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As we approach the colder months, it's essential to ensure you're protected against illnesses like the flu, COVID-19, pneumonia, and shingles. Vaccinations are a simple and effective way to safeguard your health and well-being. Recommended and Free Vaccinations for People Aged 65 and over in NSW: ·      Influenza (Flu):  An annual flu shot is recommended for everyone aged 65 and over and is provided free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP). ·      COVID-19:  Regular booster doses are advised to maintain protection. Adults aged 65–74 years are recommended to receive a booster every 12 months, and those aged 75 every six months.​ ·      Pneumococcal Disease:  A single dose of the pneumococcal vaccine is recommended and funded for adults aged 70 years and over. ·      Shingles (Herpes Zoster):  The Shingrix vaccine is recommended and funded for individuals aged 65 and over to protect against shingles. Your GP might also have other vaccination suggestions for you! Where to Get Vaccinated: These vaccines are available free of charge through your GP or local pharmacy. Many pharmacies even offer walk-in services.​ Need Assistance? If you require help scheduling an appointment or arranging transportation to your GP or pharmacy, please reach out to your BCR Care Partner.

BCR Communities NDIS participant Jesse Tough beamed with pride as he presented his grandfather Barry with his brand-new "wood-barrow" – a sturdy cart that was designed, built and even christened by Jesse himself. Knowing his grandfather often struggled to carry firewood from the woodpile into the house, Jesse – who has Down syndrome – decided to create something that would make his life just a little bit easier. But the wood-barrow was more than just a thoughtful gift. It was the result of Jesse’s seven-year journey learning woodworking skills with BCR Communities’ NDIS Work, Life Training Program. “When Jesse first came to BCR, he hadn’t really worked with tools,” said Mick Hague, Jesse’s BCR Communities Support Worker. “But he saw the woodworking shed, and his eyes lit up. He couldn’t wait to get stuck in.” With the guidance, support and encouragement of Mick, Jesse has learnt to measure, saw, drill, sand, paint and assemble. He attends the BCR Work, Life and Training Activities Hub two days a week and combines working on his own projects with projects for the general community and lifestyle activities like fishing, playing the guitar and cooking. “Watching Jesse’s growth over the years has been incredible,” said Mick. “He’s gone from needing full support with basic tasks, to planning and building more complex projects like the wood-barrow." “Through these projects, he’s not only learning skills – he’s feeling a sense of pride, purpose, and independence.” Jesse’s journey is a shining example of what’s possible when NDIS supports are tailored to an individual’s goals and passions. At BCR Communities, participants are empowered to explore new activities, grow their confidence, and connect with their community. “It’s about more than just woodworking,” Mick added. “It’s about seeing someone believe in themselves. Jesse’s determination, kindness, and creative flair comes through in everything he does.” The joy on both Jesse’s and Barry’s faces said it all – this was more than just a gift. It was a symbol of love, hard work, and the strength of the bond between a grandson and his Pop, made possible through the power of the right support.

A vibrant new youth space officially opened in Sanctuary Point on Tuesday 15 April, with the launch of the BCR Youth Collective Pods Precinct—a purpose-built hub designed in partnership with young people from the Bay and Basin region. Created by BCR Communities and funded through the NSW Government’s Our Region, Our Voice  Regional Youth Investment Program, the precinct is now home to the BCR Youth Collective, a youth-led initiative supporting young people facing barriers to education, training, employment and social connection. At the opening event, BCR Communities CEO Heather Marciano introduced members of the Youth Collective who played a central role in designing the precinct and thanked the NSW Government for its funding support. “This is more than just a youth space—it’s a statement of belief in the potential of every young person across the Bay and Basin,” said Heather. “We listened to what they needed—and this is the result. It’s a space designed by them, for them.” The precinct features flexible, youth-friendly spaces for creative workshops, drop-in sessions, one-on-one mentoring, peer support groups, and skill-building activities. The atmosphere is inclusive and welcoming, tailored to meet the diverse needs of young people, including those living with mental health challenges, neurodivergence, or school disengagement. Heather said the precinct reflects BCR’s belief in meeting young people where they’re at—with empathy, respect and zero judgement. “Our team supports them to reconnect, build confidence, and create new possibilities. One participant recently told us this was the first time they’d felt like they were part of something—that’s why we’re here.” The NSW Minister for Youth, Rose Jackson, welcomed the initiative and highlighted its alignment with the goals of the Regional Youth Investment Program. “This is exactly what the ‘Our Region, Our Voice’ program is about—backing community-based, youth-led initiatives that provide safe, inclusive spaces for young people to connect and thrive,” Minister Jackson said. “When young people are supported to thrive, the whole community benefits.” Representatives from government, local service providers and the community attended the launch, many praising the Pods Precinct as a timely and much-needed addition to the region. With the doors now open, Heather emphasised that this is just the beginning: “This space will continue to grow and evolve alongside the young people who use it. It’s their voice, their space, and their future. We’re just here to walk alongside them.” The BCR Youth Collective is open to young people aged 12 to 25 who are seeking connection, support and a way forward.

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BCR Communities is a community-led, not for profit organisation which has been serving the Shoalhaven and Illawarra for over 30 years. Our team of dedicated staff and volunteers support our communities through our quality Aged Care, NDIS and Community Services including our Community Radio Station. BCR Communities Building Connected Resourceful Communities Explore our services COMMUNITY Chat Chat COMMUNITY AGED CARE NDIS Your community. BCR Communities is a community-led, not-for-profit organisation which has been serving the Shoalhaven and Illawarra for over 30 years. We believe in thriving communities living happy, healthy, meaningful and productive lives. Our team of dedicated staff and volunteers support our communities through our quality Aged Care, NDIS and Community Services including our Community Radio Station – Bay & Basin 92.7FM. To find a service, get involved or discover more, please get in touch here . ALL STAGES We are for all ages and stages From creative classes for kids through to social groups for seniors, we are supporting our communities through every life stage. PEOPLE FIRST We put people first As a community-led, not-for-profit organisation, our mission is to partner with our communities to provide person-centred services for all. TRUELY LOCAL We are truly local BCR Communities was created for locals by locals and nobody understands the communities of the Shoalhaven and Illawarra better than we do. RESPONSIVE We are responsive to the needs of our communities For over 30 years, we have been building brighter, more connected and resourceful communities through our services and supports. INCLUSIVE We are inclusive We welcome and celebrate every person. The diversity of our organisation reflects the diversity of our communities. LISTENING We listen to you Understanding your values and what’s important to you helps us to support you to live a happy and healthy life. Are you looking for rewarding work that makes a difference? Whether you have experience in a caring or support role or are looking for new and fulfilling work, if you share our core values of inclusion, integrity, empathy and encouraging wellness, get in touch here . Keep up to date with our latest news Stay Protected this Winter with Free Vaccinations Jesse' 7-year Woodworking Journey with BCR Communities Launch of the BCR Youth Collective Pods Precinct “Working at BCR Communities is truly rewarding. I love connecting with people, supporting them, and knowing that the work I do is helping my community. The atmosphere here feels like family—everyone from the clients and participants to the staff and volunteers, is so friendly and welcoming. It’s actually a pleasure to come to work every day..” KENDALL 1/1 © 2023 by BCR Communities. Privacy Policy

With work sheds, gardens, a radio station, and music and art studios, there is usually a lot happening at the BCR Activities Hub. It is a place where people can come together to participate in activities, join in events or work on meaningful projects with the aim of helping others in the community. The BCR Youth Collective Pods Precinct is a space created by young people, for young people — a place where you can be yourself, connect with others, and figure out what’s next at your own pace. Whether you're looking for support, want to build skills for work or study, or just need a safe, welcoming spot to hang out and meet people who get you, this is your space. Designed with input from young people living in the Bay and Basin, the Youth Collective is all about creating opportunities, building confidence, and backing you as you take steps toward the future you want. Programs inspired by you and your crew Want to find out more? Curious & Creative is a unique, hands-on program that helps young people re-engage with learning in a way that actually makes sense for them. If the traditional school setting hasn’t worked for you, this program offers a new approach – one that’s all about creativity, curiosity and connection. Through fun, practical projects and a supportive environment, you’ll build confidence, discover your strengths, and explore new ways to learn, grow and get excited about the future again. school re-engagement The BCR Ls to Ps Driver Mentoring Program connects young people with volunteer mentors who’ll help you get the driving experience you need in a safe and supportive way. If getting your log book driving hours feels impossible because you don’t have access to a car or someone to teach you, you may be eligible for the program. We’ll provide the car, the guidance, and the encouragement to help you go from Ls to Ps, and gain independence and confidence along the way. Ls to Ps driver mentoring program Keen to land a job but not sure where to start? BCR Retail and Hospitality Training is a hands-on, supportive way to build the skills and confidence you need to step into work. You’ll learn real-world skills like customer service, barista basics and point-of-sale systems - all in a relaxed, low-pressure environment. Whether you’re looking for your first job or a fresh start, we’re here to help you get job-ready and feeling confident. BCR retail and hospitality training These programs help young people take the next step by facilitating free, practical courses through trusted registered training providers like TAFE and Kiama Community College. If you are not currently at school and want to gain skills that lead to employment, we’ll support you to find the right course - from hospitality to business, community services and more. Subsidised through the NSW Government’s Smart and Skilled Program, it’s a flexible and supportive way to build your future. BCR further education and training BCR Enterprises is a one-of-a-kind social enterprise that gives young people the chance to gain real work experience and training while making a difference in their own community. Whether you're stepping into the workforce for the first time or looking for meaningful, purpose-driven work, BCR Enterprises offers supportive, on-the-job training in a range of areas including lawn and garden services and domestic assistance. It’s all about building skills, confidence and connection, while being part of something that matters. BCR enterprises First impressions count and the BCR Smart Styling Sessions are here to help you feel confident, polished and ready to shine in your next job interview. We’ll help you put together an outfit that’s professional and feels like you, plus share tips on how to present yourself, answer common interview questions and walk in with confidence. Whether it’s your first interview or your fifth, these sessions are all about helping you show up as your best self. BCR smart styling sessions Spaces to inspire you and your crew BCR youth collective pods precinct Collective Café Gallery and Meeting Space Makers Space Yarn Circle Wellness Centre Zen Garden BCR Sanctuary Point youth and community centre Community Space 2nd Chance Op Shop Smart Start Styling BCR activities hub Creative Space and Kiln Woodwork Shed Community Radio Station Community Produce Garden "My name is Shania, and I first became involved with BCR in 2022 through the Curious & Creative High School Re-engagement program. Back then, I was in Year 7, struggling with anxiety after being bullied and disconnected from school and my community. BCR was welcoming, kind, and non-judgmental. Through the program, I gained my confidence back and returned to school. I was part of the group that helped design the Youth Pods, and it was amazing to be listened to and know we were creating something special for young people in the Bay & Basin. Having a place that's just for us makes a huge difference, especially if you're not connected to school. Even when things got tough again last year, BCR was there to support me. I’ve now graduated from Curious & Creative and I’m heading back into Year 10 full-time with plans to finish my HSC and build a career in child studies. Shania Want to find out more? First name Last name Email Phone Type your message here Submit