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Barwon Network of Neighbourhood Centres Inc. ABN 43226845853 Inc. No. A00185110D

ANNUAL REPORT 2014

‘A COLLECTIVE VOICE AND SENSE OF UNITY’ Contact details: 45 Heyers Road, Grovedale 3216 Phone: 03 5241 4810 Email: [email protected] www.bnnc.net.au

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.bnnc.net.au

Annual Report 2014 Page 1 of 28

Barwon Network of Neighbourhood Centres Inc. VISION “a collective voice and a sense of unity” MISSION The Barwon Network of Neighbourhood Centres Inc. mission is to work within a community development framework to support the sustainability, development and growth of its members and the Neighbourhood House movement. The Network supports the diversity, and autonomy of its members, whilst advocating for them individually and collectively. PURPOSE The Barwon Network of Neighbourhood Centres Inc. will provide “a collective voice and a sense of unity” for its membership PRIORITIES

Sharing resources, information and knowledge Linking members with each other and our community partners Community development Conversations – positive and productive Advocacy

HISTORY A meeting of the Barwon Community Education Network and Barwon Neighbourhood House Network, held in Camperdown on 3 August 1989, amalgamated into a new entity called The Network of Neighbourhood Houses and Community Educators. From this combined group the “The Barwon Network of Neighbourhood Centres” was formed. From this meeting of 18 Houses, a Constitution was also developed and The Barwon Network became an Incorporated Body on 7th November, 1990. In 1995, the name was changed to the Barwon Network of Neighbourhood Centres Inc. Just as the Neighbourhood House movement has since grown, so has the Network. We now have 25 Houses in the region. The Constitution was updated in 2013 and a number of needs analyses have been conducted to ensure the Network remains responsive to the needs and aspirations of its members. The purpose of the Network remains “to provide a collective voice and a sense of unity”.


Who is in the Barwon Network? The Barwon Network of Neighbourhood Centres Inc. services a vast area encompassing four Local Councils and covers a total population area of approximately 265,276. (Source: Australian

Bureau of Statistics and Department of Sustainability & Environment, ‘Victoria in Future 2012’)

City of Greater Geelong

1. Anakie Community House 2. Bellarine Living and Learning Centre 3. Cloverdale Community Centre 4. Eastern Geelong Community Centre 5. Geelong West Neighbourhood House 6. Grovedale Neighbourhood House 7. Lara Community Centre 8. Norlane Community Centre 9. Ocean Grove Neighbourhood Centre 10. Portarlington Neighbourhood House 11. Rosewall Neighbourhood Centre 12. South Barwon Community Centre 13. SpringDale Neighbourhood Centre 14. Vines Road Community Centre

Borough of Queenscliffe

1. Queenscliffe & District Neighbourhood House Colac Otway Shire

1. Colac Neighbourhood House 2. Forrest & District Neighbourhood House 3. Gellibrand Community House 4. Lavers Hill & District Community House 5. Marrar Woorn (Apollo Bay) Community Centre

Surf Coast Shire

1. Anglesea & District Community House 2. Deans Marsh Community Cottage 3. Lorne (Fig Tree) Community House 4. Spring Creek Community House 5. Winchelsea Community House


Did you know…

8503 people use or visit a Barwon Neighbourhood House each week that’s 386 per House per week

6344 people participate in programmed activities at Barwon Neighbourhood Houses each week

that’s 288 per House per week 172 people serve on governance or advisory committees of Barwon Neighbourhood Houses 354 people volunteer at Barwon Neighbourhood Houses each week

that’s 18 per House 218 partnerships involving Barwon Neighbourhood Houses per month

That’s 10 regular partnerships In the last 12 months Neighbourhood Houses in Barwon:

Were involved in 103 community events Managed 86 projects Made 123 funding applications


Executive Committee 2013-2014 Chairperson: Alex Leknius, Manager Anglesea Community House Treasurer: Anne Brackley, Coordinator SpringDale Neighbourhood Centre Secretary: Sandra Anderson, Norlane Community Centre Executive Members: Laura Connor (Spring Creek Community House), Beth Davidson

(Grovedale Neighbourhood House), Julie Hyslop (Portarlington Neighbourhood House), Sue Kelly (HR4 Business), Sharon Waters (SpringDale Neighbourhood Centre), Rhiannon Cox (Marrar Woorn Neighbourhood House)

Roles and responsibilities of Barwon Network of Neighbourhood Centres The Network’s responsibilities to its members: As a priority, send ALL Houses/Organisations current, relevant and up to date

information. Establish and maintain an Information Bank’ for use by the Network and Individual

members. Provide assistance on any identified issue relevant to each house when requested.

This could be as a group, or if required, on an individual basis. Meetings – Network and NOCH – ensure meetings throughout the Region are positive

and productive and a benefit to all our members. Develop appropriate policies and procedures Ensure that the Networker maintains regular contact. Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of all Network Members

Member’s responsibilities to the Network. Share information considered relevant, helpful and supportive. Especially in areas of:

∆ Training ∆ Personnel ∆ Facilities ∆ Research ∆ Equipment ∆ Experience

Ensure representation at Network meetings. Representatives could include Coordinators, Committee of Management members, or Volunteers.

Exercise the right to have input and make recommendations concerning all Network documents, e.g. Constitution, Strategic Plan

Representative voting. One person per House/Organisation authorised by Committee of Management to vote at Network meetings, as set out in the Model Rules.

Pay membership fees on time as required. Encourage and assist those who agree to take Executive Positions on the Network

Committee to carry out their commitments. Each House/Organisation to be prepared to host meetings on a cyclical basis. Each House/Organisation is encouraged to retain its autonomy, individuality,

creativity and inventiveness, and to share these qualities with other members of the Network.


ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2014 BARWON NETWORK OF NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRES Inc. Tuesday 21 October 2014, 2-4pm Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre The AGM is a time to celebrate and reflect on the achievements over the past twelve months and look forward to the year ahead. It is an opportunity to network and meet with friends and colleagues in the Network and the sector.

AGENDA THEME: RESILIENT COMMUNITIES

1. Welcome & apologies

2. Guest speaker: Elaine Carbines, CEO, G21 Geelong Region Alliance

3. Minutes from previous Annual General Meeting 2013

4. Reports presented;

Chairperson Network Coordinator Treasurer

5. Appointment of Auditor for 2014/15

6. Launch “Don’t Panic”

The Surf Coast & Colac Otway Neighbourhood Houses Strengthening Participation and Resilience in Communities (SPARC) Project Resource Manual

Mr Craig Lapsley, Emergency Management Commissioner, Emergency Management Victoria

7. Conclusion – please join us in an opportunity to mix and mingle with peers/supporters

over an afternoon tea.


Minutes of previous meeting

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING BARWON NETWORK OF NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRES Inc. Tuesday 29th October 2013 - 10am, for a 10.30am start Grovedale Neighbourhood House WELCOME:- Acting Chairperson Alex Leknius Welcomed everyone Welcome to Country:- Beth Davidson. PRESENT:- Heather O'Shannessey, Ray Tucker (Anakie), Alex Leknius (Anglesea), Rhiannon Cox (Apollo Bay), Anne French (Bellarine), Sue Hartigan (Cloverdale), Ruth Payne (Colac), Wendy Reichler, Rosemary Nugent (Geelong West), Beth Davidson (Grovedale), Katy Kennedy (Lavers Hill), Sandra Anderson (Norlane), Julie Hyslop, (Portarlington), Bev Brown (Rosewall ), Sue Kelly (Rosewall & HR4Business), Jan Rockliffe (Sth. Barwon), Laura Connor, Fiona Raw (Springcreek), Anne Brackley (Springdale), Helen Verity, Wendy Greaves (Winchelsea), David Harris (ACFE), Christine Brooks( (Networker), Cr. Rose Hodge, Leonie Mugavin (Surf Coast Shire), Amanda Miggins (DHS), Tracey Ollis (Deakin University) & Kate Borys (DHS). APOLOGIES:- Vivian Fry (Lara), Julie George, (Bellarine), Lou Brazier (Norlane), Carolyn Williams (Queenscliff) Angela Savage CEO (ANHLC), Jill Stewart (Deans Marsh), Steve Singline, Jane Wager (COGG), Carolyn Jordon (Leisure Networks), Kirsten George (DHS), Catherine Stahl (Vines Road), Bev Rimmer (Colac), John Cottle, Susan Cottle (SpringDale) & Jason Brown (Geelong West) APOLOGIES:- MOVED:- Anne Brackley. SECONDED:- Laura Connor. “That the apologies be accepted”. CARRIED. MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING -22nd May 2012 MOVED:- Wendy Greaves SECONDED:- Julie Hyslop. “That the minutes be accepted”. CARRIED. REPORTS PRESENTED AS WRITTEN. Chairperson’s Report – Acting Chairperson Alex Leknius Networker’s Report – Christine Brooks Treasurer’s Report – Anne Brackley. ANHLC – Chairperson ANHLC Beth Davidson gave a verbal report. TREASURER’S REPORT:- Auditors report for 18months From 1st January 2012 to 30th June 2013. MOVED:- Anne Brackley SECONDED:- Jan Rockliffe “That the Treasurer’s Report be accepted”. CARRIED. MOVED:- Anne Brackley SECONDED:- Julie Hyslop “That we appoint Mark Wilkinson to be the Networks Auditor for 2013/2014 financial year”. CARRIED. ELECTION OF OFFICE BEARERS FOR 2013/2014 David Harris - ACFE took the chair for the Election of Office Bearers. Chairperson Alex Leknius Secretary Sandra Anderson Treasurer Anne Brackley General Executive Members:- Beth Davidson, Sharon Waters, Julie Hyslop, Laura Connor, Rhiannon Cox, Sue Kelly. MOVED:- Ray Tucker. SECONDED:- Jan Rockcliffe “That all positions be accepted”. CARRIED. David Harris then declared all positions duly elected.


Minutes of previous meeting – continued SPECIAL RESOLUTION The following Special Resolution, for which at least 21 days’ notice prior to this AGM has been given (in accordance with the rules) to all members entitled to vote, is to be voted on by the membership: “That the new constitution as distributed to all members on the 23rd September 2013 and which incorporates the new “model rules” as proposed by the Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012 is accepted as the new constitution for the Barwon network of Neighbourhood Centres.” MOVED:- Beth Davidson SECONDED:- Laura Connor CARRIED In accordance with our Constitution at least three quarters (75%) of members who were entitled to vote, have voted. UNANIMOUSLY 100% of members voted in favour of this resolution. Meeting Closed 11.10 pm. Guest Speaker Dr. Trace Ollis – Lecturer in Adult, Vocational & Applied Learning, Deakin University. Presentation – “Adult Education, Community Development & Social Change”. Pop Up Mini Expo Presentations. Final Presentation of the Partnering for Strengthening Project – Sue Kelly. HR4Business. Barwon Leaders for Geelong – Annabel Newnham Committee for Geelong.


Network Chairperson’s Report 2014 It is with great pleasure that I present this Annual report, which documents and acknowledges many of the significant achievements of the Barwon Network of Neighbourhood Centres (BNNC) over the past year. The BNNC 2012-2014 Strategic Plan is the key driver of our activities and sets the priorities for what we do to support and enhance the work of our member organisations. HIGHLIGHTS for the year:

Implementation of the Learning & Development Program Committee of Management Orientation Manual Development of a communications and marketing plan Training for all NOCH’s on how to access and use the Neighbourhood House Good Practice Guide

and Neighbourhood House Web Library Publication of Barwon Network Human Resource Policies and Procedures on the Neighbourhood

House Web Library Trial of the Lorne-Deans Marsh Corporate Advisory Panel Development of Neighbourhood House Coordinator’s Facebook Page Production of the BNNC brochure Production of the Barwon Region statistics booklet Completion of the Partnering for Strengthening project SPARC – Strengthening Participation and Resilience in Communities Project Continued support of individual Houses

A healthy and vibrant network is dependent on broad representation from its member organisations and the skills they bring. I strongly encourage all our Neighbourhood Houses (Committee members, volunteers, Co-ordinators) to consider being a part of the BNNC team. Joining the Committee is a great way of providing strategic input, shaping the direction of the BNNC and the sector as well as sharing your knowledge and skills. Many of the accomplishments of the BNNC are due to the dedication and hard work of the Barwon Networker, Christine Brooks. I have had the pleasure of working closely with Christine over the past year. A special thank you Christine, not only for the support and advice you give to the Committee but for the work you do with our member Houses whenever and wherever it is required. I would also like to thank Kirsten George from the Department of Human Services for her on-going support and collaboration with the Network. Kirsten has played a key role in many projects but in particular her support of the SPARC project. Congratulations to Beth Davidson for being re- elected as President of the Association of Neighbourhood Houses & Learning Centres and to Christine Brooks for being elected as a general member. Finally, a huge thank you to my fellow Committee Members, Anne Brackley – Treasurer, Sandra Anderson – Secretary and general members Laura Connor, Beth Davidson, Julie Hyslop, Rhiannon Cox, Sue Kelly and Sharon Waters for their support, cooperation, ideas and the energy they have contributed to the work of the Network. Alex Leknius Chairperson


Networker’s Report 2014 It has been a productive year for the Neighbourhood House sector statewide and the Barwon Region has seen the benefits.

As a result of the ANHLC data collection and serious campaigning on behalf of the sector to highlight the minimum hours that Neighbourhood Houses require to operate effectively, three Neighbourhood Houses in Barwon Region have been able to apply for an increase in hours to bring them to an operational minimum of 20 hours. What a fantastic result for the communities of Portarlington, Gellibrand and Forrest.

I continue to be amazed at the work that Neighbourhood Houses do to support their communities and the number of voluntary hours that the sector contributes to the health and wellbeing of the individuals in the communities they work alongside.

Throughout our Annual Report we have aimed to celebrate the work of Neighbourhood Houses in Barwon Region and highlight the ongoing relevance of the community development values that underpin our sector. The success of much of our work is enhanced by the many positive and productive partnerships that we have developed in the Region with local and State Government, other not for profits and community sector, and a growing group of businesses in the corporate sector. A very sincere thankyou to all the organisations we work with and their amazing staff.

During 2014 the Network was involved in the following projects/activities:

G21 Not for Profits Good Governance

In partnership with a number of not for profits, look at the issues impacting on voluntary governance and without “reinventing the wheel” to support best practice.

Neighbourhood House Week

We celebrated Neighbourhood House Week with promotions at the Corio Shopping Centre. Thanks to the support of the Northern group of Neighbourhood Houses. Neighbourhood Houses received region wide print media thanks to the support of all our local governments.

Statewide Campaign

To date over 40,000 postcards have been mobilised through our membership state wide. This means about 80,000 signatures! Thanks to everyone who has assisted with this campaign in Barwon. The postcards have been a great success in engaging communities across the state and we know that this and our other strategies for securing discussions with candidates and party leaders has had the desired political impact of ensuring our

issues and our sector is appropriately profiled.

Through our ongoing lobbying we have received acknowledgement that our issues have been raised in parliament and will therefore be officially recorded and addressed to the Minister.

One of the highlights for Barwon was securing the support of all the G21 Mayors in their signing of the “Pledge of Support” – it is encouraging to know that all the Mayors in our Region understand and appreciate the great work of Neighbourhood Houses in their local communities.

Statistics

Thanks to the great work of each Neighbourhood House in the collection of their annual data we are now able to truly reflect on the statistics for 2013 – which assists all of them with strategic planning, community needs and gap analysis and provides the Network with the ability to develop promotional resources that we can use to highlight the impact the sector has Region wide.

Take the opportunity to look through our “What’s happening in Barwon Neighbourhood Houses” booklet available today and from the Networker to see the “value of our statistics”.


Networker’s Report 2014 – continued

SPARC – Fire Ready

Spanning across two local government areas (Colac Otway Shire and Surf Coast Shire) in communities that have been deemed as high risk fire areas; this project is now completed and represents a collaborative approach to emergency planning, response and recovery. This project was facilitated by the six Community Centres and supported by Otway Health, Department of Human Services, Department of Sustainability and Environment

and Country Fire Authority. The Project and its broad range of results has been entered into the 2014 RACV Fire Awareness Awards. Congratulations to all the Neighbourhood Houses involved in this project and a huge THANKYOU to Kirsten George from the Department of Human Services for her support.

Our Partners:

The Network continued to receive tremendous support from our funding body the Department of Human Services. All our regional staff have consistently proven their dedication and commitment to the Neighbourhood House movement. They work alongside the Network and always provide unwavering support, encouragement and recognition to all Network members. The support we receive from the Department of Human Services is appreciated and ensures the work of the Network sees benefits across the Region.

Sincere thanks to Kirsten George, Melinda Flood, Amanda Miggins and Kate Borys from Department of Human Services Barwon Area for their ongoing support.

We have had many opportunities to work on collaborative projects with Volunteering Geelong, Department of Education and Early Childhood Development – Learn Local, G21, and our very important partners in Local Government – City of Greater Geelong, Colac Otway Shire, Surf Coast Shire and Borough of Queenscliffe.

Association of Neighbourhood Houses and Learning Centres (ANHLC)

As the peak body for our sector the ANHLC team continue to provide us with opportunities, resources and support. We are fortunate to have two representatives from Barwon (Christine Brooks, Networker and Beth Davidson, Coordinator Grovedale Neighbourhood Centre) on the ANHLC Board in 2013/14 ensuring that the voice of rural/regional Victoria is heard.

At the ANHLC Conference in Melbourne our Region was represented by Neighbourhood House Co-ordinators, Committee of Management members, volunteers and representatives from Barwon Department of Human Services. Please consider attending the ANHLC Conference in 2015 – it is open to volunteers, Committee of Management members, Coordinators and supporters – a great opportunity to learn from others and acknowledge the great work of our sector.

I have enjoyed working with the Barwon Neighbourhood Houses either individually or on specific projects, as well as the Executive during the year. I am in the extremely fortunate position to be able to personally see examples of the great work that they do with their communities, their commitment, their vision and passion. Thankyou sincerely for giving me the opportunity to work alongside you, your dedication and great support.

I would also like to thank the members’ of the Executive which includes Managers, Coordinators, Committee Members and Volunteers from our member Houses.

Christine Brooks Networker


Network Treasurer’s Report 2014 Thank you again for the opportunity to support the Barwon Network of Neighbourhood Centres (BNNC) in this manner. The BNNC has had another successful year financially. This is our first full year working with a 12 month financial year reporting period having now transitioned completely. Over the past twelve months, under the guidance of the BNNC Committee, we have adopted similar reports to those of the Association of Neighbourhood Houses and Learning Centres Board. We continue to improve the financial processes and work towards succession planning for the future. Anne Brackley Treasurer


Our Partner’s Reports 2014 Department of Human Services – Kirsten George, Community Participation Officer

During 2013-2014 the Department of Human Services (DHS) has continued to strengthen its relationships with the Barwon Network of Neighbourhood Centres (BNNC) and Barwon Neighbourhood Houses.

The Community Participation Team worked alongside BNNC on the successful Fire Ready SPARC (Strengthening Participation and Resilience in Communities) Project, and will continue to support Neighbourhood Houses during the upcoming fire season. The Team has continued to support the development and delivery of the Learning and Development Calender and have assisted in the delivery of various components, including the important Committee of Management Induction sessions. We look forward to continuing to support this calendar of events and hope to extend it into the future.

This year the Department was able to support Gellibrand Community House in its endeavours to find a more suitable and safe ‘home’. It has also been involved in exploring different governance structures with Neighbourhood Houses to assist in the long term sustainability of Committees of Management. DHS worked closely with BNNC to ensure that communities were involved in conversations and opportunities in regards to changes relating to their Neighbourhood House.

The Community Participation Team supported Neighbourhood Houses funded less than 20 hours of Neighbourhood House Coordination Program (NHCP) funding to put in a submission to Central office for additional hours to increase their ability to work in their communities. We hope to have the outcomes of these submissions soon. There are three Houses in the Barwon Area who are not in receipt of NHCP funding, but are doing amazing things in their community. The local Community Participation Team continues to support them in their work, and advocates on their behalf where possible.

It is an aim of the Community Participation Team to increase the knowledge of all DHS staff about the importance of Neighbourhood Houses in connecting people to their communities; offering people of all abilities affordable training opportunities; and being able to support clients of all ages with social, volunteer and recreation programs and activities.

The coming year will provide continuous opportunities for the Community Participation Team to work with BNNC and all Neighbourhood Houses as we explore ways for more cohesive and collaborative approaches to the way we work, not only with each other, but with the community as a whole.

The Community Participation Team look forward to continuing to work with the BNNC to greater engage with the local community; create stronger links between Neighbourhood Houses, DHS clients and other funded agencies; and build the capacity of the Neighbourhood House sector to support inclusion, diversity and participation.

Learn Local – Georgina Ryder

Neighbourhood Houses continue to provide a valuable role in strengthening the community’s capacity, engaging and linking individuals to valuable services, and working with the most vulnerable members to address their educational needs. Pre-accredited courses are tailored to the specific needs of individuals and provide an entry point for learners and pathways to further education and employment. In 2013 – 14 the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development worked in

partnership with the Barwon Network of Neighbourhood Centres to further support and expand the capacity of Neighbourhood Houses through a variety of initiatives. A recent project funded by Department of Education and Early Childhood Development through round 6 of the Capacity and Innovation Funding (CAIF) provided a grant of $50,000 to the Northern Network of Learn Locals and Partners to establish a Community of Practice (CoP) aimed at improving teaching practices, course offering and pathways for learners. The CoP will include sharing of ‘back of house’ functions and the development of a shared marketing strategy to enhance the profile of Learn Local in Neighbourhood Houses and Community Centres in the Northern Network.

A further $50,000 has also been granted to Rosewall Neighbourhood Centre through the CAIF to develop an ‘Engagement Point Service’ (EPS) to support the recently launched Workforce Development Centre (WDC) as part of the Skilling the Bay Initiative. The EPS project will develop a model for a service that can operate in


small, community based organisations to assist individuals and their families impacted by the recent closures of Ford, Alcoa and other industries in the Geelong region. The service will support initial engagement with information and linkages/referrals to services that offer training, employment pathways or support, and to Geelong’s WDC. This ‘hub and spoke’ model of delivery will be piloted through Rosewall Neighbourhood Centre and Neighbourhood Houses in the northern suburbs, with the view to replicating the model across other community based agencies including libraries and community houses. This project has been supported by the Barwon South Western Adult and Community Further Education Regional Council with a further $10,000 in funding.

We acknowledge and appreciate the partnership we have with Neighbourhood Houses and the value this creates for the communities in Barwon Region.

City of Greater Geelong

The City of Greater Geelong provides support to the 12 Neighbourhood Houses & Community Centres that receive DHS Neighbourhood House Coordination Program Funding. Council also provides support to Geelong West Neighbourhood House as an unfunded house.

Council has been proud to partner with the Neighbourhood Houses on a range of initiatives and projects this year through the provision of the annual Community Development Contribution.

In addition, Council has worked with various Houses to achieve more strategic outcomes these include:

Successfully completing a capital project by supporting Geelong West Neighbourhood House to establish an administrative base in a collaborative partnership with Geelong West Senior Citizens.

Continued Auspice of Grovedale Neighbourhood House including the redevelopment of the Heyers road site to incorporate a range of specialist children’s services

Council’s Community Development Department has been working closely with the Lara Community Centre staff regarding long term planning for community facilities (including the Neighbourhood House program) within the developing Lara Town Centre.

Council’s Community Development Department has been working closely with the Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House staff regarding the relocation and redevelopment of the Surfside Children’s Centre to accommodate for an expanded Neighbourhood House. Construction is underway.

Community Development Unit currently planning a Forum with BNHN encouraging Neighbourhood Houses to link into the Community Development Unit key priority areas in relation to their Community Development Projects.

Council looks forward to the continuing positive relationship with the sector as the current financial year continues to unfold.

Colac Otway Shire – Greg Fletcher, Manager Health and Community Services

Colac Otway Shire continues to meet on a regular basis with the coordinators from our five Neighbourhood Houses. These meetings provide an opportunity to discuss and promote health and wellbeing initiatives within our local communities. The Gellibrand Maternal and Child Health Centre is now being used as a Neighbourhood House. Following recent funding from Council’s Small Town Improvement Programme (STIP) this building is being transformed into a more functional, accessible facility within

Gellibrand for the community.

The Strengthening Participation and Resilience in Communities (SPARC) project which has been managed by Neighbourhood Houses within the Otways has focussed on the resilience of each house and their local communities. A workshop was held in Deans Marsh which was attended by a number of community representatives and local government. This project demonstrates how a number of houses can work together on a regional project, with great success. Well done.


Surf Coast Shire – Leonie Mugavin, Community Project Officer

Surf Coast Shire Council recognises and supports the benefits that Community Houses bring to communities, including the provision of programs, services and venues for community development and the informal support and opportunities for resident participation in the planning and delivery of services at a local level.

The Council Plan 2013 - 2017 recognises the importance and the role that community houses play in our communities.

The Council supports the five community houses located in the Shire in the following ways: A financial contribution to each House annually to assist with building community initiatives. Provision and maintenance of Community House facilities. Guidance and support in the form of a Council contact officer. Advice and support in areas including marketing and promotions, local government regulations, OH&S. Coordination of the Surf Coast Network of Community Houses. Advocacy on behalf of Community Houses and committees to State Government.


Our Houses – community resilience Anakie Community House 2115 Ballan Road, Anakie 3213 Phone: 03 5284 1359 Email: [email protected] www.anakiecommunityhouse.org.au

A ‘come & try’ wellness day was held at Anakie Hall on Saturday 28 June. Participants enjoyed massages, Bowen Therapy, Reflexology; blood pressure and BMI checks and facials, as well as a free healthy lunch and a Music and Imagery session. There was also a range of literature on men’s health, mental health issues and preventative health advice. In the photo above, local practitioner Viv gives resident Kathy a free Bowen Therapy session.

Anakie Community House provided a hot dog lunch and the City of Greater Geelong sent out skateboards and tutors during the recent September holidays. Local children had a great time with scooters, bikes and skateboards.

Anglesea & District Community House 5 McMillan Street, Anglesea (PO Box 43, Anglesea 3230) Phone: 03 5263 2116 Email: [email protected] www.anglesea.org.au We were involved in a number of strategic projects over the past 12 months. A community calendar was created to fill an identified gap within our local communities to publicise community events. It enables community groups and events’ organisers to post items on the calendar for visitors and residents to see “What’s on” throughout the year.

A youth worker was appointed to connect with young people in Anglesea & Aireys Inlet. A highlight of the year was the “Lights Out” disco held for 12-17 year olds in Anglesea. This was a collaborative effort between the Surf Coast Shire, the Anglesea Community House and the youth group to create a music event for National Youth week. The youth group was central to planning the event. Approximately 70 youth attended the night who enjoyed themselves immensely.

We were part of a consortium of six community houses within the Surf Coast and Colac Otway Shires in partnership with Otway Health, Department of Human Services and the Barwon Network which received $100,000 funding from the Victorian Government’s Fire Ready Communities Grant. Known as the SPARC project (Strengthening Participation and Resilience in Communities), we were able to consult with our local communities about fire readiness and how best to assist them to be prepared for bushfires. Everyone involved with the project - coordinators, management committees, stakeholders and community all gained valuable insights and knowledge into preparing for fire and other emergencies, risk management and the recovery phase of a disaster.


http://www.anakiecommunityhouse.org.au


http://www.anglesea.org.au


Bellarine Living & Learning Centre 20 Worden Court, Whittington 3219 Phone: 03 5248 1926 Email: [email protected] www.bllc.org.au In June/July 2012 Bellarine Living & Learning Centre (BLLC) was suddenly inundated with large groups of asylum seekers. Up to 70 people each week started coming in primarily to use BLLC’s foodbank. Discussions, through interpreters, to determine needs took place and BLLC then also assisted with material aid. Once we had assisted with that their next need was to improve their English. We were in the fortunate position of having a volunteer, Mary, who had just completed a course in teaching English to NESB clients and we had six English speaking

volunteers and two Farsi/English asylum seekers keen to assist. We determined their common language was Farsi and so BLLC’s Farsi/English classes were developed. The free classes are held every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon. Over the past year many asylum seekers have relocated to the western suburbs of Melbourne, so after commencing with 30+ people on average each week we now have a consistent group of 14 people attending. The cultural exchange between the asylum seekers and BLLC staff, volunteers and users has been invaluable and developed a deeper understanding of why people risk everything to seek asylum.

Cloverdale Community Centre 167-169 Purnell Road, Corio 3214 Phone: 03 5275 4415 Email: [email protected] www.cloverdalecommunitycentre.org.au Cloverdale Community Centre’s commitment to healthy eating has expanded in yet another direction with the launch of our Community Kitchen. Thanks to the dedication of original facilitator Elle and volunteer and committee member Carol, the Cloverdale Community Kitchen meets twice a week with a diverse group of people who come together to prepare and enjoy a meal. Carol undertook the Barwon Health Community Kitchen facilitator training after Elle moved to Queensland so that she has the skills to support local people to cook and eat nutritious meals together.

Kane is an enthusiastic member of the Community Kitchen, and as a young man he is enjoying learning to cook and becoming more independent. Ron is also a Community Kitchen regular and says the activity is a highlight of his week, connecting him with younger people and reinforcing healthy food choices while learning new recipes and enjoying the pleasures of eating socially.

Along with our food forest, edible garden and monthly food swap, the Cloverdale Community Kitchen supports our community to grow their own food, eat locally and socially and reduce their food miles. A big thanks goes to Sue Harmon from Barwon Health for her support and of course to Elle and Carol for their dedication and commitment to the Community Kitchen.


http://www.bllc.org.au


http://www.cloverdalecommunitycentre.org.au


Colac Neighbourhood House 23 Miller Street, Colac 3250 Phone: 03 5832 5210 Email: [email protected] As the Coordinator of the Colac Neighbourhood House, I became involved in a Free Community Meals program over three months ago when it was recognised that there are local families who might not always have access to good quality, nutritious food. Each Friday night from 5.30pm, over forty-five meals are served at the Neighbourhood House in an atmosphere of community spirit and fun.

The food is donated by Colac Area Health kitchen, Futures Café, Otway Fresh Pasta and Bulla and with some money from the local Rotary Club; we are able to serve up a choice of five delicious main courses and two desserts. The food is plentiful and volunteers make sure that everyone has enough to eat. The room is set up like a restaurant with tablecloths, table decorations and white crockery and there is lots of conversation and laughter. We have worked hard to make sure that everyone feels welcome and there is a children’s library and access to toys as well as computers for the older children to encourage families to attend.

The Community Meals program has contributed to the Colac Community in some surprising ways. Local asylum seeker families attend and help to change community attitudes; single parents bring their children who play with new friends; new arrivals to the community are finding their place and getting to know neighbours; volunteers have found a place where they feel useful and valued; people on low incomes are assured of a

nutritious meal; new recipes are tried and families get the opportunity to sit with their children and share a meal and conversation.

The program continues to grow and flourish thanks to the generosity and connection of the Colac Community.

Deans Marsh Community Cottage 10 Pennyroyal Valley Road, Deans Marsh 3235 Phone: 03 5236 3388 Email: [email protected] www.deansmarsh.org.au The Deans Marsh Cottage re opened this year in June and to date has provided the community with an array of programs and activities. These include a Market, Drama workshops for kids, youth groups, kids disco, music and movement, craft programs, a Winter Solstice night, accredited programs, to name a few. There is a real buzz in the town with the Cottage being reopened and we are looking forward to many more exciting opportunities that will continue to ‘bring people together’.



http://www.deansmarsh.org.au


Eastern Geelong Community Centre 285a McKillop St, East Geelong 3219 Phone: 03 5277 8820 Email: [email protected] www.facebook.com/pages/Eastern-Geelong-Community-Centre/390480287667343 Eastern Geelong Community Centre is a new Community Centre initiative being developed by Karingal in collaboration with the Eastern Geelong Community. Other key partners include Regional Development Victoria and the Department of Human Services. We currently have a range of fantastic activities being accessed by local community members and a wide variety of user groups.

We are currently using temporary community spaces for our activities while construction of our fantastic new facility in McKillop St is underway. Construction is expected to be completed by November 2015.

The Eastern Geelong Community Centre is focused upon best practice community inclusion and shared community spaces that embrace community need and diversity.

Highlights of 2014 have included the beginning of construction of our new facility, involvement in community activities such as the East Geelong Celebration Day, Blokes Day Out, the new Eastern Geelong Community Kitchen as well as the many wonderful partnerships that we have developed working alongside a vibrant community who continue to guide the development of our centre.

We are very much looking forward to involvement within the BNNC in the future.


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Eastern-Geelong-Community-Centre/390480287667343


Forrest & District Neighbourhood House Forrest Public Hall, Grant St, Forrest 3236 Phone: 03 5236 6591 Email: [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/forrest.neighbourhoodhouse Resilient Forrest

We are a tiny township with a big heart. We know our neighbours and we care for our environment. Everybody smiles and waves and will often stop for a chat. Kids ride their bikes to each others houses to play. Sally at the store is new in town but she already knows most of the locals by name. The Neighbourhood House runs out of the local hall and Thursday is our big day. Joyce kicks us off with gentle exercise, although judging by the laughter filtering through the hall the jaws are getting a strenuous workout. Then it's into the kitchen cafe for a cuppa and a round of Mind Games and the competition is stiff. When the grandkids are visiting during the school hols, they quickly learn Nanna and her friends aren't going to roll over without a battle.

Meanwhile in the hall our friends from Karingal have arrived and are setting up tables ready to bake up a storm for community lunch. Jason is our cupcake king and when the school lunch orders are counted he has over a dozen orders - break out the big bowl this week Jas. It's all hands on deck. Volunteers Sal, Betty and Di are a well oiled machine in the kitchen, chopping, baking whipping and washing and by 12.30 the soup is hot, the mains are served and Jodie has another delicious pudding well underway in the oven. Don’t forget Fay’s homemade ice-cream just to top it all off. The locals drift in and an inquisitive visitor will find a welcome seat at the table, you'll learn all there is to know about Forrest and more over lunch. If you've missed anything, you can pick up a copy of our Otway Life magazine and catch up on local stories and history.

The filtered sunlight is warm through the trees and the talk turns to summer - it’s going to be a hot one this year. A new Community Fireguard Group has started in Hennigan Cres and Pauline has hosted the first session - boy there is a lot to learn about bushfires when you live in Forrest, but its good to know your neighbours are there to lend a helping hand if you're in need. Back at the hall the espresso machine is running hot, the dishes are done and friends part with full tummies and a satisfied smile. Afternoons are for planning and Rae and May discuss the details for the upcoming dance with me. Nothing quite like a country knees up, and a progressive dinner to boot, it promises to be a good one. 5.30pm and in bounces Mel with 6 year old Charlie in tow for the Dance Fit session. The PA is rolled out and the music is pumping - good floor washing music as I finish up my day at the Forrest & District Neighbourhood House, dancing round the kitchen with the mop.

Geelong West Neighbourhood House PO Box 7085, Geelong West 3218 Phone: 0427 703 218 Email: [email protected] www.gwnh.org.au

Recently we held our inaugural guest speaker event called ‘Conversations with the Jewels of the West’. Around 100 locals came out on a cold winter evening to listen to music therapist Mr. Peter Roberts, our first Jewel of the West. Peter plays the harp to premature babies and at the bedside of critically ill patients. It was an opportunity for Peter to engage with his local community, for the community to find out about Peter’s wonderful work, and also for us all to honour Peter and acknowledge that he does something quite special. Peter’s harp demonstration to the gathering left all in awe and many in tears.

Following the event many people came to the House with glowing feedback about the evening. One person’s comments have stayed with me. “Geelong

West Neighbourhood House may not have a home, but what it has done right is to develop its heart first”. As an unfunded neighbourhood house, GWNH has faced many challenges over our first five years, but we remain committed and true to our vision “Celebrating Diversity, Building Community”.


https://www.facebook.com/forrest.neighbourhoodhouse


http://www.gwnh.org.au


Gellibrand Community House Lavers Hill & District Community House 5 Main Road (Rex Norman Reserve), Gellibrand 3239 Lavers Hill Hall, Great Ocean Road, Lavers Hill 3238 www.gellibrandcommunityhouse.com.au www.facebook.com/lavershilldistrict.coordinator

Phone: 0417 948 522 Email: [email protected]

As two little community houses in tiny communities in the Otway’s, Lavers Hill and Gellibrand Community Houses were facing the familiar challenges of small committees, financial vulnerability and dwindling participation.

In 2013, Gellibrand Community House held a community meeting to address further challenges of an unsuitable location and committee turnover and was delighted to find that there was strong community support to revamp the Community House, find a more central venue and look at new ways of addressing the needs of a changing community. Many meetings & conversations later and with the tireless support of Barwon Network of Neighbourhood Centres Networker, Christine Brooks and Kirsten George and Melinda Flood from Department of Human Services, our two community houses are sharing resources (including a coordinator), achieving economies of scale and developing an outreach model of community development. Our new regional approach puts us in a better position to develop projects to address the needs of the various tiny satellite townships in our area.

Gellibrand Community House has a new home in a building that is steeped in local history and has successfully applied for funding for renovations that will start this year. A small but passionate committee are enthusiastically embracing the “Community Led Development” approach and looking at innovative ways to engage sections of the community that are traditionally wary of Community House. The future is bright!

Grovedale Neighbourhood House 45 Heyers Road, Grovedale 3239 Phone: 03 5241 5717 Email: [email protected] www.grovedalecc.org.au

The past year for Grovedale Neighbourhood House has been largely one of ‘holding the fort’ during the major redevelopment happening here on site. The additions include Early Years services of two kinders and Maternal and Child Health while the existing building also will be refurbished during Term 4 2014. The year of disruption, demolition, dust, noise and internal waterfalls has been one of challenge, yet all the groups which use the Centre are staying positive and making the best of the situation knowing the old adage ‘there’s no gain without pain’. Additionally the planning around

governance, operations and relationships in the Centre continues to be an ongoing conversation. Decisions around this will inform actions for many years to come.

However, on another note, the recent Census demonstrated a continuing increase in the use of Grovedale Neighbourhood House and its activities, even with all the disruption and the obvious demand on management activity rather than community development activity. The future looks bright.

http://www.gellibrandcommunityhouse.com.au

http://www.facebook.com/lavershilldistrict.coordinator



http://www.grovedalecc.org.au


Lara Community Centre 9-11 Waverly Road, Lara (PO Box 49, Lara 3212) Phone: 03 5282 2725 Email: [email protected] www.laracommunitycentre.org.au Lorne (Fig Tree) Community House 16 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne (PO Box 207, Lorne 3232) Phone: 03 5289 2972 Email: [email protected] www.lornecommunityhouse.org.au Make a meal to help a family heal

During the illness of her own husband Linda had felt the community spirit in the endless supply of meals to her family’s doorstep. A few years later Linda contacted the Lorne Community House to see how it could be involved in a local initiative she had underway.

Now, every second Friday local members of our community deliver home-made meals to the Community House. Through a local network, families and individuals needing an extra hand are identified and receive these meals delivered to their home. It may be due to a family member’s illness, financial strains, a new baby or simply moving house – our community not only supplies the food but also the understanding that there is support and a willing community ready to help each other when needed.

Marrar Woorn Neighbourhood House 6 Pengilley Ave, Apollo Bay (PO Box 84, Apollo Bay 3233) Phone: 03 5237 8590 Email: [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/MarrarWoorn/ Exquisite Corpses

‘Exquisite Corpses’ is a piece of sequential work with its modern day roots in the Surrealist Movement at the turn of the 20th Century. A piece of paper was folded in 3 and each artist would complete a section, without seeing the previous work. The whole work was only seen when the last section was completed. The results range from the bizarre to the beautiful.

Marrar Woorn has been running workshops in partnership with Apollo Bay Arts Inc. coordinated by artist Doris Hansen and funded by Learn Local. These workshops have been delivered all over the whole shire from Apollo Bay to Forrest to Colac.

The works are a melding of a variety of styles and materials including embroidery, pen, pencil, ink, watercolour and mixed media. Each section stands alone for its beauty and creativity but together they demand attention for their colour and form.

Many groups have contributed to the pieces such as the Forrest Friday Art Group and the Colac Art Mob and we are grateful for their contribution.

These artworks will be displayed and available for purchase in partnership with the Apollo Bay Arts Inc. Gallery from November 22 to December 7.

All proceeds raised from the sale of the artworks will be donated to Apollo Bay Arts Inc.


http://www.laracommunitycentre.org.au


http://www.lornecommunityhouse.org.au


https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/MarrarWoorn/


Norlane Community Centre 39a Rose Ave, Norlane (PO Box 1067, Corio 3214) Phone: 03 5275 8124 Email: [email protected] www.norlanecommunitycentre.com.au Norlane Community Centre (NCC) is actively involved in a range of community building projects occurring within the northern suburbs of Geelong. NCC has earned a reputation as a community organisation that leads and supports key health promoting projects which has enabled NCC to provide a variety of support and assistance to individuals, community groups and service organisations focused on social inclusion and community health and wellbeing. NCC actions have resulted in numerous improved outcomes for the Corio Norlane community

through a variety of collaborative programs and projects, resulting in the establishment of Norlane Community Centre’s hubbing of services.

Norlane Community Garden is self-managed by residents of all ages, cultures and abilities, to grow fresh healthy fruit and vegetables. The fruit trees are starting to bud and the bulbs are peeping up from the ground heralding spring is here. There is a spectacular display of succulents and Natives in a rich profusion of colour. Our garden has become a show piece with other groups such as Diversitat, schools, churches etc, visiting our garden and seeking our advice.

Ocean Grove Neighbourhood Centre 91 The Parade, Ocean Grove (PO Box 420, Ocean Grove 3226) Phone: 03 5255 4294 Email: [email protected] www.ognc.com.au The Ocean Grove Neighbourhood Centre is a highly motivated community group on the Bellarine Peninsula. We work to give everybody in our community the opportunity to further their general interests or re-entry classes through informal class settings. We provide information to the local community about resources available, other organisations; self help groups, further educational opportunities and services that are available on the Peninsula and in the City of Greater Geelong. We are often the first point of contact for many people within the community for local information.

Our mission statement is: “To provide quality community programs and services in further education, resource information and leisure/ learning activities that aim to enhance personal, family and community life that are responsive to the needs of the community, within a sustainable financial structure.”

Over the past 12 months the Ocean Grove Neighbourhood Centre has provided accredited training into 20 other neighbourhood centres, job service agencies or companies within the Barwon Region, bringing accredited training to local communities. We have qualified 608 students during the past 12 months within their chosen field of study from RSA and Food Handling through to Certificate III and Certificate IV level courses. We have also provided over 130 hobby, leisure, health, computer and general interest courses to our community each quarter, and 12 community development projects including worlds greatest shave, stress down day, breakfast for white ribbon day, youth art show, community lunches and morning teas just to name a few.

Our youth program continues to grow each year with the program holding 230 enrolments, an average weekly attendance of 49 young people every Friday night. Our youth program has been recognised as one of the largest youth engagement programs within the State.

We are looking forward to our move into our new premises in April 2015 enabling us to expand and provide our service to the whole community.


http://www.norlanecommunitycentre.com.au


http://www.ognc.com.au


Portarlington Neighbourhood House 28 Brown St, Portarlington (PO Box 372, Portarlington 3223) Phone: 03 5259 2290 Email: [email protected] www.portnh.org.au Membership at the Portarlington Neighbourhood House has grown to 532 and since our inception in 2009 membership has grown by approximately 100 new members every year. It is interesting to note some statistics regarding the membership of Portarlington Neighbourhood House.

Over 75% of members have lived in Portarlington for less than 10 years and almost one third of our members have lived here for less than 3 years.

Almost 60% joined for the social interaction and to meet new people and make friends. This has been the most important factor in the lives of many of our members, who on moving to Portarlington, suddenly realized they no longer had a network of friends and contacts and some had endured this loneliness for up to 4 years before coming along to our Neighbourhood House where we hope everyone feels comfortable and welcomed.

Over 20% of members joined to improve their health or wellbeing and this is very important as over 27% of members have a disability, impairment or long term condition.

It will come as no surprise to learn that 77.6% of members are over 55 years of age and almost 25% are male.

However, despite these statistics we have had great fun developing our School Holiday Program with over 60 adults and children at our recent holiday Movie ‘Robots’, this morning also including an activity which was well received by all the children

Queenscliffe & District Neighbourhood House 3 Tobin Drive, Queenscliffe (PO Box 30, Queenscliffe 3225) Phone: 03 5258 3367 Email: [email protected] www.qnh.org.au This has been a busy year for Queenscliffe Neighbourhood House. We welcomed four new committee members who have brought with them a range of skills and new ideas; and a volunteer accountant to assist with the finances. We have streamlined our meeting processes, completed policy reviews and developed a new 3-year

Strategic Plan. Our fundraising activities continued to grow and expand with side ventures that saw the Men’s Shed operate a beach café alongside our Sand Sculpture Contest.

The Men’s Shed have been active in the community, making boomerangs for the Reconciliation Mob, a noticeboard for the main street in town and repairing scores of bicycles that have gone to refugees in North Geelong. We offered a range of different programs including a weekend of singing with Jonathon Welch, new craft courses and Digital Storytelling. We will soon be able to offer cooking programs in our renovated kitchen.


http://www.portnh.org.au


http://www.qnh.org.au


Rosewall Neighbourhood Centre 36 Sharland Rd, Corio (PO Box 120, Corio 3214) Phone: 03 5275 7409 Email: [email protected] www.rosewallnc.org.au

Staff and volunteers at Rosewall Neighbourhood Centre love their jobs which is why they keep bouncing back each time the Centre gets battered by vandalism. In 2014 alone we have had 12 incidents of broken windows, graffiti and break- ins. When I ask the volunteers why there is so much vandalism around here, they roll their eyes and say “Kids!”.

Our volunteers don’t like to report incidents to the police in case they get targeted. But the attacks on the Neighbourhood Centre sadden them. They understand that the Centre offers the locals a chance to meet others and engage positively, so people who want to make a change are

supported to do so. That’s what motivates them to come back, clean up and get on with the job. Rosewall Neighbourhood Centre could not open five days a week without these stalwart volunteers. So it’s great when the insurance money provides new equipment for them to use!

South Barwon Community Centre 33 Mt Pleasant Road, Belmont Phone: 03 5243 8388 Email: [email protected] www.sbcc.org.au South Barwon Community Centre aims to provide a range of activities and services to meet community needs. Our focus is to find ways of connecting people in the community, particularly those who, for whatever reason, may be isolated. We engage the community in a variety of activities or events that will increase their networks, social interaction and, through learning opportunities, increase their capacity as individuals. We consult with other organisations and groups regularly to develop a wide range of activities for the community.

South Barwon Community Centre has been a funded neighbourhood house since 2002. Our community is reflective of the aging population with half of our clients being over 65. Our current programs cater for this demographic with classes that assist with the development of computer/media skills.


http://www.rosewallnc.org.au


http://www.sbcc.org.au


Spring Creek Community House 14 Price Street, Torquay (PO Box 433, Torquay 3228) Phone: 03 5261 2583 Email: [email protected] www.springcreekcommunityhouse.org.au Laurel is a single mum recovering from an accident and has ABI; she attends Spring Creek Community House. Laurel didn’t know if it would be possible for her to complete a work placement, her Supervisor wisely placed her with a Community House. She was so nervous she couldn’t answer the phone without working up a sweat. It didn’t take long, with the encouragement from our wonderful volunteers and staff, somehow magic was performed and we all witnessed the blooming of a strong, vibrant, engaging and resilient woman. Laurel has absolutely excelled and has somehow been energised from her time at Spring Creek but mainly from her own passion for Community Development. The environment has been her driving force and it will take her far – just watch out for Clean HOur Beaches. (correct spelling) In Laurels words: “I sincerely thank you for taking me on! I couldn’t be more grateful for all your guidance, instruction, and advice. I feel honoured and very appreciative for the time I have spent at Spring Creek Community House. You have given me so much more than the opportunity of placement and professional learning. I have been given a gift of rehabilitation back into the workforce, confidence as a worker and community member, and love and respect from a great bunch of talented, educated, powerful and supportive women. I have learned a great deal and will be forever grateful for the new skills I have that will carry with me into my future, both as a student and worker.” As a result of her involvement at Spring Creek Laurel has the potential to offer a great deal to the Community Sector. This metamorphous came about from a welcoming environment, found at Community Houses everywhere – they are the Heart of the Community, never let us under estimate it. SpringDale Neighbourhood Centre 17-21 High Street, Drysdale (PO Box 80, Drysdale 3222) Phone: 03 5253 1960 Email: [email protected] www.springdale.org.au

SpringDale has seen the benefits of best practice policies and processes, our relationships within our community continue to grow and we continue to follow through on our community’s requests for programs, activities and specific needs using community consultation/engagement and our SpringDale website.

The SpringDale Neighbourhood Centre is full of opportunities for the community to learn skills together, develop special interests and create supportive friendships and networks. All our activities strive to build

confidence and develop opportunities. It is a place to meet new people and form new friendships.

Throughout the year we have continued to develop partnerships with others in our community many of which are highlighted in our monthly magazine the SpringDale Messenger. We have made the most of opportunities to highlight Carers Week with the Parkinson’s Support Group, Seniors Festival, Children’s Week and Neighbourhood House Week.

A sincere thankyou to the amazing team at SpringDale Neighbourhood Centre who continue to support the community through the Centre with a welcome smile.


http://www.springcreekcommunityhouse.org.au


http://www.springdale.org.au


Vines Road Community Centre 37-61 Vines Road, Hamlyn Heights (P.O. Box 7094, Geelong West, Vic. 3218) Phone: 03 5277 9027 Email: [email protected] www.vinesroadcommunitycentre.org.au Ensuring that we truly offer something for everyone, the past year has seen a focus on activities that have a community benefit. This has seen some new partnerships formed with family support organisations, individuals and interest groups. We have a stronger membership base, and have welcomed new volunteers and new board members.

Our centre has a vibrant and active Senior Citizens Group and the past year has also focussed on strengthening our relationship with them to provide a wider variety of activities for seniors.

Our line dancing classes, held on a Friday has grown by 20% with those ‘new to old age’ now becoming regulars.

A big thank you to our Board of Management and our volunteers, we simply could not do what we do without their tireless support.

Winchelsea Community House 28 Hesse Street, Winchelsea (PO Box 75, Winchelsea 3241) Phone: 03 5267 2028 Email: [email protected] www.winchhouse.org.au Here at Winchelsea Community House we continue to reach out into the community and provide programs that will help make a difference in the lives of people. Recently we had a volunteer that came in wanting to assist. Whilst providing this person with a volunteering role in the form of some much needed gardening and odd job assistance we also started to think how else we might be able to assist. We became aware that the volunteer was also looking to increase his general computer skills to become more confident in the search for paid employment. Since then we have successfully enrolled him into an Introduction to Microsoft Word course which has seen him grow in both skills and confidence. As a result of the training he has designed his own business cards and is now seeking to offer gardening services by setting up his own business.

Community Houses are wonderful places that offer such a vast range of opportunities. We pride ourselves on the way in which we do this with our special team of caring staff and volunteers and the wonderful support from our networks Barwon Network of Neighbourhood Centres and Association of Neighbourhood Houses and

Learning Centres.


http://www.vinesroadcommunitycentre.org.au


http://www.winchhouse.org.au

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