This year has been amazing; we have met so many new faces and enjoyed many fun and interesting experiences! We are so proud of everyone and how they have continued to grow and meet their goals throughout the year. As we say ‘goodbye’ to some people and ‘hello’ to others, we look forward to another exciting year. Thank you to everyone who continue to support us; families and support staff alike. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Intentions and Aspirations …
As we look ahead to the new year we are excited to share some of what we’ve had ‘in the works’! Next year we will be trialling a fortnightly program instead of a weekly one—we have so many experiences and activities lined up, a week is just not enough. We’ll be volunteering at the Ronald McDonald Charity House at Clayton in an ongoing partnership, learning all about generosity, empathy and selflessness. We also look to gain more work placement experiences for our participants, and look to introduce additional health and wellbeing opportunities for our Wellness Mondays. You’ll hear more about all of these heading into new year—we really can’t wait to share!
Bendigo Getaway …
Our mid-year mini break was to Bendigo. Several participants signed up to go. Our first stop was Hanging Rock where we went for a walk and enjoyed lunch. We left for Bendigo after lunch and checked into the BIG4 Bendigo Park Lane Holiday Park, where we spent a relaxing afternoon before heading off to the Lakeside Hotel Bendigo for dinner – where we were joined by friends of Grow 2 Be. Our second day started off with a level 2 mine tour at Central Deborah Mine Bendigo. We were in awe of the hard work miners had to do “back in the day” and the toll it took on their health. We learnt so much about early mining – most importantly, we realized that NONE of us are cut out to be miners. Following the tour we went for a 45min ride on the Bendigo Vintage Talking Tram, where the history of Bendigo was brought to life. After lunch, it was time to head out to the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion which is the largest Buddhist Stupa in the Western world and where we all found ourselves feeling quite peaceful. After an exhilarating day around Bendigo, we headed back to BIG4 Bendigo Park Lane Holiday Park for some relaxation time before dinner. Our last day found us making our way to the Victorian Goldfields Railway. Once at the station we checked in and boarded First Class – ready for our journey to Maldon. Liam was surprised with a Cab Ride – he was taken by the conductor to go and spend half the trip up front in the cab with the driver. Liam loved it. The staff at the Victorian Goldfields Railway were amazing and we can’t thank you enough for your hospitality and for the amazing experience.
After lunch, it was time to head back to Melbourne. We had an amazing three days in Bendigo.
Amber’s Work Experience Opportunity …
This term, Amber has been in the fortunate position to have the opportunity to complete some work experience at Officer Bakehouse and Takeaway. All the tasks were explained and demonstrated to Amber and she has embraced the opportunity – completing all tasks expected of her. These tasks include making coffee’s, sweeping the cafe, doing dishes, restocking the fridges, re-filling sauces, packing away the salad bar at the end of her placement shift – to name but a few. Excellent work Amber.
Certificate II in Animal Care …
The cohort that commenced the program in August of 2022 have successfully concluded their course, while those who enrolled in Term 3 of 2023 are on track to complete their studies by the middle of next year.
In the latest term, we delved into the topic of providing comprehensive care for rabbits and rodents, significantly expanding our understanding of general animal care, acquiring a diverse range of knowledge
in this field. Everyone has put in 100% this year, working towards completing their studies to a very high standard. Congratulations to the participants who have completed their qualification this year – with certificates handed out an the day of our Christmas Party. We are proud of everyone for their efforts.
Our Voice …
Kaitlin: I’m excited to have learnt all about how to take of different kinds of animals!
Bianca: I learnt so many new things.
Riley: I enjoyed learning everything about animals.
Brayden: I liked learning all about the different needs se animal’s needs.
Shania: I am excited to finish next year.
Short Courses – Money Matters and Food Handling …
We completed our ‘Money Matters’ short course in which we learnt about: budgeting e.g. when cooking
a meal, which services we need to pay for, recognising money, the history behind coins and the notes, recognising the correct change when buying an item and estimating the cost of an item.
It has been so helpful for our participants to learn such valuable life skills.
Dylan and Amber completed their food handlers at Brand New Day. With Amber completing work experience at Officer Bakehouse and Dylan working at Central Fish and Chips in Officer, this training they have chosen has been highly beneficial for both of them to build their knowledge and repertoire of skills for employment and independence.
They learnt about storing food safely, preventing food contamination by maintaining good hygiene practices including personal grooming, identifying food hazards in the kitchen and safe temperatures for storing, heating and eating food. This knowledge will not only help them in a professional setting but also in their everyday life. Certificates were handed out at our Christmas Party.
Our Voice …
Paul: Money is my life!
Samual: I enjoy learning about money and how to budget for shopping and personal items.
Nik: I like learning how to spend money.
Liam: I enjoyed this course.
Nesian: I think it’s important to learn budgeting. Amber: I’ve learnt so much doing the food handlers course to help me at Officer Bakehouse. Dylan: I am happy I was able to upgrade my food handling knowledge – to keep it current.
Equine Therapy …
Our participants continue in the transformative experience with Equine Therapy at Jabulani Sanctuary. The distinctive program revolves around interacting with horses to develop emotional awareness, establishing a link between the learnt concepts and skills and their practical application in daily life.
Throughout the sessions of this term, our emphasis has been on crucial elements, including conducting comprehensive health assessments, refining communication strategies, mastering the art of releasing emotional burdens, embracing forgiveness, and cultivating active listening skills. These acquired skills not only prove advantageous in the company of horses but also extend their positive influence across diverse aspects of personal development.
Our Voice …
Shania: I like learning about the horses.
Kaitlin: I’m learning to be a strong person by working with horses.
Amber: I love bonding with the horses and learning more about myself.
Gembrook Wildlife Shelter …
At Gembrook Wildlife Shelter, we value the opportunity to tend to some of Australia’s most captivating wild- life, including wombats, kangaroos, joeys, koalas, and we can’t forget our favourite—Evie the Emu. Each week, we immerse ourselves in their habitat, delivering essential care and support.
Volunteering at this shelter teaches responsibility, cultivates compassion, and enhances our connection with
the natural world. By extending a helping hand to animals facing adversity, we play a pivotal role in their well-being. With gentleness and consideration, we care for small and delicate infants, ensuring their health and development. Additionally, we ensure health and safety through cleanliness and create a nurturing environment for sick and injured wildlife, fostering their recovery.
Our Voice …
Amber: I love caring for all the kangaroos.
Kaitlin: I love going to the shelter to say hello to Evie the emu.
Riley: I love feeding the baby wombats who love eating my shoelaces.
Nesian: I love feeding the kangaroos, and the baby possums.
The Bluey and Alice Refuge …
Our primary responsibilities at the Bluey & Alice Bunny Refuge include ensuring a continuous supply of hay
and water for the bunnies, guaranteeing their comfort and overall health.
As we take turns managing shifts at the refuge, we not only fulfill these essentials duties but also relish the opportunity to shower affection and care upon these delightful bunnies. Some are on a journey of rehabilitation, preparing them for their eventual forever homes, while others are boarders while their families and away.
Our collaborative skills are harnessed when dealing with larger groups, as we distribute responsibilities among different team members, operating like a well-coordinated machine to efficiently accomplish our tasks.
Our Voice …
Patrick: It’s awesome to care for the bunnies.
Amber: I love caring for all the bunnies and making sure they are safe, fed and watered.
Bianca: I love when there are baby bunnies – they fit in the palm of my hand.
Riley: I love feeding the rabbits and giving them cuddles.
Kaitlin: The bunnies are so soft and cuddly.
Samual: It’s a privilege to care for the bunnies.
Wellness Mondays …
During our Wellness Mondays, we are focused on the holistic development of our participants. Our day starts with a relaxing walk around the lake before discussing topics encompassing emotional intelligence, offering valuable insights and tools for personal growth and good mental health. Following that, we proceed to the gym to elevate our physical fitness, adopting a well-rounded approach to wellbeing. Our fitness routine this term has been varied, starting with stretches, moving onto cardio exercises, weight training, lively games of basketball and swimming. It’s been an enjoyable and invigorating experience!
Our Voice …
Samual: I love getting stronger.
Paul: I like working on my abs.
Liam: I enjoy swimming after my workout.
Nesian: I increase my weights to be stronger than the boys.
Riley: I’m getting stronger.
Dylan: I enjoy walking and love the gym.
Cooking at Lakeside …
Throughout the course of this year, we’ve thoroughly enjoyed preparing a diverse array of dishes from various cuisines! Our culinary adventure typically kicks off with researching a recipe chosen the previous week, checking ingredient prices on the Coles website for budget planning. Following our shopping expedition, we assess whether we stayed within budget and then dive into the cooking process – this includes food prep, cooking and washing up.
As everyone returns from their morning of volunteering on a Wednesday, they are greeted with a delicious and warm lunch prepared by our talented chefs.
Our Voice …
Paul: It’s so fun! Good! Great!
Samual: I like making new foods.
Patrick: I’m getting good at writing the ingredients on the board.
Woodwork …
At the Dandenong Community & Learning Centre, as well as at Brand New Day, Thursdays have evolved into a hub of creativity and craftsmanship, where our participants have broadened their horizons and engaged in creative woodwork projects such as toys, toolboxes, birdboxes and the like.
Woodworking has captured our collective passion, providing a distinctive platform for expressing our artistic creativity within specific project parameters, while developing our fine motor skills, concentration and attention to detail. We’ve acquired the skills of intricate design and following step-by-step instructions, infusing each piece with our unique personal touches.
At Brand New Day, Lucas, Riley, and Dylan have embarked on a special adventure, with the highlight being
the creation of various wooden games and toys.
Our Voice …
Amber: I love making projects out of wood.
Nik: I have made so many cool Bianca: I enjoy being creative.
Patrick: I like doing woodwork.
Riley: I loved making the toys I have made – I’ve learnt so much this year.
Paul: It’s great! I like using the tools.
Lakeside Arts and Crafts …
In the past few months, we’ve welcomed numerous new friendly faces, prompting us to introduce activities tailored to their interests. One particular favourite among many of us is engaging in arts and crafts! We’ve delved into researching captivating activities, gathering the required materials, and enthusiastically embarking on new projects. Our portfolio has expanded to include a variety of activities, such as tutorial painting, candle making, sketching, diamond art, flower pressing, creating Christmas decorations and Christmas presents and much more.
These activities have proven to be not only enjoyable but also exceptionally creative, providing participants with the opportunity to problem solve while unleashing their inner artistic side. Witnessing these master pieces come to life each week has been a source of joy for all of us. We eagerly anticipate continuing our arts and crafts program into the new year, where we aim to further refine and showcase our creative talents.
Our Voice …
Nesian: I like the opportunity to make so many different things.
Kaitlin: I enjoy trying new projects and seeing what looks good.
Nik: I really enjoy making my unique advent calendar.
Activities of Choice …
During the year, whenever we have free time – generally at the end of a full and productive day – our participants have the opportunity to work on “Activities of Choice” … These are activities that are of interest to each participant (either individually or as part of a small group) and could include games, cards, paint by numbers, diamond art, art and crafts, reading, knitting, word searches, or anything really of interest. It’s important that everyone has the opportunity to make their own choices regarding how to spend their free time.
Being Social …
Our participants just love social activities in the community – from going to the library to going bowling or going swimming – or anything in between. The choice is theirs and bowling always wins. Developing friendships in an environment where everyone feels accepted is a very important life skill and we encourage it at every opportunity.
Out and About Friday’s …
Each Friday we get out and about in our community, going to movies, museums or participating in other experiences and excursions. We have spent time discussing where we want to go throughout the year, and have already begun planning some of our activities for 2024. Over this term we’ve had some super fun excursions, including going to the: movies, the Market Fair, Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, Clip N’ Climb, swimming, Tom’s Confectionary, Monolpoly Dreams and the Melbourne BBC Earth Experience, to name but a few.
Ultimately, the most important thing about out and about Fridays is that our participants choose and plan what we do. Having our Friday’s dedicated to getting out and about means that we have the opportunity to research, price and discuss all the options out there, improving our communication, research and critical thinking skills. There is such a place in our lives for recreation, exploring and learning new things, and being able to get out into the community is crucial for us to live fulfilling lives. In planning what we want to do ahead of time, we have the opportunity to research activities we would enjoy, while also keeping in mind everyone else’s interests.
Our Voice …
Nik: I love seeing so many cool things.
Amber: I enjoy being out with friends and experiencing new places.
Bianca: I love having fun in the community.
Meagan: I like going out.
Christmas Break …
We have had an incredible year and ended our year with a very enjoyable Christmas Party. We hope that everyone has a wonderful and blessed Christmas and safe and festive New Year’s Celebration.
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