville Facebook page

Girls Group - Bowraville Youth Hub - Every Monday afternoon from 3:30 - 4:30pm @ Bowraville Youth Hub
Come along and partake in fun and engaging activities. Free snacks and cooked dinner are provided. Open to school-age students within the Nambucca Valley LGA. See Girls group flyer for further details. 

Boys Group - Bowraville Youth Hub - Every Wednesday afternoon from 3:30pm - 5:00pm @ Bowraville Central School 
Come along and partake in indoor & outdoor activities, music and DJ workshops, fitness programs plus plenty more. Free snacks and cooked dinner are provided. Open to school-age students within the Nambucca Valley LGA. See Boys group flyer for further details. 

Arts Mid North Coast – Activities in the Nambucca Valley

Are you looking to find some connections to art in the Valley? Some theatre, workshops or some fun activities over the school holidays? Arts Mid North Coast website is a great place to find what you are looking for!

Visit the website below to see what is coming up this month in the Nambucca Valley.

Events in Nambucca | Arts Mid North Coast

Volunteers Needed – OzGreen @ the Open Streets Festival

Help reduce waste at Nambucca Valley Open Streets Festival!

Rethink waste is a waste education community project that partners with major events to reduce waste and raise awareness. Our volunteers help direct event patrons to sort their waste at the event, redirecting waste away from landfill, and inspiring their community to change their habits. We’re looking for volunteers to assist at the Festival from 2.30pm-8.30pm. Volunteers work at our bin stations assisting people with sorting waste and providing information about waste. We have a number of bin stations to monitor.

For 12-19-year-olds only, please visit the link below for registration. 
Rethink Waste at Nambucca Valley Open Streets Festival — OzGreen

When: Saturday 23rd of November 2024

Time: 2:30pm-8:30 pm

Where: @ Macksville for Open Streets Festival

Funkya at Unkya Community Market

Funkya at Unkya is a grassroots bi-monthly community market for ‘make it, bake it, sew it, grow it’ producers and creatives as well as the environmentally sustainable concept to reuse, recycle and re-invent.

The market is held at Unkya Reserve, Eungai Creek on the last Sunday of February, April, June, August and October and on the second Sunday in December for the Christmas market. Live music by local musicians headlines every market.

The market is open between 8am and 1pm.

Visit the website for more information: Funkya at Unkya Markets - Eungai NSW

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.

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.

Community Hub Day in Kempsey

Hosted by Service NSW, Community Hub Days are an opportunity for communities to come together and learn about the various support services available across Service NSW and other NGO agencies. Durri will also be providing a free BBQ!

Time: 10am - 3pm
When: Wednesday, 13th November 2024
Location: 15-19 York Lane, Kempsey, NSW, 2440 (Durri AMS)

Community Hub Day Information Flyer

Our Community Says No to Domestic Violence

Our Community Says No to Domestic Violence
16 Days of Activism – UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls.
Kempsey Domestic Violence Monitoring Committee invites you to a riverside vigil where we will place flowers on the water, to gently float down the beautiful Macleay River in recognising the losses that have been experienced from domestic violence

When: Monday, 25th November 2024
Time: 1pm
Where: Kempsey Riverside Park
For further information: 65631588 
Riverside vigil flyer

Managing the Bully Program for Females aged 12-16

Headspace brings a 6-week group program to Kempsey for teens to gain skills and resilience.

When: 6th November 2024 – 11th December 2024 (every Wednesday for 6 weeks).

Time: 4pm-5.30pm

Where: Kempsey headspace, 65 Smith Street, Kempsey

Managing the Bully flyer for teens and parents.

Big Day Out in Kempsey

Celebrating International Day of People With Disability.
FREE EVENT where everyone is welcome and there is something for everyone!
Disability support stalls, silent disco, jumping castle, face painting, petting zoo, arts & crafts, music, food and lots more!

When: Friday, 6th December 2024

Time: 10am - 2pm

Where: Riverside Park, Kempsey

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.

Cuppa with Colour Social Group – Kempsey

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 read the Cuppa with Colour 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.

Parenting Programs through Uniting – Term 4

Uniting are offering a number of fantastic parenting programs in Port Macquarie in Term 4. Please see the flyer for information on what programs are available: Parenting Strategies & Programs Flyer

The RAGE program is designed for young people of high school age, who have difficulty controlling their emotions. The next program starts from Wednesday 13th November 2024 for 4 weeks. Parents/carers must attend a parent/carer info session prior to young people commencing the RAGE program.

RAGE information flyer

Parent/Carer Session

When: Wednesday, 6th November 2024

Time: 5.30pm - 7.30pm

Where: Uniting Office, 7 Sherwood Road, Port Macquarie

Cuppa with Colour Social Group

It’s time to get creative with the Cuppa and Colour social group.

We get together fortnightly to:

  • create art through colouring and other art forms.
  • build friendships and support each other.
  • And get to know our local community.

Participation in creative activities is optional, come along for a coffee and great conversation.

When: Wednesday, 21st August

Time: from 10am

Where: Maisie's Cafe, located opposite to the library on Grant St in Port Macquarie.

Cost: FREE

Ramp access is by the main entrance to the Macquarie Business Park building.

For more information take a look at the latest Cuppa with Colour 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.

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.

Position Vacant – Sector Support and Development Officer

Blue Sky Community Services is currently recruiting for the following vacant position:

  • Sector Support and Development Officer, part-time 20 hours per week based at our Ballina office, and also working partly from home.

You can find information about this position via our website on the Blue Sky Careers page.

If you would like to apply, you must send your resume and the completed application form to recruitment@bluesky.org.au by the closing date of midday Monday, 11th November 2024.

Position Vacant – First Nations Local Area Coordinator

Blue Sky Community Services is currently recruiting for the following vacant position:

  • First Nations Local Area Coordinator, part-time 30 hours per week based at our Kempsey office. Working partly from home will also be considered.
  • This is an identified position under S126 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. This vacancy is open to, and applications will only be accepted from, people who identify as Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

You can find information about this position via our website on the Blue Sky Careers page.

Psychosocial Support Program for Youth Mid North Coast

Mission Australia has announced that the Psychosocial Support Program for Youth is officially open in Port Macquarie, Nambucca Heads, Coffs Harbour and surrounding suburbs.

 The following services are able to refer, so please get in contact if you have a relevant referral.

  • Healthy Hub Connect – Each Youth Enhanced Service
  • Local Health District
  • Medicare Mental Health Centre
  • Headspace
  • Schools
  • Referral Process:
  • All referrals are sent to our intake and admin assistant who checks eligibility and correct consents have been signed. Please note we need client consent to continue with the referral.
  • The referral is then tabled at weekly intake meetings where program suitability is determined. If suitable the young person will be allocated to a Youth Wellbeing Coordinator
  • The Youth Wellbeing Coordinator will then make contact with the referrer and young person.

We look forward to working with you all and assisting your young people through their wellbeing journey.

For more information visit the Mission Australia Psychosocial Support Program webpage.

The PICNIC Project – Feeding Infants & Children Support

The PICNIC Project helps guide parents and carers through the unpredictable and often stressful journey of feeding infants and children. We help parents understand children’s normal, erratic ‘learning to eat’ process, and provide supportive feeding tools. This helps families avoid food battles, work with children’s ‘fussiness’ and positively influence their eating patterns throughout life.

Find out more and how to join by visiting the PICNIC Project website.
For PICNIC support playgroups click here.

Voice of Inclusion Consultation Group – seeking new members

Are you someone who lives with a disability or cares for someone who does? Do you want to help improve our communities' level of inclusion? Blue Sky Community Services is working towards developing a new project that focuses on creating more inclusive and accessible events, experiences and communities. We are looking for people to join our new Voice of Inclusion consultation group to share ideas and knowledge - and to shape how the project develops.

Voice of Inclusion Group expressions of interest can be lodged via this short online Voice of Inclusion EOI form

or by contacting Inclusive Communities Coordinator, Lynda Warwick, on 0417 878 391 or by email: lynda.warwick@ndis.gov.au

Go4Fun Free Program For Kids!

The Go4Fun program involves free fun and fitness for NSW children aged between 7 and 13 years who are above a healthy weight. Go4Fun is a fun way to learn more about healthier living. The program focuses on making lifestyle changes as a family, encourages healthy eating habits and fitness and improves self-esteem in kids. Best of all, it’s completely free.

Go4Fun takes place during school terms, usually after school, with sessions being run once a week for two hours. Sessions are run by qualified health professionals, including dietitians and exercise physiologists.

So why not join Go4Fun in term 4! For more information and to register head to the Go4Fun website.

5 Ss Housing Assistance Flowchart Resource for Community Service Workers

Local housing support workers and the Child and Family Interagency groups across the Mid North Coast, recently formed working groups to create localised resources. These flowcharts help guide community service workers and volunteers through the process required to support families experiencing homelessness or who are at risk of becoming homeless.

The flowcharts break the process into five steps - Safety and Services, Shelter, Situation, Support and Self-Care (5 Ss). Local support services are highlighted throughout.

There is a version available for each of the following regions: Coffs Harbour, Nambucca Valley, Bellingen, Kempsey, Port Macquarie Hastings and Mid Coast (Taree/Forster/Gloucester).

The resources are beneficial for workers in organisations where housing support is not their core business, however, they support customers who may also be experiencing challenges with securing or maintaining housing. This assists the worker to maintain a holistic and supportive approach to families and foster relationships and trust. 

Head to the Blue Sky Community Services website to learn more about the 5 Ss and to download the latest versions for each region.

Concessions, Rebates and Assistance – Service NSW

Support is available across a wide range of household bills and activities. Find out what you could be eligible for! It could be a Companion Card, assistance with cost of living or simply how to navigate services.

Visit the Service NSW 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.

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 – Empowering people with disability in hospital

The new year is the perfect time to be empowered and get organised! The Hospital Care Resources support people with disability or unique needs to share important information about themselves with health staff supporting them in hospital. The resources assist patients and Health staff to collaborate in a more positive way to better meet the needs of the patient. 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. For more information about the resources, and to download and complete yours now, go to the click Enhancing Inclusion in the Health System page on the Blue Sky Community Services website.

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.

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We will publish it on your behalf and you will reach a large audience with thousands of people viewing our website and reading our newsletters monthly.