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BigDog June 2026 Newsletter

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Superannuation Changes

There’s an exciting change coming to superannuation from 1 July 2026 with the introduction of Payday Super

Underthenewrequirements,BigDogwillpaysuperannuationcontributionsatthesametimeasemployees are paid their wages, rather than making super payments on a quarterly basis This means your super will bereachingyournominatedfundmoreregularlythroughouttheyear

Currently, BigDog processes and pays superannuation contributions on a monthly basis. While this means the change will not significantly impact our existing practices, we are reviewing our payroll processes to ensurewearefullypreparedforthetransitiontoPaydaySuper.

The change is designed to help employees keep better track of their super, grow their retirement savings sooner,andprovidegreatertransparencyaroundsuperannuationpayments.

ROCKY ROCKY

ShoutOuttoJuliaMorley

Shout out to DJ for always being so engaging with the participants at Day Service He is always getting involved, having conversations, and making everyone feel included. DJ’s positive attitude and focus on the participants really stands out and is appreciated by both the team and participants Thanks DJ for all your hardworkandforalwaysbringinggreatenergytoyour shifts

TOOWOOMBA

ShoutouttoCharlesMeyer

ShoutouttoCharlesforallthegreatworkhehasbeen doing with participants and the team Charles is someone participants really enjoy having supports withandhealwaystakesthetimetobuildpositiveand meaningful connections. He is always polite, helpful, and easy to communicate with, and regularly checks in if he has any questions or concerns We also really appreciate Charles opening up his availability more and being willing to help cover supports and cleaning shifts when needed Thank you Charles for your hard workandpositiveattitude

Juliahasbeenabsolutelyamazinglately,steppingup and taking on extra responsibilities wherever needed Fromhelpingwithrosteringtosupportingtheofficein many other areas, she has consistently gone above andbeyondandmadesuchahugedifferencetothe team Juliaisatrueteamplayerwhoisalwaysbubbly and happy She brings such a positive energy to the workplace and genuinely takes pride in what she does Youcanreallyseethecareandloveshehasfor her job in the way she supports both the team and participants every day Thank you Julia for everything you do, your hard work and support never goes unnoticed!

TOOWOOMBA

AbigshoutouttoShaynaforallofherhardworkand support recently Shayna is always helpful with rostering and is someone the team can rely on when needed She has built a great connection with participants and is always caring and supportive in her work We also really appreciate Shayna’s strong communication and willingness to help out, including recently coming in and supporting the team even when she was not feeling 100% Thank you Shayna for yourongoinghardworkandpositiveattitude

ShoutouttoShaynaJohnson
ShoutOuttoDamianRussell

Rockhampton Community

Wealsocurrentlyhavevacanciesavailablewithin: SupportedIndependentLiving(SIL) IndividualisedLivingOptions(ILO) For referrals or further information, please contact theteam

Earlysupport,reflection,anddebriefingareimportant partsofmaintainingasafeandsustainablesupport environmentforbothstaffandparticipants

We are also pleased to advise that Rockhampton currentlyhasthefollowingservicesavailable: ExercisePhysiology

OccupationalTherapy Physiotherapy With little to no wait times currently available for many services, including Functional Capacity Assessments(FCA)

MONTHLYWRAP-UP

Toowoomba COMMUNITYEVENTS!!

May has been another busy month across our Toowoomba and Rockhampton services, with participantsengagingincommunityoutings,walking groups, cooking, bowling, beach trips, pub lunches, and social activities that promote confidence, wellbeing,andcommunityparticipation.

We were proud to attend the Rockhampton Aged Care and Disability Expo, with Marvin and Macka representing BigDog Support Services and Scottvale Health Club while connecting with community membersandstakeholders

There’sheapshappeningaroundToowoomba thisJunewithplentyoflocalevents,marketsand communityactivitiestoenjoy.

FarmFestisbackagainthismonthandisalwaysa greateventforthelocalcommunity,withfarming displays,localbusinesses,foodand entertainmentacrosstheweekend.

Our allied health services continue to grow, with Occupational Therapy, Exercise Physiology, and Physiotherapy now available in Rockhampton with littletonowaittimes,includingimmediateavailability forFunctionalCapacityAssessments(FCA)

We would also like to acknowledge the professionalism and resilience shown by staff supportingparticipantswithcomplexbehavioursand high-support needs throughout the month Staff wellbeingremainsapriority,andwecontinueworking closely with Behaviour Support Practitioners and stakeholderstostrengthensupportsandreducerisks.

Wecurrentlyhavevacanciesavailablefor:

DayServiceprograms

1:1and1:3communityaccesssupports

SILandILOsupport

AlliedhealthservicesinRockhampton

Thank you to all staff, participants, families, and stakeholders for your ongoing support throughout May.

There’salsoarangeoflocalmarketshappening throughoutJuneincludingtheToowoomba FarmersMarketsandSundaycommunity markets,withfreshproduce,handmadegoods, foodstallsandlivemusic

Foranyonewhoenjoysliveshowsand entertainment,TheEmpireTheatrehascomedy shows,livemusicandperformanceshappening acrossthemonthaswell

TheToowoombaCommunityDisabilityExpois anothergreateventbringingtogetherlocal services,supportsandcommunityorganisations allinoneplace

Withthecoolerweathersettlingin,it’sagreat timetogetout,supportlocaleventsandstay connectedwiththecommunitythiswinter.

As we head further into winter, it’s important to remember to look after your healthandstayontopofyourfluvaccination

The flu can spread quickly during the colder months, especially through workplaces,schoolsandthewidercommunity Gettingyouryearlyflushotisone ofthebestwaystohelpprotectyourselfandthevulnerablepeoplearoundyou

We also encourage everyone to continue good hygiene practices like washing handsregularly,coveringcoughsandsneezes,andstayinghomewhenunwell Staysafe,staywarmandtakecareofyourselfthiswinter!

ToowoombaDayServiceNewsletter

Toowoomba Day Service

What a fantastic few weeks we’ve had at Toowoomba Day Service! Our days have been filled with laughter, community connection, exciting outings, and plenty of fun memories being made together

OneofourhighlightswasourBigMorningTea,where everyone came together to enjoy delicious treats, warmdrinks,andgreatcompany.Itwaswonderfulto see so many smiling faces while supporting such an importantcauseandspendingqualitytimetogether asagroup

creations, everyone has been getting involved, learning new skills, and most importantly having fun in the kitchen The teamwork, creativity, and excitementeachweekhasbeenamazingtowatch

encouragementforoneanother

Another exciting outing was our visit to the Oakey Army Base, which was a fantastic experience for the group It was engaging, interesting, and something a little different for everyone to enjoy together. The excitement and conversations afterwards showed just how much fun the day was.

As we move into June, the colder weather is starting to roll in, so it’s time to rug up and stay warm.Butdon’tworry wehaveplentyofexciting activities planned to keep everyone smiling and activethroughoutthemonth.

Comingupsoonwehave: Funcommunityscavengerhunts AcosyPyjamaDay

allsoon!

Rockhampton Day Service MACKA

communityinvolvemen clients Frombowlingan pub lunches, our regula plentyoflaughs,connec opportunities

We had Marvin and M Support Services and Disability Expo Proudly the amazing program withinthecommunity It connectwithnewpeopl Servicehastooffer.

We also celebrated tw

Don’t forget, our monthly calendar is always full of exciting activities, even pop into the centre and say hellototheteam!

As we step into June a friendly reminder that the centre and Day Service will be closed for the Show Holiday on Wednesday, 11 June But the fun doesn’t stop there, we’ll be attending the show on Friday the 12th for carnival games, rides, food, and plenty of entertainment!WearesoexcitedtoseewhatJunewill bringus!Andahellotowinterdon’tforgettopackyour warmcoatsaswestepintothecoolermonthsahead

Macka continues to encourage clients to stay active, social, and engaged through meaningful activities that promote confidence, independence, and wellbeing. Whether it’s trying something new, getting outdoors, or stepping outside comfort zones, it’s been amazing watching clients challenge themselves and achieve things they never thought possible. Staying active and stimulated is such an important part of maintaining both physical and mental wellbeing, andweloveseeingeveryonegivethingsago

We currently have availability within our Day Service program! If you enjoy structure, social connection, community access, and adventurous activities while building new friendships, we would love to welcome you Feel free to reach out to our adminteamformoreinformation

Rostering

'Hey guys! This is a friendly reminder of some importantrosteringessentials

ALWAYS check shift notes before starting a shift These may include vital changes such as time, locationorparticipantneeds.

Stay punctual; late arrivals or missed details negatively affect participants and place pressure ontherestoftheteam

Keep communication clear Communicate with theofficeifsomethingisuncleartoyou Reachout aheadoftimetoensuresmoothsupportdelivery.

Call,NOTtext Forcallinginsick,short-noticeleave requests, or being sent away early from a participant, ensure the message is properly receivedbycallingtheofficephonenumber.

Forward any permanent availability updates to yourRosterCoordinator (Kirby:r rostering@bigdog.auand Beth:t rostering@bigdogauau)

Thank you for your attention to this and for the incredible work you do every day Please know that the continual delivery of high standard care and support our participants rely on, hasn't gone unnoticed

Rockhampton team, please remember June 11th is a PublicHolidayforourshowday.

If you have any questions or need assistance accessingshiftnotes,pleasedon'thesitatetocontact us

Performance Appraisals will be taking place in the officeoverthecomingweeks.

For the Toowoomba Team they will be conducted fromMonday15thJunethroughtoFriday19thJune.

For the Rockhampton Team they will be conducted from Monday 22nd June through to Thursday 25th June.

Please check your roster carefully for your allocated appraisal time If you do not see a Performance Appraisal scheduled on your roster, please contact the office as soon as possible so we can arrange a suitabletime

Remember:

Ifyou'rerunninglate,unabletoattendashift,orhave an urgent concern, please call the office directly ratherthansendingatextmessage

Pleaseensureyoucheckyourrosterregularlyforany updatesorchanges

Onasidenote:

Make sure you ' re taking your scheduled breaks, maintaining a healthy work-life balance, getting adequate sleep, and reaching out for support when needed. If you ' re feeling overwhelmed, speak with your coordinator or the office early so we can work togethertofindsolutions.

State of Origin Fever Has Arrived!

It is that time of year again when Queenslanders unite, rivalries begin, and the excitement of State of Origin takes over! Throughout June and July, fans across Australia will be cheering on the Queensland Maroons and the New South Wales Blues in one of Australia’sbiggestsportingevents

Whether you are a lifelong rugby league fan or just enjoy the atmosphere, State of Origin is always a great excuse to come together, share some laughs, andenjoyabitoffriendlycompetition

ThisYear’sBigQuestion… CanQueenslandbringtheshieldhomeagain?

Did You Know?

�� The first ever State of Origin match was played on8July1980atLangParkinBrisbane

�� QueenslandwontheveryfirstOrigingame20to 10

No matter which side you support, State of Origin is all about passion, teamwork, determination, and community spirit values we love to celebrate together

�� The series was created because Queensland players were moving to NSW clubs and becoming ineligible to represent Queensland under the old rules

�� The “Origin” concept means players represent the state where they first played senior rugby league

�� Queensland’s longest winning streak was an incredible 8 consecutive series wins from 2006 to 2013.

�� OneofthemostfamousStateofOriginplayersis Cameron Smith, who played a record number of OrigingamesforQueensland.

�� The State of Origin shield weighs around 30 kilograms.

�� More than 3 million Australians tune in to watch thegameseachyear.

HAPPYBIRTHDAY EVERYONE!WISHING AYOUENDLESSJOY NDSUCCESSTODAY ANDALWAYS!

SCOTTVALEOPERATIONS Rockhampton

Checkoutwhat’savailableathttps://scottvalehealthclubcom/ PH:45734611orEmailhello@scottvalehealthclub.com

ScottvaleHealthClub–MonthlyRecap

GreetingsEveryone,

Thismonthhasbeenanotherpositiveandproductiveperiodfor Scottvale Health Club, with continued growth across our community engagement, allied health, and participant programs

Sophie continues to do an excellent job supporting the growth and development of Scottvale services within the community. Community engagement has been progressing strongly, with the recent Rockhampton Disability and Aged Care Expo proving to be a great success. We also continue attending the monthly Selectabilitymeetingstoadvocateforservices,strengthenlocal partnerships, and provide community resources and support information.

We are also thrilled to officially welcome our new Occupational Therapist, Kim Felstead, to the Scottvale team. Kim brings extensive clinical experience across occupational therapy, rehabilitation,agedcare,mentalhealth,functionalassessments, SIL/SDA assessments, and NDIS supports. Availability is currently open with minimal wait times for Functional Capacity Assessments (FCA), home and living assessments, assistive technology,andtherapysupports.

To ensure participants continue receiving strong face-to-face engagement and an on-the-ground approach, Sophie will also be supporting guided in-person OT sessions locally alongside Kim’sservices.

We are also excited to share that Scottvale has now integrated with Emmaus in Rockhampton, with tailored group classes now underwayandreceivingextremelypositive feedback.Thesesessionsareproviding additionalopportunitiesforcommunity participation,socialengagement,movement, andskill-buildingwithinasupportive environment

Thankyoutoeveryonewhocontinues supportingScottvaleHealthCluband helpingusgrowstrong community-based supportsacross Rockhampton.

Ourpool,hydrotherapy, andwellnessspaces continuetobeutilisedwell throughoutthecooler months,withparticipants enjoyingthebenefitsof low-impactexercise, movement,andrecovery supports Aswintersettles in,don’tforgettotake advantageofthesaunaas partofyourwellnessand recoveryroutines.

Appointment Fee Updates –Effective1June2026

From 1 June 2026, there will be a small adjustment to our Exercise Physiology and Physiotherapy appointment fees. This update helps us continue delivering professional, personalised care and maintain the high standardofserviceourclientsexpect.

NDIS, WorkCover, and DVA clients will continue under the relevant pricing guidelines, and Medicare rebate options remain available for eligibleclients.

We sincerely appreciate your ongoing support andtrustinourteam

Membership&FacilityPricingUpdates

To continue improving our facilities, equipment, and member experience, the following pricing updateswillalsotakeeffectfrom1June2026:

CasualFitnessClass $18

10PassCard $140

WeeklyMembership $23

Sauna(30mins)—$25

Thank you for continuing to be part of the Scottvalecommunity.

Upcoming Event –StrongBandWorkshop

We are excited to announce that Strong Band will be hosting a special workshop at ourfacilityon18June2026.

Founded by May and Cy, Strong Band combines strength and conditioning coaching with corrective exercise principles to help people improve movement, performance, recovery, and core strength Their innovative resistance band system is designedtosupportprogressionwithoutthe guesswork.

Thisworkshopwillfocuson:

Buildingstrength

Improvingrecovery

Coretrainingandrestoration

Supportingmovementandperformance withacomplete360-degreeapproach

Theworkshopisopentoallagesandfitness levels

EventDetails

�� Location:ScottvaleHealthClub

�� Date:18June2026

�� Time:4:30pm

We look forward to seeing you there and continuing to support your health and wellbeing journey. updates as Fuelers FIT comestolife!

wwwscottvalehealthclubcom

occupational therapy

Stepping into the colder months, it is important to remember that winter can impact both our physical and mental wellbeing. Cooler temperatures often result in people becoming less active, spending more time indoors,andexperiencingchangestotheirdailyroutines

From an Occupational Therapy perspective, maintaining routine and engagement throughout winter is key to supportingindependence,wellbeing,andqualityoflife.

Somesimplestrategiestoconsiderthiswinterinclude:

Stay active where possible. Even short walks, stretching, hydrotherapy, or gentle exercise can help maintainstrength,balance,andmobility.

Keep warm Layer clothing, use blankets, and ensure living environments are adequately heated to reduce theriskofillnessandmusclestiffness.

Maintain social connections Winter can lead to increased isolation, so continue engaging in community activities, day programs, hobbies, and socialgroupswherepossible

Sticktoroutines.Consistentdailyroutinescansupport emotional wellbeing, reduce anxiety, and promote independence

Stay hydrated. Even in colder weather, adequate hydration remains important for overall health and wellbeing

Reduce falls risks. Be mindful of slippery surfaces, wet pathways, and cluttered indoor environments that mayincreasetheriskoffalls

Prioritise meaningful activities. Reading, puzzles, cooking, crafts, gardening, and other hobbies can help maintain cognitive engagement and provide a senseofpurpose.

Winter can be a wonderful time to slow down, focus on self-care, and enjoy meaningful activities while staying connected to your community If you have concerns aboutmobility,independence,homesafety,ordailyliving skills, please reach out to discuss how Occupational Therapymaybeabletoassist Staywarmandtakecare,

Scottvale Health Club is proud to welcome Kim Felsteadtoourgrowingalliedhealthteam

Kim is a highly experienced Occupational Therapistwithover20yearsofclinicalexperience acrossAustraliaandtheUnitedKingdom,working within hospital, rehabilitation, aged care, mental health, community, and NDIS settings. She brings extensive knowledge in complex assessments, functional support planning, assistive technology, rehabilitation, behavioural support collaboration, andhome&livingassessments.

Kim has successfully supported participants with a wide range of physical, psychosocial, neurological, cognitive, and behavioural support needs, with a strong focus on improving independence, safety, emotional regulation, and qualityoflife

That’s a wrap!

EAPPROGRAM

Pleasebeawarethatwe haveengagedwithanew EAPProgram!

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BigDog June 2026 Newsletter by Steven Paull - Issuu