BigDog December 2025

BIGDOG NEWS NEWS • UPDATES • STORIES • COMMUNITY

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND ALL. December 2025

DECEMBER 2025

COURTNEY

ISSUE 12

Directors Update Ending a amazing year.

As the year draws to a close, I want to sincerely thank every member of our team for your dedication, hard work, and passion. Your commitment to delivering high-quality support has made a real difference in the lives of the people we assist. This year has seen huge changes across the business, and your professionalism and flexibility have been key to making these transitions successful. We couldn’t have done it without you.

Recent Updates:

Take the time!

Business structure changes

As the festive season approaches, I hope you take the time to relax, enjoy the holidays, and spend time with family and friends. Stay safe and have a wonderful Christmas. Thank you again for all your support this year. We can’t wait to continue this journey together, celebrate our achievements, and make next year even better.

Looking ahead to the new year, I will be absorbing the role of Operations Manager and am excited to be even more hands-on in supporting the team and ensuring our day-to-day operations run smoothly. I’m really looking forward to working alongside all of you in this capacity and building on the great progress we’ve made together.

In this newsletter you will find:

Latest projects, outings, free resources, and more. Keep Reading!

BIGDOG

SHOUTOUTS! TOOWOOMBA A H U G E S H O U TO U T TO D E B FO R B E I N G S U C H A N I N C R E D I B L E T E A M M E M B E R ! D E B I S A LWAYS H A P PY TO H E L P O U T, W I L L I N G LY P I C K S U P S H I F T S, A N D S H OW S T R U E F L E X I B I L I T Y I N E V E RY S I T UAT I O N . S H E ’ S A FA N TA ST I C T E A M P L AY E R , G R E AT W I T H S I L S, A N D H A N D L E S C H A L L E N G I N G PA RT I C I PA N T S W I T H PROFESSIONALISM AND CARE. D E B I S A T R U E A L L- R O U N D E R W H O CO N S I ST E N T LY G O E S A B OV E A N D B E YO N D, S H OW I N G D E D I C AT I O N A N D I N V E ST M E N T I N E V E RY T H I N G S H E D O E S. W E R E A L LY A P P R EC I AT E H E R H A R D WO R K A N D P O S I T I V E AT T I T U D E – S H E M A K E S A R E A L D I F F E R E N C E TO T H E T E A M A N D T H E P EO P L E W E S U P P O RT !

ROCKY

A M A S S I V E S H O U TO U T TO O N E O F O U R OW N , TAY L A H , W H O H A S B E E N N O M I N AT E D BY C H E RY L ! I WO U L D L I K E TO G I V E A H U G E S H O U TO U T TO TAY L A H FO R T H E I N C R E D I B L E J O B S H E H A S B E E N D O I N G R EC E N T LY. TAY L A H H A S T R U LY P R OV E N H E R S E L F A S A VA LUA B L E A S S E T TO T H E B I G D O G FA M I LY. S H E H A S D E M O N ST R AT E D A M A Z I N G V E R S AT I L I T Y, S K I L L F U L LY M A N AG I N G H E R R EC E P T I O N D U T I E S, WO R K I N G A LO N G S I D E O U R S U P P O RT WO R K E R S, A N D E XC E L L I N G A S O U R DAY S E RV I C E M A N AG E R . O N TO P O F T H AT, S H E H A S B E E N O U T I N T H E F I E L D D E L I V E R I N G N E W M E D I C AT I O N FO L D E R S, CO N D U C T I N G H O U S E I N D U C T I O N S, A N D H A N D L I N G A L L CO N C E R N S P R O M P T LY, P R O F E S S I O N A L LY, A N D A LWAYS W I T H A F R I E N D LY A P P R OAC H .

T H A N K YO U, TAY L A H , FO R YO U R H A R D WO R K , D E D I C AT I O N , A N D M U LT I TA L E N T E D CO N T R I B U T I O N S – YO U T R U LY M A K E A D I F F E R E N C E !

TOOWOOMBA W E A R E P R O U D TO R ECO G N I S E M A R C U S A S O U R STA F F M E M B E R O F T H E Y E A R FO R TO OWO O M B A .

M A R C U S CO N S I ST E N T LY D E M O N ST R AT E S I N C R E D I B L E R E L I A B I L I T Y A N D D E D I C AT I O N . H E O F T E N ST E P S I N AT S H O RT N OT I C E , R E A R R A N G I N G H I S DAY TO COV E R S H I F T S, A N D H I S ST R O N G AVA I L A B I L I T Y I S H I G H LY VA LU E D BY T H E R O ST E R I N G T E A M . H E B U I L D S E XC E L L E N T R A P P O RT W I T H PA RT I C I PA N T S, W H O F R EQ U E N T LY R EQ U E ST H I M , A N D B R I N G S A P O S I T I V E AT T I T U D E TO E V E RY S E S S I O N .

T H A N K YO U, M A R C U S, FO R YO U R CO M M I T M E N T, P R O F E S S I O N A L I S M , A N D T H E C A R E YO U B R I N G TO E V E RY S H I F T. YO U A R E T R U LY VA LU E D, A N D W E A R E P R O U D TO C E L E B R AT E YO U A S O U R STA F F M E M B E R O F T H E Y E A R .

STAFF OF THE YEAR

ROCKY

W E A R E P R O U D TO R ECO G N I S E D I O N A S O U R STA F F M E M B E R O F T H E Y E A R FO R R O C K H A M P TO N . D I O N I S R E L I A B L E , G E N U I N E , A N D A LWAYS R E A DY TO H E L P, W H E T H E R I T ’ S S U P P O RT I N G T H E T E A M , A S S I ST I N G PA RT I C I PA N T S, O R H A N D L I N G A N Y S I T UAT I O N T H AT A R I S E S. H E CO M M U N I C AT E S C L E A R LY, P R E PA R E S T H O R O U G H LY, A N D CO N S I ST E N T LY P R OV I D E S H I G H - Q UA L I T Y C A R E .

D I O N ’ S Q U I E T D E D I C AT I O N D O E S N OT G O U N N OT I C E D — H I S PA RT I C I PA N T S LOV E H I M A N D O F T E N R EQ U E ST H I S S U P P O RT. T H A N K YO U, D I O N , FO R YO U R CO M M I T M E N T, P R O F E S S I O N A L I S M , A N D T H E C A R E YO U B R I N G TO E V E RY S H I F T. W E A R E V E RY LU C K Y TO H AV E YO U O N O U R T E A M .

4632 9559 | T_services@bigdog.au

bigdogsupport.com.au

03

DECEMBER 2025

APRIL

ISSUE 12

COMMUNITY

TOOWOOMBA WARM MONTHS, WARM HEARTS December’s here, and with it comes some handy updates for everyone in Toowoomba. There are some lovely options like Christmas Wonderland at the Botanic Gardens running from December 1st to 24th, twilight markets held every Friday evening throughout December, and small carol events happening around town in the second and third weeks of the month, perfect for soaking up the holiday spirit.

THE MONTH OF GIVING IS UPION US.

Summer’s also settling in, so it’s a great time to enjoy some fresh air in shady spots like Queens Park or the Japanese Gardens. Just a friendly reminder to stay sun-smart: drink plenty of water, slip on a hat, and take breaks when it’s really hot. Looking after yourself always comes first.

If you or someone you know could use a little extra support this season, local groups have Christmas hampers and food assistance available, applications usually close around midDecember. Don’t hesitate to reach out, we’re here to help connect you to what’s out there.

t_services@bigdog.au

As the year wraps up, it’s worth celebrating all the little wins from 2025 and thinking about what you want to aim for in 2026. Whether it’s trying something new, building a routine, or just focusing on wellbeing, we’re ready to support you every step of the way.

Some local venues are hosting sensory-friendly hours and quieter holiday events this December. Grand Central Shopping Centre offers sensory-friendly mornings on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 am to 11:00 am until December 15th.

The Toowoomba Library is running calm Christmas story sessions for all ages on Saturdays at 10:00 am throughout December. These quieter options are perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful way to enjoy the festive season.

With storm season approaching, it’s also a good idea to keep your phone charged, have emergency contacts easily accessible, and ensure medications are stored safely.

Finally, a big thank you to everyone, participants, families, and staff, for all your effort and kindness this year. We’re excited to keep growing and supporting each other in 2026!

04

OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED FROM 19 DECEMBER - JAN 5.

TOOWOOMBA OFFICE WILL HAVE MINIMAL STAFF TILL CLOSING DECEMBER 24. PLEASE BE PATIENT.

Holidays FROM DECEMBER 24 - JAN 5

DECEMBER 2025

BILLY

ISSUE 12

COMMUNITY

ROCKHAMPTON Welcome Tanielle

NEW

My name is Tanielle Clark and I am the new Service Coordinator at BigDog Scottsvale in Rockhampton.

I’m passionate about helping people build independence and live meaningful lives. My previous roles have strengthened my communication, empathy, and ability to support people in day-to-day tasks, which I’m excited to bring to BigDog. Outside of work, I love nature, music, and anything creative

December Community Events

Thanks to ALL!

CBD Christmas Fair — 6 December 2025

I want to take a moment to thank all of our staff for their continued support and dedication. Like every year, we’ve experienced highs and lows, but together we have achieved another successful year.

As we head into the holiday season, I encourage you to enjoy time with those dearest to you, celebrate the wins, and take pride in everything we’ve accomplished.

Where: Riverside Precinct / Quay Street, Rockhampton City 4700 Rockhampton Region+1 free face-painting, craft workshops, Santa letter-writing station, live music & roaming entertainers.

Carols by Candlelight — 12 December 2025 Venue: Pilbeam Theatre, Rockhampton 4700 Explore Rockhampton, Community Christmas carols/festive gathering

Stay safe, enjoy the break, and I look forward to what the year ahead has in store for us.

DECEMBER 2025

JESS

ISSUE 12

DAY SERVICE

TOOWOOMBA WRAPPING UP NOVEMBER & JUMPING INTO CHRISTMAS Kindness was truly in the air this month. For World Kindness Day, we focused on those little acts of love — helping each other out, sharing kind words, and offering smiles all around. It was a wonderful reminder of how powerful kindness can be and how much brighter our days become when we look out for one another.

And now, we’re moving straight into the Christmas fun.

We are super excited to kick off the Christmas celebrations early. The decorations are going up, the centre is looking festive, and we’re warming up for our big Christmas party.

This month is packed full of fun, laughter, and games — just how we like it.

Come along, join in the cheer, and let’s make this Christmas season one to remember.

SEE YOU IN 26

DECEMBER 2025

LOGAN

ISSUE 12

DAY SERVICE

ROCKHAMPTON BRIGHT AND BUSY TO SLOW PACED EASE November has been a bright and busy month for us, full of fun, laughter, and all our favourite activities! We kept up our regular routine with library visits, cooking sessions, bowling, and our much-loved pub lunches.

Each outing brought plenty of smiles, great conversations, and lots of moments to enjoy together.

From tasty cooking days to celebrating a few impressive bowling strikes, our weeks were packed with good energy.

NEW YEAR, CONSISTENT ROUTINE With the weather heating up, our afternoons became the perfect time to stay cool indoors. We filled them with arts and crafts and cosy movie sessions, giving everyone a chance to relax, get creative, and enjoy some downtime. Whether we were painting, making something colourful, or settling in for a good film, these afternoons quickly became a highlight of the week.

And of course, we’re still experts at finding the water!

Whenever we needed to beat the heat, our water outings were the perfect refreshing escape—fun, relaxing, and always full of laughter. It’s become one of our favourite ways to wrap up the week.

November has been full of happy moments, and we can’t wait to see what joy and adventures the next month brings!

DECEMBER 2025

BETH & WADE

ISSUE 12

ROSTERING HAPPY CHRISTMAS SEASON, EVERYONE! I hope you all have a wonderful break over the season and rest and recharge ready for a wonderful 2026! I appreciate everyone who is still working during this period as we all know the industry continues 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week.

If you have a change of availability for the new year please update that promptly so we can ensure best delivery of services!

Please if you are putting in a late leave request, please contact the office to ensure that your shift can be covered.

We all have a duty of care to ensure that our participants receive support. If the message hasn't gotten through and you do not show a shift, there can be serious consequences.

Same goes for calling in sick, I ask that you provide as much notice as you reasonably can. This is important to ensure accurate coverage for our clients. Please keep in mind that it is not always easy to find coverage, as support workers are people with lives and commitments, so just like you are not able to work sometimes.

HELPFUL TIPS TO MANAGE: Go for a walk (move your body) Call a friend (connect with others) Listen to a new podcast or read a new book Drink plenty of water Take a break Mindfulness activities (deep breathing, grounding, muscle relaxation, meditation) Spend time in nature Show kindness Reach out to a professional Do what’s best for you. It’s okay to not always get it right, what matters is taking the first steps to look after yourself and manage burnout before it becomes overwhelming.

Wishing you all a safe, restful, and joyful Christmas season!

You can reach us anytime at 123-456-7890 or hello@reallygreatsite.com

Thank You!

DECEMBER 2025

MACKA

ISSUE 12

SCOTTVALE OPERATIONS

ROCKHAMPTON

CHECK OUT WHAT’S AVAILABLE AT HTTPS://SCOTTVALEHEALTHCLUB.COM/ PH: 4573 4611 OR EMAIL HELLO@SCOTTVALEHEALTHCLUB.COM

SERVICE UPDATES As we head into the festive season, we want to keep all our valued members up to date with what’s happening at Scottvale Health Club over the coming weeks.

Physio Update – Rina on Leave Our wonderful physiotherapist, Rina, will be away for the first two weeks of December.

During this period, physiotherapy appointments will be unavailable. If you require assistance, please feel free to contact our reception team, who can help you schedule future sessions or provide guidance on alternative support options.

HOLDAY CLOSURE Holiday Closure Dates Scottvale Health Club will be closed from 19 December 2025 to 5 January 2026.

We’ll reopen on Monday, 6 January 2026, refreshed and ready to help you kickstart the new year with energy and motivation!

Please make sure to plan your workouts and appointments around these dates.

THANK YOU & FESTIVE WISHES At Scottvale, we believe that quality As the year comes to a close, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to every one of our members. Your support, dedication, and positivity make Scottvale Health Club the vibrant community it is. We’re truly grateful to have you as part of our Scottvale family.

From all of us here at Scottvale Health Club, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

May your holidays be joyful, safe, and filled with good health.

We look forward to seeing you in 2026!

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DECEMBER 2025

RINA, SHAY & TAYLAH

ISSUE 12

SCOTTVALE HEALTH

ROCKHAMPTON REMINDER

As we head into the hotter months, please remember the importance of staying hydrated. Always bring a bottle of cold water to your sessions, and take regular sips throughout your workout.

YOUR GOALS WILL SEE YOU IN 2026!

As the year comes to an end, we want to extend a huge congratulations to each and every one of our amazing clients. It has been an active, hardworking, and goal-smashing year, and we have absolutely loved watching your progress, consistency, and commitment. We’re incredibly proud of what you’ve achieved, and we cannot wait to help you smash even more goals in 2026!

Shay (Exercise Physiologist) still has some availability leading into Christmas. If you’re keen to get active, stay on track, or simply want some professional advice, book in with Shay—she’d be more than happy to help.

HEALTH TIP Consistency beats intensity—aim for small, regular bouts of movement each day, even if it’s just a 10–15 minute walk. It keeps your metabolism active, boosts your mood, and helps maintain your fitness over the busy festive season.

Thank you for an incredible year at Scottvale Health Club. We look forward to an even stronger, healthier, and happier year ahead!

DECEMBER 2025

MEGAN

ISSUE 12

SCOTTVALE HEALTH

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY Merry Christmas We’re pleased to announce that our Occupational Therapy team has capacity for new referrals commencing in 2026.

We look forward to meeting new participants, strengthening our community connections, and supporting individuals to build confidence, independence, and meaningful routines in the year ahead.

For referrals or enquiries, please contact Tayla via our Scottvale contact details.

We’re always happy to discuss suitability, goals, and how OT can best support each person’s unique needs.

We understand that the Christmas and holiday period can be particularly challenging for many people. Changes to routines, busy environments, and social expectations can feel overwhelming and increase stress. To help manage this, individuals can use practical self-regulation strategies such as: Maintaining routines: Keep key daily activities consistent, even if some events or outings change.

Planning breaks: Schedule quiet time or sensory breaks during busy periods.

Using calming strategies: Deep breathing, grounding exercises, mindfulness, or preferred sensory activities.

Setting boundaries: Limit participation in overwhelming social situations if needed.

Preparing for transitions: Visual schedules, checklists, or verbal reminders to support changes in routine.

Reflecting on triggers: Identify specific situations that increase stress or agitation, and develop coping strategies ahead of time.

Engaging in enjoyable activities: Prioritise activities that bring comfort and relaxation to reduce stress.

Occupational Therapy support can complement these strategies by helping individuals develop personalised approaches, adapting environments, and providing guidance to families and support teams.

If you or someone you support may benefit from OT guidance during this period—or would like to plan ahead for the new year— please reach out.

Happy Birthd ay everyo ne! W ishing you en dless j oy and su ccess t oday and al ways!

DECEMBER 2025

CAITY & TAYLAH

ISSUE 12

BIGDOG

RECEPTION Season’s Smiles from the Front Desk

As the year winds down, our reception team has been busier than ever, ensuring everything runs smoothly and welcoming everyone with a warm smile. December is always a lively month, and we’ve loved seeing the festive spirit spread across our office.

This month, we want to highlight the incredible teamwork from everyone working behind the scenes. From coordinating appointments to assisting visitors and supporting each other through the busy season, the whole team has played a huge part in keeping everything running smoothly and ending the year on a positive note.

A special shout-out goes to everyone for handling the extra holiday inquiries with patience, flexibility, and good humour.

Your effort and energy keep spirits high even when things get hectic, and it never goes unnoticed.

As we look toward the new year, we’re grateful for the hard work, support, and commitment shown across the entire workplace. Thank you for everything you do, we truly couldn’t do it without you!

Wishing everyone a joyful December and a fantastic start to the new year!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Wishing you all a cosy, safe, and very Merry Christmas. Our office will be closed from the 25th of December and will reopen on the 5th of January. Stay safe, enjoy the break, and we’ll see you in the new year!

OUR RECEPTION TEAM IS HERE TO GREET YOU WITH A SMILE, ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS, AND MAKE YOUR VISIT A GREAT ONE!

That’s a wrap!

EAP Program Assist

Please be aware that we have engaged with a new EAP Program!

Thanks for another successful Month, Keep up the GREAT work!

Dont forget to share your successes or updates that you might like shared in the BigDog Newsletter. Please send details to Billy at t_services@bigdog.au.