Encounter Magazine | Prioritising our Mental Health and Wellbeing | October 2025
Encounter
PRIORITISING OUR MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING
OCTOBER 2025
A Christian way of being real
Trip upstream to keep families afloat
Caring for the carers
Keeping well with Kaiyu Konnect
Moving packs offer a helping hand
Welcoming a fresh focus on wellbeing
A timely reminder at headspace Cessnock
Brave step towards a new beginning
Can you give a child a caring home?
Green Light to dress up for a good cause
Focusing on our spiritual wellbeing
Awash in yellow for R U OK?
Shining a light on mental health first aid
Students champion equality
An everyday part of learning
Growing sustainability and wellbeing
Students shine as voices of BTAC
Guiding growth beyond the classroom
Take a bow, HSC Drama students
Graduating class of 2025
Springing into sustainability
Cathedral’s long-standing history
Community ethos remains strong
Stitching together a legacy
Personal care for every stage of life
Mental health in aged care
What a zoo-perb day
Art from the heart
Giving hope to those in need
A Christian way
Exploring the reality of mistakes and failure.
24 R U OK?
Awash in yellow
From bananas to minions, wristbands, t-shirts, cupcakes, banners, and even bishops.
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AGED CARE
Mental health in aged care
As soon as the scissors and comb come out, the conversation starts.
MENTAL HEALTH
Everyday part of learning
Giving students the tools to understand their emotions, build strong relationships, and look after their mental health.
Acknowledgement of Country
Newcastle Anglican acknowledges the sacred connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have with the land, sea, sky, and waterways.
We recognise, support and advocate for the sovereign rights of these nations as they navigate through the various impacts of colonisation.
This acknowledgement is aligned with our church’s commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive community. We embrace the call to recognise and acknowledge the people, culture and history that make up our beloved shared community.
A Christian way
of being real
In this edition of Encounter, I want to explore how we face the reality of mistakes and failure.
In my own life, what has carried me through is the rich Christian tradition of love, grace, and forgiveness. I have discovered a five-step way that helps me make sense of my world, especially when I am confronted with failure or fractured relationships.
THE FIVE R’S
The way of Jesus has a distinctive way of responding to wrongdoing. It does not rely on pretending nothing happened. It does not punish harshly and then move on. It does not cheapen forgiveness into a smile and a wave.
Instead, it moves through a clear pathway: Recognition. Repentance. Repair. Restraint. Resurrection.
This five-step way has been a lifeline for me, both personally and in my leadership.
1. RECOGNITION
The first step is naming the truth or having the truth named to us.
Sometimes recognition comes when you face your own failure, such as a word spoken in anger, a decision made in haste, or a silence that hurt more than speech. At other times recognition comes when someone else holds up a mirror and names how your actions have affected them. Both are uncomfortable, but both are necessary. It is a tremendous act of love when someone who truly cares for us helps us see how we are impacting others.
Recognition often stirs shame or guilt. Those feelings can be painful. Yet they also help us learn. They remind us that truth matters and that God’s Spirit helps us face our humanity with honesty.
2. REPENTANCE
Recognition alone is not enough. The next step is repentance, turning in a new direction and turning back to God.
It is impossible to be a leader without moments of regret. People can be hurt by a leader’s words and actions. I have had that experience. And I have learned that expressing true sorrow, before God and before those I have wronged, is vital.
Repentance is more than regret. It is more than wishing something had not happened. It is a choice to say, “I want to walk a new path.”
3. REPAIR
But repentance without repair is hollow. Repair is the costly step. It means doing what we can to make things right. Sometimes repair looks like an apology. Sometimes it means redress. Often it is the slow rebuilding of trust.
As a church, we have learned that words alone are not enough. People know the difference between saying sorry and showing change. Repair demands time, humility, and perseverance. It often takes longer than we would like, but it is the path of integrity.
4. RESTRAINT
This is the step many of us would rather skip.
Restraint means accepting boundaries after wrongdoing. It is recognising that consequences remain even when forgiveness is offered.
In leadership I have seen this when someone mishandles a serious matter. They may keep their role, but they lose certain authorities or responsibilities. That limitation is not punishment for its own sake. It is a way of keeping others safe and protecting the integrity of the community.
Most of us know what it feels like to live with boundaries shaped by past mistakes. Carrying scars and limits is part of being human. Grace does not erase those boundaries. It teaches us how to live within them.
5. RESURRECTION
And yet the final word is not failure or limitation. The final word is resurrection.
Resurrection does not erase scars. It does not rewrite history. But in Christ it means the weight of guilt no longer chains us. New life can emerge even from failure.
We face the truth about ourselves and our circumstances and then grace touches us. We are reminded that we are loved, not because we earned it, but because Christ has already carried sin and death. Resurrection is knowing that love and choosing to live lovingly in response.
WHY THIS MATTERS
Mistakes and failures are part of every life, including mine. What makes the difference is not whether we stumble, but how we walk through and beyond the stumble. The five-step way of Recognition, Repentance, Repair, Restraint and Resurrection gives us a map. It grounds us in honesty and humility, and it points us to hope.
As Bishop, I carry scars. I live within boundaries. And I am learning again and again to let resurrection have the last word. To be someone who carries the hope of heaven in my heart.
This is what I long for in our church and our communities too. Not denial, not shame, not easy forgiveness. We want to be people who promote truth, repair, accept boundaries that protect, and the promise of new life in Christ.
A trip upstream to help keep families
afloat
“There comes a point when we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. Some of us need to go upstream and find out why they’re falling in.”
It’s a quote attributed to former Archbishop Desmond Tutu, but these words are what Taylah Davis describes as her daily inspiration.
Team Leader of Samaritans Brighter Futures in Newcastle, Taylah says her work in family preservation often requires taking a trek upstream for answers.
“When people keep falling into the river, we need to teach them how to ask for help from others or give them the tools to learn how to swim,” she says.
“We can’t just stand by and watch as people keep falling into the river.”
The analogy, she says, asks much broader questions around what we
could be doing as a community, as a society, to support people to either learn how to swim, or have the resources to swim.
Brighter Futures is a Samaritans service focused on ensuring children can live safely in their homes by helping to address specific problems like domestic and family violence, parental mental health issues, and substance misuse.
THE EARLIER THE BETTER
“The child is at the centre of everything we do,” Taylah says.
“That includes working with pregnant women.
“We know that brain development is something that begins in utero which is why it’s important to provide support in addressing vulnerabilities because we know the impact that stress has on early brain development.
Team Leader Taylah Davis and Practice Lead Sarah McAneney.
“Even in those early stages we will work to get the best outcomes for children.”
Brighter Futures is a home visiting service.
Taylah and her team of six work with children up to the age of 17 who may require counselling, behaviour support, early education, assistance with childcare or education support, help accessing safe housing, or support with accessing the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
“Although all these things are not labelled mental health, they all have an overarching impact on a child’s longterm wellbeing and outcomes,” Taylah explains.
The aim of Brighter Futures, she explains, is to work on vulnerabilities so children can remain safely at home.
This includes working with the whole family unit, as Brighter Futures Practice Lead Sarah McAneney explains.
“Families might have a few vulnerabilities. They might be experiencing mental health, drug and alcohol abuse, domestic and family violence, and they could all be happening at the one time, which can obviously have quite a profound impact on each member’s mental health.
“We are unique because we offer specific, family-centred support.”
CAPACITY BUILDING
“Our program is about meeting people where they are at in their journey and offering them resources and support they might need,” Sarah adds.
“If they need housing, or they need financial emergency relief around food
security. It could be help getting the little kids to go to school.”
“We know that all those things impact mental health, and we support through all of those levels to make sure people have what they need to be in a space where they can just focus on being well.”
FILLING THE GAPS
“We see gaps in people being able to access timely mental health support,” Taylah explains.
“We make sure we work hard to fill those gaps and find support for families and children via the most accessible pathway.
“It’s making sure that each family member is being linked to those therapies so they can start to rebuild their life after adverse life experiences and or trauma.”
BASIC HUMAN NEEDS
A trip upstream often looks holistically at basic human needs, Taylah explains.
“I think what we see and what we know is that if people are not having their basic human rights met - access to early healthcare, early mental health support, food security, housing security – then we’re going to have a harder time being able to get them on track to engage in targeted mental health support”.
Visit Samaritans website for more information about Brighter Futures.
The importance of
carers caring for the
While the world was reeling at the news of a seemingly random attack at a Bondi Junction shopping centre on April 13, 2024, for many of Alyssa Elsley’s clients it was a nightmare that conjured fears much closer to home.
Though horrified and deeply saddened like most, this group share an insight into the heartache felt by the killer’s family. A pain many would find hard to fathom.
Alyssa is a counsellor at ARAFMI (the Association of Relatives and Friends of the Mentally Ill).
From their homebase at Broadmeadow’s Brunker Road, Alyssa and her colleague Chantel support carers, family and friends of those with mental illness.
Many of the people they assist are living with a loved one with schizophrenia.
“We have many family members who
resonated with the parents of the person with schizophrenia,” Alyssa says.
“For them, the incident was all too close to home, a feeling of dread sitting with family members who related to this story that this easily could have been them and their adult child”.
Started in Sydney in 1974, ARAFMI branched out into the Hunter region in 1979, before entering the care of Samaritans in 2019.
The service is funded by NSW Ministry of Health and Hunter New England Mental Health.
Together, Alyssa and Chantel offer support to more than 75 people per month (four per day).
“We primarily offer counselling to family members and carers, relatives and friends who have a loved one in their life with mental illness,” Alyssa explains.
“That could include a range of diagnoses - schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, bipolar, and
ARAFMI counsellors Chantel Kent and Alyssa Elsley.
neurodiversity, including ADHD and autism.
“And it could also include helping family members that are dealing with issues like hoarding, helping others let go of resentment, navigating the mental health system, or dealing with a loved one during their psychosis.”
It also includes grieving a loved one after they have been diagnosed with a mental illness.
“It is a complicated and complex grief because it is a type of loss”, explains Alyssa.
ARAFMI is a free counselling service.
Clients are either referred by social workers, doctors, hospitals, community mental health teams, other services, or self-referral.
“When they first arrive [at Brunker Road], a lot of people are frustrated,” Alyssa explains.
“They may have been caring for an adult child, been doing it for years, been through all the ups and downs, and they’re tired.”
Burn out in this case is referred to as ‘carer fatigue’.
“The conversation might be ‘we can’t do it anymore, we can’t keep paying their fines, sorting out their messes, we don’t want this in our house anymore,’” she says.
“We support by helping carers learn about setting boundaries.
“They’re usually exhausted and we’ll help reset goals, unpack grief, and relearn communication techniques.
“It’s ok to say no to a loved one with mental illness,” Alyssa reiterates.
“It doesn’t mean you love them less or support them any less.”
Having worked with Samaritans since 2008 in a range of services, Alyssa says her six years at ARAFMI has cemented her belief that carers deserve care.
“The relief I see when they (clients) can get things off their chest is the most rewarding aspect of my role,” she says.
“When they say it’s so nice to be supported because it’s such a hard gig, I feel so privileged to be in this position.
“Even though you might not be fixing the problems they are experiencing with their loved ones, you’re making it a little easier for them to cope and bear and giving them hope to keep going.
“We are a vital part of the mental health system.
“If we don’t care for the carers, then our carers aren’t able to help our people with mental health issues.”
The carers are, in fact, assisting the overall mental health system by supporting their loved one at home, without overloading our hospitals.
It is vital carers feel supported.
“It’s important carers prioritise their own mental health,” Alyssa says.
“You can’t pour from an empty cup. You’ve got to care for yourself before you can care for someone else.
“Coming here is taking care of yourself.”
Visit Samaritans website to learn more about ARAFMI.
Kaiyu Konnect Keeping well with
Homemade mango ice-cream, hummus, and vegetable-laden pizzas were just three of the dishes on offer at Kaiyu Konnect’s latest healthy eating lesson.
Held at Argenton Community Hall, the 60-minute sessions allow participants to explore ways to better serve the connection between healthy eating and mental health.
Portion sizes, the dangers of influencer diet fads, and the common confusion between hunger and thirst are among the topics discussed.
Hosted by Samaritans and led by a Hunter New England Health nutritionist, the regular sessions are one of an extensive list of activities on offer for those looking to boost their life skills, as well as find connection.
Inspired by the Awabakal word meaning “to have power and ability”, Kaiyu Konnect is a drop-in centre for people with a primary mental health diagnosis.
The service provides a safe space to focus on wellbeing, recovery, and connection with others.
“Wholistically, we are a non-clinical mental health service,” Kaiyu Konnect Service Manager Reg says.
“Everything we do is about attempting to fill a gap, supporting to keep people well along their mental health journey.”
CONNECTION
Activities on offer include yoga, art sessions, cooking classes, sound baths and clinician visits, with participants arriving from a range of referral bases including mental health teams throughout the Hunter.
“It’s up to the individual what they would like to get out of their time with Kaiyu,” Reg explains.
Some people will be here from the time we open until the time we close, and other people might just drop in for yoga and go.
Kaiyu Konnect team members Mel and Reg.
The Kaiyu Konnect team – Reg, Mel and Dion – can also offer help linking participants with other vital mental health services.
“If someone needed to make an appointment or needed assistance with a specific concern, we can assist with research, support to make an appointment or discuss options available,” Reg adds.
“We’re here to help with general dayto-day living and keeping well, it’s about offering connection.”
REBUILDING
The service is often one of the first social gatherings attended post diagnosis.
“When people arrive at Kaiyu for the first time they may be experiencing anxiety; walking into an unknown space can feel overwhelming.
“It’s our job to support people to engage with activities of interest, with others in the group, and to ease anxiety so each person who walks through our doors can get the most out of their Kaiyu experience,” Mel says.
“Our programs are here to assist people living with mental illness or psychiatric disability to have satisfying and valued lives as full members of the community.
“It’s about self-care, skill building, and offering a sense of belonging with a focus on social inclusion.”
COMBAT LONELINESS
For many that attend, Kaiyu Konnect is a way to ward off loneliness.
“A lot of people live independently and may not be interacting with many other people regularly. This can create
a feeling of isolation and, sometimes, loneliness. We work towards creating a space at Kaiyu where all people can feel a sense of belonging and connection,” Reg says.
“Most people are wanting to make friendships and socialise with others, and this is a nice, safe space where these connections can be made with like-minded people.”
DEBRIEFING
For the team, debriefing has become a technique that helps them keep tabs on one another’s mental health.
“You’re getting pulled in multiple directions, so you’ve got to look after your own wellbeing,” Reg says.
“We are a tight team here and if there is something that is proving to be a challenge we can bounce ideas off each other and debrief when needed.
“We’re a good team in that sense. We look after each other.
“Some people can tell you some pretty heavy things about their life or things that they’re going through and that can be a lot. A debrief between the three of us is really helpful.”
Visit Samaritans website for more information about Kaiyu Konnect.
Moving packs offering young people a
helping hand
Sheets, pillowcases, blankets, towels, pots, and pans are among the items being used to help young people become more independent, thanks to two Samaritans services.
Together with coat hangers, plates, bowls, mugs, dish cloths and food storage containers, they form the basis of ‘Moving Packs’ – a collection of household items available to youth
in Samaritans programs who are transitioning to a new home.
The packs are the brainchild of Samaritans Youth Initiative Team Leader Nick Charters.
Samaritans Youth Initiative assists young people by offering education and employment mentoring, transition support to build living
skills, and support to find long-term accommodation.
The program assists young care leavers to develop strong personal networks and skills to navigate multiple adult support service systems and increase their capacity to manage crises and change as they transition to independence.
Having watched young people struggling for independent living over a number of years in his role, Nick reached out to Samaritans Retail Manager Rachel Bambach with an idea.
The
volunteers love the idea of putting together packs for young people who are making a fresh start.
“We have young people in our program moving into their own property for the first time,” Nick says.
“They have limited funds and require support for necessary household items.
“There’s always a cost, whether it’s bond, or rent, or buying furniture, and I thought if we could help ease some of that burden then why wouldn’t we?”
Rachel was happy to assist.
“I thought it was a great idea,” she said.
“And it’s great to be helping another Samaritans team.”
When he sees a need, Nick sends a request to Rachel who, together with the op-shop volunteers, sources the necessary donated items.
The cost of the moving packs, which is paid by the young person, is minimal.
They have since become a tool used to share another valuable life lesson.
“Many of our young people are surprised by how much they need when they first move out, and how expensive things are,” Nick says.
“This has become a way of teaching them that they don’t need brand spanking new items when they first move out. They can source affordable, accessible items if they’re clever.”
The Youth Initiative provides services to young people leaving statutory out-ofhome care (OOHC).
In the Hunter and Central Coast region, Youth Initiative is run by Samaritans in partnership with Path2Change, My Foundations Youth Housing and Youth Connections.
Welcoming a fresh focus on wellbeing
Soul, role and context: that’s how Newcastle Anglican Director of Mission Archdeacon Rod Bower describes an organisation’s workplace wellbeing.
He says arriving from individual backgrounds and experiences reminds us that finding a healthy connection at our place of employment is vital.
“It’s about what animates us and brings us to work in a motivated way often driven by our values connecting with our organisational values,” Father Rod says.
“When those two things come together, we often have a higher sense of wellbeing in the workplace.”
Newcastle Anglican has launched its Wellbeing Strategy 2025-2028, with a focus on each member of the various services feeling more ‘valued and empowered’.
By welcoming a more holistic approach to supporting a thriving workplace, the strategy focuses on three key pillars of organisational wellbeing: mitigate illness, prevent harm, and promote thriving.
Wellbeing Manager Sharon Young says the vision for wellbeing at Newcastle Anglican is to cultivate a thriving and supportive environment where every worker feels respected and inspired.
“We understand that the wellbeing of our workforce is integral to delivering exceptional care and support to those we support,” she says.
“At the heart of what we do is a simple belief: when our people are supported
physically, mentally and emotionally –they flourish. And when people flourish, so does our whole organisation.”
We asked the Newcastle Anglican Wellbeing team to tell us what wellbeing means to them.
Sharon Young
“Wellbeing to me is not just about physical health but also mental and emotional balance. I believe they’re all deeply connected. When one area suffers, it affects the others. True wellbeing means feeling strong in my body, clear in my mind, and calm in my emotions. It’s about being able to manage stress, stay positive, and take care of myself in a way that supports my overall happiness and quality of life.”
Jordan Morrow
“Everyone deserves a positive wellbeing experience. I am a strong believer in the Five Ways to Wellbeing Framework – if you are mindful, active, generous, interested and connected your overall wellbeing enhances and workplace culture flourishes.”
You can watch this video to learn more about the Wellbeing Strategy.
A timely reminder at
headspace Cessnock
Weighted golden Labradors, culturally inspired furnishings, an afternoon tea gathering and a $4,000 cheque welcomed the headspace Cessnock team at the start of Mental Health Month this year.
The toy animals are therapy pets, a new addition to the space already muchloved by young people that visit the Vincent Street address.
The furnishings are part of an internal upgrade designed to make spaces feel more inclusive.
The afternoon tea was a way to welcome a visit by headspace National CEO Jason Trethowan.
The cheque was a donation from the Cessnock Business Chamber.
Each element helped launch an annual month-long focus on the importance of looking after our mental health and wellbeing.
“Mental Health Month is a reminder that we each play a part in caring for the mental health of ourselves and others,” headspace Cessnock Centre Manager Aimee Prosser says.
Aimee and her team have been at the Cessnock address for five years.
Sharing space with other Samaritans’ youth services has allowed the services – which, coincidentally, both have green logos - to become a “one stop shop” for young people in need.
“We’re all fighting the same fight,” Aimee says.
“We all want the same outcome.
“We want all of the young people that come in here, and their families, to feel safe and welcome.
“We want young people to feel this is where they belong and this is where they can come to seek help.”
To achieve this goal, the team thrives on support from the local community.
During a Cessnock Business Chamber R U OK? Day breakfast held in September, local business owners raised $4,000 to continue supporting headspace Cessnock in its delivery of programs for the region’s most vulnerable young people.
The support, Aimee says, is lifechanging.
Visit headspace Cessnock’s website for more information.
Brave step towards a new beginning
For many young people, walking through the door at headspace Taree is one of the biggest steps they will ever take.
When they enter, Clinical Lead Sophie Murray and the rest of the team are there to welcome them.
Since 2022, headspace Taree has supported hundreds of youth aged 12 to 25 who are going through a tough time.
“Getting the privilege and the opportunity to help young people is the thing that keeps me in the job,” Sophie says.
“They are so brave with the information they share with us and the trust they put in us.
“It feels like such an honour to be part of the process for them.
“I want to thank all of the young people who come into headspace. We love helping them, we want to help more people, and we really enjoy the work we do.”
Sophie’s role involves processing referrals and providing access to counselling or GP services.
She also checks statistics and data to ensure the team is on track and offers counselling sessions and interventions.
Some of the reasons young people visit headspace include feeling sad or depressed, stressed, anxious, angry, or due to problems with family or friends.
Sophie says headspace plays a vital role in the local community.
“We’re noticing there’s quite a high prevalence of things like domestic violence and substance use,” she says.
“We’ve also had some really unfortunate critical incidents lately around suicide and deaths of young people.
“So, I think there were really good reasons why headspace was set up here a few years ago and those reasons are still there.
“It’s important for us to keep doing the work we’re doing – helping schools, families, and connecting with other health services within the area to support the community.”
Each year, headspace Taree is involved in events like R U OK?, Wear It Purple Day, local NAIDOC activities, and CareerQuip – an exhibition that connects students, job seekers and community members with employers, training providers, and career advisors.
Over a 12-month period up until the end of June 2025, headspace Taree provided
headspace Taree Clinical Lead Sophie Murray.
2,437 services to young people. This was 400 more than the previous year.
It also recorded a client satisfaction of 91.3%.
Sophie says every interaction is led by the young person.
“We ask them: ‘What do you want to get from today’s appointment?
What can I help you with? What do you need right now?’ It’s just about making sure it’s really focused on young people and driven by them,” she says.
“We also stick to our word. When they tell us what they want, we go and do that to the best of our ability.
“We’re always getting feedback and hearing what we can do better.”
According to Sophie, COVID-19, summer bushfires and the recent flood crisis have combined to create a “cumulative effect” on many youth in Taree and surrounding communities.
While the past few years have brought many challenges, she says headspace
Taree offers hope of a new beginning.
The centre – which is supported by lead agency Samaritans, as well as headspace National and the Primary Health Network – is a place where young people can flourish.
“We want to bring them to a place where they can amplify their voices. Our job is to help them shine, feel valued, and do what they want to do,” Sophie says.
“Young people in the area all have thoughts, opinions, beliefs, and dreams.
“They just may not have the place to come and get that amplified if headspace did not exist.”
Visit headspace Taree’s website or Facebook page for more information.
Can you provide a
child with a safe,
loving home?
You don’t have to own a big home, live a lavish lifestyle, or earn a huge wage.
To become a foster carer, you just need to provide a safe and caring environment.
Samaritans provides foster care in Newcastle, the Central Coast and Mudgee through its Permanency Support Program (PSP).
Foster carers offer support for children in need for various reasons, including families being unable to keep them safe for short or long periods of time.
Here’s what two of our foster carers have to say about their experience:
You don’t have to be rich or own a big house to be a foster carer, just be able to give a child a caring home.”
“Seeing the smiles on their faces, the love and the warmth that you get from them. The joy of having them in your life. A beautiful gift of bringing up a family member. It’s made my family complete.”
Foster carers come from all walks of life. You don’t have to be extraordinary – you just have to care.
Samaritans is looking for people and families with a variety of backgrounds and experiences.
From individuals, traditional families, single parents, same sex couples, retired people.
This allows us to meet the individual needs of children.
As a foster carer, you will be supported with a range of training options that will ensure you have the skills to care and nurture a foster child. This is at no cost to you.
In addition to the training, you will receive support from our team, including regular contact, via phone, home visits, and emergency support.
Foster carers receive a fortnightly allowance based on the age of the child. This assists with the cost to feed, clothe, educate, and meet the needs of the child.
The type of foster care includes:
· Emergency or crisis care
· Respite care
· Short to medium term care
· Long term or permanent care
Green Light
to dress up for a good cause
It could have been mistaken for St Patrick’s Day when Newcastle Anglican staff recently dressed head to toe in their greenest outfits for a good cause.
From green eyelashes, to tutus, from jumpers to stockings, the inaugural Green Day certainly was a hit.
Morning tea treats included green cupcakes, green jelly cups, slices, dips and many other yummy delicacies.
The initiative was part of the Green Light Appeal, raising awareness and funds for Samaritans Student Accommodation.
Since 2012, Samaritans Student Accommodation has provided safe, supportive and independent housing for young people aged between 16 and 24 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
These young people have often fled traumatic or unsafe family situations but are dedicated to completing their education or vocation.
The service provides mentoring and case worker support to empower the students to Green Light their goals.
The Green Day initiative contributed nearly $300 towards the appeal, and staff are already excited about going bigger and better in 2026!
Visit Samaritans website to donate to the Green Light Appeal.
Focusing on our
spiritual wellbeing
Language has always been fascinating to Archdeacon Rod Bower.
Through years of public advocacy, Father Rod found many Australians were suffering from ‘moral injury’.
Moral injury helps to explain feelings such as shame or guilt, remorse and outrage stemming from a betrayal of what is considered right – or just.
For many, coining the term helped to justify their emotions.
“People found meaning in it,” Father Rod says.
“It was a matter of ‘oh, that’s why I’ve been feeling that way, because I’ve been involved in something that’s injured my value system somehow’.
“Whether they were people of faith or not, they still got the same thing out of it.
“So, the constant choice is ‘what language do I use to make whatever I’m trying to say accessible to whoever I’m talking to?’
“For me, that’s fascinating.”
OUR SPIRITUAL WELLBEING
Within Newcastle Anglican and its agencies, the language we use to define spirituality is meaning, purpose, and connection.
According to Father Rod, the organisation’s Director of Mission, it’s where people enter the ‘bigger space’.
This could be family, nature, or sport. It may include some kind of expression of a higher being or spiritual practice that involves meditation or contemplation. For some, it might be a combination of all these things.
Newcastle Anglican’s Director of Mission Archdeacon Rod Bower.
“We’re built for connection; we’re seekers of meaning and purpose. When we engage in that, our wellbeing increases,” Father Rod says.
“We spend a good chunk of our waking hours at work, so it’s a really important part of our wellbeing. If we think in terms of what motivates and animates us, and how that lands in our role and context at work, that’s a huge contributor to our wellbeing.”
A significant element of spiritual wellbeing is the provision of spiritual care.
Effective spiritual care is best achieved through a whole-of-organisation approach by embedding the practice in key systems and processes.
For Newcastle Anglican, spiritual care is framed by the organisation’s values of Compassion, Integrity, Justice, Faith, Courage, and Wisdom.
It is also reflected in the service philosophy of reliability, individuality, dignity, and empowerment.
A UNIVERSAL MODEL
For Christians, there are many stories in the scriptures about how Jesus related with other humans in terms of compassion, care and, sometimes, challenge.
“But it’s always about how that person
There are a lot of people working within Newcastle Anglican who have different faiths and expressions of wellbeing.
might flourish and live abundantly,” Father Rod says.
“We do talk about people flourishing because of what we do, inspired by the way of Jesus.
“This isn’t necessarily a theological statement but a statement of modelling.
“Jesus lived his life in a certain way, and we find that if we live a life modelled from that, then we will have a much deeper connection and sense of purpose and meaning in terms of compassion, wisdom, and justice.”
THE ART OF MINDFULNESS
Have you heard of the term reflexive practice? It’s language used to describe looking at patterns and influences that can affect your actions as a whole. Reflexive practice is a self-reflection of how your own presence, perspective and biases can determine professional interactions and outcomes.
Father Rod says Newcastle Anglican intends to roll out reflexive practice across its agencies to improve wellbeing and create a greater sense of meaning, purpose, and connection.
“We’re in the process of developing reflexive practice, especially within our complex, people-facing roles,” he says.
“We get together as groups and use certain models to be more reflective and connective to engage our wellbeing within our workplace.
“As time goes on and more staff undergo training, we’ll have more opportunities to engage in reflexive practice.”
Awash in yellow for R U OK?
A high-vis colour used to alert and warn, yellow is also a primary colour thought to bring happiness – think sunshine, pineapples, and sunflowers.
And, yellow is the colour of R U OK?
So, it was befitting that Newcastle Anglican was awash in tones of yellow this September as staff ‘checked-in’ on one another, committing to one another’s wellbeing not just on a given day, but every day.
From classrooms to services, teams, residents, participants and leaders, various locations across the organisation were decorated in everything yellow – from bananas to minions, wristbands, t-shirts, cupcakes, banners, and even bishops.
“Are you okay?”
Newcastle R U OK? ambassador Lachlan McTackett says this was a question that saved his life.
When he was 19 years-old and first experienced suicidal thoughts, being asked by a mate if he was okay became a catalyst for change.
“I’m here today because someone asked me the question,” he shared at a gathering in Booragul.
“In the time it takes to make a cuppa, you could save a life.”
Research shows three factors increase someone’s risk of suicide:
1. Feeling isolated or disconnected
2. Believing they’re a burden on others
3. Having the means to take their life
Eight people take their own lives in Australia every day. Thirty will attempt suicide, and nine in 10 (89%) of us know someone who has made a suicide attempt. By asking, ‘are you OK?’ and showing someone they’re supported, long before they’re in crisis, you can play a part in changing this.
FOUR STEPS TO AN R U OK? CONVERSATION:
1. Ask – ‘Are You Okay?’ or “How are you travelling?”
2. Listen – “I’m here to listen if you want to talk more.”
3. Encourage action – “What have you done before that has helped?”
4. Check-in – “Just wanted to check in and see how you’re doing?”
Shining a light
on Mental Health First Aid
During Mental Health Month in October, the Newcastle Anglican Wellbeing team is highlighting the importance of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) in the workplace.
MHFA is the initial help offered to someone who is experiencing a mental health problem, or a mental health crisis, until appropriate professional help is received, or the crisis resolves.
Given that the average Australian worker will spend close to one third of their lives at work, it is an ideal place for early intervention and support for those experiencing or living with mental illness.
Understanding how to talk about mental health and having the confidence and knowledge to help someone in need are important skills that everyone in the workplace can learn.
Newcastle Anglican Wellbeing team manager Sharon Young says MHFA training is regularly available for all staff.
“Supporting each other starts here,” she says.
“Mental Health First Aiders will learn how to recognise the signs and symptoms of mental health problems and learn the skills to feel confident and be able to help.”
Having MHFA skills means that a person can assist someone developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis and make a real difference in the workplace.
Newcastle Anglican is proud to have its own in-house MHFA facilitator.
Numerous team members have already completed MHFA training.
“We want to extend a huge thank you to all who have completed the training. Your commitment to supporting others truly makes a difference,” Sharon adds.
“You’re helping to create a workplace where mental health matters”.
Keep an eye out for future MHFA training opportunities within Newcastle Anglican.
during Students champion
Wear it Purple Day equality
Purple donuts, ribbons, playlists, and posters filled the classrooms and communal spaces at all four Newcastle Anglican Schools this year as students marked Wear It Purple Day.
While some wore purple accessories to show their support, others enjoyed a $4 donut smothered in purple icing and sprinkles.
“It’s a day that champions supportive, safe, and empowering environments for rainbow young people,” Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College (BTAC) Year 11 leaders say.
Kickstarting the day by dedicating their morning tutor lessons to conversations about inclusion and equality, students discussed the importance of creating safe spaces for all school members.
“We want to create a community where every person feels respected and celebrated for who they are.
“We wore purple with pride.”
Adding their own creative spin to official
Wear It Purple 2025 posters, students at BTAC tuned in to a Wear It Purple soundtrack played through school speakers at recess and lunchtime.
Over at Lakes Grammar - An Anglican School, students across the Upper Campus wore purple and highlighted the importance of standing alongside others and making everyone feel safe, supported, and valued - no matter our differences.
Did you know? Purple is thought to represent mental balance as it’s a combination of stimulating red and calming blue.
Wear It Purple Day is an annual movement that calls on communities to create safe, inclusive environments for LGBTQIA+ youth.
This year’s theme - ‘Bold Voices, Bright Futures’ - encouraged young people to speak their truths and pursue their dreams.
As we celebrated Wear it Purple Day 2025, Bishop Peter Stuart reiterated our commitment to inclusion as an organisation.
“On this Wear it Purple Day, I want to proclaim myself again as an LGBTQIA+ ally.
“We are committed to inclusion in Newcastle Anglican. Whether it be for our schools, for our students, for our residents, for our clients. Inclusion is really important to us.
“And I know that across the organisation there are some very strong allies who want to make a considerable difference.”
Visit the Wear It Purple Day website for more information.
Mental health an everyday part of
learning
From learning to express feelings of pride and fear, to practicing gratitude in preparation for adulthood, Newcastle Anglican Schools are proving learning is not just about academics, it’s about growing the whole child.
Within the classrooms of all four Newcastle Anglican Schools, this means giving students the tools to understand their emotions, build strong relationships, and look after their mental health as they move through each stage of schooling.
At the heart of learning at Manning Valley Anglican College (MVAC), Lakes Grammar – An Anglican School, Scone Grammar School and Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College (BTAC), there are five simple but powerful areas: selfawareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
These become the stepping stones for students to develop confidence, resilience, and care for themselves and others.
THE EARLY YEARS: LEARNING TO NAME EMOTIONS
In their younger years, students spend time learning to recognise and name their feelings. It might sound small, but this is where wellbeing begins.
When a child can say “I’m feeling worried,” or “I feel proud,” they are better able to share with their teacher, a parent, or a friend, and that opens the door for support.
MIDDLE SCHOOL: NAVIGATING CHANGE TOGETHER
Middle School can be a whirlwind of transition, so teachers make sure students don’t face it alone.
Wellbeing is part of the timetable, with dedicated lessons through the Wellio program.
These sessions adapt to the needs of each group, giving students space to talk about emotions, friendships, and mental health. They also learn how to look out for one another, because growing up is easier when you know someone has your back.
SENIOR SCHOOL: TOOLS FOR LIFE
As students step into Senior School, they begin The Resilience Project, where gratitude, empathy, and mindfulness are at the centre.
These practices, woven into Tutor time, give students practical tools they can carry into adulthood.
It’s about more than just getting through exams; it’s about learning lifelong habits that nurture mental health and wellbeing.
A WEEKLY CHECK-IN FOR EVERY STUDENT
From Year 5 onwards, students also take part in weekly Pulse Wellbeing Check-ins.
This gives them a moment to pause and reflect on how they’re feeling, and to reach out for help if they need it.
The check-ins include the chance to send gratitude messages to classmates or staff - a small action that research shows can make a big difference to wellbeing.
At every stage, the goal is simple: to make mental health a natural, everyday part of learning.
By giving students the skills to recognise their emotions, support one another, and build healthy habits, Newcastle Anglican Schools are helping them grow into young people who are ready to flourish –both at school and in life.
Newcastle Anglican’s Executive Director of Education Deb Clancy says looking after students’ social and emotional wellbeing is just as important as keeping their bodies healthy.
“Flourishing students are more creative, socially connected, have improved learning outcomes, and generally live longer,” she says.
“A key concept in positive psychology is the mental health continuum model –which illustrates mental health as a range of emotions, from flourishing to struggling.
“Our schools proactively promote mental wellness and resilience, using the Learning Power Approach, positive psychology, and resources provided by BeYou – the national mental health and wellbeing initiative developed in collaboration with Early Childhood Australia and headspace.”
Growing sustainability
and wellbeing
At Scone Grammar School, sustainability and wellbeing are closely connected through Grammar Green, an initiative founded by Year 1 teacher Mrs Carolyn Martin.
What began as a small garden project has grown into a thriving space where students can step away from the playground to nurture both the earth and themselves.
Each week, children participate in composting, tending to worm farms, and planting a variety of crops, including herbs, spinach, and winter vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage.
These hands-on experiences teach practical skills, reduce waste, and encourage mindful choices, such as creating wrap-free lunchboxes or reusing materials instead of discarding them.
Perhaps the most important benefit is the connections students form along the way.
Working together in the garden helps children develop a sense of self, feel proud
of completing meaningful tasks, and understand that even small actions can make a real-world impact.
Grammar Green is also a calm, mindful space where students build resilience, enjoy fresh air, and experience the wellbeing benefits of purposeful action.
At The Yellow Cottage, the school’s preschool students attend ‘Bush Kindy’ regularly to maintain their connection with nature.
From climbing hills and building stick teepees to digging in the dirt and spotting tiny bush creatures, the children are immersed in curiosity, courage, and connection for a full day, eight times a year.
By stepping outside their comfort zones, the preschoolers build resilience and experience the joy of unstructured play in nature.
Both Grammar Green and Bush Kindy prove that growing sustainability also means growing stronger, healthier minds and communities.
Students shine as voices
of BTAC
If you ask Fletcher and Madeline why they were chosen to be the voices of Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College (BTAC), their answers might surprise you.
Handpicked from the school’s 951 students, the Year 6 pair feature in a new 30-second radio commercial being broadcast both on-air and online.
Accompanied by acoustic background music, they can be heard describing what they love most about BTAC.
The campaign is aimed at driving awareness and boosting enrolments.
“It’s to encourage people to learn about our school and look into it more,” Fletcher explains.
The pair was accompanied at the Honeysuckle recording studio by college principal Mrs Penny Curran-Peters.
They enjoyed a tour of the facility, taking in the sweeping views of the harbour before watching radio hosts record live entertainment.
Representing the school in such a unique way was a memorable experience.
“It was nice to be recognised, and it was a great opportunity,” Fletcher says.
“I liked being in the studio, putting the headphones on, and reading off an actual script, it was something different, something I wouldn’t normally do,” Madeline adds.
Both were selected because they reflect the school’s values, demonstrate strong leadership skills, and communicate with confidence.
“We’re so proud of our students for stepping up and shining in this unique opportunity,” Mrs Curran-Peters says.
Madeline and Fletcher with BTAC Principal Penny Curran-Peters.
Listen out for BTAC students Maddie and Fletcher on the LiSTNR app.
Guiding growth beyond the
classroom
Manning Valley Anglican College teacher Sally Woodhouse is passionate about the wellbeing of students.
An educator at the Cundletown learning hub since 2022, Sally believes good mental health is important both inside the classroom and beyond the school gate.
While her educating role is Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) teacher and Student Representative Council mentor, outside the school grounds she is a Girl Guides leader.
“I really enjoy watching students blossom, develop, and challenge themselves,” Sally says.
“Everyone is good at something and it’s very rewarding helping young people find their self-confidence.”
Sally’s recent task with the Girl Guides was organising the 2025 Australian Jamboree- Bush 2 Beach.
Held at Murwillumbah Showground, on NSW’s North Coast, the event attracted more than 1,300 international Girl Guides to an eight-day event in late September.
Three years in the making, Sally says the event was aimed at encouraging girls aged 10 to 17 to develop skills in a safe and supportive environment.
“The girls partake in a range of activities spread across five zones, including adventure, bush, STEM, creative, and beach,” she says.
“It’s about making connections and finding purpose, facing challenges, and engaging in teamwork.”
“Just like the classroom, tackling new tasks helps build resilience and allows growth and development.
“They’re all ingredients for good mental health.
“The takeaways are that the girls make new friends from across the world, and they can create opportunities to be and do whatever they want in the world.
“For me, it’s very rewarding to see the smiles on their faces.”
MVAC teacher Sally Woodhouse, left, in her role with Girl Guides.
Take a bow,
HSC Drama students
An Education NSW initiative, OnSTAGE is an annual showcase of the very best HSC Drama performances across NSW.
Selections include both individual and group performance, and individual projects.
Lakes Grammar’s class of 2025 was recognised with two nominations for Group Devised Performance and three nominations for Individual Performance.
“This means our students’ work has been recognised among the top in the state,” Principal Richard Wheeldon says.
“This recognition is a testament to the dedication, creativity, and commitment of our students and the guidance of our passionate teachers.
“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.”
It may have been written by William Shakespeare more than 400 years ago, but these are words that no doubt continue to ring true for the talented HSC Drama students at Lakes Grammar – An Anglican School.
Under the guidance of Drama teacher Mrs Braun, the group has received an impressive five OnSTAGE nominations for their efforts.
“A very special thank you to Mrs Braun for her endless encouragement and support in making the drama space a place of energy, fun, and inspiration.
“Congratulations Mackenzie, Isabella, Ravi, Gideon, Maggie, Ibrahim and Levi – you’ve shone on stage and made our whole school community proud.”
Graduating class
of 2025
Congratulations to the Year 12 class at Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College, Lakes Grammar - An Anglican School, Manning Valley Anglican College and Scone Grammar School.
Whether you began your learning journey with us in Kindergarten, or joined along the way, you have each woven your story into the fabric of our Newcastle Anglican Schools.
Thank you for the memories, the laughter, the courage, and the spirit you’ve shared with our community.
We are all proud of your achievements thus far and we wish you all the very best for the future.
Springing into sustainability
Katrina’s three-year-old grandson Rowan loves bins and garbage trucks.
Every Thursday morning while at his grandma’s Lake Macquarie home, he enjoys watching the council garbage truck gobble household waste from the family’s two big bins, before wheeling them to the side of the property.
“It’s our ritual every week and it brings him joy,” Katrina says.
It’s an act the Anglican EcoCare member says offers a chance to discuss the church’s Season of Creation.
The Season of Creation is a time Christians dedicate to the renewal of their relationship with the Creator and all creation.
The season started on 1 September, the Day of Prayer for Creation, and ended on 4 October.
“During Season of Creation we are reminded of the sacredness of our Earth,” Katrina explains.
“When we deepen our connection to nature, we deepen our connection to God.
“We can do this by going for bush walks, going stargazing, or going to the beach for a sunset swim.”
Timed to coincide with the start of spring, it is also an opportunity to reconsider or reactivate our relationship with planet Earth.
“Season of Creation also motivates us to be more responsible and sustainable,” Katrina adds.
“You can reduce your carbon footprint, use less plastic, or participate in upcycling. It is a season that moves you to do something.”
Through her grandson’s passion for garbage collection, Katrina has an opportunity to discuss ways to better care for the planet.
“We can talk about what goes in which bin and what we can reuse or recycle. We can collect our green waste and compost it in a community garden or start using the soft plastics recycling initiative called Curby with the council,” she says.
“We can talk about why it is important to look after the planet. It is what being a good citizen is all about. But it is also faith in action.
“Delighting in nature and looking after it is doing the work of the gospel.
“Remember that when you next take the bins out.”
A tribute to long-standing history
As a site of worship for over 190 years, Christ Church Cathedral, in its many iterations, has been built alongside Newcastle’s history.
What was once a small convict-built church was artfully crafted into the Cathedral that we have today.
In 1812, a temporary Church building was erected on the site of our current Cathedral, which was then replaced in 1818 by a small building called Christ Church.
The remains of Christ Church are still on display in the Cathedral today in the foundation stone, embedded into the aisle of the Cathedral during the earthquake repairs in 1997.
The stone used to build Christ Church was from Nobby’s Beach and was laden with salt, leading to the building’s instability.
In 1847, the Diocese of Newcastle was formed and Christ Church, Newcastle, was assigned to Bishop William Tyrrell as his Cathedral Church.
Following the coal boom, Newcastle needed a larger place to hold the community, thus beginning the construction of the Cathedral we know today.
Designed by John Horbury Hunt, building Christ Church Cathedral spanned nearly 100 years with additions being made to reflect Newcastle’s journey.
An example of this was the addition of the Warrior’s Chapel in 1928.
The Warrior’s Chapel was added to the northeastern side of the Cathedral as a
Christ Church Cathedral as it stands today.
J Horbury Hunt’s sketch of Christ Church Cathedral, Newcastle, NSW, 21 May 1892, by Ralph Snowball, Glass slide reproduction held at the University of Newcastle Special Collections.
memorial to the men and women of the Hunter who lost their lives in World War I.
Christ Church Cathedral holds many tributes to Newcastle’s history, such as the first recorded Australian flag and the last remaining Union Jack from the Gallipoli campaign.
Many of these additions to the Cathedral were donated by members of the community and are dedicated to them.
Upon looking at the Rose window, you will see a dedication to Hudson Berkeley, a local Newcastle businessman who donated the fabric of the Warrior’s Chapel.
Additional works saw the raising of the nave to its intended height in 1928, and the addition of the Cathedral tower in 1979, completing the Cathedral in line with Hunt’s original design.
On Thursday 28 December 1989, Newcastle was struck by a serious earthquake, in which the Cathedral was badly damaged.
After 96 years of design and construction, the Cathedral underwent restoration in 1995 to reinforce the walls and piers with steel to prolong the life of this heritage-listed building for generations to come.
Featuring local artists, community stories, and tributes to generations of Novocastrians, Christ Church Cathedral is a tapestry of Newcastle over nearly 200 years.
Construction of Christ Church Cathedral, Newcastle, NSW, 22 October 1900”, by Ralph Snowball, Glass slide reproduction held at the University of Newcastle Special Collections.
Postcard of [Christ Church] Cathedral, Newcastle, NSW, 1817”, from the Rodd Archive, held at University of Newcastle Special Collections.
Community ethos remains strong
It was once known as an ‘every man’s club’ – a peaceful haven where soldiers could escape the harsh realities of World War I.
Based in Belgium, Talbot House created a sense of community where everyone was welcome and lasting friendships were formed.
Set up by Anglican Chaplain Philip Clayton, affectionately known as ‘Tubby’, it provided accommodation and opportunities for reading, letter writing, relaxing in the garden, and enjoying concerts.
At the end of the war, there were many who felt the ethos of Talbot House should be preserved for future generations.
This led to the formation of the Toc H movement, which spread around the world in the 1920s.
Newcastle’s Christ Church Cathedral is the spiritual home of Toc H in Australia and has many symbols of the movement proudly on display.
Director of the Toc H Northern Region, Ray Geise OAM, says the organisation’s community-focused mindset has stayed at the core of their legacy.
“After the war ended, Tubby Clayton, who was the Anglican priest who was in charge of the place, decided that he would set up an organisation in England to perpetuate the happy memories that came out of Talbot House,” Ray says.
“In 1925, Tubby decided to come to Australia, and, with him, Toc H.
“The main focus of Toc H is behind things ‘temporal stand these temporal realities’ – meaning behind things like power and position, there has to be kindness and generosity.
“Fellowship, service, fairmindedness, building the kingdom of God, these are what we call the four points of the compass.
“The idea is to look around the community and identify a need and work to address that or seek people who can.”
Within Christ Church Cathedral, the Carpenter’s Bench in the south transept of the building is modelled after the altar in the chapel of Talbot House.
The Forster Lamp and Forster Memorial
a century on
The bronze sculpture below commemorates the 75th anniversary of Toc H in Australia, depicting the founder’s faithful Cairn Terrier.
The Forster Lamp, the Federal Lamp for Australia, is on display in the Warrior’s Chapel, above a bronze sculpture of a fallen soldier. The soldier is modelled off Lord Forster’s son Alfred Forster, who died from his wounds in World War I.
Ray says Toc H has provided many benefits to communities across Australia over the past century.
“Toc H started the blood transfusion service in Australia, hosts camps for children with a disability, started Rural Youth in Western Australia, and the Royal Queensland Bush Children’s Health Scheme,” he says.
“Today, we have a number of projects, including providing bursaries to young people who do valuable service and to trainee nurses.
“On Bribie Island [in Queensland], we run a holiday home for people in need, called Coungeau House, but in the last year or so it has been used as a shelter for many homeless women while they get back on their feet.”
You
find
can also
out more about the Cathedral’s role in Ray’s book, available in the Cathedral shop.
here
Toc H Australia’s website for more information
The Carpenter’s Bench and Tubby’s faithful companion, Chippy.
Stitching together a legacy
It started with stitching a few crosses and grew into a tribute to Newcastle’s community.
Brenda Dryden’s legacy has been at the centre of Christ Church Cathedral for more than 30 years. Week celebrations.
With over 204 hand-stitched kneelers, Brenda has captured both her life and the history of Newcastle through her art.
Each kneeler is made from high density foam with a wooden backing, measured and cut by Brenda’s husband, Fred, while she painted and stitched each design.
Every kneeler tells a story, from the series showcasing the development of the Cathedral, to tributes to the armed services in the Warrior’s chapel.
“I decided to go to the RSL in Newcastle to see if they would sponsor these kneelers [in the Warrior’s chapel]. And that started a whole new chapter because after that, most of these kneelers have been sponsored,” Brenda says.
These kneelers act as a highlight reel for our community and include tributes to loved ones and key moments of history.
Brenda was a guide at the Cathedral for many years and says her tours would provide great inspiration.
“I decided to do this series of kneelers to help guide me so I could talk about each church and show them a picture. It tells us a story,” she says.
“It means everything to me - I love the Cathedral; I’m very upset about not being able to guide anymore and tell them all the stories I’ve learnt over the years. I loved it.”
Although Brenda is no longer a guide at Christ Church Cathedral, her kneelers will continue to tell our stories for generations to come.
With a kneeler taking roughly two weeks to complete, Brenda has dedicated nearly 70,000 hours to weaving stories into the fabric of the Cathedral.
Personalised care
for every stage of life
For many of us, our home is our safe space, our escape, and our sanctuary.
In many ways, our homes are a selfportrait that includes our families, friends, memories, and adventures.
HomeLife Home Support services provide care and support your independence while keeping you in your home.
Whether you need support with exercise, clinical assistance, or help around the home and personal care, HomeLife Home Support has a range of care services.
Through the Australian Government’s Support at Home funding, you can access home modifications, clinical care, independence services, and everyday living services.
Your clinical care can be delivered to you through a range of allied health professionals, such as nursing and physiotherapy.
While clinical care services support your medical health, independence services, such as receiving personal care and mobility support, will give you the confidence to be at home.
If you need an extra hand maintaining your home and making it more comfortable, you can opt-in for services
such as cleaning and housework, and lawn and garden care.
When you are ready, one of our HomeLife Care Partners will sit down with you and help clarify your specific goals and needs so that we can provide the best possible care and support.
We’ll then develop a care plan together that’s as individual as you are, taking into account everything that matters most to you.
You deserve to be at home where you belong.
How to apply
1. Attain your funding through MyAgedCare. This will outline the level of support you need.
2. Get in touch. We’ll walk you through the process and can help navigate any difficulties with your funding.
3. Meet with one of our Care Partners to clarify your goals and needs, so we can develop a care plan.
4. Stay at home with the support you need.
Click here or scan the QR code to find out more.
How important is
mental health in aged care?
Janeen
Mother Jean is a resident at Bishop Tyrrell Place
[Mum] should be a pin-up girl for Anglican Care because she’s such an advocate for the place. She joins every activity, she puts her joggers on and does exercise every morning, she just embraces it all. She’s the happiest person there, that’s how she chooses to be.
Cayley Fairley Executive Director, NDIS and Community
Mental health is a critical component of aged care, directly impacting quality of life and care outcomes for the people we support. Supporting psychological wellbeing helps older people feel more connected, respected, and understood. Creating and sustaining a compassionate care environment aligns with our focus on holistic, person-led care.
Gary
‘Mac’
McDonald Anglican Care volunteer
I see it as my job to make the residents laugh. It’s something that’s good at any age, but especially this age. Whether they’re laughing with me or at me is another thing, but the way I see it, if they’ve had pleasure in my company then I’m happy.
Donna Kennedy Customer Engagement Team Manager
I still see families that I enrolled at Anglican Care 10 years ago. I remember how nervous they were at the start but how happy they have been since that day. Families need to know their person will be well-cared for, it’s important for their own wellbeing too.
Debra-Lee Milos Hairdresser at CA Brown
As soon as the scissors and comb come out, the conversation starts. It’s so important because it makes them [residents] feel good about themselves, which is very important for good mental health, including my own mental health.
Jackie Carr Lifestyle and Wellbeing Coordinator at Kilpatrick Court
I love to make them [residents] happy. I do all this so it gets them out of their rooms, it helps fight depression, it gets them involved with other residents. It’s 90 minutes in the morning and 90 minutes in the afternoon. If getting dressed up and having a bit of fun is all it takes, it’s worth it. I’m here to make them smile, bring light to them, whether it’s just walking the corridors and saying ‘hi’ or stopping to have a chat to them, it keeps them young, and that’s what it’s all about.
Brenda Ashley
Lifestyle & Wellbeing Team Leader at CA Brown
Residents enjoy Mondays knowing that Pamper Trolly is on the program. They come and have a chat with others while they wait their turn. They are relaxing while being pampered and tell stories of the younger versions of themselves. After they see themselves all glammed up, they appear more confident, and they love getting compliments from other residents and staff. It’s so good for their wellbeing.
Carinah McAllister Care Assistant at Scenic Lodge
I think flourishing means helping someone live their best life, whatever that looks like to them.
Sienna Harvey Lifestyle & Wellbeing Officer at CA Brown
A conversation, the balloon tennis, going for a walk, anything like that, even if you sit there and talk about cars… it’s about just making [residents] feel heard.
Irene Balkema
Resident Liaison Officer at CA Brown
I feel that it’s very important for me to look after myself so that I’m in a good place so that I can support other people and bring them to the same place.
What a day! zoo-perb
There were smiles all round as Scenic Lodge combined R U OK? Day with a family day, barbecue, and petting zoo visit.
While interactions with a lamb, chicks, kid (the goat kind) and cheeky piglets sparked joyful memories of past pets for residents, they were extra special being shared with family members of all ages.
And, although the mild spring weather meant activities moved indoors sooner than expected, they also made the cuddles feel even warmer.
Art from the heart
Participants at East Lake Macquarie Dementia Service (ELMDS) enjoyed a Creative Clay session recently.
It is widely accepted that working with clay offers many health benefits. A multi-sensory, non-verbal form of expression, clay work can offer significant benefits to individuals with dementia by reducing stress, improving mood, and enhancing self-esteem.
By the look of some of these smiles, it seems like a lot of fun too!
Giving hope to those
in need
Christmas is synonymous with celebration, cheer, blessings and spending time with loved ones.
But for some, Christmas is a time of loneliness and financial and emotional stress.
Now in its 25th year, Samaritans annual Christmas Appeal aims to give hope to families in need through its family and community crisis support and outreach services.
This year, gifts donated under the Christmas Giving Trees will go directly to people supported through Samaritans’ various programs including Supported Independent Living, Foster Care, Child and Parenting Support, and many more.
Christmas lunches will be held across three locations – Singleton, Newcastle and, for the first time, at Bateau Bay on the Central Coast.
The luncheons provide a sense of community and celebration for more
than 2,000 people who would otherwise not celebrate Christmas.
These gatherings are one of a kind and bring hope and cheer to those in need. They couldn’t exist without your support.
You can help through:
1. Christmas sponsorships
2. Giving Trees
3. Corporate donations
4. Personal giving and other
To find out more about how you can support these important community events, please visit our website or email fundraising@newcastleanglican.org.au.
