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.
Embrace Kids, A Powerful & Uplifting Film – Book Now!
Embrace Kids is a powerful, uplifting film that tackles some of the biggest issues facing young people today, from body image and bullying to gender identity and more. With the help of famous friends like Celeste Barber, the film encourages young people to figure out what makes them unique and use that to spark change. Recommended for kids aged 9-14 (but grown-ups can watch too!).
The film is screening at 4:30pm on Sunday, 6th November 2022 at BCC Cinemas, Coffs Harbour.
This event will host two special guest speakers for a Q&A session after the film. Questions will be answered by Dr. Zali Yager a body image and wellbeing expert, researcher, and co-author of Embrace Kids + Coffs Harbour local child psychologist Amy Sketcher from Seasons Allied Health.
Filled with fun and joy, EMBRACE KIDS is an energetic mix of animation, live-action, interviews, music and more. The film explores the relationship children have with their bodies and covers topics including social media, disability, gender identity, representation and diversity.
For ticket sales click HERE.
To check out the film trailer click HERE.
Surfing Day for People with Disability – Jetty Beach Coffs Harbour
We’re getting back on board – surfboards that is! Disability Surfers Australia is running a free assisted surfing event for people with disability, happening 8.15am – 12.30pm Saturday 29th October 2022 at Jetty Beach Coffs Harbour. We can’t wait to kick off this season, and all past, present and future participants, carers and volunteers are welcome!
Pre-registration is essential, as we have everyone’s health and safety as our top priority. All participants, carers and volunteers (yes even the committee/organisers) will need to pre-register, not just turn up on the day. We understand this can be tricky to navigate and even plan ahead sometimes, but we’re trying to streamline the sign-in process to ensure everyone is looked after and things run smoothly.
Sign in from 8:15am, followed by event debrief and hit the water at 9am. Sausage sizzle lunch at 12ish.
Find out more about this free event and register HERE.
The Buttery’s ‘Footprints 2 Wellbeing’ Program
The Buttery’s ‘Footprints 2 Wellbeing’ program is now available at the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre.
The program outreaches at the centre Thursdays 2pm – 4pm and provides psychosocial support to people over 16 years of age who are concerned about their mental health.
No appointment is necessary, just pop in. Find the centre’s location and contact details HERE.
Ignite MNC – Happening in Woolgoolga November 2022
Ignite MNC is a business conference with a twist. This year’s theme will be a carnival – be prepared to be stretched! Now in its fifth year Ignite MNC will run in beautiful Woolgoolga on 2 November 2022.
The Ignite MNC Symposium is a business and community event designed to bring together people who work, run businesses and live on the Mid North Coast. The event is designed to inspire new thinking, and vibrant conversations and to form collaborative partnerships. Participants will learn from the panels, meet a range of people and organisations who can support your business (or community initiative) to grow and thrive, as well as the opportunity to network with a broad range of people from across the region. AND… in true IGNITE MNC style, you can expect to be challenged, inspired and resourced.
There will be discussion panels on our theme topics of Circular Economy, housing and workforce, regional insights with the launch of the Mid North Coast regional plan, and lots of time to connect and meet each other, including at our signature lunch in the main street.
To find out more about the program or speakers, or to secure tickets click HERE.
Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre – so much to offer!
Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre has so much to offer to the community!
Check out their website to find out all the ways they may be able to assist you by clicking HERE.
Ball against Domestic Violence 3×3 Basketball Charity Event – Coffs Harbour
The Coffs Harbour community brings the 2022 BALL AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 3×3 Tournament!
All proceeds will go to Wesley Mission. Wesley Mission supports children, families, or the elderly who struggle with homelessness, addiction, mental health, or financial or domestic challenges.
Camp Creative – Bellingen, 2023
Camp Creative is happening in Bellingen from Monday 9th to Saturday 14th January 2023!
Camp Creative is a unique summer school, retreat and creative community that annually springs up for one vibrant week in January. People of all ages and backgrounds are welcome to this joyful hive of productivity, experimentation and learning. Whether you’re a novice, hobbyist or master artist, Camp Creative is an opportunity for a surge of creative energy and inspiration for your new year. It’s a week of over 80 workshops in art, music, dance, craft, singing, photography, writing, drama, lifestyle & wellbeing. There’s a range of courses for kids, teens and adults.
There are also live performances, a street party and an open mic night. Join a course of your choice over five days – paint on canvas, get drumming, watch your kids discover their inner actor, release your singing voice, write your life story, dance the streets in a flash mob, photograph people and events at the moment or get hands-on with a hammer and chisel. Plus so much more!
To find out more check out the website HERE.
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 website to find out all the ways they might assist you by clicking HERE.
Bellingen Growers Market
The Bellingen Growers Market is held at the Bellingen Showground on the 2nd and 4th 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 click HERE.
Free Counselling in the Bellingen Shire
Free counselling is available to residents of the Bellingen Shire. The counselling sessions are available by appointment at all three Neighbourhood Centres – Bellingen, Urunga and Dorrigo.
For more information and to book an appointment click HERE.
Macksville Music Muster
Macksville Music Muster HAS BEEN POSTPONED and will now run from 16th – 13th March 2023 at the Macksville Showground.
A country music muster full of pure classic country artists and entertainment, and community connection.
For more information and to secure tickets, 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 their website HERE.
Check Out What’s Happening at Nambucca Library
There’s more than you think on offer at your local library!
Check out what’s coming up by clicking HERE.
Kempsey Neighbourhood Centre – so much to offer!
The Kempsey Neighbourhood Centre has so much to offer to the community!
Check out their website to find out all the ways they might assist you by clicking HERE.
Kempsey Uniting – Women Can Kids Can
Women Can and Kids Can are evidence-based group programs designed to safeguard against family and domestic violence. The programs run for two hours, one day a week for 8 weeks.
Women Can is a psycho-educational group program for women who are parents/primary carers of children who have been exposed to family and domestic violence. The purpose of the group is to provide a safe place for women with peers who have a similar experience, to better understand the nature, dynamics and impacts of domestic violence on children and families. It is designed to run parallel with the Kids Can group program for children aged 8–12 years who have been exposed to domestic and family violence. The Women Can program equips mothers with knowledge and skills to support their children in dealing with the impacts of family and domestic violence and respond in ways that support their children’s self-esteem, development and safety and support healthy family functioning.
Kids Can is a therapeutic group program for children who have been exposed to family and domestic violence. The purpose of this program is to provide a safe place for the children with peers who have similar experiences, to clarify and understand the thoughts and feelings which arise from exposure to domestic violence, and to equip them with some age-appropriate strategies to deal with these.
We are also facilitating Parenting After Domestic Violence, a program to support parents and caregivers to establish healing relationships with their children, so that the negative effects of violence can be improved, and children can be provided with a safe, nurturing environment for healing, growth and development.
This program runs for an additional 4 weeks, (2 hours, one day a week) usually after the completion of the Women Can and Kids Can programs.
Driving Change Program – Kempsey
Mentors Required
The Driving Change Program is looking for people interested in assisting learners to accumulate their log book hours in a car provided by us. This is a good opportunity to give back to your community and to assist young people to get safely on the road. If you (or someone you know) are interested or would like more information, please ring the Driving Change project workers:
Krystal Smith: 0427 047 413
Shirley Kent: 0458 695 167
View the flyer HERE.
Check out what’s happening at Kempsey Library
There’s so much happening at Kempsey Library!
For more information click HERE.
Exciting New Courses at Mid North Coast Community College
There are many exciting and fun courses starting at Mid North Coast Community College in November!
What a Wonderful World – Computer Research Skills: Brush up on your computer skills with this fun research project that will take you places you may never have been! We will travel the globe and visit a different country each week. Your challenge is to complete a quiz about each country using your research skills. In week 6 we will share our travels with Family, Friends and Carers in our final day presentation.
What a Wonderful World – Crafternoon Tea: Uncover your creativity and work on your concentration skills at the same time! Work together as a team to make useful and beautiful arty crafty things that reflect the culture of the countries we visited in the morning session. This will include lots of goodies for Christmas. We will cook up a storm with craft in the kitchen to provide a beautiful afternoon tea for our presentation.
Around the World – Virtual Reality: Have you always wanted to climb Mount Everest or swim with dolphins in tropical waters? Do you wish you could go on Safari in Africa or visit outer space? Well now you can go ‘Around the world in 80 minutes with a different virtual destination each week, you might even get to ride the best rollercoasters in the world if you are game!
Around the World – Travel Bloggers: Following on from your morning adventures, each week you will report on your virtual travels. This will include interviewing each other for a final week’s video presentation and Green Screen photo putting you right in the picture and on location.
For more information and starting dates for these courses check out the flyers below.
Free 10 Minute Health Checks for Men – Port Macquarie
The Men’s Health Education Rural Van is coming to Port Macquarie on the 11th & 12th of November. They are offering free 10-minute health checks, so don’t miss this great opportunity to take care of yourself! Check out the flyer for further information.
Sacred Girl Program – Port Macquarie
Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre is hosting a brand new program for young girls and women – ‘Sacred Girl’
Sacred Girl is an immersive 10-week program with a holistic approach to introducing daily ritual, self-reliance, expression and resilience in young girls and women. There is no cost to attend.
The first group, currently running, is for 12-14-year-olds, however, the intention is to expand to other age groups.
If you know someone who would like to be a part of this beautiful program please touch base with us. Spaces are limited, however we do have a waitlist, so please reach out.
Find our contact details HERE.
Neighbourhood Centres of Port Macquarie, Wauchope & Lake Cathie – so much to offer!
The Neighbourhood Centres of the Hastings Neighbourhood Services have so much to offer community members in Port Macquarie, Wauchope and Lake Cathie!
Check out their website to find out all the ways they might assist you by clicking HERE.
Hastings Community Support Booklet
The Hastings Community Support Booklet is available to assist people living in the Port Macquarie and surrounding area to locate services and supports they may need.
Check out the booklet HERE.
Free Boxing Fitness Classes
For children 8-12 years and young people 13-18 years of age.
Where: Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre
When: Tuesday afternoons during the school term
Kids 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Teens 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Ph: (02) 6583 8044
See the flyer HERE.
What’s Happening at headspace Port Macquarie
Stay in the know with what’s happening at headspace Port Macquarie!
For more information click HERE.
What’s On At The Library – Port-Hastings branches
Port Macquarie Hastings Council has public libraries in Port Macquarie, Kempsey, Laurieton, Wauchope, South West Rocks and Stuarts Point.
To see what’s on at your local library click HERE.
Ethical Jobs: Find a job you can be truly passionate about
Looking for a job? Find an ethical job that contributes for a more equitable, more just or more sustainable world.
For more information click HERE.
My Home, My Way
Introducing the new My Home, My Way Website!
Resourcing Inclusive Communities as part of The National Alliance of Capacity Building Organisations (NACBO*) is excited to announce the launch of the new My Home, My Way website. My Home, My Way provides a range of resources, written or produced by people with a disability and their supporters, from all over Australia. There are even some resources from overseas! These resources are from change-makers – people who have challenged the idea that the only option for people with developmental disabilities, once they leave their family home, is to live in a group home.
Through stories, videos, podcasts and other information, you will discover how people, no matter what their needs, are living in their own homes and enjoying rich and meaningful lives as part of their local neighbourhoods!
The My Home, My Way website has a wealth of information to assist in thinking about the first steps, different options, support, community and thriving in one’s own home.
Visit the website now! Click HERE.
Blue Sky NDIS Support Services
Blue Sky Community Services offers NDIS Support Coordination and Plan Management in the Manning-Great Lakes and Forster areas.
Blue Sky Community Services has expanded its services, and as a registered NDIS provider is now delivering best practice Plan Management and Support Coordination (including Psychosocial Recovery Coach) services to NDIS participants in the Manning-Great Lakes and Forsterareas.
Blue Sky has been delivering community services across the region since the early 1970s and has a wealth of experience and expertise in facilitating innovative connections to services and to the community for people living with disability.
Blue Sky has a team of passionate, skilled and dedicated staff, who have supported many participants and members of the community to achieve amazing outcomes and achievements, through inclusive, strength-based practices and a values-based culture.
These new NDIS support services complement the organisation’s vision of supporting people to thrive and creating communities where everyone belongs. The services will support NDIS participants with their support coordination and plan management 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 Community Services website HERE
Mental Health Coordinating Council – Resources & Tools
The Mental Health Coordinating Council has many resources and tools available to the community, including a very useful Recovery Oriented Language Guide.
Check out their resources and tools page HERE.
Family & Carer Mental Health Program – Mission Australia
Mission Australia’s Family & Carer Mental Health Program supports families and carers of people with a mental illness through a comprehensive range of supports and services. Education and training sessions to build the skills and resilience of families and carers are held each month across the Mid North Coast, including Coffs Harbour, Sawtell, Kempsey and Port Macquarie.
To obtain a copy of the education and training calendar for your area please email richardsonc@missionaustralia.com.au or to read more about the program click HERE.
Digital Distraction App – helping Children in NSW during Short Medical Procedures such as Immunisations
TLC for Kids is an established charity that has been helping sick children and their families since 1998.
We’ve developed a free smart device app featuring fun and colourful distraction games to divert children’s attention during short medical procedures. Distraction helps to reduce fear and anxiety and makes the whole process less stressful for the child, healthcare professional and the parent or carer. The app is completely kid-friendly, with no ads, sign-ups, plug-ins etc. Digital distraction is an anytime, anywhere distraction and can be used as a valuable resource now, and into the future, by your community.
Go to tlcforkids.app if you like and check it out – it’s really great!
Let’s Clear the Air on Vaping
There’s a lot being said about vaping at the moment – and much of it is conflicting and confusing. That’s why we’ve developed a suite of new social media resources that you can share to help clear the air on vaping.
The new resources include simple images and videos addressing some of the common questions about vaping by providing the facts. They’re ready for you to copy, paste and post on your social channels to share with your community.
View the resources HERE.
Let’s Talk Disability – Disability Awareness Training by People with Lived Experience
Build your disability awareness with an education session from the Let’s Talk Disability team! This training is delivered by people with lived experience of disability.
Check out their website HERE.
The Daily Dose Podcast Series
The North Coast Public Health HARP team developed an 8-episode podcast that strives to reduce stigma in health care settings towards people who inject drugs (PWID), as a way of improving their wellbeing and treatment outcomes. The podcast series was launched by the NSW Health Minister (Kerry Chant) on World Hepatitis Day (28 July).
Research shows discrimination towards people who inject drugs is a barrier to seeking treatment to progress their health. Eighty per cent of people who inject drugs report having experienced discrimination when seeking help in health care settings. Furthermore, our rural region has some of the highest rates of hepatitis C, a blood borne virus (BBV) primarily transmitted via the sharing of injecting equipment.
The podcast features 8 stories (up to 45 minutes each) by local PWID that was arranged with quotes by Dr Alex Wodak and Prof. Carla Treloar.
Listen to the podcast series via the link HERE or scan the QR code on the flyer and download the series to your mobile phone.
Volunteer Opportunity – Justice Advocacy Service
The Justice Advocacy Service is looking for volunteers! Volunteers support people with cognitive impairment at police stations, in court and at legal appointments. Join one of the 21 dedicated and passionate teams across NSW. Comprehensive training and ongoing support provider.
Find out more HERE.
Multicultural Mindfulness Resources
The Multicultural Mindfulness Resources aim to help people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities improve their mental wellbeing, by providing a set of culturally-adapted and in-language mindfulness exercises in audio and video format.
Find out more and access the resources HERE.
NDIS Sessions – Pathways to Post School Life
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) would like to invite NSW and ACT students with a disability in Years 10-12, their parents, carers and education professionals, to attend a virtual information session.
This is a session about building skills and paving a pathway to post-school life. We will discuss a range of NDIS-funded supports and other assistance to help young people build skills to prepare for their transition, and support them in achieving employment and other goals, post-school.
Sessions are happening in November 2022. To find out more and register click HERE.
Embrace Kids, A Powerful & Uplifting Film – Book Now!
Embrace Kids is a powerful, uplifting film that tackles some of the biggest issues facing young people today, from body image and bullying to gender identity and more. With the help of famous friends like Celeste Barber, the film encourages young people to figure out what makes them unique and use that to spark change. Recommended for kids aged 9-14 (but grown-ups can watch too!).
The film is screening at 4:30pm on Sunday, 6th November 2022 at BCC Cinemas, Coffs Harbour.
This event will host two special guest speakers for a Q&A session after the film. Questions will be answered by Dr. Zali Yager a body image and wellbeing expert, researcher, and co-author of Embrace Kids + Coffs Harbour local child psychologist Amy Sketcher from Seasons Allied Health.
Filled with fun and joy, EMBRACE KIDS is an energetic mix of animation, live-action, interviews, music and more. The film explores the relationship children have with their bodies and covers topics including social media, disability, gender identity, representation and diversity.
For ticket sales click HERE.
To check out the film trailer click HERE.
Surfing Day for People with Disability – Jetty Beach Coffs Harbour
We’re getting back on board – surfboards that is! Disability Surfers Australia is running a free assisted surfing event for people with disability, happening 8.15am – 12.30pm Saturday 29th October 2022 at Jetty Beach Coffs Harbour. We can’t wait to kick off this season, and all past, present and future participants, carers and volunteers are welcome!
Pre-registration is essential, as we have everyone’s health and safety as our top priority. All participants, carers and volunteers (yes even the committee/organisers) will need to pre-register, not just turn up on the day. We understand this can be tricky to navigate and even plan ahead sometimes, but we’re trying to streamline the sign-in process to ensure everyone is looked after and things run smoothly.
Sign in from 8:15am, followed by event debrief and hit the water at 9am. Sausage sizzle lunch at 12ish.
Find out more about this free event and register HERE.
The Buttery’s ‘Footprints 2 Wellbeing’ Program
The Buttery’s ‘Footprints 2 Wellbeing’ program is now available at the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre.
The program outreaches at the centre Thursdays 2pm – 4pm and provides psychosocial support to people over 16 years of age who are concerned about their mental health.
No appointment is necessary, just pop in. Find the centre’s location and contact details HERE.
Ignite MNC – Happening in Woolgoolga November 2022
Ignite MNC is a business conference with a twist. This year’s theme will be a carnival – be prepared to be stretched! Now in its fifth year Ignite MNC will run in beautiful Woolgoolga on 2 November 2022.
The Ignite MNC Symposium is a business and community event designed to bring together people who work, run businesses and live on the Mid North Coast. The event is designed to inspire new thinking, and vibrant conversations and to form collaborative partnerships. Participants will learn from the panels, meet a range of people and organisations who can support your business (or community initiative) to grow and thrive, as well as the opportunity to network with a broad range of people from across the region. AND… in true IGNITE MNC style, you can expect to be challenged, inspired and resourced.
There will be discussion panels on our theme topics of Circular Economy, housing and workforce, regional insights with the launch of the Mid North Coast regional plan, and lots of time to connect and meet each other, including at our signature lunch in the main street.
To find out more about the program or speakers, or to secure tickets click HERE.
Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre – so much to offer!
Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre has so much to offer to the community!
Check out their website to find out all the ways they may be able to assist you by clicking HERE.
Ball against Domestic Violence 3×3 Basketball Charity Event – Coffs Harbour
The Coffs Harbour community brings the 2022 BALL AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 3×3 Tournament!
All proceeds will go to Wesley Mission. Wesley Mission supports children, families, or the elderly who struggle with homelessness, addiction, mental health, or financial or domestic challenges.
Camp Creative – Bellingen, 2023
Camp Creative is happening in Bellingen from Monday 9th to Saturday 14th January 2023!
Camp Creative is a unique summer school, retreat and creative community that annually springs up for one vibrant week in January. People of all ages and backgrounds are welcome to this joyful hive of productivity, experimentation and learning. Whether you’re a novice, hobbyist or master artist, Camp Creative is an opportunity for a surge of creative energy and inspiration for your new year. It’s a week of over 80 workshops in art, music, dance, craft, singing, photography, writing, drama, lifestyle & wellbeing. There’s a range of courses for kids, teens and adults.
There are also live performances, a street party and an open mic night. Join a course of your choice over five days – paint on canvas, get drumming, watch your kids discover their inner actor, release your singing voice, write your life story, dance the streets in a flash mob, photograph people and events at the moment or get hands-on with a hammer and chisel. Plus so much more!
To find out more check out the website HERE.
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 website to find out all the ways they might assist you by clicking HERE.
Bellingen Growers Market
The Bellingen Growers Market is held at the Bellingen Showground on the 2nd and 4th 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 click HERE.
Free Counselling in the Bellingen Shire
Free counselling is available to residents of the Bellingen Shire. The counselling sessions are available by appointment at all three Neighbourhood Centres – Bellingen, Urunga and Dorrigo.
For more information and to book an appointment click HERE.
Macksville Music Muster
Macksville Music Muster HAS BEEN POSTPONED and will now run from 16th – 13th March 2023 at the Macksville Showground.
A country music muster full of pure classic country artists and entertainment, and community connection.
For more information and to secure tickets, 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 their website HERE.
Check Out What’s Happening at Nambucca Library
There’s more than you think on offer at your local library!
Check out what’s coming up by clicking HERE.
Kempsey Neighbourhood Centre – so much to offer!
The Kempsey Neighbourhood Centre has so much to offer to the community!
Check out their website to find out all the ways they might assist you by clicking HERE.
Kempsey Uniting – Women Can Kids Can
Women Can and Kids Can are evidence-based group programs designed to safeguard against family and domestic violence. The programs run for two hours, one day a week for 8 weeks.
Women Can is a psycho-educational group program for women who are parents/primary carers of children who have been exposed to family and domestic violence. The purpose of the group is to provide a safe place for women with peers who have a similar experience, to better understand the nature, dynamics and impacts of domestic violence on children and families. It is designed to run parallel with the Kids Can group program for children aged 8–12 years who have been exposed to domestic and family violence. The Women Can program equips mothers with knowledge and skills to support their children in dealing with the impacts of family and domestic violence and respond in ways that support their children’s self-esteem, development and safety and support healthy family functioning.
Kids Can is a therapeutic group program for children who have been exposed to family and domestic violence. The purpose of this program is to provide a safe place for the children with peers who have similar experiences, to clarify and understand the thoughts and feelings which arise from exposure to domestic violence, and to equip them with some age-appropriate strategies to deal with these.
We are also facilitating Parenting After Domestic Violence, a program to support parents and caregivers to establish healing relationships with their children, so that the negative effects of violence can be improved, and children can be provided with a safe, nurturing environment for healing, growth and development.
This program runs for an additional 4 weeks, (2 hours, one day a week) usually after the completion of the Women Can and Kids Can programs.
Driving Change Program – Kempsey
Mentors Required
The Driving Change Program is looking for people interested in assisting learners to accumulate their log book hours in a car provided by us. This is a good opportunity to give back to your community and to assist young people to get safely on the road. If you (or someone you know) are interested or would like more information, please ring the Driving Change project workers:
Krystal Smith: 0427 047 413
Shirley Kent: 0458 695 167
View the flyer HERE.
Check out what’s happening at Kempsey Library
There’s so much happening at Kempsey Library!
For more information click HERE.
Exciting New Courses at Mid North Coast Community College
There are many exciting and fun courses starting at Mid North Coast Community College in November!
What a Wonderful World – Computer Research Skills: Brush up on your computer skills with this fun research project that will take you places you may never have been! We will travel the globe and visit a different country each week. Your challenge is to complete a quiz about each country using your research skills. In week 6 we will share our travels with Family, Friends and Carers in our final day presentation.
What a Wonderful World – Crafternoon Tea: Uncover your creativity and work on your concentration skills at the same time! Work together as a team to make useful and beautiful arty crafty things that reflect the culture of the countries we visited in the morning session. This will include lots of goodies for Christmas. We will cook up a storm with craft in the kitchen to provide a beautiful afternoon tea for our presentation.
Around the World – Virtual Reality: Have you always wanted to climb Mount Everest or swim with dolphins in tropical waters? Do you wish you could go on Safari in Africa or visit outer space? Well now you can go ‘Around the world in 80 minutes with a different virtual destination each week, you might even get to ride the best rollercoasters in the world if you are game!
Around the World – Travel Bloggers: Following on from your morning adventures, each week you will report on your virtual travels. This will include interviewing each other for a final week’s video presentation and Green Screen photo putting you right in the picture and on location.
For more information and starting dates for these courses check out the flyers below.
Free 10 Minute Health Checks for Men – Port Macquarie
The Men’s Health Education Rural Van is coming to Port Macquarie on the 11th & 12th of November. They are offering free 10-minute health checks, so don’t miss this great opportunity to take care of yourself! Check out the flyer for further information.
Sacred Girl Program – Port Macquarie
Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre is hosting a brand new program for young girls and women – ‘Sacred Girl’
Sacred Girl is an immersive 10-week program with a holistic approach to introducing daily ritual, self-reliance, expression and resilience in young girls and women. There is no cost to attend.
The first group, currently running, is for 12-14-year-olds, however, the intention is to expand to other age groups.
If you know someone who would like to be a part of this beautiful program please touch base with us. Spaces are limited, however we do have a waitlist, so please reach out.
Find our contact details HERE.
Neighbourhood Centres of Port Macquarie, Wauchope & Lake Cathie – so much to offer!
The Neighbourhood Centres of the Hastings Neighbourhood Services have so much to offer community members in Port Macquarie, Wauchope and Lake Cathie!
Check out their website to find out all the ways they might assist you by clicking HERE.
Hastings Community Support Booklet
The Hastings Community Support Booklet is available to assist people living in the Port Macquarie and surrounding area to locate services and supports they may need.
Check out the booklet HERE.
Free Boxing Fitness Classes
For children 8-12 years and young people 13-18 years of age.
Where: Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre
When: Tuesday afternoons during the school term
Kids 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Teens 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Ph: (02) 6583 8044
See the flyer HERE.
What’s Happening at headspace Port Macquarie
Stay in the know with what’s happening at headspace Port Macquarie!
For more information click HERE.
What’s On At The Library – Port-Hastings branches
Port Macquarie Hastings Council has public libraries in Port Macquarie, Kempsey, Laurieton, Wauchope, South West Rocks and Stuarts Point.
To see what’s on at your local library click HERE.
Ethical Jobs: Find a job you can be truly passionate about
Looking for a job? Find an ethical job that contributes for a more equitable, more just or more sustainable world.
For more information click HERE.
My Home, My Way
Introducing the new My Home, My Way Website!
Resourcing Inclusive Communities as part of The National Alliance of Capacity Building Organisations (NACBO*) is excited to announce the launch of the new My Home, My Way website. My Home, My Way provides a range of resources, written or produced by people with a disability and their supporters, from all over Australia. There are even some resources from overseas! These resources are from change-makers – people who have challenged the idea that the only option for people with developmental disabilities, once they leave their family home, is to live in a group home.
Through stories, videos, podcasts and other information, you will discover how people, no matter what their needs, are living in their own homes and enjoying rich and meaningful lives as part of their local neighbourhoods!
The My Home, My Way website has a wealth of information to assist in thinking about the first steps, different options, support, community and thriving in one’s own home.
Visit the website now! Click HERE.
Blue Sky NDIS Support Services
Blue Sky Community Services offers NDIS Support Coordination and Plan Management in the Manning-Great Lakes and Forster areas.
Blue Sky Community Services has expanded its services, and as a registered NDIS provider is now delivering best practice Plan Management and Support Coordination (including Psychosocial Recovery Coach) services to NDIS participants in the Manning-Great Lakes and Forsterareas.
Blue Sky has been delivering community services across the region since the early 1970s and has a wealth of experience and expertise in facilitating innovative connections to services and to the community for people living with disability.
Blue Sky has a team of passionate, skilled and dedicated staff, who have supported many participants and members of the community to achieve amazing outcomes and achievements, through inclusive, strength-based practices and a values-based culture.
These new NDIS support services complement the organisation’s vision of supporting people to thrive and creating communities where everyone belongs. The services will support NDIS participants with their support coordination and plan management 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 Community Services website HERE
Mental Health Coordinating Council – Resources & Tools
The Mental Health Coordinating Council has many resources and tools available to the community, including a very useful Recovery Oriented Language Guide.
Check out their resources and tools page HERE.
Family & Carer Mental Health Program – Mission Australia
Mission Australia’s Family & Carer Mental Health Program supports families and carers of people with a mental illness through a comprehensive range of supports and services. Education and training sessions to build the skills and resilience of families and carers are held each month across the Mid North Coast, including Coffs Harbour, Sawtell, Kempsey and Port Macquarie.
To obtain a copy of the education and training calendar for your area please email richardsonc@missionaustralia.com.au or to read more about the program click HERE.
Digital Distraction App – helping Children in NSW during Short Medical Procedures such as Immunisations
TLC for Kids is an established charity that has been helping sick children and their families since 1998.
We’ve developed a free smart device app featuring fun and colourful distraction games to divert children’s attention during short medical procedures. Distraction helps to reduce fear and anxiety and makes the whole process less stressful for the child, healthcare professional and the parent or carer. The app is completely kid-friendly, with no ads, sign-ups, plug-ins etc. Digital distraction is an anytime, anywhere distraction and can be used as a valuable resource now, and into the future, by your community.
Go to tlcforkids.app if you like and check it out – it’s really great!
Let’s Clear the Air on Vaping
There’s a lot being said about vaping at the moment – and much of it is conflicting and confusing. That’s why we’ve developed a suite of new social media resources that you can share to help clear the air on vaping.
The new resources include simple images and videos addressing some of the common questions about vaping by providing the facts. They’re ready for you to copy, paste and post on your social channels to share with your community.
View the resources HERE.
Let’s Talk Disability – Disability Awareness Training by People with Lived Experience
Build your disability awareness with an education session from the Let’s Talk Disability team! This training is delivered by people with lived experience of disability.
Check out their website HERE.
The Daily Dose Podcast Series
The North Coast Public Health HARP team developed an 8-episode podcast that strives to reduce stigma in health care settings towards people who inject drugs (PWID), as a way of improving their wellbeing and treatment outcomes. The podcast series was launched by the NSW Health Minister (Kerry Chant) on World Hepatitis Day (28 July).
Research shows discrimination towards people who inject drugs is a barrier to seeking treatment to progress their health. Eighty per cent of people who inject drugs report having experienced discrimination when seeking help in health care settings. Furthermore, our rural region has some of the highest rates of hepatitis C, a blood borne virus (BBV) primarily transmitted via the sharing of injecting equipment.
The podcast features 8 stories (up to 45 minutes each) by local PWID that was arranged with quotes by Dr Alex Wodak and Prof. Carla Treloar.
Listen to the podcast series via the link HERE or scan the QR code on the flyer and download the series to your mobile phone.
Volunteer Opportunity – Justice Advocacy Service
The Justice Advocacy Service is looking for volunteers! Volunteers support people with cognitive impairment at police stations, in court and at legal appointments. Join one of the 21 dedicated and passionate teams across NSW. Comprehensive training and ongoing support provider.
Find out more HERE.
Multicultural Mindfulness Resources
The Multicultural Mindfulness Resources aim to help people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities improve their mental wellbeing, by providing a set of culturally-adapted and in-language mindfulness exercises in audio and video format.
Find out more and access the resources HERE.
NDIS Sessions – Pathways to Post School Life
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) would like to invite NSW and ACT students with a disability in Years 10-12, their parents, carers and education professionals, to attend a virtual information session.
This is a session about building skills and paving a pathway to post-school life. We will discuss a range of NDIS-funded supports and other assistance to help young people build skills to prepare for their transition, and support them in achieving employment and other goals, post-school.
Sessions are happening in November 2022. To find out more and register click HERE.