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October 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.

OZGreen School Holiday Program

  • Wed 2 Oct - Mountain Biking, High Ropes and Water Slides Day, Grassy Head | free event | free bus (12-19 y.o.)

This Spring school holidays, join us on a fun-filled day at the Yarra Adventure Park with High Ropes, Mountain Biking and Water Slides! 

Find out more and register at www.ozgreen.org/grassyhead 

  • Tues 8 Oct - Gumbaynggirr Paddleboarding and Cultural Tour, Moonee Beach | free event (12-19 y.o.)

This Spring school holidays, join us on a free, immersive Gumbaynggirr cultural and paddleboarding tour at Moonee Beach. 

Find out more and register at www.ozgreen.org/paddleboarding 

  • Tues 9 Oct - Bird Language and Eco Craft Day, Woolgoolga | free event (12-19 y.o.)
    This Spring school holidays, join us on a free, immersive day of bird language, games and eco craft activities! 

Find out more and register at www.ozgreen.org/birdecocraft 

Suicide Prevention Training – Woolgoolga


Opening conversations around suicide is vital to increase awareness and help prevent suicide in our communities – but knowing exactly how to do that can be daunting.

Over 10 million Australian adults are estimated to know someone who has died by suicide. One in two young people are impacted by suicide by the time they turn 25 and around 8-9 lives are lost by suicide every day.

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.

When: Monday, 14 October 2024

Time: 09:00 am to 4:00 pm AEDT

Where: Wiigulga Sports Complex Solitary Islands Way Woolgoolga, NSW 2456

Read the Information flyer here.

Suicide Prevention Training – Toormina

When: Tuesday, 3rd December

Time: 9:00am-4:00pm

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


We 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. Please see the flyer for more information. 

Larry & Rod Hart – Touch Football Carnival

When: Thursday, 3rd October 2024

Time: 9am - 2:30pm

Where: Rugby Park, 600A Hogbin Drive, Toormina

Divisions:
6-11 years old
12-17 years old
Mixed Opens

For more information please contact Michael Hart on 0467 543 942 or follow the QR code on the flyer below.
Thank you for supporting this event!
Touch Football Carnival flyer.

Groove & Grub in the Garden – Youth Mental Health Day

When: 10th October 2024
Time: 10am - 2pm
Where: North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, Corner of Harbour Drive and Coffs St. Coffs Harbour

All are welcome!!
A Youth and Community event that will bring services and community together to celebrate World Mental Health Day. The event intends to show our community that we are here to care and support them through their mental health barriers. 
The day will be full of fun activities, local live music, performances as well as food and lucky door prize.

Check out this flyer for more information and transport options: Groove & Grub in the Garden

Community Consultation on the Impact of Technology on Young People

When: Monday 14th of October

Time: 10:30am

Where: @ Harry Bailey Memorial Library, Yarrila Place, 27 Gordon St, Coffs Harbour


Join us for an important discussion on the impact of technology on young people in our community.
Register using the QR Code on the flyer or email ysm@kokodayouthfoundation.com. Places are limited, registration is essential.

Be a part of shaping the future of our youth. Share your insights and help us tailor the Digital Detox Program (DDP) to meet the needs of our local community.

For more information on the DDP visit kokodayouthfoundation.com/youth-programs/digital-detox/ or access the DDP information flyer here.

Grow Your Headspace

Grow Your Headspace 🌱

When: 2nd of October

Time: 10am-1pm

Where: South Coffs Community Gardens (next to the East Boambee Community Centre)

In this school holiday workshop you get to plant your own seedlings and then take them home and watch them grow. You get a free feed too! Registration is essential and transportation is available (see rego link for details). Please see the flyer to register, or register through the link below.

https://events.humanitix.com/grow-your-headspace-spring-school-holiday-workshop

Yarning About Healthy Ageing on Gumbaynggir Country

Yarning about healthy ageing on Gumbaynggir Country

When: Wednesday 16th of October

Time: 9:30am-12pm

Where: Mission Australia Centre, 9 Duke St, Coffs Harbour

Giinagay, Health is holding a Yarning About Healthy Ageing session and would love to hear from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People who are living on Gumbaynggirr Country.

Come join them for a yarn, and bring friends and family along!

Morning tea & lunch provided 😊
See the attached flyer for info and bookings. 

Basketball Tournament – Youth Holiday Event

In conjunction with Basketball NSW, Key Community Group is opening its newly-resurfaced basketball courts with a 3x3 Basketball tournament. Unfortunately, the previous event had to be cancelled due to the weather, however, it is back on! Come compete in this fun and FREE community event (see attached flyer).
There will be a donation of $1000 to the school or community group that enters the most players into the competition. There will also be lots of great prizes for individual teams on the day.

Date: Wednesday, 9th October 2024 (during school holidays)
Time: 1pm-4pm
Venue: 61 West High Street, Coffs Harbour

Ages: 11-17 years
Cost: FREE and FREE BBQ

To register your teams or individuals (we will find them a team to play in) please complete this form:
https://form.jotform.com/241630869148059
 ENTRIES CLOSE Friday, 4th October. See attached 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 Hoey Moey for an un-official after party from 8:30pm til 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 this link: https://forms.office.com/r/wzFk3yc811

More information about this event read the Feel the Vibe Flyer

Big Banana Fun Day Out for Young Carers

Big Banana Fun Day Out 

When: 19th of October 2024

Time: 10:00am-3:00pm

Where: @ Big Banana Fun Park 351 Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour

From giant slides, tobogganing, ice skating, a water park, and more, you are invited to an ultimate day out at the Big Banna Fun Park!
A free BBQ lunch will be provided

Free for young carers & one guardian.

Register via the QR code on the flyer.

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

Bellingen Library School Holiday Activities

  • Bellingen Shire Libraries School Holiday activities
  • Bellingen Library – Wed 2 Oct – Scratch Art 10.30am – 11.30am, Wed 9 Oct – Pottery 10.30am – 11.30am
  • Urunga Library – Wed 2 Oct – Dinosaur Doings 10.30am – 11.30am, Tues 8 Oct – A little bird told me 10.30am – 11.30am
  • Dorrigo Library – Take home craft bags

For more information please see this flyer: School Holiday Activities

or

Contact your local library

Happymess School Holiday Program

Happymess is a creative hub located in the heart of Bellingen.


Founded by two clinically registered Art Therapists who believe that creativity is a vital tool for processing our experiences in the world, and essential for holistic wellbeing. The creation or appreciation of art can help people explore emotions and help improve self-acceptance, self-confidence and social skills.

School Holiday Program

OZGREEN School Holiday Program

  • Wed 2 Oct - Mountain Biking, High Ropes and Water Slides Day, Grassy Head | free event | free bus (12-19 y.o.)

This Spring school holidays, join us on a fun-filled day at the Yarra Adventure Park with High Ropes, Mountain Biking and Water Slides! 

Find out more and register at www.ozgreen.org/grassyhead 

  • Tues 8 Oct - Gumbaynggirr Paddleboarding and Cultural Tour, Moonee Beach | free event (12-19 y.o.)

This Spring school holidays, join us on a free, immersive Gumbaynggirr cultural and paddleboarding tour at Moonee Beach. 

Find out more and register at www.ozgreen.org/paddleboarding 

  • Tues 9 Oct - Bird Language and Eco Craft Day, Woolgoolga | free event (12-19 y.o.)
  • This Spring school holidays, join us on a free, immersive day of bird language, games and eco craft activities! 

Find out more and register at www.ozgreen.org/birdecocraft 

Taranta Festival

The Taranta Festival aims to celebrate Mediterranean arts and culture with a particular focus on contemporary folk music.

The festival’s objective is to diffuse Italian and Mediterranean culture and to create a platform for artists from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to collaborate.

Conferences, workshops and artistic collaborations will stimulate a trans-cultural dialogue, create a better understanding of Italian contemporary culture and establish new connections with other local migrant communities.

Read the Festival Flyer here

When: 1st - 3rd November 2024

Where: Bellingen Memorial Hall

For more information and tickets, visit: Taranta Festival 2024 – Taranta Festival

Macro Muster 7

When: Wednesday, 23rd October

Time: 4pm-7:30pm

Where: Bellingen Showground

Join us for the 7th round of our bi-annual Macro Muster on 23rd October at 4pm! Uncover a hidden aquatic world, learn to identify these incredible creatures, and contribute valuable data to support our local waterways.

We're looking for passionate participants to join us in both our ID Muster session and field collection at the river. It is the largest macroinvertebrate monitoring citizen science program of its kind in Australia. 

Twice a year, community members and scientists come together to test for waterbugs at six sites along the Bellinger and Kalang catchments. If you haven't yet made it along to a muster, it's certainly a unique experience that you wont forget! There are so many little critters that call our rivers home, and it's amazing what they can tell us.

Registrations are now open, and we are looking at a pretty bug... I mean big... turnout! Visit the link below to register.

www.ozgreen.org/macromuster

Farm Safety Day – Dorrigo


Farm Safety Day Dorrigo Plateau information flyer

When: Friday, 15 November2024

Where: Dorrigo Showgrounds

Time: 9:15am onwards.

A day to learn about many aspects of farm safety, including chainsaw use, first aid and emergencies, fires safety, chemical use and more…free sausage sizzle, tea/coffee. Interested in being part of the day? then contact Sara Hankin 82capella@gmail.com

Seniors Tech Help at the Library

 Starting September, Bellingen Shire Libraries will be holding ongoing Seniors Tech Help at your Library – drop-in sessions for Seniors (flyer attached) 

Bellingen Library – Thursdays (fortnightly) 10am-12noon 

Urunga Library – Wednesdays (fortnightly) 10am-12noon 

Dorrigo Library - Thursdays (fortnightly) 10am-12noon  

For more information and dates, please see this Tech Help Sessions 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!

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.

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, 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!

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‚Äôll 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.

Big Banana Fun Day Out for Young Carers

Big Banana Fun Day Out 

When: 19th of October 2024

Time: 10:00am-3:00pm

Where: @ Big Banana Fun Park 351 Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour

From giant slides, tobogganing, ice skating, a water park, and more, you are invited to an ultimate day out at the Big Banna Fun Park!
A free BBQ lunch will be provided

Free for young carers & one guardian.

Register via the QR code on the flyer.

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 - www.unkya.com.au

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

Valla Rod Run and Show ‘n Shine

The Drag-ens Hot Rod Club is, once again, excited to host the Rod Run, which will take place from Sunday, 29th September to Saturday, 5th October 2024.

The highlight of the week will be the Show 'n Shine, which is a static display of Hot Rods, set to take place on Saturday, 5 October in Bowra Street, Nambucca Heads.

When: Saturday 5 October 2024

Time: 10am -12pm

Where: Bowra Street Nambucca Heads

For more information about the Drag-ens Hot Rod Club and the annual Valla/Nambucca event, visit their website: Valla Next Event | Drag-ens Hot Rod Club | Members Website

Suicide Prevention Training – Macksville


Opening conversations around suicide is vital to increase awareness and help prevent
suicide in our communities – but knowing exactly how to do that can be daunting.

Over 10 million Australian adults are estimated to know someone who has died by suicide. One in two young people are impacted by suicide by the time they turn 25 and around 8-9 lives are lost by suicide every day.

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.

When: Tuesday, 29th October 2024

Time: 09am to 4pm AEDT

Where: Macksville RSL, 16 Cooper Street, Macksville, NSW 2447

Read the Information flyer here

Tuning Into Teens – Nambucca

Tuning into Teens –

A free evidence-based workshop for parents/guardians of teenagers, helping parents learn how to better communicate, understand and connect with their teen, while teaching them how to manage emotions and conflict. 

NEW DATE: Tues 24 October

Time: 9am-3pm

Where: Lifetime Connect, 157 Mann St, Nambucca Heads.

Read the updated flyer here.

Contact Denise Deboer denise.deboer@lifetimeconnect.org.au

Our Living Coast – Living Sustainably in our Region Events

Our Living Coast is your sustainable living hub for the Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca Council areas.

Here you can find out about local events and get tips to inspire you to live sustainably and enjoy a happy, healthy and meaningful life.

Everything from community movie nights to growing healthy and sustainable food!

Find out what's on in your area by visiting the Our Living Coast website.

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.

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 Paining, Petting Zoo, Arts & Crafts, Music, Food and lots more!

When: Friday 6th December

Time: 10am - 2pm

Where: Riverside Park, Kempsey

Free Inclusive Drone Mustering Workshop in Kempsey

Primary producers, agricultural high school students and farmers with mobility impairments are invited to participate in a free drone mustering workshop in Kempsey.

From monitoring livestock to scouting for wild pests and checking water sources, drones are the new farmhand you never knew you needed.

This workshop will introduce aerial stockmanship, a new and cost-effective approach to mustering and monitoring livestock. Using drones offers innovative and safe solutions, especially during challenging situations like floods and fires. It also creates opportunities for people with disabilities or mobility impairments to stay actively involved in managing their agricultural enterprises.

When: Friday 11 October

Time: 8:30am - 2pm

Where: Kempsey Showground

To register for the workshop or to find out more check out the Kempsey Shire Council website.

Kempsey Shire Council’s Community Grants Program – Open Now

Are you or someone you know involved in a local, registered not-for-profit community organisation and looking for an opportunity to apply for funding for a community project or event that benefits all residents?

Take a look at Kempsey Shire Council’s Community Grant’s Program that is open now, applications close on Wednesday 16 October 2024.

For more information including how to apply, grant guidelines and FAQ’s, visit the Kempsey Shire Council website.

TAFE NSW Aboriginal Programs – Kempsey

Keen to explore a career in the beauty or barbering industry, Tafe are proud to offer two new fee free course opportunities.

Deadly Fades is for anyone who wants to learn Barbering skills. In this course, you will develop skills and knowledge to become a qualified barber. Deadly Fades commences Friday 18th October over 6 weeks.

Tracks to beauty is for anyone who wants to learn how to do your own hair and makeup to look and feel deadly. Tracks to beauty commences Wednesday 16th October 2024 over 6 weeks.

To enrol or find out more check out the TAFE website.

2024 Glitz & Glamour Ball

Celebrate International Day of People with Disability at our Glitz & Glamour Ball with Sam Powers, Illusionist and Richie Gudgeon!

An inclusive evening out to celebrate and enjoy being with others of all abilities, offering all the fun that people with disability can often miss out on - a complimentary drink on arrival, 3 course meal, entertainment and dancing, all in a safe, accessible and inclusive environment. This is an 18+ event

When: Saturday, 12 October

Time: 05:30 pm to 11:00 pm

Where: Slim Dusty Centre, 490 Macleay Valley Way, South Kempsey

Tickets are $80 or $40 with a health care or concession card and are on sale online here on Eventbrite (note there is a small Eventbrite booking fee that gets charged on top of ticket price)

Tickets can also be purchased over the counter from Key Community Group at 14-18 Tozer Street, West Kempsey (cash only and no tax invoice able to be issued) - use this option if you wish to avoid booking fee.

Our Community Says No to Domestic Violence

16 Days of Activism – UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls – 2024.
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 more details check out the attached flyer.

Swim for FREE Day: World Swim Day

Dive into an aquatic celebration like no other! Join us on October 26th, 2024, as we make a splash on World Swim Day.

Experience the joy of swimming with a free entry swim day that's perfect for all water enthusiasts.

Whether you're a seasoned swimmer or just looking to cool off, this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy our pristine pool facilities and dive into the refreshing waters. Bring your friends, family, and swimsuits, and together let's make a wave of excitement on World Swim Day.

Don't miss this chance to swim, laugh, and create memories that will last a lifetime—all while celebrating the universal love for swimming.

When: October 26th

Where: Kempsey Pool, 71 Belgrave St, Kempsey

Anglicare North Coast’s Mobile Pantry

Anglicare North Coast’s Mobile Pantry van provides grocery and fresh food items at very low cost to help stretch your budget further. The Mobile Pantry is run in partnership with communities and visits each location on a monthly basis. Purchases can be made by cash or EFTPOS.

When: 2nd Tuesday of the month

10.00-11.00am at All Saints Anglican Church, Stuart’s Point

12.30-1.30pm at Anglican Church, 53 Straight St, Hat Head

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.

Tortuga School Holidays Circus Workshops

Learn hula hoop, juggling, plate spinning, partner acro and more with Lucy from Tortuga.

Only $10 as part of the Community Arts Support Program from Arts Mid North Coast.

For more information or to book your spot check out the Tortuga website.

When: Wednesday 9th October

Time: 9.30am- 0.30am ages 8-11, 11am- 12pm ages 12-16, 12.30pm- 1.30pm all abilities for NDIS participants age 8+ (and their parent/carers), 1.45pm- 2.45pm young adults age 16+

Where: PCYC, 12 Owen St, Port Macquarie

Our Mob Our Game – Come ‘n’ Try Basketball in Wauchope

Jump into the world of basketball, where you'll enjoy a fun day of 3x3 basketball!  From the streets to the Olympics, 3×3 basketball is the number one urban team sport that’s taking the world by storm and it’s now an official Olympic sport! Come and enjoy this fun, action packed day. Don't miss out - bring a buddy and have a blast together!

For youth aged 12 - 17 years.

When: Thursday, 3rd October

Time: 10am - 02pm

Where: Wauchope Indoor Stadium, Cameron Street, Wauchope

Register your spot on the Port Macquarie Hastings council website and grab a free t-shirt.

TAFE NSW Aboriginal Programs – Port Macquarie

Keen to explore a career in the beauty or barbering industry, Tafe are proud to offer two new fee free course opportunities.

Deadly Fades is for anyone who wants to learn Barbering skills. In this course, you will develop skills and knowledge to become a qualified barber.

Tracks to beauty is for anyone who wants to learn how to do your own hair and makeup to look and feel deadly.

Bother courses will be delivered 1 x  day a week for 7 x weeks at the Port Macquarie Campus commencing on Monday 14th October from 5:00pm - 9:00pm. 

To enrol or find out more follow the bellow weblinks to the TAFE website.

Deadly Fades PMQ 14 October 2024 Enrolment link

Beauty taster PMQ 14 October 2024 Enrolment link

The Beechwood Billycart Classic

Established in 1980, The Beechwood Billycart Classic is the biggest billy cart race on the Mid North Coast, reaching speeds of 100kph racing down Mt Pappinbarra.

It's a great fun day for the whole family with veterans and kids races, set in the relaxed village atmosphere of Beechwood.
Besides the billy cart races, there's plenty of activities from 9am, racing from 11am and live entertainment with Jess Flanagan from 1pm at the Beechwood Hotel.

For more information or to get involved check out the event on the Beechwood Hotel website.

When: Sunday 27th October

Time: starting from 9am

Where: Beechwood Hotel, 735 Beechwood Road

Neami Cup – on again in October!

The Neami Community Cup is a free community event for community services, consumers, and the public to take part in a round-robin soccer competition in support of mental health month. Come together to raise awareness for mental health with a day of soccer, some lunch, information stalls, kids' activities and much more!

DATE: Tuesday, 10th October 2023
TIME: 9am - 2pm
LOCATION: Findlay Park, Port Macquarie

To register a team or become a stall holder read the Neami Cup flyer.

Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention Full Day Workshop

Informed by the latest research in suicide prevention, Wesley LifeForce has developed a quality suite of suicide prevention training. Our suicide prevention training equips participants with the knowledge and skills to increase awareness of suicide in Australia, identify the signs that someone may be at risk of suicide and appropriate action to take. Effective interventions can make a real difference and save lives. Our programs aim at training individuals from all walks of life, as well as organisational groups. All Wesley LifeForce facilitators are accredited trainers and have completed suicide intervention training.

The outcomes

  • understand risk and protective factors
  • how to identify the warning signs that someone may be at risk of suicide
  • how to ask directly about suicide intent
  • understand what local and national support and resources are available to support a person at risk

Register your spot online here for FREE.

When: Wednesday, 23 October

Time: 9am - 4pm

Where: The Westport Club, 25 Buller St, Port Macquarie

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.

Level Up! A Journey Through Video Games Music

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with "Level Up!" - an electrifying concert celebrating the evolution of video game music.
Join the Port Macquarie Hastings Municipal Band, St Columba Anglican School Choir, Blokes Notes, Artorium Productions and Groove Collective Big Band for an evening that will thrill gamers of all ages.
From the nostalgic chiptunes of Mario Bros and Tetris to the epic scores of Halo and Civilization, this concert takes you on a journey through the iconic soundtracks that defined a generation.


Don’t miss your chance to experience video game music like never before! Immerse yourself in the incredible sounds and gameplay, showcase your best cosplay and relive classic gaming moments. Whether you’re a lifelong gamer or just a music enthusiast, this show promises high-energy, multi-sensory performances for everyone.


To purchase tickets or to find out more about this event check out the Glasshouse website.

When: Saturday, 02 November

Time: 7 - 9pm

Where: Glasshouse Theatre, Clarence St, Port Macquarie

Ticket information

Member: $30
Adult: $35
Concession: $30
Under 16: $25

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.

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NSW Drug Summit: Sector Conversation and Survey

Alcohol and other drug use has a significant intersection within child protection and requires a holistic approach. We know it’s imperative to create a support system that breaks cycles of trauma without perpetuating systemic issues. Families impacted by drug use, face complex challenges, including stigma and discrimination. That’s why we’re excited to announce our upcoming Sector Conversation with our friends from the Network of Alcohol and Other Drugs Agencies (NADA).

This insightful online event will discuss the latest updates and challenges in the intersection between child protection and alcohol and other drugs. We will also consult with you on Fams’ submission to the Summit.

When: Wednesday, 2nd October

Time: 12:30pm - 2pm

Where: Online via ZOOM
Register 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. Blue Sky Community Services is looking for people to join their new Voice of Inclusion consultation group to share their ideas and knowledge - and to shape how the project develops.

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

OR

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

Mission Australia TTW – Youth Licensing Survey

Transition to Work is currently conducting a survey for youth aged 15-24 around licensing.

Many that work in youth-related services will know there is a decline in the number of young people obtaining their licence. This in turn becomes a barrier to many other life functions – particularly employment options.

If you have youth in this age bracket, could you please assist with asking them to complete this short survey that only takes a few minutes to complete.

To access the survey follow this survey weblink, the survey will stay open until early October.

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

The PICNIC Project – Feeding Infants & Children Support

The PICNIC Project


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.

Head to Health – Connect to the right Mental Health Supports

Healthy North Coast's Head to Health is supporting our communities to connect to the right mental health advice.

Call Head to Health on 1800 595 212 where experienced staff can help connect you to the right information or mental health support that best meets your needs, including referral to telehealth and in-person services.

Head to Health is available Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm.

Inclusive Community Connections Facebook Page

Inclusive Communities Coordinators from Blue Sky Community Services have created an Inclusive Community Connections Facebook page for community members to like and follow.

The page provides information about inclusive places and events on the Mid North Coast. So why not check out the page and increase your positive community connections!

Blue Sky NDIS Support Services

Blue Sky Community Services offers NDIS Support Coordination, Plan Management and Psychosocial Recovery Coaching in the Manning-Great Lakes and Forster areas. 

As a registered NDIS provider Blue Sky delivers best practice Plan Management, Support Coordination and Psychosocial Recovery Coaching services to NDIS participants in the Manning-Great Lakes and MidCoast areas.

The services support NDIS participants through a strengths-based and person-centred approach, ensuring that participants maintain full choice and control over their plans.

For more information visit the Blue Sky NDIS Support Services pages on the Blue Sky Community Services website.

Do you have a news article to submit?

Did you know you can submit a wide range of community-related information such as grants, job listings, events and activities to Blue Sky?

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.