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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.

What an unforgettable birthday for BCR Communities NDIS participant Scotty, who was invited to an exclusive training session with his beloved Parramatta Eels!  From the moment he arrived with his BCR Support Worker Leonie, the VIP treatment was in full swing! Renee, the lovely Paramatta Community Liaison Manager, welcomed and escorted Scotty to the Super Fan Viewing Deck, where he was gifted an Eels hat, poster, and football.  Then came the moment of a lifetime—Scotty stepped onto the field! He helped the trainers during a high goal-line catching drill and watched the team in action up close. But the best part? As the players headed to the dressing rooms, they stopped to chat, take photos, and sign his jersey, football, and poster. The surprises didn’t stop there! Inside, Scotty was greeted with a Parramatta-themed birthday cake, and the entire team and staff sang Happy Birthday to him. Even Coach Jason Ryles took the time to share a slice and a chat. Then, Zac Lomax made Scotty’s day even more special—handing over one of his autographed kicking tees, complete with the number 859 to mark his NRL career points so far. To top it all off, Scotty was told he could come back anytime. Before heading home, he made a stop at Parramatta Leagues Club, where he became a member and celebrated with a delicious lunch. A huge thank you to the entire Paramatta Eels Team for creating an epic day, incredible memories, and a dream come true for this die-hard Eels fan!

Great news! The Australian government has announced the release of thousands of new Home Care Packages, giving more older Australians access to the support they need to continue living independently at home. If you or a loved one has been approved for a Home Care Package, you may be wondering: How do I navigate My Aged Care? Which home care provider should I choose? What services and supports am I entitled to? Will there be any out-of-pocket costs? Navigating Home Care Package Options Making sense of your options can feel overwhelming, but BCR Communities is here to help. Our Senior Care Manager, Debbie Calderon, is encouraging older people in the Bay and Basin region to reach out for expert guidance. “We are a Sanctuary Point-based not-for-profit with over 25 years of experience delivering quality in-home aged care services,” Debbie said.“A Home Care Package provides access to a wide range of support, including help around the home, personal and clinical care, social activities, mobility aids, meal services, and more. While it’s a fantastic resource, we understand that the process can be complex.” Why Choose BCR Communities for Home Care Support? Our experienced team of Care Managers are experts in Home Care Packages—and they love chatting with fellow locals! Whether you’ve just been approved for a package or you’re waiting for one to be assigned, now is the perfect time to start planning. “Our team is happy to talk you through the process and answer any questions,” Debbie said. “If you choose BCR Communities as your Home Care provider, you’ll be paired with your own dedicated Care Manager who will support you every step of the way. We’ll ensure your Home Care Package is tailored to your needs, goals, and daily routine—so you can continue living safely and happily at home.” Contact Us Today Let BCR Communities help you make the most of your Home Care Package . Get in touch today: 📞 Call us : 1300 222 748📧 Email us : info@BCRcommunities.com

Are you curious about how the new Aged Care Reforms might affect you? Do you have questions around My Aged Care, or your rights as a senior? Join us for a free aged care information session for seniors by Deidre Baker from Seniors Rights Service. Gain valuable insights and have the opportunity to ask questions in a supportive environment. This informative session will cover: • Key updates to aged care policies and what they mean for seniors. • How to access services and support under the new reforms. • Your rights and options within the aged care system he seminar will be held at 21 Meriton Street, St Georges Basin. Please book your spot by calling 1300 222 748, emailing info@bcrcommunities.com or visiting our website www.bcrcommunities.com

Get creative this summer with BCR Art Sparks - a hands-on art and ceramics program for young people with an NDIS plan. Think art, clay, imagination and loads of fun! It will be on every Monday during the School Holidays from 10am to 2pm in the BCR Communities Creative Space at 18 Sanctuary Point Road. Make new friends, try a range of different art techniques and take home your amazing creations. Spaces are limited so make sure you book your spot by phoning 1300 222 748 or emailing info@BCRcommunities.com

Christmas cheer is arriving early for some Bay and Basin families, thanks to the generosity of Basin Shores Community Association residents. For the past three weeks, residents have been leaving donations at their community centre to create beautifully assembled Christmas hampers. These hampers, packed with festive goodies and essential items, will be distributed by BCR Communities, to families in need. The project reflects the power of community spirit and kindness. Resident and former florist Sue Irvine, who took the lead in assembling the hampers, described the experience as a "labour of love." “I put my hand up to create the hampers because I was a florist for 30 years, and I still have cellophane, ribbon, and all the bits and bobs to make them special,” Sue said. “I made up little stories for each one—there’s one that will be perfect for a single mum with a baby girl, and another for a family that includes breakfast items, snacks, sweet treats for the kids, meal ingredients, and even pampering goodies for mum and dad.” Chairperson of the Basin Shores Community Association Executive Committee, John Di-Masi, highlighted the significance of this year’s donation. “We support a different charity each year, and this year, we really wanted to give to a local organisation that makes a big impact in our area,” John said. “BCR Communities is a Bay and Basin not-for-profit, so it felt like the perfect choice.” “All these hampers show what we can achieve when we come together as a community,” he added. “We hope they bring a little extra joy and comfort to families this Christmas.” The donation comes at a critical time, as many families in the region are grappling with the pressures of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Heather Marciano, CEO of BCR Communities, emphasised just how vital this support is for struggling families. “We are thankful to the Basin Shores Community Association for choosing us as this year’s recipient,” Heather said. “The cost-of-living crisis has put many local families in stressful situations. Rising rents, increased grocery prices, and higher energy bills mean that for some, a joyful Christmas is looking very uncertain this year.” Heather also highlighted the emotional and practical value of the hampers. “These hampers aren’t just about providing food or essentials—they remind families that their community cares about them,” she said. “For some, receiving this kind of support at Christmas can take a real weight off their shoulders.” Heather encouraged others to consider how they can contribute during the festive season, highlighting the power of small acts of kindness. “Whether it’s a hamper, a donation, or simply checking in with a neighbour, every gesture strengthens our community,” she said. The hampers, along with other donations of presents, food, and essential items, will be distributed to families through the BCR Communities network.

Last night, BCR Communities celebrated International Volunteer Day with our amazing team of volunteers at the Sanctuary Point Youth and Community Centre. It was an evening filled with fun, laughter, and heartfelt appreciation for the people who have always been the backbone of our organisation. We enjoyed a delicious woodfired BBQ dinner, played Singo Bingo , a lively twist on traditional bingo that had everyone singing along and laughing. The festivities continued with music trivia and entertainment by our own talented Pirates Band. Thank you to our lovely volunteer Renata, who generously baked one of her famous Black Forest cakes. This was the grand prize for the music trivia competition, and the winning team were thrilled with their prize. The night was a reminder of just how fortunate we are to have such dedicated and passionate people at BCR Communities. Our volunteers truly are the heart of everything we do. To each and every one of our volunteers: thank you for your time, energy, and unwavering commitment to our community. You are the reason BCR Communities thrives, and we couldn’t do it without you. As the year draws to a close, we look forward to another year of working together to make a difference. Wishing all our volunteers and their families a joyful holiday season and a very Merry Christmas!

BCR Communities is calling on the generous hearts of Bay and Basin residents to help combat rising food insecurity in our region. According to Roh Holland from the BCR Community Services team, the local not-for-profit has seen a staggering 56% increase in requests for emergency food relief over the past 12 months alone. “BCR has been responding to the local community for over 30 years but we’ve never seen the need for emergency food relief as high as it is right now – it has stretched our resources to the limit,” Roh said. “The rising cost of living is putting additional strain on families, especially single parent families, older people, and individuals already doing it tough.” BCR Communities has been a lifeline for many, providing essential items like fresh produce, pantry staples, and meal ingredients to those in need. But with cupboards running low, the organisation is reaching out to the community to help restock. “We’re particularly in need of non-perishable items such as rice, pasta, canned goods, cereal, pasta sauces, snacks, tinned fruit and long-life milk – basically the ingredients to make a meal” Roh said. “We also need other items like soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste, deodorant, sanitary items, toilet paper and even pet food.” Food donations can be dropped off at the BCR Youth & Community Centre in Sanctuary Point, Monday to Friday. Local schools, businesses, and community groups are also encouraged to host food drives to bolster the cause. “We were very grateful to the community members and local businesses who have already generously donated to our Christmas food hampers, Roh said, like Plough and Harrow who have donated baked goods all year, and the residents of the Basin Shores Estate who donated a large hamper of items to BCR from their own Christmas donation drive. Their kindness really made a difference to a lot of families over the holiday period.” To learn more or find out how to help, phone 1300 222 748 or email info@bcrcommunities.com

When 24-year-old Paige Bannister signed up for a free ‘Training Taster Program’ with BCR Communities, she wasn’t expecting it to lead to a new career in only 12 weeks. Having worked in hospitality, customer service and childcare, the Sanctuary Point local thought the program, run through Kiama Community College, would be a simple stepping stone to the next stage of her working life. “I wanted to join the program to learn new skills, improve my resume, and hopefully meet some new friends,” Paige said. While the course provided her with the workplace skills she wanted, Paige was especially inspired by the part of the course that involved working on the new BCR Youth Collective Pods. “I found working on the Youth Collective really interesting. I loved the idea of being involved with creating a space that will bring the community, and particularly young people together,” Paige said. “Growing up, I didn’t really spend much time in Sanctuary Point, I would go to Nowra or Huskisson. It would have been great to have a place like the Youth Collective to meet up with friends.” When Paige completed the course and said she wanted to continue working for the community, the BCR team - already impressed by her enthusiasm, dedication and professionalism - encouraged Paige to apply for a paid role with BCR in aged care. “I am really looking forward to working for BCR, doing more training in aged care, and meeting and getting to know the clients,” Paige said. “I love knowing that I will be helping people in my community to keep living in their own homes.” If you would like to learn more about the BCR Youth Collective or career opportunities with BCR Communities, please phone 1300 222 748 or visit BCRcommunities.com .

The BCR Wellness Centre was transformed into an enchanted garden as we hosted a high tea during Carers Week to honour a special group of amazing carers. Carers selflessly giving their time, energy, and love to support others, so it was such a privilege for our team to turn the tables and care for and pamper our carers for a morning. Treats and surprises included beautifully prepared pamper gift bags, lucky door prizes, and a delicious high tea. It was a lovely atmosphere with lots of laughter and chatting as carers connected with each other and shared their stories. A big thank you to Carers NSW for their generous sponsorship, which made this event possible. And a round of applause for our Lifestyle Coordinator, Leonie Way, whose creativity and attention to detail turned our Wellness Centre into an enchanted garden and ensured every guest felt celebrated, valued and cared for. BCR Communities holds a free carer support group once a month at our Day Respite Cottage, 16 Sanctuary Point Road.  It is a relaxed and friendly environment where everybody has the opportunity to share their experiences, discuss challenges and support others.  All carers are welcome!