p4 Strathnairn - CRCS

BELCONNEN COMMUNITYn e w s l e t t e rA CONNECTED, ACTIVE & STRONG COMMUNITY

Issue 2 - 201527th April 2015 - July 19th 2015

In this issue...• Farewell Sally

Paterson p4

• Creative Arts for Seniors p6

• BCS Disability Showcase and Open Day p17

Strathnairn Jewel of the West

Message from the CEO 3Farewell Sally Paterson 4Social Bean Volunteer - Jessie 5Support for Mr Fluffy Homeowners 5Art and Mindfulness Retreat 7Get Involved in Belconnen 8News from our neighbourhood 10Social@bcs 12Why the Department of Immigration’s presence in Belconnen Matters 13gallery@bcs 14BCS Disability Showcase and Open Day 16P.A.T.H. Pre Planning for NDIS 17Strathnairn Arts Centre Open Day 18Digital Storytelling for Muslim Women 19Yarn Bombing - a subversive experience 19Better Services in your Neighbourhood 20Get on Board the Community Bus 21Holiday programs for Children and Young People 22Belconnen Early Childhood Centre Exceeds National Standard 22Community Calendar 23A Conversation with Jen Lewis 27 CONTACTS

Belconnen Community ServiceBelconnen Community Centre, Swanson Court, Belconnen.PO Box 679, Belconnen, ACT 2616.Tel: 6264 0200Fax: 6253 2901Email: [email protected]: www.bcsact.com.au www.facebook.com/BCSACT FOLLOW@BCSACTNewsletter Editor [email protected] 6264 0205BELCONNEN COMMUNITY SERVICE INC.ACKNOWLEDGES THE SUPPORT AND ASSISTANCE OF:The ACT Government

• The ACT Chief Minister and Treasury Directorate• The ACT Community Services Directorate• The ACT Environment and Sustainable Development

Directorate • The ACT Health Directorate

The Australian Commonwealth Government• The Department of Social Services• The Department of Health

Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary EducationAustralian Government

BELCONNEN COMMUNITYn e w s l e t t e r

Issue 2 - April 27th - July 19th 2015

3

Message from the CEO

As I read through this issue the theme that emerges is change. Our local landscape, our way of life and the community services sector are all evolving and maturing.

On page four, we farewell Sally Paterson and wish her well for her retirement. Sally began working at BCS over 16 years ago. Her passion and vision were instrumental in the development of BCS’s acclaimed suite of community mental health programs including Open Art and the Leisure Program. These programs were developed in response to sweeping national mental health reforms hat saw psychiatric wards and residential mental health facilities closed across Australia. Now our sector faces another sweeping reform which requires forward thinking and innovative

responses, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). On page sixteen, we invite people living with mental illness and disability to join us for an open day on June 23 and experience some of the programs, activities and supports BCS can offer as an NDIS provider.

Forty years ago, BCS began as a small community organisation providing childcare. Early Education and School Aged Care remain important parts of BCS’s engagement with our community. Early this year, one of our three centres, Belconnen Early Childhood Centre (BECC) which is located in Westfield Belconnen, undertook its assessment and rating against the National Early Years of Learning Framework. The rating received by BECC was Exceeding the National Standard. I congratulate all the BECC educators on this outstanding result. BCS Early Childhood Centres are all currently accepting new enrolments.

Another organisation which has been part of the Belconnen landscape for decades is Strathnarin Arts Centre. The beautiful front cover image in this issue shows the view from the West paddock at Strathnairn. I have recently joined the Board of Strathnairn and am excited by its potential. BCS will provide a shuttle bus transport for their open day on May 27 (see page 18 for details). I look forward to the two organisations working closely together in the future.

As the days grow shorter and colder, it’s important to stay connected and to experience the warmth of community connection. I hope you enjoy reading about the wealth of opportunity and activity available in Belconnen during the coming months.

Dira Horne

Children from BECC on an excursion to the

National Arboretum

Farewell Sally Paterson –

A Mental Health Pioneer By Chanel Cole

In February this year we waved goodbye to our dear friend and long-serving colleague, Sally Paterson. After 16 years, five months and two weeks of working at BCS and “running like Forrest Gump” Sally decided it was time to retire.

Sally joined BCS in 1998, to start up the Leisure Program, the first community mental health initiative to be run by BCS. The Leisure Program has now expanded across the ACT, but Sally says, “It was a very little program at the time. The only space available was the store-room next to the Sports Hall, so I worked from there. I had a very good mentor who employed me” she says. “Sam Moskwa – she was the centre director at the time – had a very strong vision of the potential for community to embrace people living with mental illness.”

Sweeping national mental health reforms at that time saw psychiatric wards and residential mental health facilities closed across Australia. “Upon the closure of Watson Hostel, we lobbied Mental Health ACT to bring their art worker Lorna Crane, into the community setting and we started the Open Art program.

“We felt that if we could bring people with mental illness into a community setting, the community would accept them , even though there was such a strong stigma around it. We knew that we could do it and Belconnen Community Centre was the perfect spot. We decided when we set up our art and fitness classes, that we would open them to the public. It was an unusual approach in that it was integrating the community into the mental health programs, rather than the other way around.”

The programs that Sally – working closely with a smart and dedicated team – helped to create, were at the

forefront of the social inclusion service

models that are now recognised as best practice. The range of activities

quickly expanded to include: Day to Day Living, and the Bungee program. Bungee provides a host of youth resilience-building programs, partnering with local artists, schools, universities, and youth organisations like Warehouse Circus. “A lot of it is about physical and artistic expression,” says Sally. “That’s what gives us resilience in our lives – when we challenge ourselves and become competent in new things”

These programs are embedded in the strong BCS community development model. The inclusive programs also helped to raise awareness about mental health and break down barriers to talking about mental illness.

“We had the opportunity to educate the community about mental illness, and the community would become a support for our clients. The other benefit that came out of that was people who thought they never had mental health problems started saying ‘hey, I have had feelings like that’, or ‘my brother is going through a really hard time’, and ‘I never thought I could talk to people about it’”

In the last couple of years Sally switched to disability work in the Bridges and former Castaway Programs. “What I really enjoyed about that, as well as having more face-to-face work again, was being able to work with the families as well,” she says. “It gave me an opportunity to use a more holistic approach in service delivery.”

Sally enjoyed it so much that – even though she’s officially retired – she’s still doing a few casual hours a week at BCS. But it won’t be for too much longer, because Sally intends to make the most of her well-earned retirement.

“I have a granddaughter who is 11 months old and a huge gardening project. My husband and I ride a motorbike together so we’ll be doing some travelling this year, and taking a trip to Europe,” says Sally

“There are so many things I’m interested in, and I have time now not to rush around. And that’s nice.”

Ian and Sally Paterson riding a road called the Tail of the Dragon in Tennessee

5Issue 2 - April 27th - July 19th 2015


Social Bean team left to right: Jessie, Jess, Samantha and Joseph

Jessie- Social Bean Volunteer By Simone PenkethmanBCS’s Social Bean Café in the Belconnen Community Health Centre serves the dual purpose of providing a welcoming place with healthy food, and a place for young people to get some experience of working in hospitality. Jessie is a young woman with an intellectual disability who has volunteered at Social Bean on Fridays since August 2014. Social Bean manager, Samantha Hughes says, “Friday’s always a busy day so it’s good to have help. Jessie lightens up the place; she has a great sense of humour.”

Jessie has learned to take orders, wash dishes and pots, and practice safe food handling. She particularly enjoys the social aspects of the job: “serving food, getting to know the regulars, having a chat and seeing people I

already know.” Jessie studied hospitality at school and later continued her learning through a disability service. She’s proud to achieve her goal of working in a café.

Jessie’s mother, Penny, works at Belconnen Community Health Centre and approached the café about opportunities for Jessie. She says, “People living with disability are often excluded from lots of aspects of a normal life. Working at Social Bean gives Jessie life skills, a sense of achievement and a more social life.”

Samantha says that the fact that Penny just walked into the café and was able to secure a volunteer position for her daughter really shows how Social Bean is becoming part of the community.

Greater Support for Mr Fluffy Homeowners The ACT Asbestos Response Taskforce is co-locating with BCS at Kippax Health Centre to make it easier for Belconnen region homeowners to have face to face discussions with the experienced Personal Support Team.

Working closely with Community Centres such as Belconnen allows greater connections to be formed with homeowners and service providers. The partnership also provides for additional practical support services for homeowners such as assistance in working through the ACT Government’s response to the issue, and application forms for the Buyback Program.

In just over two months, more than 350 people affected by ‘Mr Fluffy’ loose fill asbestos have met with the ACT Asbestos Response Taskforce’s Personal Support Team in Belconnen and other community centres.

Hundreds more have met with the Taskforce more broadly, with the Taskforce supporting the 1021 homeowners with affected houses in the ACT.

Members of the Personal Support Team are available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at the Kippax Health Centre (BCS) to meet with people from the Belconnen region. The Centre is in Kippax Place, behind the Kippax Fair Shopping Centre and is within easy walking distance of the Kippax Bus Interchange.

If you’re a Mr Fluffy homeowner or tenant you’re welcome to call in and discuss your individual circumstances.

Contact the Taskforce directly on 13 22 81 or by email at [email protected]

More information is at www.act.gov.au/asbestostaskforce

Silver Threads and Golden NeedlesSilver Threads and Golden Needles is a new creative program launching at Belconnen Community Centre, providing recreational arts activities for people aged 65 and over.

This wide range of affordable arts activities will give seniors a chance to spend some time with their creative selves, learn new skills, show off existing ones, and connect with others. Activities are suitable for people of all skill levels and abilities.

Creative ProgramsPrintmakingWednesdays 10:00am-12:00pm8 Week Program: April 1 - May 27Please note: there will be no session on April 29

Make your mark in this Printmaking Class, and experiment with screen printing, block printing, fabric printing and more under the guidance of our experienced tutor. Cost: $60/term.

Digital PhotobooksMondays 10:00am-12:00pm6 Week Program: April 13 - May 18Creating a digital photobook is a great way to revisit the precious people, places, and events in your life; and allows you to share your memories with others. Learn to use your iPad (or use ours) to create and print your photobook. Cost: $50/term + printing (optional).

Draw & Paint excursions Fridays 10:00am-12:30pm4 Excursions: April 10; May 8; Aug. 28; Sept. 25Let your inner artist explore the beauty of Canberra as you spend some time in the great outdoors. Visit a series of sceanic spots, with an experienced tutor to



guide you in the use of a variety of media. Cost: $20/Excursion

Knit, Nibbles & NatterMondays 1:00-3:00pmOngoing Program Starting April 13Do you love to pass the time with wool and yarn? Dust off the needles for a relaxing crafternoon with this friendly social group. Materials and refreshments are provided. Cost: $5/week.

ToymakingWednesdays 10:00am-12:00pm8 Week Program: June 10 - July 29Get into the holiday spirit extra early this year, and come along to our Toymaking Group. We will be making soft and wooden toys for the BCS Giving Tree. Put your skills to good use, or learn some new ones, suitable for all experience levels. Cost: $5/week.

Spoken StoriesWednesdays 2:00pm-3:30pm8 Week Program: May 13 - July 8Enjoy the spoken word with likeminded people in this relaxed group. The group will explore literature and poetry by reading aloud - members can choose to add

their voice or just listen. There is no homework or out of group reading required. Cost: $5/week.

Art and Mindfulness RetreatHosted at the beautiful Redbrow Garden Bed and Breakfast, this affordable overnight retreat offers the chance to relax and rejuvenate in the comfort of lakeside accommodations, explore tranquil gardens, and enjoy a series of creative arts, music, and gentle movement and yoga activities. All meals, transport, accommodation and activities are included. 9am Wednesday April 29 – 4:30pm Thursday April 30, Cost: $60.Please contact 6264 0200 or [email protected] for more information about the Silver Threads and Golden Needles Program.The Silver Threads and Golden Needles program is supported by Home and Community Care (HACC). If you are attending this program you may also be eligible for other BCS HACC services, such as Domestic Assistance, Personal Care, Social Support, or Basic Home Maintenance. Please contact 6278 8101 for more information about these services. For information about Transport Assistance, please contact 6251 2886.

Get Involved in Belconnen

See a show in Theatre@bcsBelconnen Community CentreTempo Theatre presents Agatha Christie’s Spider Web

Clarissa is adept at spinning tales of adventure for the entertainment of her bored house guests, but when a murder takes place in her own drawing room, she finds live drama much harder to cope with, especially as she suspects she knows the murderer.

Theatre@bcs May 15 - 23 Bookings through Canberra Ticketing on 62752700 www.canberraticketing.com

Child Players presents Roald Dahl’s The Big Friendly GiantThe tale of a young girl, the Queen of England and a benevolent giant known as the BFG, who set out on an adventure to capture the evil man-eating giants who have been invading the human world. A great show for all the family.

Theatre@bcs July 9-18Bookings: 0413 139 790, www.childplayers.com.au

Get into ReadingThe Get Into Reading group may sound like either a literacy activity or a book club. It’s neither of these. It’s also known as Read Aloud or Shared Reading. All three titles give a bit of the idea. What we do is meet as a small group (varying from 5 to 9 people usually) once a week for an hour and a half. Our facilitator brings a short story and a poem that offers a perspective on some aspect of the story. We read the story and the poem aloud. Our facilitator may read it all, but also offers us the opportunity to share the reading if we wish. We all get a copy of the story and the poem but we don’t have to follow it; we can just sit back and listen. At various points we stop and talk about our reactions, thoughts and ideas, but no one is compelled to speak.

What we enjoy is following the story, hearing each other’s views, agreeing and disagreeing with each other, and going off at tangents from the story. While this is going on we get to know each other and enjoy being free to say what we’re thinking and feeling. It’s not a literature class so you can’t be wrong, but our facilitator does try to help us appreciate the writer’s skill. The stories come from all over the English speaking world (so do the poems), and some written in other languages are read in translation. We have some laughs, we are moved, and we are free to speak out or reflect in silence. It’s very friendly.

Get Into Reading is held every Friday from 1:30-3:00pm at the Woden Library during the ACT school term. Term 2 dates are Friday May 1 – Friday July 3

Go Social – a new way to get out and about with transport@bcsBCS’s Community Transport Program (transport@bcs) has introduced a new service to help older people, and people living with disability, to get out into the community and socialise, Go Social.

Transport@bcs has been in operation for over 20 years. It provides car transport to essential medical appointments and a range of Community Bus excursions and tours (see page 21 for details). Go Social adds another dimension to transport@bcs by providing social excursions on Saturdays and a shopping shuttle on Mondays for groups of up to 10 people.

Go Social was developed in response to community interest. Its mission is to connect people through social activities. It helps participants to meet new people, create new social networks and to access places and events that they may not otherwise be able to.

Go Social also includes individual home visiting, where a participant can access transport to visit a friend or relative in their home, or in a nursing home or hospital. Home visiting helps people to keep their individual social networks active.

Go Social is a door-to-door service; participants are picked up from and returned to their homes. Saturday destinations include: fetes, festivals, exhibitions, expos, museums and attractions, farmers markets, hand-made markets and more.

Initial activities have been planned by transport@bcs. Further activities will be programmed in response to suggestions from participants.

Go Social transport is provided using transport@bcs’ new wheelchair accessible commuter van. Eligibility criteria and fees apply. To find out more about Go Social, contact the transport@bcs team on 6251 2886, or by email to [email protected]

Fun and Friendly Ukulele Group

BCS’s popular ukulele program continues to expand with beginner and continuing classes now being held on Thursday in addition to our Tuesday classes. Ukulele group is open to anyone over the age of 10. Cost: $100 for 8 weeks. Here’s what term one participants had to say:

“Good to do some theory and get to play with other people.”

“Hoped to just give it a go, learn a few bits and pieces. Exceeded far beyond what I had anticipated.

Learning songs I know made it so much more enjoyable.”

“I think it was awesome.”Beginner GroupTuesdays 4pm - 5:15pm, from May 5 – June 23Thursdays 1pm – 2:15pm, from May 7 - June 25Continuing GroupTuesdays 5:30pm – 6:30pm, from May 5 – June 23Thursdays 2:30pm – 3:30pm, from May 5 – June 23

Tiny Tumblers

Tiny tumblers educational gym play for 2-4 year olds takes place in Belconnen Community Centre on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings. Buy a 10 class pass for $100 from BCC reception. See the Community Calendar on page 23 for class times.

Belconnen Interagency MeetingConnected Seniors is the theme of the next Belconnen Interagency meeting which will be held at Belconnen Arts Centre from 10:00am-12:00 noon on May 19.

The Interagency Meeting is a quarterly networking and information sharing opportunity for people who work in government, community and business organisations that provide services in Belconnen. Speakers for the May meeting include Belconnen Men’s Shed and transport@bcs.

For further information or to RSVP, please contact Lynn Rackley, BCS Network Coordinator on 6264020


BELCONNEN COMMUNITYn e w s l e t t e r9

transport@bcs’s wheelchair accessible commuter van

News from our Neighbourhood

What’s on at Belconnen Arts Centre

Celebrate Dance Week 2015 with ACT dance artists exploring their practice in wild and wonderful ways. Dance on the Edge is back this year offering a chance to watch contemporary and cutting edge dance artists in action. It’s on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May, visit www.belconnenartscentre.com.au for bookings.

See ceramic artist Vivien Lightfoot’s exhibition Echoes in Time from May to June. This work looks at the history of Australian settlement through sculptural portraits of Lightfoot’s ancestors, paying homage to their principles, their bravery and their initiative.

Enjoy BAC’s warming mid-Winter market from 12pm to 5pm on Saturday 27 June, overlooking Lake Ginninderra. You’ll experience a feast for your senses, and can support local artists. Entry is free.

Get creative at BAC’s classes and workshops, including

dance, art and music.

Kids can get messy and creative at the Winter School

Holidays Program. Make sure you enrol early to secure your spot. See all the details and

enrolments at www.belconnenartscentre.com.au or find BAC on Facebook and Twitter.

Help to Resolve ConflictThe Conflict Resolution Service (CRS) provides confidential and impartial service to people seeking to resolve problems or conflicts. Areas include Family Dispute Resolution (separating couples), neighbourhood, workplace, landlord/tenant, commercial, social, organisations, family, wills, and estates. If you are experiencing conflict, call the CRS on 6162 4050 during business hours to see whether they can help you. The service is free for neighbourhood disputes and for people on low incomes.

Young Strings Wanted For CYO

Canberra Youth Orchestra (CYO) is the only full youth training symphony orchestra in the ACT and wider region, bringing together the region’s finest young musicians aged from 15 to 25yrs. CYO prides itself on regularly performing Australian and world premieres, and partnering with contemporary composers to provide Canberra audiences with the experience of a living music culture. The orchestra welcomes new members throughout the year, and is currently seeking strings players (violin, viola and cello).

Canberra Youth Orchestra is part of Music For Canberra, a local non-profit community music school formed in the merging of Music For Everyone and Canberra Youth Music at the start of this year. Music For Canberra promotes accessibility and excellence in music for the local community, through tuition, workshops and performances for people of any age, background or ability.

Get in touch to arrange an audition or find out more about Music for Canberra activities, on 6230 7190 or [email protected].

Works by Vivienne Lightfoot on Exhibition in Belconnen Arts Centre (BAC) May-June

School holidays at Belconnen

Arts Centre

Canberra Youth Orchestra string section

Your Voice in Health CareHealth Care Consumers’ Association (HCCA) is a non-government healthcare advocacy group. HCCA provides information to help people who use health care services understand their options and make the best health care choices. HCCA also publishes regular newsletters on www.hcca.org.au about what is happening around health in the ACT.

If you’re struggling to find your way around the ACT healthcare system, HCCA may be able to help. HCCA can arrange an information session for interested community groups on a variety of topics including Navigating the Health System, After-Hours Primary Health Care Options and Advance Health Care Planning. HCCA has a focus on connecting with culturally and linguistically diverse groups and can provide interpreting services if needed. If you are interested in an information session, please call Yelin on 6230 7800 or email [email protected].

HCCA trains and supports people to participate in making healthcare services better. If you are interested in becoming a consumer representative, and providing input into health-related committees, boards and working groups on a wide range of topics, free consumer representative training will be held by HCCA on Saturday 13 June and Saturday 20 June 2015. For more information, please email [email protected].

Another Chance Op Shop looks forward to Mothers’ Day

The “Best Little Op Shop in Canberra” is preparing for its annual Mothers’ Day Sale, which will run in the week leading up to Sunday May 10. Tucked away at the Scullin Shops, Another Chance Op Shop recently celebrated its 21st Birthday. This hidden gem, a project of the Mosaic Baptist Church, offers an affordable range of children’s and adults’ clothing, bags, shoes, kitchenware, manchester, books, sewing patterns, toys, and bric-a-brac. Keep an eye on the Another Chance Op Shop Facebook page for flash sales – there are often discounts on seasonal fashion items, and now is the perfect time to pick up some great autumn buys.

Supporting Mental Health CarersCarers ACT has developed the Navigating The Acute Mental Health System Guide for families and carers. This free resource contains information about health pathways, service options, your rights as a carer, and what you can expect at this time. The guide offers tips, strategies and scenarios to help you understand the mental health system and ensure your rights are respected. It’s available at www.mentalhealthcarers.org.au

Carers ACT is funded by ACT Health as the peak body for mental health carers living in the ACT. Carers ACT also hosts the Mental Health Carers Voice program, supporting mental health carers with regular drop in sessions, free training opportunities, and monthly updates on the latest mental health development.

Carers ACT seeks nominations from carers who are interested in representing the mental health carer community on several key ACT committees.

If you would like more information about what’s involved in being a carer representative, or the supports available for you through the Mental Health Carers Voice program, please contact Jillian on 6296 9952 or [email protected].

ACT Women’s Return to Work Grants Applications are now open for the ACT Women’s Return to Work Grants. This ACT Government initiative provides eligible women with financial assistance, information and resources to help them return to the workforce. Individual grants of up to $1000 in funding are available for women on low incomes who have been out of the workforce for more than 12 months due to caring responsibilities at some point in their lives.

This includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, women with disabilities, younger women and older women requiring assistance in returning to paid work.

Some examples of funded activities include attending short courses, paying for child care to attend interviews, and undertaking formal training or education. It may also provide support for the purchase of work-related equipment or clothing.

For more information please visit www.women.act.gov.au or phone the Women’s Return to Work Grant Program Coordinator on 6205 2885.



Another Chance Op Shop is a hidden gem in Scullin

social@bcs

Jen Lewis, Andrew Leigh MP, Denae Starkovski, Sue Gore Phillips at the annual ‘Welcoming Babies’ event at St Margaret’s Hall on

March 28

Belconnen Senior Citizens Singers in theatre@bcs for Seniors Week

Vickie from Transport Industry Skills Centre presents Michael Maroney with his certificate.

Ian Mason from Painting with Parkinson’s opens the Seniors Week exhibition in gallery@bcs

Barbara Rees at the Wildbrumby Café during the Seniors’ day trip to Thredbo, April 2

Wendy Gallagher, Carol Jensen, Cathy Millar, Hilkke Jusula at the Seniors Week Expo on March 17 at Thoroughbred Park

Graham McKerchar and Jenelle Tinham set up the BCS stall at the Seniors Week Expo

Transport@bcs drivers recently undertook training by the Transport Industries Skills Centre in transporting passengers with a disability. On February 23 the drivers were awarded their certificates of attainment.

BELCONNEN COMMUNITYn e w s l e t t e r13


Bridges evening outings group at the bowling competition

Bridges evening outings group walking around the city after a delicious dinner

Speakers in theatre@bcs in Belconnen Community Centre on March 19, left to right: Rob Purdon, Glen Hyde, Peter Walker,

Dira Horne, Senator Zed Seselja, Andrew Leigh MP.

The BCS Transport Team

Why the Immigration Department’s presence in Belconnen MattersThe Department of Immigration has had a major presence in the Belconnen Town Centre for more than 30 years. But as the Department looks to consolidate in a national headquarters thousands of staff could be moved from Belconnen.

On Thursday March 19, BCS joined with Belconnen Community Council (BCC) to invite interested people to a community forum to share, hear about, and promote the positive contribution that the Department’s presence in Belconnen makes to life, business and community in Belconnen.

BCS CEO, Dira Horne said that some of the more vulnerable workers stand to lose their jobs if the planned move goes ahead. “Many of the department’s cleaners are women from non-English speaking backgrounds. They live locally. Their work is in the evening and they don’t have cars or licences.” Ms Horne also said that the move will have a direct effect on BCS, “Immigration employees use our childcare centres and are also valued customers at our Social Bean Café in Belconnen Community Health Centre.”

Attendees had the opportunity to write down their own thoughts and concerns which were then shared with the federal Government. Comments included:

Reduced employment = more social problems = less community spirit.

The National Capital Development Commission designed Canberra to have departments in town centres, not all in Civic or near Treasury.

The biggest employer in town drives the local economy.

I may lose my mind looking at an empty Belconnen Town Centre.

As we go to print there is no confirmation that the planned move will go ahead. BCC suggests that people who are concerned about the effects of the move can sign a petition from Andrew Leigh MP; share and like posts on social media sites; write to their Federal MP or Senator; and write a letters to the editors of local and national newspapers.

What’s on in gallery@bcsBelconnen Community Centre, Swanson Court, Belconnen

Open 9:00am – 4:30pm Monday-Friday

BCS Employee ExhibitionA mixed media exhibition of artworks by Employees of BCS April 21 – May 1 Official opening 6pm Wednesday April 22 Each year gallery@ bcs showcases a wide range of artwork across multiple media by the talented emplyees of BCS. From painting to pottery, jewellery to quilting, the BCS Employee Exhibition has it all.

The gallery@bcs RESPECT Series presents EntwinedA collaborative exhibition of textiles by Gumbaynggirr artist Ceretha Skinner and ANU School of Art graduate Louise Coxon in Celebration of Reconciliation Week May 19-June 5 Official opening 6pm Wednesday May 27 Ceretha and Louise are both highly skilled textile artists who have previously been supported to exhibit in gallery@bcs through our Community Art Support Program. We have commissioned these brilliant artists to collaborate on this exhibition in celebration of Reconciliation Week. The road to Reconciliation is easier to travel when Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people work together, Entwined, in the journey. Supported by the BCS Reconciliation Action Plan.

gallery@bcs CASP FundraiserA multimedia exhibition of artwork donated by local and interstate artists to raise money for the gallery@bcs Community Arts Support Program (CASP) May 5 – 15 Official opening and Silent Auction: 6pm Wednesday May 6Over the years we have developed a number of community driven exhibition series designed to provide opportunities for disadvantaged or emerging artists to exhibit their work where they may have otherwise been unable to do so. In support of our goal to sustain and expand the level of support we can give to these exhibitors, local artists have donated their work to be auctioned in our third annual CASP Fundraiser. Exhibitions supported by the CASP include the Springboard Series which provides opportunities for artists either studying or recently graduated from tertiary art institutions; the Piece of Mind series which exhibits work by people who use art as therapy for Mental Health difficulties or Disabilities; and the RESPECT series which is part of the BCS Reconciliation Action Plan, exhibiting artwork by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Artists in celebration of Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week.



15

The gallery@bcs RESPECT Series presents: Burrunju A mixed media exhibition by members of the Burrunju Aboriginal Corporation June 10-19 Burrunju Aboriginal Corporation was established in 2006 to provide local Aboriginal people with an opportunity to realise their dream of self- determination by providing an avenue to sell art.Burrunju runs programs that improve the resilience and wellbeing of the local Aboriginal community, ensure that younger members of the local Aboriginal community are familiar with their culture and heritage so it can be passed on to future generations, and provide consignment services for the marketing, sale and leasing of Aboriginal Art & Craft. gallery@bcs is extremely excited to present this collaborative exhibition of works in partnership with Burrunju as part our RESPECT Series.

The gallery@bcs RESPECT Series presents: Empowering Sacred KnowledgeA mixed media exhibition by Lyn Talbot, Minyaada Swan, and Noelene Morrison of the CIT Yurauna Centre in celebration of NAIDOC Week July 7-24Official Opening Wednesday July 8 6pm We are three Aboriginal women who feel that our art is empowering and could be empowering to others. Our art comes from our knowledge of our culture and the traditions that have surrounded us since birth and were passed down from generation to generation. “Dance has always held a special place in my heart. Watching and painting dancers as they tell traditional stories not only links me to my culture, but gives me a feeling of peace and contentment.” Lyn Talbot“Art gives an expression to stories that belong to me. It is important that I can show my art that represents my Aboriginal culture, history, memories, life, family and community.” Noelene Morrison “I get my art from the empowerment figures in my life, my grandmothers, my mothers, my sisters and all the other women that influence my life.” Minyaada Swan

NDIS – Challenge, Change and ChoiceAt BCS, we know that preparing for, and understanding the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be challenging. We’re keen to ensure that people in our community are given every possible support in their preparation for the NDIS.

The whole landscape of service and support for people living with disability and mental illness is changing. Some of BCS’s long-standing community programs are already having their funding reduced as our national system moves from one that funds organisations to provide community programs, to one that funds individuals to purchase the services they choose.

Alongside our broad range of social and recreational programs, BCS Home and Community Care provides low level supports for people who are ageing or living independently with disability. Our focus is on promoting your independence and community engagement with all services, including activities of daily living, community transport and social support, offering choice and flexibility.

BCS has recently appointed an NDIS Liaison Coordinator who supports people transitioning to the NDIS. The Coordinator offers pre planning conversations with participants and their families to clarify the services that BCS can provide, and assist people to prepare for their NDIA planning meetings. Once an NDIS plan is approved, the Coordinator develops a service agreement outlining service provision, responsibilities and payments. The Coordinator also provides assistance to participants with NDIS plans who are currently not receiving BCS services. Conversations clarify the supports a participant requires, BCS services available and service agreements are developed as required.

BCS Disability Showcase and Open Day, June 23On Tuesday June 23, the Showcase and Open Day at Belconnen Community Centre will be an expo of BCS based activities that allows people to come along to try and test our services in a fun, carnival type atmosphere. The event will run from 1pm until 7:30pm, allowing for people committed to work and other activities to come along in the evening, and for those who experience difficulty getting out at night to attend during the day.

This expo offers much more than fliers and information. It will enable people with disabilities, their families and other unpaid carers to participate in events and activities which may help to identify whole of life goals and aspirations. Belconnen Community Centre is a place to establish sustainable, informal networks. We support our community members to exercise choice and control in relation to the supports and services they engage.

Showcase and Open Day Activities include:

Open Art: Practicing art enhances social connections, encourages expression and promotes self-esteem through positive, creative activities. BCS’s multi award winning Open Art program has been helping people who live with mental illness to stay well for over fifteen years.



Open Art employs professional art tutors who provide high quality classes for people of all abilities across the ACT region. This pioneering community mental health program is moving with the times to operate under an NDIS model. Come along and try a class.

Gym and exercise: BCS offers a variety of wellness and activity based programs. Come along and have or look – or better still – join in!

Planning Alternative Tomorrows with Hope (PATH) information sessions: PATH is a great “brainstorming” tool, provided by trained facilitators. It’s a creative and visual process, proven to assist people with disabilities to plan effectively.

NDIA Planner representation: BCS will invite Planners from NDIA to come along to be available to discuss the NDIA planning process with people. They can offer advice for planning and give an overview of the process that people might expect to experience.

Food and café: The Community Centre Café will be open for individual purchases and BCS will add to the carnival atmosphere by providing pop-corn and other party snacks.

Musical performance and workshops: For entertainment, skills development and social engagement

Face painting: Just for fun.

Community Participation Grants for PATH Planning Alternative Tomorrows with Hope (PATH) is a proven planning tool developed for people of all ages who live with disability. A PATH plan can enable a person with a disability (and their family and supporters) to take concrete steps towards achieving life goals, and turning their aspirations and dreams into real, positive outcomes.

The PATH facilitation process takes approximately three hours to complete. Two trained facilitators work with you and your invited participants to complete the PATH plan.

Minister Joy Burch recently announced the new 2015 NDIS Community Participation Grants to assists people with disabilities to plan for the NDIS, and the good news is that both PATH plans and their implementation are eligible for funding. This grant round is open until November 2015 but may close earlier if funds are expended before the closing date. See www.communityservices.act.gov.au/disability_act/national_disability_insurance_scheme/grants

for further information and application forms.

If you are eligible for a 2015 NDIS Community Participation Grant, the cost of having your PATH completed is $400. If you are not eligible for one of these NDIS grants, we are able to offer a concession rate until the June 30.

We have an expert team of facilitators who are available to guide you through the PATH planning process. If you, or someone you know, would like to book a PATH to help you plan and to explore ways to reach your goals and plan for future achievements, please contact the PATH Coordinator by email [email protected] or phone 0488 376 467. For more information about PATH, come along to the BCS Disability Showcase and Open day on June 23.

BCS activities for people living with disability and mental illness

Strathnairn Arts Centre Open DayBy Simone Penkethman

On Sunday May 17, Strathnairn Arts Centre on Stockdill Drive, Holt will hold an open day from 10am till 3:30pm. Strathnairn is an arts hub in a rural setting near the Murrumbidgee river on the western edge of Belconnen. During the open day, BCS will provide a shuttle bus service from Belconnen Community Centre to Strathnairn via Kippax.

The property includes a homestead, currently set up as a gallery, café and gift shop; a range of artists’ studios; a foundry; ceramics kilns; a village hall; and a shearing shed which is used for exhibitions and events.

The property that Stathnairn now occupies was originally part of a land grant awarded to 19th century explorer Charles Sturt. In 1979 it was allocated to the arts group Blue Folk, who produced community arts programs for children and adults. Over years of change and development, Strathnairn has grown into a strong community of artists working in diverse mediums. Painters, sculptors, potters, textile artists, printmakers, wood workers and installation artists all choose this unique rural setting as their base.

On May 17, working artists will open their studios, giving visitors a glimpse into their art practices. There will be

demonstrations and works for sale including prints, ceramics, textiles, sculpture and mixed media works. There will be a range of art demonstrations and activities including a bronze pour in the foundry and kite flying throughout the day. Visit the Village Hall for the Members Market where unique works can be yours. There will also be food stalls including a soup kitchen to keep the cold at bay.

On exhibition in the homestead galleries will be Sea Stories: Etchings and mixed media collage by Deborah Perrow and Second Nature, Paintings and drawings by Jane Ellis.

At 2pm in the shearing shed will be the opening of Canberra’s largest annual people’s choice exhibition, Squares at Strathnairn. Using 300x300mm canvas Squares, entrants use any media to create a work to be included in the competition and exhibition. From 10am-1:30pm there will be a ‘Paint a Square’ activity for under 16s who can buy a Squares entry kit, paint and create their piece, and help to hang it as part of the Squares 2015 exhibition.

For up-to-date information about the BCS Shuttle Service to Strathnairn Arts Centre Open Day on Sunday May 17, call 62640200 or check facebook.com/BCSACT

Photos: Adam McGrath, Hcreations, 2012. Main: Strathnairn homestead gallery. Insert: Strathnarin Woolshed.

Front cover: View from the West paddock


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Digital Storytelling for Muslim Women

PhotoAccess is offering a free digital storytelling course to Muslim women living in Canberra so they can tell their own stories about what it’s like to be a Muslim woman in Canberra.

“The project came about because of the recent rise of Islamophobia,” said Jenni Savigny, Artistic Director of the project. “Muslim women were experiencing abusive

behavior on the street and in social media. We wanted to respond with a creative project that gives these women a voice and promotes social inclusion.”

The project is funded by the ACT Government and will be delivered in partnership with Gen S Stories and the Canberra Multicultural Community Forum (CMCF).

Diana Rahman, chair of the CMCF and Australian Muslim Voice, believes there is a great need for this sort of project. “Through the stories we hope people will see that Muslim women are not so different. We have families, homes, children, and jobs. Through sharing our stories we hope to promote harmony and respect for diversity.”

The ten Muslim women will work with three professional artists to create a short film about a personal story. They will gain skills in script-writing, photography, storyboarding, voice-recording and film-making.

“We are delighted to offer our experience and expertise in digital storytelling to Muslim women in Canberra”, said Janice Falsone,

Director of PhotoAccess. “The workshops are fun, safe and creative, and I’m really looking forward to seeing the films on the big screen at the launch!”

There will be an information session, 6pm Wednesday 10 June and workshops begin in August. For more information call PhotoAccess on 6295 7810 or visit www.photoaccess.org.au.

Yarn Bombing - a subversive experience by Margy Wylde-Browne

In the sweltering January heat, BCS participants and friends knitted furiously as part of a yarn bombing installation to a lonely tree at the back of Belconnen Community Centre.

While attaching the knitting around tree branches, people in the street became very curious. “This is just like being in Hamburg” one person remarked. Another stood with her mouth wide open in surprise while other people started to pat the tree and take selfies.

One of the yarn bombers Gael Menzies explains: “While craft and knitting is not my thing I am attracted to yarn bombing as it is such a subversive act. I love how the community has immediate engagement with the experience.”

If you’re interested in taking part in yarn bombing later this year, please contact Margy Wylde-Browne at BCS on 6264 0200.

Image, left to right: Jenni Savigny (Gen S Stories), Diana Abdel-Rahman (President of the Australian Muslim Voice in Canberra) and Janice Falsone

(Director PhotoAccess). Photo Kate Luke.


Better Services in your NeighbourhoodA Local Services Network is being set up in West Belconnen to make services work better for people. Under the guidance of a Network Leadership Group with members from Belconnen Community Service, UnitingCare Kippax, the National Health Cooperative, Inanna, Red Cross and ACT Government Directorates, the Local Services Network will develop services and supports that respond to the needs and wishes of the local community.

“An important part of our work is talking to services, businesses and residents to find out what’s happening on the ground,” said Nicole Moore, Launch Coordinator for the Local Services Network. “We know that people in West Belconnen are the experts when it comes to understanding the sort of support that’s needed, including the barriers that stop people from getting help when they need it.”

Community conversations have already begun and the response has been enthusiastic. Feedback so far has reflected a sense of local identity and pride, with people describing West Belconnen as a good place to live. People would like more support for employment pathways for young people, supporting strong families, and creating a better start for babies and children under nine years of age and valuing older people in the community.

“We know that many people already volunteer in the community and we heard other ideas about what could make the community stronger. We held a few community

forums so that people could share their ideas and we recently went to the Charny Carny which was a great place to talk to people,” says Ms Moore. “We now have a better idea of where support is most needed and what can be done to improve service delivery. We heard how local business can have a key role in responding to issues. For instance, this could be through upskilling young people, developing challenging playgrounds or fitness programs for mums with bubs. Someone also mentioned the idea of student run community health checks as a useful way to connect with the community. This is really valuable information because it will directly shape service delivery for this community”

Talking to people also revealed issues around internet access, public safety, transport and planning. “The Network Leadership Group can’t respond to all of the issues, but it can raise them with the relevant areas in the ACT Government,” Ms Moore says

The Network Leadership Group is now developing an operational plan that will guide key elements of how the Local Services Network will work. The feedback from the community conversations will also go to the Network Leadership Group for consideration.

The Network is one of three Better Services initiatives guided by the Human Services Blueprint, a framework developed by the ACT Government and community services to guide how services and supports are provided so people get the best outcomes for their circumstances.

For more information about the Local Services Network call the Better Services Team on 6205 5174 or [email protected] or go to www.communityservices.act.gov.au.

Get on Board - Community Bus Excursions and Lunch Tours These outings are an opportunity for Belconnen residents to get out and about, meet new people, and share a lunch and conversation in the surrounds of some of Canberra’s places of interest. Transport generally begins at 11:00am and we return around 2:30pm, depending on the activity. Pick up can be arranged from your door or a convenient meeting point, such as the Belconnen Community Centre in Swanson Court, Belconnen, or the Kippax Health Centre in Kippax place. Bus Excursions and Tours and Bus Lunch Tours are coordinated by BCS Community Transport Service.

Bus Excursions and Tours

Friday April 24th Bungendore A short distance from Canberra, Bungendore offers a host of gift shops and eateries. Visit the Bungendore Woodworks Gallery which exhibits Australian wood art, or check out the 150 paintings on display in Bungendore Fine Art.

Friday May 22nd Canberra Heritage Trek Join us for a scenic tour of many of Canberra beautiful historic buildings. Blundell’s Cottage, St Johns Church and Schoolhouse Museum are just a couple of locations we will be visiting. Bring your lunch and your camera as we take a step back in to Canberra’s past.

Friday June 26th National Museum of Australia ‘The Lag Meta Aus: Home in the Torres Strait’ exhibition reveals the history and vitality of Australia’s most northerly region, Torres Strait. Take the time to wander the museum and enjoy this and many other exhibits on display, or just enjoy a lunch at the Museum Café.

Bus Lunch Tours

Monday April 20th The Dock Kingston Take in the spectacular views along the Kingston Foreshore as you make your selection from the menu at The Dock. You could try their version of traditional fried or grilled fish and chips, a spiced quinoa salad or perhaps a grilled Angus beef burger.

Monday May 18th Box Diner Box Diner is all about being fresh and local. They use fresh herbs and open range eggs. A variety of meal options including pasta and burgers range in price from $12 - $18. The Diner also offers a small retail section featuring Japan Zero tea ware, coffees and teas.

Monday June 15th Ginseng Our “Foods of the World” lunch tours return with lunch at Ginseng. Located in the heart of Kingston, Ginseng is one of Canberra’s most loved Chinese restaurants. Meal prices including vegetarian options range from $10 - $18.

Bookings are essential and can only be taken in the month that the excursion is happening. Eligibility criteria apply and a gold coin donation for transport is appreciated. To make a booking or find out more about the Community Bus Excursions, please contact the Community Bus Service on 6251 2100 or email [email protected]

We would also love to hear your ideas on destinations for future excursions in the Canberra region, so please get in touch.



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A connected, active & strong community

Youth School Holiday and Drop in Activities at the corner@bcs Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 12pm to 5pmStaffed by experienced youth workers, the corner@bcs, on the corner of Swanson Court and Chandler Street Belconnen, provides a safe space for young people aged 12 to 25 years to hang out. A range of activities are offered every week-day, including craft, internet access, pool table, table tennis, board games, books, X-Box and Wii. The Youth School Holiday Program is offered in addition to these daily activities.

All the corner@BCS activities are offered FREE of charge. Bookings and permission notes are essential for all excursions and places are limited. For more information, enrolment and permission forms please contact Jen Lewis on 6264 0204 / [email protected], or Merin Ahern on 6278 8109 / [email protected]

Early Childhood Centre Exceeds National Quality Standard In February 2015 Belconnen Early Childhood Centre (BECC) was assessed and rated as ‘Exceeding National Quality Standard’ by the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority – an outstanding result. Educators at Belconnen Early Childhood Centre show a high level of commitment, dedication and passion towards early education and care.

“Positive and nurturing relationships and responsive interactions were consistently evident between educators and children and are a particular strength of the service”- Children’s Policy and Regulation Unit

For further information and enrolments for BCS Early Childhood Centres, please call reception on 6264 0200 or visit www.bcsact.com.au

Winter 20156th July 7th July 8th July 9th July 10th July

Learn to Sew Yoga, Meditation and Pampering

Excursion: Hoyts Movies &

Excursion: Ten Pin Bowling

Circus Workshop

13th July 14th July 15th July 16th July 17th JulyThe Amazing Photo Race

Excursion: Questacon

Cosy Movies with Dessert in a mug

Excursion: War Memorial

Mini Service Expo



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Monday

Mother’s Voice10:00am - 12:00pm, Belconnen Library Community RoomSinging group for mothers with babies and pre school aged childrenCost FREECall BCS Reception 6264 0200Silver Threads Digital Photobooks10:00am - 12:00pm, Art Room 1Learn to use iPads to make beautiful photobooks. For people aged 65+Cost $50 per term, April-MayCall BCS Reception on 6264 0200Aerobics – Low Impact10.15am - 11.15am, GymCost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc.Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200Social Badminton10.30am - 12.15pm, Sports HallA social game for all levels of playersCost $6 per session / $4 conc.Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200Mature Fitness11.30am - 12.30pm, Gym.Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200Women’s Group12.00pm - 1.30pm, Room 2LPACT Mental Health Support and light lunchCost $5 for lunchCall John on 6264 0202Aerobics/Circuit Class12.30pm - 1.30pm, Gym.Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc.Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Knit, Nibbles & Natter10:00am - 12:00pm, Art Room 1Social knitting and yarn group Cost $5 per sessionCall BCS Reception 6264 0200Martial Arts – Bridges Program 1.30pm - 3.00pm. Sports Hall With James from the Korean Martial Arts Academy CanberraCost $135 per 9 week termCall Kelly on 6264 0200GROW Meeting1.30pm - 3.30pm, Room 1Mutual support and self-help for people with anxiety or other mental health difficultiesCost FREECall Kristin on 6295 7791Healthy Body, Healthy Mind1.45pm - 2.45pm, GymLPACT A women-only fitness class for mental health support Cost FREECall John on 6264 0202 Martial Arts – Bridges Program 2:00pm - 3:30pm, Sports Hall With James from the Korean Martial Arts Academy Canberra, for people living with disability.Cost $135 per 9 week term Call Kelly on 6264 0200.Expressive Art – Bungee Program3.30pm - 4.30pm, Art RoomBuild resilience and self-confidence through expressive art; for children ages 7-11 yearsCost $30 per term, conc. availableCall Susan on 6264 0242Koori Kids3.30 - 4.30pm, West Belconnen Child and Family CentreGroup for 8-16 years old Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children: creative arts, music, physical education and cultural pride Cost FREECall Nick White 6278 8108

Bit Bent Belconnen6:00pm - 8:00pm, Corner@BCSSocial support group for LGBTIQ young people aged 12-25 yearsCost FREECall Jen Lewis on 6264 0204ACT Shotokan Karate6.30pm - 8.30pm, Sports HallCost $40 per monthCall Ryan on 0414 802 429 or Wally on 6254 6593

Tuesday

Tiny Tumblers Session 1: 10:00 - 10.45am Session 2: 11:00 - 11.45am Sports HallEducational gym play for under-5s.Cost $12 per class / $100 for 10 classesCall BCS Reception on 6264 0200BEST Club11:00am - 1:30pm, BCS FlynnBelconnen Energetic Seniors on Tuesday, social club for Over 65s. Call BCS Reception 6264 0200Fun Fitness with Judy10.00am - 11.00am, GymCost $8 per classCall Judy on 6288 0768My Art – Open Art Mental Health/Bridges CASD 10:00am - 12:00pm, Art RoomInclusive mixed-media art class for people living with disability or mental health difficulties. Cost $60 per termCall Kate on 6264 0200Women’s Swimming Group11am - 12pm, CISAC.LPACT mental health supportCost $2 per session via BCS ReceptionCall John on 6264 0200

BCS Community Calendar April-July 2015


Power Bar11.20am - 12.30pm, GymPlease arrive 20 minutes earlyCost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200Swiss Ball Class12.30pm - 1.30pm, GymCost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200Social Chess, Backgammon, Scrabble12.30pm - 2.30pm, Belconnen Library Community RoomLPACT mental health supportCost FREE Call John on 6264 0202Scribblers Writing Group12.45pm - 2.45pm, Room 1Creative writing to form friendships and produce anthologies Call Steve on 6251 4996Let It Be You 1:30pm - 3.30pm, Meeting Room 2 CASD Program Social and recreational program for people living with disabilityCost $60 per 9 week term Call Kelly on 6264 0200Open Art Mental Health Painting, Drawing and Print Making1.00pm - 3.00pm, Art Room 1With TimCost $60 per termCall Kate on 6254 0200Get Into Reading – D2DL1.30pm - 3.30pm, Woden Library Great fun, beginners welcome; D2DL mental health supportCost FREE Call John on 6264 0202Backs in Balance2:00pm - 3:00pm, GymStrength and balance for falls prevention and healthCost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Youth Engagement – Open Access2.00pm - 6.00pm, The Corner@BCSSafe place for young people aged 12-25 years to drop in and hang out. Cost FREECall BCS Reception on 6264 0200Yoga and Meditation2:30pm - 3:30pm Tuggeranong Library Meeting RoomLPACT Mental health supportCost $7Call John on 6264 0200Elementz Rhythmic Gymnastics3:45pm - 5:45pm, Sports HallRecreational, school-based or competitive Rhythmic Gymnastics for all ages from 2-Adult. During school term only Call Elementz on 6112 8460Youth Art Class – Bungee Program4.00pm - 5.30pm, Art RoomDrama group helping to build resilience and self-confidence, for children aged 8-13 yearsCost $30 per term, conc. availableCall Susan on 6264 0242Ukulele for Beginners4:00pm - 5:15pm, Room 1 Suitable for ages 8 years and over Cost $100 for 8 weeksCall BCS Reception on 6264 0200Continuing Ukulele5:30pm - 6:30pm, Room 1 Suitable for ages 8 years and over with some Ukulele experience; Cost $100 for 8 weeksCall BCS Reception on 6264 0200Evening Outings – Bridges Program5:00pm - 8:00pm, meet at BCCEnjoy a stroll and good company in the cool of the evening.Cost varies depending on activity Call Kelly on 6264 0200 The Birthing Tree – Prenatal Yoga5:30pm - 7:00pm, Meeting Room 2A flowing meditative practice that

includes safe, gentle postures, breath work and relaxation. Cost $18 per class or $180 per termCall Dani on 0447 231 280 Sculpture & Pottery – Open Art6.00pm - 8.00pm, Art Room 1 From beginners to advanced.Cost $60 for nine weeks Call Kate on 62640200

WednesdayTiny Tumblers 10:00am - 10.45am, Sports HallEducational gym play for under-5sCost $12 per class / $100 for 10 classesCall BCS Reception on 6264 0200Silver Threads Printmaking10:00am - 12:00pm, Art Room 1Recreational and social arts program for people aged 65+

Cost $60 per term, April-MayCall BCS Reception on 6264 0200Silver Threads Toymaking10:00am – 12:00pm, Art Room 1Recreational and social arts program for people aged 65+Cost $5 per class, June-JulyCall BCS Reception on 6264 0200Mature Strength10.00am - 11.00am, GymCost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200Cooking – Mental Health Support10.00am - 12.00pm, Woden Youth Centre Cost $5.00 per class Call Carmel on 6293 3951Creative Writing – Mental Health Support10:00am - 12:00pm, Woden LibraryLearn how to write engaging stories and poems with a published author.Call John on 6264 0202Social Club – Bridges Program10.30am - 12.30pm, the Corner@BCSSocial and recreational activities for people living with disability. Cost $60 per 9 week term Call Kelly on 6264 0200




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Mature Fitness11.30am - 12.30pm, GymIncludes the use of Swiss Ball and hand weights for better strengthCost $9.50 per class /$7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200Advanced Badminton12.15pm - 1.45pm, Sports HallCall Clive on 0424 659 497Power Bar12.30pm - 1.30pm, GymPlease arrive 20 minutes earlyCost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200Interchange AA Group12.30pm - 1.30pm, Room 1Support to stop drinking. Call Judy on 0408 051 203Yoga and Meditation1.30pm - 2.30pm, Belconnen Library Community RoomLPACT Mental health supportCost $7Call John on 6264 0200Mental Health Drop-In1:30pm - 3:30pm, the Corner@BCSPool, table tennis, air hockey, X-Box, computer accessCost FREECall Kate on 6264 0200Social Badminton1.45pm - 3.30pm, Sports HallA social game for any level of playerCost $4 per session / $3 conc.Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200Silver Threads Spoken Stories10am - 12pm, Art Room 1Read aloud literature and poetry social group for people aged 65+Cost: $5 per session, May-JuneCall BCS Reception on 6264 0200Dance Club – Bridges Program 2:00pm - 3.30pm, Gym Hip-Hop Dance classes for people living with disability. Cost $60 per 9 week term Call Sally or Kelly on 6264 0200Acting – Bungee Program4.00pm - 5.30pm, Art RoomDrama group for children with mental health difficulties; ages 6-10 Cost $30 per term, conc. availableCall Susan on 6264 0242

Bruce Toastmasters (fortnightly)6.00pm - 7.30pm, Room 2Call Andrew Wirth on 0408 117 113ACT Shotokan Karate6.30pm - 8.30pm, Sports HallCost $10 per class or $40 per monthCall Ryan on 0414 802 429 orWally on 6254 6593Canberra Tamil Badminton8.30pm - 9.30pm, Sports HallAlso play Sundays 9am – 10amCall Sri 6258 0633

Thursday

Playgroup in the Park9.45am - 11am, Corner Lance Hill Ave and Evelyn Owen Cres DunlopSchool terms only; bring a hat, snack and waterCost FREE Call Yolanda on 6278 8115Tiny Tumblers 10am - 10.45am, Sports HallEducational gym play for under-5s.Cost $12 per class / $100 for 10 classesCall BCS Reception on 6264 0200Belconnen Women’s Group10.00am - 12.00pm, Room 1Outings, guest speakers and fun For women aged 50+Call Ianon on 6259 8068 or Barbara on 6258 7263 English Conversation Group10.00am - 12.00pm, Belconnen Library Community RoomSupported by BCS Volunteers, Morning Tea Provided. Cost FREE Call Kate on 6264 0200Be Active – Bridges Program10:30am - 12:30pm, Room 2Social and recreational program for people living with disability. Cost $60 per 9 week term Call Kelly on 6264 0200

Power Bar11.20am - 12.30pm, GymPlease arrive 20 minutes earlyCost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200Lunchtime Volleyball12.30pm - 1.30pm, Sports HallCall Michael on 6252 5955Stretch & Flex12.30pm - 1.30pm, GymGentle stretch and flex exercisesCost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc.Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200Messengers Program12:45pm – 3:00pm, Art Room 1Arts-based early intervention and resilience program for young people aged 13-18 years. During school terms.Cost FREECall Messengers on 6293 2212Craft Club – Bridges Program1.30pm - 3.00pm, Art Room 1 Creative crafts group for people living with disability. Cost $60 per 9 week term Call Kelly on 6264 0200Ukulele for Beginners1:00pm - 2:15pm, Room 2 Suitable for ages 8 years and over Cost $100 for 8 weeksCall BCS Reception on 6264 0200Continuing Ukulele2:30pm - 3:30pm, Room 2 Suitable for ages 8 years and over with some Ukulele experience; Cost $100 for 8 weeksCall BCS Reception on 6264 0200Backs in Balance2:00pm - 3:00pm, GymStrength and balance for falls prevention and health.Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Beginning Badminton2.00pm - 3.30pm, Sports HallLPACT mental health supportCost $2.50 per sessionCall John on 6264 0200


Youth Engagement – Open Access 2.00pm – 6.00pm, The Corner@BCSSafe place for young people aged 12-25 years to drop in and hang out. Cost FREECall BCS reception on 6264 0200

Friday

Florey Paint and Play9:30 - 10:45am, Florey PrimaryA playgroup for parents and their children, held during school terms.Call Denae on 6278 8131

Get Up – Young Parents Group10:00am - 11.30am, West Belconnen Child and Family CentreA playgroup for parents aged 25 and under and their children, runs during school terms onlyCall Emma on 6278 8110

Mature Strength10.00am - 11.00am, GymWeight training for people over 60Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

[email protected] – 11:30am, every second Friday from October 17Smith Family Building, WodenLPACT Mental health supportCost FREE Call John on 6264 0202

Positive Links10.00am - 1.00pm, BCS Flynn Friendly social group for people who’ve experienced a stroke or other life-changing experienceCost FREECall BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Social Badminton10.30am - 12.15pm, Sports HallAll levels of players welcomeCost $6 per session / $4 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Mature Fitness11.30am - 12.30pm, GymCost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Power Bar12.30pm - 1.30pm, GymPlease arrive 20 minutes earlyCosts $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Advanced Badminton12.15pm - 1.45pm, Sports HallA social game for advanced playersCall Clive on 0424 659 497

Open Art Mental Health Mosaics1.00pm - 3.00pm, Art Room Join artist Tony in creating mosaicsCost $60 per term Call Kate on 6264 0200

Get Into Reading – Mental Health Support1:30pm - 3:00pm, Woden Library Read and discuss great stories and poems from the past and contemporary literatureCost FREE Call John on 6264 0200

LPACT Healthy Body, Healthy Mind1.45pm - 2.45pm, GymFitness class, mental health supportCost FREE Call John on 6264 0200

Youth Engagement – Cheap Eats3.00pm - 8.00pm, The Corner@BCSSafe place for young people aged 12-25 years. Learning to cook on a budget.Cost FREECall BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Kathak Dance School6pm - 7pm, Sports HallIndian classical dance form that exercise the body and mind.Cost $17 per classContact Ira Patkar on 0430 942 375




27

A conversation with Jen Lewis New BCS Youth Engagement Coordinator

“Jen blew the panel away at interview with her knowledge of the youth sector and exciting ideas for development of programs.”

BCS Senior Manager, Debbie O’Keefe

Belconnen Newsletter caught up with Jen Lewis to discuss her recent promotion to Coordinator of the BCS Youth Engagement Program, her ideas for the future and a few of her favourite things.

When did you join BCS?I began working here about two years ago, shortly after I completed my Bachelor of Social and Community Studies at University of Canberra. My first role was part time, as the facilitator of the Bit Bent group [a multi-award winning social support group for same sex attracted and gender diverse young people]. I’d heard of the Bit Bent group when I was younger. I like group work and I’d done some volunteering in the LGBTIQ community so it seemed like an ideal role. Soon after, I was offered a full time role with BCS’s Youth and Family Support Program.

Can you describe your new role?Youth Engagement programs connect with young people between the ages of 12 and 25 who live in Belconnen. We support them in engaging with education and employment. We offer a constructive place to be so they’re not left wandering the mall with no direction. They can come to the corner@bcs and take part in cooking or art activities. We also help young people develop pre-employment skills such as resume writing or gaining their learner drivers permit.

Describe todayToday I’ve been facilitating a Road Ready course. I qualified as a Road Ready facilitator two years ago and I ran Road Ready courses in my previous role as Program Officer for Youth and Family Support. This evening I will facilitate the Bit Bent group which has also continued from my previous role.

What do you look forward to?It’s an exciting time because the Youth Engagement program has a new, rejuvenated team. We’re planning ways to strengthen our relationships with schools because young people at risk of disengaging now have fewer resources to support them. It’s also an exciting time for Bit Bent because, in May, the group is going on its first ever retreat. We’re spending two nights at Womberoo which is in the country between Goulburn and Sydney. There will be guest speakers, raft building, orienteering, personal development and future casting. We hope that the retreat will result in a more bonded, cohesive group with individual members realising their own potential.

What’s your favourite place in Belconnen?John Knight Park; there’s a snake playground where I used to play as a child. I still go for bike rides around the lake in the park too.

Can you share a favourite quote?“Everything will be okay in the end. If it’s not okay, it’s not the end.” I’m not sure who said that originally but I first heard it in the movie, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.

p4 Strathnairn - CRCS

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