From the ED’s Desk

As we know sustaining a brain injury can have devastating effects for the person and their family. Many times we talk of the resilience of the person who has had the injury and their determination and perseverance in getting back on track. That journey is made less rocky when there are people around who go the extra mile. In this issue you will meet an amazing person Tahan, who is Neil’s son, and remains deeply involved in supporting his dad to keep on improving every day. A positive and supportive family, or friends can do so much that has a massive impact for the person with an ABI. This is a touching story about Neil, Tahan and terrific support worker Louis (p 10). Tahan is a very humble young man… this story is about love. Sadly we lost both Bradley Smith and Russell Smith in May and many of you will remember both young men. Our thoughts and love go out to their respective families as they deal with the loss of a son, brother and partner. We have finalised our transition to a company limited by guarantee (CLG) which during covid proved to be a long process. Thanks to our solicitor Reidlaw specifically Jonathon who made the process all the simpler. We also welcome Janeanne Hardie to our Board. Janeanne has the day to day experience of supporting her husband Gary for some years and we look forward to her contributions after many years working in the education sector (more p 7).

Hearty thanks to CSW Greg Meyer of Coastal Photography for the gift of seven canvas prints to adorn the walls of our new office space (p 18). These are bright, wonderful and welcome additions to Greg’s beautiful Bogey Hole photo that’s been on our board room wall for many years now and captures the eye of all!

Someone who makes the most out of every situation despite life not always being a breeze is Joy, who we feature on p14. Joy’s name is so very akin to her energy and enthusiasm - her appetite for life is well complemented by Katja along with our many other amazing support workers. As we push through the freeze of these winter months we know that spring is around the corner. Stay warm. Till next time!

- Sue

You are invited to participate in a 15-20 minute survey to identify the types of physical activity people living with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury like to do.

The survey is part of a research project being conducted by Associate Professor Leanne Hassett from the University of Sydney in collaboration with other researchers, clinicians, consumer representatives and brain injury organisations across Australia. For more info email: leanne.hassett@sydney.edu.au or phone (02) 9351 9549.

Research survey website: http://tiny.cc/bridges_survey or scan QR code with your phone

This program aims to build resilience in families while building upon pre-existing skills and strengths. This online group caters to family members who are unable to attend face to face events.

Over 5 weeks you will be offered:

• A space to share lived experiences and stories with others

• Explore ways others have managed and coped with the challenges of traumatic injury

• Facilitates collaborative relationships

• Explores strategies for restoring balance and 'recharging the batteries'

• Offers information on social and economic resources available

Meet ‘n greet Ravensfield Farm Respite Renee

Our newest team members

Reception

Weds - Fri

Joanne

I’m married with 2 kids. We recently moved to Lake Mac after 17 years in Sydney. We love it up here, wish we had moved years ago. I’m a blow-in who came travelling 20 years ago and never went “home”. I’m originally from Newcastle upon Tyne, a Geordie, it was like the Mothership was calling me home. I love Reformer Pilates and Newcastle United. Can’t wait for the new EPL season and 2am starts. Champions League here we come!

My background is in recruitment, the NGO sector is all new to me. Headstart is all about community and giving back, which was a huge attraction.

Get to know Joanne

Favourite food: Indian

Favourite movie: Tough to pick! The Counsellor, Gladiator or It’s a Wonderful Life (a must see every Christmas)

Favourite music: George Michael

Favourite sport/team: Newcastle United

Favourite hobby: Reformer Pilates

Favourite place on earth: Greece

If you could be any animal? Giraffe –they look cool

If you could meet someone famous? Again, George Michael

Craziest thing you’ve done: Swimming in waterholes in the NT (I thought I was invincible!)

Three words to describe you: Loyal, Stubborn, Compassionate

Describe your first week at Headstart: It’s been great to get to know everyone and I already feel at home.

CoWorker

I have spent the last 10 years working in the disability sector and love seeing people achieve their goals and live their best life.

I am a proud Mum of 3 kids including a set of identical twin girls and one of my daughters has just given me my first grandchild a beautiful little girl named Luca which means “bringer of light” and she certainly is the light of my life!

Get to know Renee

Favourite food: Thai

Favourite movie: The Shawshank Redemption

Favourite band/music: So many! I love music especially songs with great lyrics hmmmm lets say Regina Spektor

Favourite sport/team: The Lady Knights

Favourite hobby: My new grand daughter

Favourite place on earth: Bali and home

If you could be any animal? My cat because he is so spoilt and lives a charmed life

If you could meet someone famous?

Dolly Parton

Craziest/silliest thing you’ve done: Decided to take up playing squash again forgetting I wasn’t in my twenties anymore and crashed into the wall resulting in stitches in my forehead

Three words to describe you: I hope people would say I’m kind, caring and fun www.ravensfieldrespite.com.au

Describe your first week at Headstart: Its been great because the people are so lovely and welcoming, thanks everyone!

Ravensfield Respite is located at Farley, close to Maitland. Besides providing respite (short term accommodation/STA) and supported assisted living (SIL), the farm offers community access and farm animal bonding experiences. Studies have show that interacting with animals can lower the heart-rate, adding to a sense of calm on the farm. Ravensfield’s primary focus has always been to provide compassionate care and engaging experiences, catered to participants of all abilities.

The friendly team, headed up by Tina and Tim are able to tailor your experience and will have accessibility and high-quality care in mind. Feeding the cattle, horses and goats; walk or buggy ride around the farm, plant some trees, help in the veggie garden or have a BBQ for lunch.