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From the stench of boiling whale blubber on the wind to the quiet of a sailor’s grave overlooking Jervis Bay, Uncovering the Bay and Basin  brings to life the stories that have shaped this remarkable stretch of the New South Wales South Coast. Produced in the studios of Bay & Basin 92.7 FM, this locally made history podcast tells big stories in small doses - each episode running under five minutes, perfect for a coffee break, morning walk or drive along the bay. A Local Lens on Local History Every episode blends research, storytelling and sound design to uncover the events and characters that still echo through the Shoalhaven. Written and researched by Wendy Hamlin and hosted by Stephen Brown, Uncovering the Bay and Basin  shines a light on the people, industries and natural forces that helped shape the region we call home. This short-form podcast was created to help listeners reconnect with the landscapes and landmarks they see every day revealing the fascinating stories hidden within the coves, headlands and country towns of the Bay & Basin. Historic Stories of Jervis Bay and the South Coast NSW Across its growing collection of bite-sized episodes, the series spans centuries of local history from the whaling boom and bust to colonial ambition, natural disasters and unexpected links to the nation’s capital. In Whalers of Jervis Bay: Boom, Bust and Legacy , listeners are transported to the early 1900s when shore-based and later Norwegian industrial whaling defined coastal life. The story captures how this once-profitable trade polluted the bay and divided the community before its dramatic collapse paving the way for the whale-watching culture that thrives today. The Wool Road Story  follows convicts and colonists carving a 60-kilometre track from Nerriga to the coast in 1841, an ambitious attempt to turn Jervis Bay into a major wool port. Though the plan failed, its legacy lives on in road names like Larmer Avenue  and Wool Lane  and in the optimism that characterised early colonial Australia. The Sailor’s Grave at Huskisson  explores the poignant resting place of 19-year-old seaman Robert Johnson, whose 1892 drowning forever tied his name to a popular surf break known simply as Sailor’s . The episode connects past and present, reminding listeners how stories of loss and remembrance still shape local identity. In Canberra’s Coastal Cousin – The Jervis Bay Territory , the series uncovers the curious political arrangement that gave land-locked Canberra its own seaside territory. While Discovering Jervis Bay’s Tsunami Past  reveals geological evidence that waves up to 80 metres high once crashed into the cliffs of Beecroft Peninsula, reshaping the coastline thousands of years ago. Listening to the Past More than a history lesson, Uncovering the Bay and Basin  is an invitation to rediscover the region through sound. Drawing on archival research, oral histories and local insight, Wendy Hamlin and Stephen Brown craft engaging snapshots of Shoalhaven life that build pride, connection and curiosity. Each short episode proves that history doesn’t have to be long or dusty - it can be vivid, accessible and right on your doorstep. Whether you’re a lifelong local or a visitor exploring the South Coast NSW, these stories invite you to see the familiar through new eyes. Listen to Uncovering the Bay and Basin  - short, local and unforgettable stories - on the 92.7FM podcast page. https://www.927fm.com.au/uncovering-the-bay-and-basin/

The shouts of “UNO!” rang out more than 65 times at the BCR Communities Tongarra Centre in Albion Park last Friday, as local NDIS participant Scott King turned his talent for card games into an amazing fundraiser for the Starlight Children’s Foundation. Scott spent six straight hours playing UNO, his favourite game, challenging anyone brave enough to step up to the table. From friends and family to BCR Communities staff and even his grandparents, Scott was on a roll, winning an impressive 40 matches throughout the day. What started as a modest goal of raising $100 for sick children quickly grew into something much bigger. With the community rallying behind him, Scott raised an incredible $2,626 –  topping the leader board of the nationwide fundraising initiative which ran for the month of September. The Starlight Foundation brightens the lives of seriously ill children and their families, helping them cope with the stress of hospital and treatment by providing fun, positive experiences and emotional support. Thanks to Scott’s efforts, more sick kids will be able to access vital programs that bring joy and laughter when it’s needed most. Scott’s BCR disability support worker, Leonie Way, said his success came as no surprise. “Scott and I play UNO almost every time he comes into the centre, so it was like this fundraising challenge was just made for him.” “One of Scott’s NDIS goals was to give back to the community and help other people, and this was a way to do that while doing something he really loves. Everyone at BCR is so excited by his success.” That sense of pride is shared by Scott himself, who says he’s thrilled to know he is making a difference. “It feels really good knowing I’ve helped sick kids,” he said. “I want to do even more for the Starlight Foundation now.” Fuelled by fruit, lollies, his favourite Chinese honey chicken, and determination, Scott battled through three versions of the game - classic UNO, UNO No Mercy and UNO Flip. His longest showdown, against Leonie, stretched to more than 30 minutes. Playing UNO isn’t just a pastime for Scott. As the eldest of three children, it has been part of his life since childhood. “We always played UNO at Christmas with my brother, sister and all the extended family. It is a family tradition,” he said. That family were all behind him on fundraising day, with Scott’s grandparents and cousin popping in to test their skills. The cards may have been stacked against them, but their pride in Scott’s achievement was impossible to miss. Heather Marciano, CEO of BCR Communities, said Scott’s effort was inspiring. “Scott has shown what can happen when passion meets purpose. He has brought people together, had lots of fun and raised vital funds for children who really need it. We are so proud of him.” With more than 65 games played, dozens of challengers faced, and thousands of dollars raised, Scott’s love of UNO is stronger than ever and he is determined raise even more money to support sick children next year!

Step into Kerrie Claremont’s home and you’re immediately surrounded by art. Paintings, sculptures and carefully chosen pieces speak of a life rich with colour, travel and creativity. For decades, Kerrie and her husband Richard have shared their love of teaching and art with students across Australia and abroad. Even now, Kerrie continues to run art classes from her own living room in Shell Cove. But behind the canvases and creative energy is also a story of resilience, one where BCR’s Short Term Restorative Care program, soon to be known as Restorative Care Pathways, has played a vital role. A Teacher, Artist, Traveller “I was always on the go,” Kerrie recalls. “Up at 6am for walks along the foreshore, teaching workshops, travelling overseas. We had four overseas trips in 2019 alone - teaching and exploring. I loved it.” Teaching was always Kerrie’s passion, from her first post at Sanctuary Point Public School through to high school and TAFE. Even in retirement, she couldn’t put it aside. “I’ve still got a group who come to my house for art workshops. I teach whatever they want - drawing, painting. I can’t do ceramics anymore, but I can still share what I love.” Richard is an accomplished and respected artist in his own right. Together they have run workshops and classes, sharing both their talents and their zest for life. Their Shell Cove home, full of light and art, reflects that spirit. Facing a New Challenge That fast-paced lifestyle shifted when Kerrie began tripping during her walks. “At first I blamed my shoes or the path. MS was the last thing on my mind,” she said. Eventually, after 18 months of tests, Kerrie was diagnosed with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. “It was such a shock. I’d always been active - I didn’t expect this.” As her condition progressed, mobility became harder. Pain, fatigue and unexpected symptoms made everyday tasks overwhelming. “I knew I’d need support to stay safe at home,” Kerrie says. Support Through STRC When an aged care assessor recommended the Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) program - now transitioning to Restorative Care Pathways - Kerrie reached out to local providers. “Two couldn’t fit me in but BCR could. This is my second time on the program, and it’s been very helpful to me.” With the help of BCR’s STRC Case Manager, Skye Holman, Kerrie discovered what she truly needed. “I didn’t know how any of this worked. Sometimes the things I thought I needed weren’t covered, but other things I didn’t think I needed - like rails and ramps - were recommended. And yes, I really did need them.” Now, her home has been fitted with a stair lift, rails, ramps, a shower chair and a walker. “I’ve even got rails down the back steps so I can hang out the washing, before that it just wasn’t possible. It’s made such a difference.” Staying Home, Staying Herself For Kerrie, the STRC program is about more than equipment. It’s about living the life she and Richard have built. “I’ve been here 12 years. I know my neighbours, I know my community. I don’t want to go into care, I want to stay here. These programs are designed to keep people like me out of hospital, but they also give us dignity and independence. I really appreciate that it’s there. It makes such a difference.” And she has nothing but praise for her Case Manager: “Skye has been great - very kind and gentle. She’s unflappable and patient when I don’t understand. It’s taken me nearly two years to get my head around how things work, but she’s guided me through it.” Looking Ahead Even as she adapts to life with MS, Kerrie’s passion for teaching and art remains. With her walker, scooter and Richard by her side, she continues to welcome people into her Shell Cove home to create, learn and connect. “I still love sharing art, seeing what people can create, and helping them grow in confidence. That hasn’t changed,” she said. For Kerrie, BCR’s Restorative Care Pathways has meant more than just staying out of hospital, it’s meant continuing to live a life rich with creativity, community and independence in the home she loves.

It is harder to keep socially connected as we age, friends and family move away or health problems make it more difficult to get out of the house. BCR Communities Social Groups makes regularly meeting up with friends simple and fun, with transport available to pick you up and drop you home. AGEING WELL HISTORY BCR Communities Social Groups SPEND THE DAY WITH FRIENDS It’s time to get out of the house, have fun and spend time with your friends. The activities change every week – we might stay indoors for games, trivia or an art session or get in the bus and explore our stunning coastline or try a new café. While the activities may differ from week to week, what doesn’t change is the companionship, the conversation and something delicious for lunch! Click the buttons below to see the latest Social Group Activity Calendars. As of May 2024, we have a calendar for south Shoalhaven and one for north Shoalhaven and Illawarra. Oct/Nov Calendar (South) Oct/Nov Calendar (North) Oct/Nov Calendar (Nowra) Oct/Nov Calendar (Central) SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH. Contact BCR today to find out more about joining our social groups Weekly Social Groups BCR Communities has a varied calendar of social activities throughout the week including day trips, lunches out, special events, walking groups, trivia, games, art, music and more. Making friends the easy way It is harder to keep socially connected as we age, friends and family move away or health problems make it more difficult to get out of the house. BCR Communities Social Groups makes regularly meeting up with friends simple and fun, with transport available to pick you up and drop you home. "I haven’t been in the Wednesday Social Group for very long but I’m so glad I joined because they are a lovely group. It is great to be out of the house and meeting new people. I used to be a nurse so I’ve always been drawn to being around people." WILMA

BCR JOB BOARD Can’t find what you’re looking for today? FILL IN THE EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FORM BELOW AND WE WILL INFORM YOU OF FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES! Preferred general location What type of work are you looking for? SUBMIT Thank you, we'll be in touch.

BCR Communities supports seniors to keep living independently in their own home and socially connected to their local community. We provide CHSP services and Home Care Packages, Short Term Restorative Care packages, social groups, cottage respite, wellness programs and carer support. AGED CARE HISTORY Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) Home Maintenance Program Wellness Programs Home Care Packages Short-Term Restorative Care Programs Day Respite Cottage Social Groups Carer Support