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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

BCR Communities has a variety of venues which can be hired out by the public including the Sanctuary Point Youth & Community Centre, office space and the tranquil BCR Communities Wellness Centre and Wellness Garden. COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMUNITY SERVICES Venue Hire BCR SANCTUARY POINT YOUTH & COMMUNITY CENTRE The BCR Youth & Community Centre at 34 Paradise Beach Road, is centrally located in the heart of Sanctuary Point very close to shops, cafes, the Library and Sanctuary Point Primary School. This venue offers a spacious main hall and stage which is suitable for workshops, meetings, concerts and performances. It also offers meeting and outdoor spaces which are great for community groups and recreation activities. The commercial style kitchen is well equipped to cater for large groups and functions. The BCR Youth & Community Centre has two offices which can be hired separately. They are both equipped with comfortable office furniture and wi-fi and are perfect for case management or counselling services. One office also has a private bathroom. BCR COMMUNITIES WELLNESS CENTRE The BCR Communities Wellness Centre is conveniently located in central Sanctuary Point at 130 Macleans Point Road. The light-filled space features a well-equipped kitchen, accessible bathrooms, an office space and a large main reception room which is suitable for meetings, workshops and classes. For meetings there is a white board, AV equipment, and multiple tables and chairs available including several arm chairs. The room can comfortably fit up to 30 people. A highlight of the space is the newly completed Wellness Garden which adds a sense of peace and tranquillity. If you would like to take your meeting or class outdoors, the outdoor space is set up with a large shade cloth, table setting and a BBQ . To hire a space or to find out more including availability and rates, please fill in the contact form below or phone 1300 222 748 SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH.