Welcome to Connections, a newsletter for community members and services across the Mid North Coast, full of useful information to keep us connected and up to date with what’s going on in our communities.
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we live and work, and their continuing connection to land, water, sea and community.
We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
What’s on in the Coffs Harbour area
What’s on in the Bellingen area
What’s on in the Nambucca area
What’s on in the Kempsey area
What’s on in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area
Employment Opportunities
What’s on in the wider community
Find a Service
Wesley LifeForce First Nations Suicide Prevention Training – Coffs Harbour
Informed by the latest research in suicide prevention, Wesley LifeForce training equips participants with a variety of skills such as managing suicidal crisis, understanding risk and protective factors, as well as how to recognise potential warning signs. Our programs are aimed at training individuals from all walks of life, as well as organisational groups.
Wesley LifeForce has developed quality suicide prevention training. Our Suicide Prevention Workshop is designed to teach people how to 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. All Wesley LifeForce facilitators are accredited trainers and have completed suicide intervention training.
The training is FREE.
DATE: Thursday 16th November 2023
TIME: 9.30am – 4pm
LOCATION: The Link, 631 Hogbin Drive Toormina
For more information and to register, visit the Wesley Eventbrite page.
Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention Training – Coffs Harbour
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 training is FREE.
DATE: Thursday 23rd November 2023
TIME: 9am – 4pm
LOCATION: Coffs Coast Community College at The Vault. Level 1, 98 Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour
For more information and to register, visit the Wesley Eventbrite page.
Wesley Lifeforce Training – Building Resilience Workshop – Coffs Harbour NSW
The Building Resilience workshop gives participants the chance to take ownership of their mental health and build new strategies to control their thoughts and emotions. Participants reflect on the personal management of their own mental health, in collaboration with others, and end the workshop with new techniques and healthy habits.
Building Resilience runs over four hours, with two sessions in two parts each. Through the workshop, participants move from lifestyle-based factors and strategies to cognitive and self-awareness techniques for improving mental health.
The training is FREE.
DATES: Tuesday 14th November 2023 or Tuesday 28th November 2023
TIME: 10am – 3pm
LOCATION: The Link, 631 Hogbin Drive Toormina
For more information and to register for 14th November date, visit the Wesley Eventbrite page.
For more information and to register for 28th November date, visit the Wesley Eventbrite page.
Dementia Prevention with Dr Tyagi
Want to learn how to reduce your risk of dementia?
Come along to a free longevity, positive ageing, dementia prevention and education event hosted by Dr Tyagi.
WHERE: 181 Rose Avenue, Coffs Harbour
WHEN: Every second Thursday
TIME: 10am – 11.30am
For everything you need to know check out the Dementia Prevention event flyer.
Smart Recovery – Choose Your Own Path to a Healthier Future
Smart Recovery is a free, practical support group that trains you to champion your own behaviour change around alcohol, drug use, gambling or any behaviour of concern.
Meetings are held every Wednesday 10.30am to 12pm at Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre, Community Village, Earl Street Coffs Harbour.
For further information call Drug & Alcohol on 1300 662 263, or the Neighbourhood Centre on 6648 3694.
Coffs Coast Community College
Are you looking to build knowledge and skills? Looking to meet new people?
Your local community college has so many nationally recognised training opportunities and short courses on offer.
Why not take a look to see what interests you on the Coffs Coast Community College website.
‘Breaking Bread’ Brochure
The ‘Breaking Bread’ brochure contains a list of groups and services who provide essential support in the Coffs Harbour area.
Please find the most recent ‘Breaking Bread’ brochure here.
Check Out What’s Happening at Libraries on the Coffs Coast!
There are so many free and inclusive events happening at libraries on the Coffs Coast. There’s something for all ages.
Whether you want to learn to play the ukelele, take your little one to a play activity, or you’re looking to attend a workshop – there’s always something on offer.
Locations include Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga and Toormina.
For more information head to the Coffs Harbour Libraries website.
Storytime for Kids at your local Coffs Coast Library
Join storytime for kids at your local library! Enjoy some wonderful stories and great fun. Suitable for ages 3-5 years, with parent/carer.
Storytime events happen regularly at Coffs Harbour Library, Woolgoolga Library, and Toormina Library.
For upcoming dates and times visit the Coffs Harbour Libraries website.
Building Big Imaginations with Duplo – Free Activity for Kids!
Is your child a budding builder who loves to create with blocks?
Come along for Duplo at the Woolgoolga and Toormina libraries every Wednesday from 10am to 12pm!
The children’s area provides the perfect space for your little ones to unleash their imaginations and explore, learn and play with Duplo.
For more information head to the Coffs Harbour Libraries website.
Free Counselling at Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre
Free counselling is available at the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre!
This service is provided by Counselling Services Incorporated (CSI) through graduate volunteers. If you’re having a hard time, your mental health is suffering, you’re experiencing loss, or you just need someone to talk to – book an appointment.
For more information head to the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre website.
Free Legal Advice at Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre
Free legal advice is available at the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre every second Thursday evening from 5 pm.
Hugo is a local solicitor who volunteers his time. Everyone can access this service. Advice can be given on a range of issues, including family law, power of attorney/guardianship, wills, neighbourhood law and some criminal matters.
Bookings are essential. Appointments are currently over the phone.
For more information head to the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre website..
Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre – so much to offer!
Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre has so much to offer to the community!
Find out about the ways they may be able to assist you by visiting the Neighbourhood Centre website.
21st Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival
The Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival is happening from Friday 27th to Sunday 29th October 2023.
The festival is a three-day celebration of local, national and international acoustic folk, bluegrass and old-time music. The festival is a boutique, family-friendly event with concerts, workshops, dance and jam sessions. Patrons have opportunities to perform and learn from the best traditional, contemporary, and exploratory acoustic music exponents of these genres. With the festival now recognised across the globe, it attracts artists from the USA, Canada, United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Australia, presenting a full program from Friday evening through to late Sunday afternoon. All venues are alcohol, substance and smoke-free zones. Environmental sustainability is actively promoted.
For more information about the event head to the Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival website.
Bellingen Shire Arts Trail Weekend
The Arts Trail Weekend presents a wonderful opportunity to invite friends and fellow artists to explore the beautiful Bellingen Shire, whilst meeting and talking to the creative people who make it such an inspiring place.
The trail takes you from historic Dorrigo and the Rainforest Centre Gallery via the heritage town of Bellingen in its lush green valley, to the laid back coast of Raleigh and Urunga.
The 26 venues, more than 50 artists, and a number of workshops will make this experience an amazing one!
The trail weekend is from 10th to 12th November 2023.
For more information about the event and to plan your trail, click Arts Trail website.
Bellingen River District Hospital – Community Gala Event
The Community Gala Event will include canapes, drinks and live entertainment. Local Businesses have generously donated items to be auctioned. Please bring your generous hearts as all funds raised go to the Bellingen River District Hospital. Dress code is cocktail/evening wear. Ticket sales close 5th November.
DATE: Saturday 11th November 2023
TIME: 5pm – 10pm
LOCATION: Cedar Bar & Kitchen, 8 Church Street Bellingen
For more information and to secure your ticket, click Gala Humanitix webpage.
Southern Blast Film Tour Bellingen
Southern Blast is a beautiful cinematic celebration of the wild landscapes, abundant marine ecosystems, and local communities that call the Southern Ocean coastlines home. Featuring footage shot on location in Lutruwita (Tasmania), the film connects with local personalities: from surfers to crayfishers, sustainable ocean businesses, and Traditional Custodians – it is a glimpse into the unique and diverse communities that coexist with marine life and wild landscapes. Southern Blast is an intimate journey of our southern coastlines and the looming threat of oil and gas exploration – a dangerous plan as our climate warms.
DATE: Sunday 3rd December 2023
TIME: 5pm – 8pm
LOCATION: Bellingen Memorial Hall
To find out more, head to the Southern Blast Humanitix page.
River Sounds Festival in Bellingen
River Sounds is a three day, licenced and all ages music festival located in the eclectic village of Bellingen NSW. Comprising of a diverse line up of high profile, emerging and First Nation artists, plus an an extensive array of craft food and beverage offerings.For more festival details head to the website. River Sounds is held on the traditional lands of the Gumbaynggirr people. Paying respect to the Elders of these traditional lands – past, present and emerging – and, through them, to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
DATE: 22nd & 23rd December 2023
LOCATION: 36 Hammond Street Bellingen
To find out more, click River Sounds webpage.
Coffs Harbour & Bellingen Clinical Society – Healthy North Coast
Local clinical connections are more important than ever, and the Coffs Harbour & Bellingen Clinical Society is available for you to connect with.
Regional clinical societies foster practitioner relationships by providing a platform in which the primary healthcare workforce can come together to make friends, network, learn new information and have fun in a collaborative, knowledge-sharing space.
Clinical societies welcome all primary care professionals working in:
-
- general practice (including practice staff and admin)
- allied health
- Aboriginal health
- nursing
- pharmacy
- medical specialties
To join your local clinical society and find out what events are happening soon, visit the Healthy North 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 in Hickory Street, Dorrigo.
Local organic fruit and veg, re-cycled and up-cycled goods, clothes, and bric-a-brac, as well as support to community organisations for their fundraising activities in support of local projects.
Many other unique stalls which vary monthly/seasonally. So come and check out some fair dinkum country hospitality in the beautiful village of Dorrigo!
Bellingen Growers Market
The Bellingen Growers Market is held at the Bellingen Showground on the second and fourth Saturday of each month between 8am and 1pm.
The market’s purpose is to encourage/promote local growers and services, and to give the community reliable access to organic and chemical-free produce within a multi-faceted marketplace which supports a healthy lifestyle and a more sustainable future.
You’ll find an amazing range of freshly-picked produce – mostly certified organic – fruit, vegetables, salad greens, nuts, flowers… all direct from local growers. The café has delicious locally-baked bread and pastries and will serve you a hearty organic breakfast. Order an organic coffee or freshly squeezed juice and enjoy the live music whilst browsing the newspapers or meeting with old and new friends. The kids love our famous storyteller (and the smoothies and waffles too). There are also plenty of second-hand clothes and quality bric-a-brac to choose from.
For more information head to the Bellingen Growers Market website.
Nambucca & Macksville Clinical Society – Healthy North Coast
Local clinical connections are more important than ever, and the Nambucca & Macksville Clinical Society is available for you to connect with.
Regional clinical societies foster practitioner relationships by providing a platform in which the primary healthcare workforce can come together to make friends, network, learn new information and have fun in a collaborative, knowledge-sharing space.
Clinical societies welcome all primary care professionals working in:
- general practice (including practice staff and admin)
- allied health
- Aboriginal health
- nursing
- pharmacy
- medical specialties.
To join your local clinical society and find out what events are happening soon, visit the Healthy North 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.
Messy Art Play – Sensory Creative Play for Preschoolers (3yrs +) – Kempsey
Messy and sensory creative play for pre-schoolers. An opportunity for children to explore varying mediums and materials within in their own creative expressive freedom. Messy Art Play encourages children to explore art while getting their hands into all things squishy and gooey. Just as it sounds, messy art is… messy! Our wonderful creative artist is a qualified Early Childhood educator and will guide you, with your children to let go of the ‘need for clean’ and allow your child to splatter, smear, and explore as children should.
DATE: Thursday Mornings in November (2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th November 2023)
TIME: 11:15am – 12:00pm
LOCATION: Kempsey Showground, 19 Sea Street, West Kempsey
Limited spots available. For more information and to secure your child’s spot, click Messy Art Play Humanitix page.
Tuning into Teens – Kempsey
‘Tuning into Teens’ is about emotionally intelligent parenting. Would you like to learn how to:
- communicate with your teen more effectively?
- be better at understanding your teen?
- help your teen manage difficult emotions?
- teach your teen how to make friends and deal with conflict?
Tuning into Teens shows you how to help your adolescent develop emotional intelligence.
DATES: 5-week program on Thursday mornings – 16 Nov, 23 Nov, 30 Nov, 7 Dec & 14 Dec 2023
TIME: 10am – 12pm
LOCATION: Headspace Kempsey, 85 Smith Street, Kempsey.
For more information and to secure your spot, visit the Kempsey Families webpage.
Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention Full Day Workshop – Kempsey
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 training is FREE.
DATE: Tuesday 12th December 2023
TIME: 9am – 4pm
LOCATION: Kempsey Macleay RSL Club, 1 York Lane Kempsey
For more information and to register, visit the Wesley Eventbrite page.
Kempsey & Macleay Clinical Society – Healthy North Coast
Local clinical connections are more important than ever, and the Kempsey & Macleay Clinical Society is available for you to connect with.
Regional clinical societies foster practitioner relationships by providing a platform in which the primary healthcare workforce can come together to make friends, network, learn new information and have fun in a collaborative, knowledge-sharing space.
Clinical societies welcome all primary care professionals working in:
- general practice (including practice staff and admin)
- allied health
- Aboriginal health
- nursing
- pharmacy
- medical specialties.
To join your local clinical society and find out what events are happening soon, visit the Healthy North Coast website.
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.
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.
Baby Bounce for the Little Ones at Kempsey Library
Singing and rhymes are a part of early literacy. Early literacy is the foundation of learning to read. Singing develops your child’s communication, voice development and helps with their emotional wellbeing.
At Baby Bounce you and your bub enjoy stories, rhymes, movement, and lots of fun. The sessions are interactive, fun and beneficial to both parent and child.
Baby Bounce is for children aged 0 – 3 years, and is held every second Friday at Kempsey Library, starting at 10.00am.
For dates and more information go to the Kempsey Library website.
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.
Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention Training – Port Macquarie
Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention Training provides essential skills training to recognise and respond to someone at risk of harm. The training is informed by the latest research in suicide prevention, and an opportunity not to be missed.
Training will be held in Port Macquarie on Tuesday, 31st October.
For more information and to register, head to the Suicide Prevention Workshop booking site.
Eclipse Support Group
The Eclipse Support Group in Port Macquarie aims to assist people who have survived a suicide attempt.
In the Eclipse group we are not afraid to talk about suicide. We discuss how we got to the point where being dead seemed a better option than living. We have conversations about reasons to stay alive, and about strategies that may be helpful in keeping us safe so we can see a more hopeful future.
The group has a safe, non-judgemental atmosphere where you are able to talk about topics that you perhaps don’t like to burden family and friends with.
For details about the group read the Eclipse Support Group flyer.
Support After Suicide Bereavement
If you are dealing with the suicide of a loved one or a friend, it’s important that you feel free to talk about your reactions to suicide openly and honestly. It’s also important that you receive the support that helps you make sense of what has happened. Talking about it can help you. And it can help others too.
Lifeline Mid Coast’s ‘Support After Suicide Bereavement’ groups are for adults who have experienced the loss of someone through suicide. They are open groups, facilitated by trained, experienced people who have also lost a loved one to suicide. You are welcome to attend, as you feel the need.
WHEN: 4th Wednesday of the month (January – November)
TIME: 6pm – 8pm
WHERE: Lifeline, 5 Sherwood Road Port Macquarie
For more information phone (02) 6581 2800, email suicideprevention@lifelinemidcoast.org.au, or go to the Lifeline Suicide Bereavement Support web page.
Port Macquarie & Hastings Clinical Society – Healthy North Coast
Local clinical connections are more important than ever, and the Port Macquarie & Hastings Clinical Society is available for you to connect with.
Regional clinical societies foster practitioner relationships by providing a platform in which the primary healthcare workforce can come together to make friends, network, learn new information and have fun in a collaborative, knowledge-sharing space.
Clinical societies welcome all primary care professionals working in:
- general practice (including practice staff and admin)
- allied health
- Aboriginal health
- nursing
- pharmacy
- medical specialties.
To join your local clinical society and find out what events are happening soon, visit the Healthy North Coast website.
Soldier On Coffee Catch-up
.Join Soldier On at The Hill Cafe for a chat and catch-up with other current and ex-serving Defence personnel and their family members. Children are also welcome and we look forward to seeing you on the day. No need to RSVP. Parents/guardians must provide supervision of all children and young people.
WHEN: Wednesdays each week
TIME: 9.30am – 11am
WHERE: The Hill Cafe, 5 Chancellors DriveThrumster
For more information click HERE.
Cuppa with Colour Social Group – Port Macquarie
Come and join in the quiet, inner happy revolution at our regular catch-up: Colouring in for Grown-ups!
Meet new friends, enjoy a beverage, let your mind go free and create a beautiful piece of art.
Not keen on colouring & paper crafts? No problem, come along for a coffee and a chat.
All materials are provided at no cost. However, feel free to bring your own as well.
All are welcome, and it’s free!
For more information check out the Cuppa with Colour flyer.
Mid North Coast Community College
Are you looking to build knowledge and skills? Looking to meet new people?
Your local community college has so many nationally recognised training opportunities and short courses on offer.
Why not take a look to see what interests you on the Mid North Coast Community College website.
Storytime for Kids at your local Port-Hastings Library
Join storytime for kids at your local library! Enjoy some wonderful stories and great fun. Suitable for ages 3-5 years, with parent/carer.
Storytime events happen regularly at Wauchope Library, Laurieton Library, and Port Macquarie Library.
For upcoming dates and times go to the Mid North Coast Library Service website.
Baby Bounce for the Little Ones at Port-Hastings Library
Join Baby Bounce at your local library for fun songs, rhymes, finger play, and music. For infants from birth to 1 year.
Baby Bounce events happen regularly at Wauchope Library, Laurieton Library, and Port Macquarie Library.
For upcoming dates and times go to the Mid North Coast Library Service website.
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.
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.
Join the Blue Sky Team! Team Leader – Families, Young People & Communities
We are seeking to employ a professional and values-aligned person to join our supportive and friendly team, to assist us in delivering efficient, effective and high quality services, and in leading and supporting the Families, Young People and Communities team.
The position is based in Coffs Harbour, on the Mid North Coast of NSW, and is a part-time position (35 hours per week).
Applications must be received before midday on Monday 13th November 2023.
For further information on the position, including how to apply, please visit the Blue Sky Positions Vacant webpage.
Join the Blue Sky Team! People & Culture Assistant
We are seeking to employ a part-time (25 hours per week) People and Culture Assistant, based in Coffs Harbour.
This position plays a pivotal role in supporting the People and Culture function and undertaking processes to ensure procedural compliance, including administration for recruitment, employment screening, maintaining the Human Resource Management Information System, and assisting the People and Culture Manager in supporting our staff to thrive, ensuring our workplace community and culture is reflective of our workplace values.
Applications are due by midday on Monday, 13th November 2023.
For further information on the position, including how to apply, please visit the Blue Sky Positions Vacant webpage.
Learn Basic Auslan on Mid North Coast Local Health District’s YouTube Channel!
Have you always wanted to learn Auslan? Now you can!
A basic Auslan training video was filmed as part of the ‘Enhancing Inclusion in the Health System’ project, jointly delivered by Blue Sky Community Services and the Mid North Coast Local Health District.
The video has been broken up into learning segments and the segments are available on the Mid North Coast Local Health District’s YouTube channel.
Watch the Ask Away Video Series on the Mid North Coast Local Health District’s YouTube Channel!
Watch some amazing disability awareness videos, from people with disability themselves! These videos are profound and poignant, and are not to be missed.
The videos were filmed as part of the ‘Enhancing Inclusion in the Health System’ project, jointly delivered by Blue Sky Community Services and the Mid North Coast Local Health District.
There are six videos currently available, with two more amazing videos to come. The videos are available on the Mid North Coast Local Health District’s YouTube channel.
The Specialist Trans and Gender Diverse Health Service
NSW Health is committed to providing evidence-based, holistic, age-appropriate and developmentally informed care for trans and gender diverse young people across NSW. To enhance existing services, NSW Health is developing a coordinated, statewide Specialist Trans and Gender Diverse Health Service (TGD Health Service) to provide gender affirming health care for people aged under 25.
The TGD Health Service will be delivered through two specialist hubs. The scope of the Hubs is limited to specialist trans and gender diverse health care. The Hubs work closely with existing support services and primary care to provide holistic care for young people and their families and carers.
For further information regarding how the TGD Health Service will operate and deliver services, visit the NSW Health webpage.
New Factsheet: Talking to Children about War and Conflict
It can be hard to know how to explain war and conflict to children, or if you should even talk about them at all. You may be struggling to make sense of what you’re seeing, hearing and feeling yourself. It’s normal to want to protect children from the violent reality of these events, but in today’s ever-connected world, it’s difficult to keep all media and information from reaching them.
Talking with children about their thoughts and feelings related to the event can be a healthy way to cope with any distress or worries they may have. This new factsheet has been developed to support parents/carers to have honest, age-appropriate conversations with their children about war and conflict.
You can download the factsheet from the Emerging Minds website.
Variety’s ‘We Care Therapy’ Grants available now
Variety’s ‘We Care Therapy’ grant aims to assist families in accessing interventions and services for their child after they have received a diagnosis but are awaiting the approval of their NDIS plan.
Grants of up to $2,000 per child are available and are valid for a 12-month period, or until an approved NDIS plan is activated. Children and young people ineligible for NDIS assistance may also apply for this grant.
For more information and to apply head to Variety’s website.
Changes to Child Care Subsidy
As of July 2023, the Child Care Subsidy has increased. Most families using care will be eligible for a larger subsidy. Some families previously not eligible will now be able to receive it.
The changes mean that early childhood education and care is now more affordable for more families. Out-of-pocket costs will reduce for around 96% of families currently using child care.
Making early childhood education and care more affordable has benefits for children and their families, communities and the Australian economy.
To find out more go to the click Childcare Subsidy web page on the Australian Government Department of Education 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.
Community Connections Guide – a Wonderful Resource for the Community
The Community Connections Guide has been created by Blue Sky Community Services to encourage social inclusion across the Mid North Coast. The guide contains profiles of local groups and includes information on how you can join, what to expect, and a list of accessibility features.
If you are a person looking to make inclusive community connections this guide can help!
If you are a member of a community group on the Mid North Coast, you might like to be featured in the Community Connections Guide. It’s totally free to list and is a great way to promote social inclusion in our community. Our Inclusive Communities Coordinators can also assist you with easy practical ways your group can celebrate diversity, promote inclusion and, most importantly, make people feel like they belong.
For more information and to access the guide go to the Community Connections Guide page on the Blue Sky Community Services website.
Inclusive Community Connections Facebook Page
Inclusive Communities Coordinators from Blue Sky Community Services have created an Inclusive Community Connections Facebook page for community members to like and follow.
The page provides information about inclusive places and events on the Mid North Coast. So why not check out the page and increase your positive community connections!
Hospital Care Resources – Download and Complete Yours Now!
The Hospital Care Resources have been developed as part of the ‘Enhancing Inclusion in the Health System’ project, delivered by Blue Sky Community Services in partnership with the Mid North Coast Local Health District. The project aims to develop a best practice model for enhancing the inclusion of people with disability in the mainstream health system.
The Hospital Care Resources assist patients with disability, and Health staff supporting them, to collaborate in a more positive way to better meet the needs of the patient.
For more information about the resources, and to download and complete yours go to the click Enhancing Inclusion in the Health System page on the Blue Sky Community Services website.
FIND A SERVICE
Blue Sky Community Services enables people by sharing information, knowledge and resources.
Blue Sky Community Services would like to advise that the Service Directory on our website has now closed.
Due to changes to our program guidelines, we are no longer able to offer this service. We would like to thank everyone who has submitted entries over the years.
There are a number of other Service Directories in our geographical area, some of which are listed below. If you haven’t already, we encourage you to submit your organisational information to any relevant directories.
“My Community Directories” for Mid North Coast Local Government Areas
- Coffs Harbour City Council Community Directory
- Bellingen Shire Council Community Directory
- Nambucca Shire Council Community Directory
- Kempsey Shire Council Community Directory
- Port Macquarie-Hastings Community Directory
- MidCoast Community Directory
Other Directories
Ask Izzy is a mobile website that connects people who are in crisis with the services they need right now and nearby.
Wesley LifeForce First Nations Suicide Prevention Training – Coffs Harbour
Informed by the latest research in suicide prevention, Wesley LifeForce training equips participants with a variety of skills such as managing suicidal crisis, understanding risk and protective factors, as well as how to recognise potential warning signs. Our programs are aimed at training individuals from all walks of life, as well as organisational groups.
Wesley LifeForce has developed quality suicide prevention training. Our Suicide Prevention Workshop is designed to teach people how to 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. All Wesley LifeForce facilitators are accredited trainers and have completed suicide intervention training.
The training is FREE.
DATE: Thursday 16th November 2023
TIME: 9.30am – 4pm
LOCATION: The Link, 631 Hogbin Drive Toormina
For more information and to register, visit the Wesley Eventbrite page.
Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention Training – Coffs Harbour
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 training is FREE.
DATE: Thursday 23rd November 2023
TIME: 9am – 4pm
LOCATION: Coffs Coast Community College at The Vault. Level 1, 98 Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour
For more information and to register, visit the Wesley Eventbrite page.
Wesley Lifeforce Training – Building Resilience Workshop – Coffs Harbour NSW
The Building Resilience workshop gives participants the chance to take ownership of their mental health and build new strategies to control their thoughts and emotions. Participants reflect on the personal management of their own mental health, in collaboration with others, and end the workshop with new techniques and healthy habits.
Building Resilience runs over four hours, with two sessions in two parts each. Through the workshop, participants move from lifestyle-based factors and strategies to cognitive and self-awareness techniques for improving mental health.
The training is FREE.
DATES: Tuesday 14th November 2023 or Tuesday 28th November 2023
TIME: 10am – 3pm
LOCATION: The Link, 631 Hogbin Drive Toormina
For more information and to register for 14th November date, visit the Wesley Eventbrite page.
For more information and to register for 28th November date, visit the Wesley Eventbrite page.
Dementia Prevention with Dr Tyagi
Want to learn how to reduce your risk of dementia?
Come along to a free longevity, positive ageing, dementia prevention and education event hosted by Dr Tyagi.
WHERE: 181 Rose Avenue, Coffs Harbour
WHEN: Every second Thursday
TIME: 10am – 11.30am
For everything you need to know check out the Dementia Prevention event flyer.
Smart Recovery – Choose Your Own Path to a Healthier Future
Smart Recovery is a free, practical support group that trains you to champion your own behaviour change around alcohol, drug use, gambling or any behaviour of concern.
Meetings are held every Wednesday 10.30am to 12pm at Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre, Community Village, Earl Street Coffs Harbour.
For further information call Drug & Alcohol on 1300 662 263, or the Neighbourhood Centre on 6648 3694.
Coffs Coast Community College
Are you looking to build knowledge and skills? Looking to meet new people?
Your local community college has so many nationally recognised training opportunities and short courses on offer.
Why not take a look to see what interests you on the Coffs Coast Community College website.
‘Breaking Bread’ Brochure
The ‘Breaking Bread’ brochure contains a list of groups and services who provide essential support in the Coffs Harbour area.
Please find the most recent ‘Breaking Bread’ brochure here.
Check Out What’s Happening at Libraries on the Coffs Coast!
There are so many free and inclusive events happening at libraries on the Coffs Coast. There’s something for all ages.
Whether you want to learn to play the ukelele, take your little one to a play activity, or you’re looking to attend a workshop – there’s always something on offer.
Locations include Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga and Toormina.
For more information head to the Coffs Harbour Libraries website.
Storytime for Kids at your local Coffs Coast Library
Join storytime for kids at your local library! Enjoy some wonderful stories and great fun. Suitable for ages 3-5 years, with parent/carer.
Storytime events happen regularly at Coffs Harbour Library, Woolgoolga Library, and Toormina Library.
For upcoming dates and times visit the Coffs Harbour Libraries website.
Building Big Imaginations with Duplo – Free Activity for Kids!
Is your child a budding builder who loves to create with blocks?
Come along for Duplo at the Woolgoolga and Toormina libraries every Wednesday from 10am to 12pm!
The children’s area provides the perfect space for your little ones to unleash their imaginations and explore, learn and play with Duplo.
For more information head to the Coffs Harbour Libraries website.
Free Counselling at Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre
Free counselling is available at the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre!
This service is provided by Counselling Services Incorporated (CSI) through graduate volunteers. If you’re having a hard time, your mental health is suffering, you’re experiencing loss, or you just need someone to talk to – book an appointment.
For more information head to the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre website.
Free Legal Advice at Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre
Free legal advice is available at the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre every second Thursday evening from 5 pm.
Hugo is a local solicitor who volunteers his time. Everyone can access this service. Advice can be given on a range of issues, including family law, power of attorney/guardianship, wills, neighbourhood law and some criminal matters.
Bookings are essential. Appointments are currently over the phone.
For more information head to the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre website..
Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre – so much to offer!
Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre has so much to offer to the community!
Find out about the ways they may be able to assist you by visiting the Neighbourhood Centre website.
21st Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival
The Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival is happening from Friday 27th to Sunday 29th October 2023.
The festival is a three-day celebration of local, national and international acoustic folk, bluegrass and old-time music. The festival is a boutique, family-friendly event with concerts, workshops, dance and jam sessions. Patrons have opportunities to perform and learn from the best traditional, contemporary, and exploratory acoustic music exponents of these genres. With the festival now recognised across the globe, it attracts artists from the USA, Canada, United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Australia, presenting a full program from Friday evening through to late Sunday afternoon. All venues are alcohol, substance and smoke-free zones. Environmental sustainability is actively promoted.
For more information about the event head to the Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival website.
Bellingen Shire Arts Trail Weekend
The Arts Trail Weekend presents a wonderful opportunity to invite friends and fellow artists to explore the beautiful Bellingen Shire, whilst meeting and talking to the creative people who make it such an inspiring place.
The trail takes you from historic Dorrigo and the Rainforest Centre Gallery via the heritage town of Bellingen in its lush green valley, to the laid back coast of Raleigh and Urunga.
The 26 venues, more than 50 artists, and a number of workshops will make this experience an amazing one!
The trail weekend is from 10th to 12th November 2023.
For more information about the event and to plan your trail, click Arts Trail website.
Bellingen River District Hospital – Community Gala Event
The Community Gala Event will include canapes, drinks and live entertainment. Local Businesses have generously donated items to be auctioned. Please bring your generous hearts as all funds raised go to the Bellingen River District Hospital. Dress code is cocktail/evening wear. Ticket sales close 5th November.
DATE: Saturday 11th November 2023
TIME: 5pm – 10pm
LOCATION: Cedar Bar & Kitchen, 8 Church Street Bellingen
For more information and to secure your ticket, click Gala Humanitix webpage.
Southern Blast Film Tour Bellingen
Southern Blast is a beautiful cinematic celebration of the wild landscapes, abundant marine ecosystems, and local communities that call the Southern Ocean coastlines home. Featuring footage shot on location in Lutruwita (Tasmania), the film connects with local personalities: from surfers to crayfishers, sustainable ocean businesses, and Traditional Custodians – it is a glimpse into the unique and diverse communities that coexist with marine life and wild landscapes. Southern Blast is an intimate journey of our southern coastlines and the looming threat of oil and gas exploration – a dangerous plan as our climate warms.
DATE: Sunday 3rd December 2023
TIME: 5pm – 8pm
LOCATION: Bellingen Memorial Hall
To find out more, head to the Southern Blast Humanitix page.
River Sounds Festival in Bellingen
River Sounds is a three day, licenced and all ages music festival located in the eclectic village of Bellingen NSW. Comprising of a diverse line up of high profile, emerging and First Nation artists, plus an an extensive array of craft food and beverage offerings.For more festival details head to the website. River Sounds is held on the traditional lands of the Gumbaynggirr people. Paying respect to the Elders of these traditional lands – past, present and emerging – and, through them, to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
DATE: 22nd & 23rd December 2023
LOCATION: 36 Hammond Street Bellingen
To find out more, click River Sounds webpage.
Coffs Harbour & Bellingen Clinical Society – Healthy North Coast
Local clinical connections are more important than ever, and the Coffs Harbour & Bellingen Clinical Society is available for you to connect with.
Regional clinical societies foster practitioner relationships by providing a platform in which the primary healthcare workforce can come together to make friends, network, learn new information and have fun in a collaborative, knowledge-sharing space.
Clinical societies welcome all primary care professionals working in:
-
- general practice (including practice staff and admin)
- allied health
- Aboriginal health
- nursing
- pharmacy
- medical specialties
To join your local clinical society and find out what events are happening soon, visit the Healthy North 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 in Hickory Street, Dorrigo.
Local organic fruit and veg, re-cycled and up-cycled goods, clothes, and bric-a-brac, as well as support to community organisations for their fundraising activities in support of local projects.
Many other unique stalls which vary monthly/seasonally. So come and check out some fair dinkum country hospitality in the beautiful village of Dorrigo!
Bellingen Growers Market
The Bellingen Growers Market is held at the Bellingen Showground on the second and fourth Saturday of each month between 8am and 1pm.
The market’s purpose is to encourage/promote local growers and services, and to give the community reliable access to organic and chemical-free produce within a multi-faceted marketplace which supports a healthy lifestyle and a more sustainable future.
You’ll find an amazing range of freshly-picked produce – mostly certified organic – fruit, vegetables, salad greens, nuts, flowers… all direct from local growers. The café has delicious locally-baked bread and pastries and will serve you a hearty organic breakfast. Order an organic coffee or freshly squeezed juice and enjoy the live music whilst browsing the newspapers or meeting with old and new friends. The kids love our famous storyteller (and the smoothies and waffles too). There are also plenty of second-hand clothes and quality bric-a-brac to choose from.
For more information head to the Bellingen Growers Market website.
Nambucca & Macksville Clinical Society – Healthy North Coast
Local clinical connections are more important than ever, and the Nambucca & Macksville Clinical Society is available for you to connect with.
Regional clinical societies foster practitioner relationships by providing a platform in which the primary healthcare workforce can come together to make friends, network, learn new information and have fun in a collaborative, knowledge-sharing space.
Clinical societies welcome all primary care professionals working in:
- general practice (including practice staff and admin)
- allied health
- Aboriginal health
- nursing
- pharmacy
- medical specialties.
To join your local clinical society and find out what events are happening soon, visit the Healthy North 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.
Messy Art Play – Sensory Creative Play for Preschoolers (3yrs +) – Kempsey
Messy and sensory creative play for pre-schoolers. An opportunity for children to explore varying mediums and materials within in their own creative expressive freedom. Messy Art Play encourages children to explore art while getting their hands into all things squishy and gooey. Just as it sounds, messy art is… messy! Our wonderful creative artist is a qualified Early Childhood educator and will guide you, with your children to let go of the ‘need for clean’ and allow your child to splatter, smear, and explore as children should.
DATE: Thursday Mornings in November (2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th November 2023)
TIME: 11:15am – 12:00pm
LOCATION: Kempsey Showground, 19 Sea Street, West Kempsey
Limited spots available. For more information and to secure your child’s spot, click Messy Art Play Humanitix page.
Tuning into Teens – Kempsey
‘Tuning into Teens’ is about emotionally intelligent parenting. Would you like to learn how to:
- communicate with your teen more effectively?
- be better at understanding your teen?
- help your teen manage difficult emotions?
- teach your teen how to make friends and deal with conflict?
Tuning into Teens shows you how to help your adolescent develop emotional intelligence.
DATES: 5-week program on Thursday mornings – 16 Nov, 23 Nov, 30 Nov, 7 Dec & 14 Dec 2023
TIME: 10am – 12pm
LOCATION: Headspace Kempsey, 85 Smith Street, Kempsey.
For more information and to secure your spot, visit the Kempsey Families webpage.
Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention Full Day Workshop – Kempsey
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 training is FREE.
DATE: Tuesday 12th December 2023
TIME: 9am – 4pm
LOCATION: Kempsey Macleay RSL Club, 1 York Lane Kempsey
For more information and to register, visit the Wesley Eventbrite page.
Kempsey & Macleay Clinical Society – Healthy North Coast
Local clinical connections are more important than ever, and the Kempsey & Macleay Clinical Society is available for you to connect with.
Regional clinical societies foster practitioner relationships by providing a platform in which the primary healthcare workforce can come together to make friends, network, learn new information and have fun in a collaborative, knowledge-sharing space.
Clinical societies welcome all primary care professionals working in:
- general practice (including practice staff and admin)
- allied health
- Aboriginal health
- nursing
- pharmacy
- medical specialties.
To join your local clinical society and find out what events are happening soon, visit the Healthy North Coast website.
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.
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.
Baby Bounce for the Little Ones at Kempsey Library
Singing and rhymes are a part of early literacy. Early literacy is the foundation of learning to read. Singing develops your child’s communication, voice development and helps with their emotional wellbeing.
At Baby Bounce you and your bub enjoy stories, rhymes, movement, and lots of fun. The sessions are interactive, fun and beneficial to both parent and child.
Baby Bounce is for children aged 0 – 3 years, and is held every second Friday at Kempsey Library, starting at 10.00am.
For dates and more information go to the Kempsey Library website.
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.
Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention Training – Port Macquarie
Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention Training provides essential skills training to recognise and respond to someone at risk of harm. The training is informed by the latest research in suicide prevention, and an opportunity not to be missed.
Training will be held in Port Macquarie on Tuesday, 31st October.
For more information and to register, head to the Suicide Prevention Workshop booking site.
Eclipse Support Group
The Eclipse Support Group in Port Macquarie aims to assist people who have survived a suicide attempt.
In the Eclipse group we are not afraid to talk about suicide. We discuss how we got to the point where being dead seemed a better option than living. We have conversations about reasons to stay alive, and about strategies that may be helpful in keeping us safe so we can see a more hopeful future.
The group has a safe, non-judgemental atmosphere where you are able to talk about topics that you perhaps don’t like to burden family and friends with.
For details about the group read the Eclipse Support Group flyer.
Support After Suicide Bereavement
If you are dealing with the suicide of a loved one or a friend, it’s important that you feel free to talk about your reactions to suicide openly and honestly. It’s also important that you receive the support that helps you make sense of what has happened. Talking about it can help you. And it can help others too.
Lifeline Mid Coast’s ‘Support After Suicide Bereavement’ groups are for adults who have experienced the loss of someone through suicide. They are open groups, facilitated by trained, experienced people who have also lost a loved one to suicide. You are welcome to attend, as you feel the need.
WHEN: 4th Wednesday of the month (January – November)
TIME: 6pm – 8pm
WHERE: Lifeline, 5 Sherwood Road Port Macquarie
For more information phone (02) 6581 2800, email suicideprevention@lifelinemidcoast.org.au, or go to the Lifeline Suicide Bereavement Support web page.
Port Macquarie & Hastings Clinical Society – Healthy North Coast
Local clinical connections are more important than ever, and the Port Macquarie & Hastings Clinical Society is available for you to connect with.
Regional clinical societies foster practitioner relationships by providing a platform in which the primary healthcare workforce can come together to make friends, network, learn new information and have fun in a collaborative, knowledge-sharing space.
Clinical societies welcome all primary care professionals working in:
- general practice (including practice staff and admin)
- allied health
- Aboriginal health
- nursing
- pharmacy
- medical specialties.
To join your local clinical society and find out what events are happening soon, visit the Healthy North Coast website.
Soldier On Coffee Catch-up
.Join Soldier On at The Hill Cafe for a chat and catch-up with other current and ex-serving Defence personnel and their family members. Children are also welcome and we look forward to seeing you on the day. No need to RSVP. Parents/guardians must provide supervision of all children and young people.
WHEN: Wednesdays each week
TIME: 9.30am – 11am
WHERE: The Hill Cafe, 5 Chancellors DriveThrumster
For more information click HERE.
Cuppa with Colour Social Group – Port Macquarie
Come and join in the quiet, inner happy revolution at our regular catch-up: Colouring in for Grown-ups!
Meet new friends, enjoy a beverage, let your mind go free and create a beautiful piece of art.
Not keen on colouring & paper crafts? No problem, come along for a coffee and a chat.
All materials are provided at no cost. However, feel free to bring your own as well.
All are welcome, and it’s free!
For more information check out the Cuppa with Colour flyer.
Mid North Coast Community College
Are you looking to build knowledge and skills? Looking to meet new people?
Your local community college has so many nationally recognised training opportunities and short courses on offer.
Why not take a look to see what interests you on the Mid North Coast Community College website.
Storytime for Kids at your local Port-Hastings Library
Join storytime for kids at your local library! Enjoy some wonderful stories and great fun. Suitable for ages 3-5 years, with parent/carer.
Storytime events happen regularly at Wauchope Library, Laurieton Library, and Port Macquarie Library.
For upcoming dates and times go to the Mid North Coast Library Service website.
Baby Bounce for the Little Ones at Port-Hastings Library
Join Baby Bounce at your local library for fun songs, rhymes, finger play, and music. For infants from birth to 1 year.
Baby Bounce events happen regularly at Wauchope Library, Laurieton Library, and Port Macquarie Library.
For upcoming dates and times go to the Mid North Coast Library Service website.
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.
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.
Join the Blue Sky Team! Team Leader – Families, Young People & Communities
We are seeking to employ a professional and values-aligned person to join our supportive and friendly team, to assist us in delivering efficient, effective and high quality services, and in leading and supporting the Families, Young People and Communities team.
The position is based in Coffs Harbour, on the Mid North Coast of NSW, and is a part-time position (35 hours per week).
Applications must be received before midday on Monday 13th November 2023.
For further information on the position, including how to apply, please visit the Blue Sky Positions Vacant webpage.
Join the Blue Sky Team! People & Culture Assistant
We are seeking to employ a part-time (25 hours per week) People and Culture Assistant, based in Coffs Harbour.
This position plays a pivotal role in supporting the People and Culture function and undertaking processes to ensure procedural compliance, including administration for recruitment, employment screening, maintaining the Human Resource Management Information System, and assisting the People and Culture Manager in supporting our staff to thrive, ensuring our workplace community and culture is reflective of our workplace values.
Applications are due by midday on Monday, 13th November 2023.
For further information on the position, including how to apply, please visit the Blue Sky Positions Vacant webpage.
Learn Basic Auslan on Mid North Coast Local Health District’s YouTube Channel!
Have you always wanted to learn Auslan? Now you can!
A basic Auslan training video was filmed as part of the ‘Enhancing Inclusion in the Health System’ project, jointly delivered by Blue Sky Community Services and the Mid North Coast Local Health District.
The video has been broken up into learning segments and the segments are available on the Mid North Coast Local Health District’s YouTube channel.
Watch the Ask Away Video Series on the Mid North Coast Local Health District’s YouTube Channel!
Watch some amazing disability awareness videos, from people with disability themselves! These videos are profound and poignant, and are not to be missed.
The videos were filmed as part of the ‘Enhancing Inclusion in the Health System’ project, jointly delivered by Blue Sky Community Services and the Mid North Coast Local Health District.
There are six videos currently available, with two more amazing videos to come. The videos are available on the Mid North Coast Local Health District’s YouTube channel.
The Specialist Trans and Gender Diverse Health Service
NSW Health is committed to providing evidence-based, holistic, age-appropriate and developmentally informed care for trans and gender diverse young people across NSW. To enhance existing services, NSW Health is developing a coordinated, statewide Specialist Trans and Gender Diverse Health Service (TGD Health Service) to provide gender affirming health care for people aged under 25.
The TGD Health Service will be delivered through two specialist hubs. The scope of the Hubs is limited to specialist trans and gender diverse health care. The Hubs work closely with existing support services and primary care to provide holistic care for young people and their families and carers.
For further information regarding how the TGD Health Service will operate and deliver services, visit the NSW Health webpage.
New Factsheet: Talking to Children about War and Conflict
It can be hard to know how to explain war and conflict to children, or if you should even talk about them at all. You may be struggling to make sense of what you’re seeing, hearing and feeling yourself. It’s normal to want to protect children from the violent reality of these events, but in today’s ever-connected world, it’s difficult to keep all media and information from reaching them.
Talking with children about their thoughts and feelings related to the event can be a healthy way to cope with any distress or worries they may have. This new factsheet has been developed to support parents/carers to have honest, age-appropriate conversations with their children about war and conflict.
You can download the factsheet from the Emerging Minds website.
Variety’s ‘We Care Therapy’ Grants available now
Variety’s ‘We Care Therapy’ grant aims to assist families in accessing interventions and services for their child after they have received a diagnosis but are awaiting the approval of their NDIS plan.
Grants of up to $2,000 per child are available and are valid for a 12-month period, or until an approved NDIS plan is activated. Children and young people ineligible for NDIS assistance may also apply for this grant.
For more information and to apply head to Variety’s website.
Changes to Child Care Subsidy
As of July 2023, the Child Care Subsidy has increased. Most families using care will be eligible for a larger subsidy. Some families previously not eligible will now be able to receive it.
The changes mean that early childhood education and care is now more affordable for more families. Out-of-pocket costs will reduce for around 96% of families currently using child care.
Making early childhood education and care more affordable has benefits for children and their families, communities and the Australian economy.
To find out more go to the click Childcare Subsidy web page on the Australian Government Department of Education 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.
Community Connections Guide – a Wonderful Resource for the Community
The Community Connections Guide has been created by Blue Sky Community Services to encourage social inclusion across the Mid North Coast. The guide contains profiles of local groups and includes information on how you can join, what to expect, and a list of accessibility features.
If you are a person looking to make inclusive community connections this guide can help!
If you are a member of a community group on the Mid North Coast, you might like to be featured in the Community Connections Guide. It’s totally free to list and is a great way to promote social inclusion in our community. Our Inclusive Communities Coordinators can also assist you with easy practical ways your group can celebrate diversity, promote inclusion and, most importantly, make people feel like they belong.
For more information and to access the guide go to the Community Connections Guide page on the Blue Sky Community Services website.
Inclusive Community Connections Facebook Page
Inclusive Communities Coordinators from Blue Sky Community Services have created an Inclusive Community Connections Facebook page for community members to like and follow.
The page provides information about inclusive places and events on the Mid North Coast. So why not check out the page and increase your positive community connections!
Hospital Care Resources – Download and Complete Yours Now!
The Hospital Care Resources have been developed as part of the ‘Enhancing Inclusion in the Health System’ project, delivered by Blue Sky Community Services in partnership with the Mid North Coast Local Health District. The project aims to develop a best practice model for enhancing the inclusion of people with disability in the mainstream health system.
The Hospital Care Resources assist patients with disability, and Health staff supporting them, to collaborate in a more positive way to better meet the needs of the patient.
For more information about the resources, and to download and complete yours go to the click Enhancing Inclusion in the Health System page on the Blue Sky Community Services website.