Momentum Collective is a forpurpose community services organisation creating inclusive opportunities and positive outcomes. We have a proud 45-year track record operating a suite of services including disability accommodation and support, mental health, aged care, homelessness, community housing, family and domestic violence, child family and community services.
With over 40 locations in South Brisbane, Gold Coast, Tweed Heads, Byron, Ballina, Lismore, Casino, Kyogle, Grafton and Coffs Harbour, the reach extends from Mid North Coast to South East QLD. Last year, Momentum Collective assisted over 5,500 clients and families across the organisational footprint.
CEO’S
letter
Welcome to the latest issue of our magazine! It’s a privilege to be writing to you for the first time as CEO of Momentum Collective.
I come to this role as a Social Worker by trade, with a lifelong commitment to working alongside people and communities who have often been overlooked or underserved. Throughout my career, I’ve worked across the not-for-profit sector and all levels of government - State, Territory and Commonwealth - stepping in and out of both spaces to champion change where it’s needed most.
Joining Momentum Collective has filled me with both pride and purpose. This is an organisation that doesn’t just talk about making a difference - it delivers on it, daily. In this issue, you’ll read stories that highlight the incredible resilience and transformation we witness in our communities.
Whether it’s Gabe, who found meaningful employment and belonging through the Salvage Shed in Ballina, or Brett, a former Navy Marine Technician turned dedicated support
worker, these stories speak to the strength of human connection and opportunity. You’ll also meet Shirley-Anne, whose journey from trauma and isolation to safety, dignity and hope reminds us why support systems - and the people behind them - matter so deeply.
There are also stories that shine a light on the generosity and creativity of our wider community. From our Resilient Kids ‘Garden to Table’ workshops in Casino to the stunning dress donations from Daughters of India for women in our domestic and family violence refuges, these moments of kindness and solidarity are what build stronger, more inclusive communities.
As we look to the future, I’m excited for all that lies ahead. Thank you for being part of this journey with us as we continue our mission to create inclusive opportunities, and support every individual to live a safe, connected and meaningful life.
Warmly, Jillian Paull
This is an organisation that doesn’t just talk about making a difference – it delivers on it, daily.
Jillian Paull
Pathways to Purpose: Stories of Growth, Grit and Community
At Momentum Collective, every journey is unique—but each is united by a shared sense of purpose and possibility. Whether it’s Gabe, who found meaningful employment and belonging through the Salvage Shed in Ballina, or Brett, a former Navy Marine Technician turned dedicated support worker. These stories highlight the power of community, opportunity and the human spirit. Their experiences show how the right support can transform lives, in the workplace and beyond.
Gabe
Salvage Shed
Three years ago, Gabe walked into the Salvage Shed in Ballina as a curious visitor hunting for tools for his home projects. Living with a disability, he discovered it was more than a shop— it was a community that recognised his potential. Today, through Momentum Collective’s Australian Disability Enterprise (ADE), Gabe has found a fulfilling career that matches his skills and passions.
“Gabe is always on the lookout for ideas around book sales based on author and genre,” says Jennifer Evans, Leading Hand at the Salvage Shed.
A Multitalented Team Member
His organisational talents extend beyond books. Gabe also manages tools and DVDs with care and attention to detail. He’s now training in bike maintenance, adding another skill to his growing repertoire.
What is an ADE?
An ADE is a not-for-profit organisation that offers meaningful employment to individuals with disabilities who may face barriers to conventional jobs. These businesses provide tailored support, skills training and real-world experience, creating lasting community impact.
A Role That Fits
Gabe works two days a week in roles that align with his hands-on nature. His standout contribution? Transforming the book section into a welcoming space for readers. Drawing on his knowledge of genres and authors, Gabe provides personalised recommendations that enhance the customer experience.
“When I finish fixing or organising things, I feel elated. It’s a very good feeling,” Gabe says.
Giving Back and Following Passions
Outside the Shed, Gabe uses his handyman skills to help locals, embodying community spirit. A devoted soccer fan, he keeps up with his favourite premier league teams, often waking early to catch matches.
The Impact of Opportunity
Gabe’s journey highlights the value of ADEs in creating purposeful, inclusive workplaces. His story reminds us that when people are supported in the right environment, they thrive— and so does the community around them.
Brett
Making a Positive Impact
For this dedicated Support Worker at Momentum Collective, the journey began in the structured world of the Royal Australian Navy and led to a rewarding career in individual support—shaped by love, family and a desire to make a difference.
Before joining Momentum Collective, Brett spent over six years as a Marine Technician in the Navy.
“I wanted to travel to different countries and complete a mechanical trade,” he explains.
After earning his trade certificate, he planned to move to Western Australia for a career in large-scale desalination plants. But life had other plans.
“I met my partner and decided to stay in Casino, New South Wales,” he says.
Finding Purpose Through Family
His decision was cemented when he became a father to three boys, each diagnosed with autism.
“Raising them showed me that a career in the support industry would be rewarding,” he says.
Two years ago, Brett joined Momentum Collective, encouraged by his sister, who was already with the organisation at the time.
“I’d seen Momentum around town, running community programs.”
It was a leap of faith into a world unlike the high-pressure environment of the Navy.
“The transition was a challenge,” he admits.
“Being thanked for my work felt strange. I had to adjust to working within a client’s timeline.”
Commitment to Growth
Pursuing a Certificate III in Individual Support boosted his confidence and skills.
“It’s given me tools to provide better care,” he says.
Though losing clients is tough, Brett finds comfort connecting with colleagues and staying active.
He starts his days at the gym and spends weekends fishing or doing parkrun with family.
“This role has helped me develop more patience and understanding,” he reflects.
Support workers like Brett play a vital role in building inclusive communities. His dedication has made an incredible difference—for his clients and himself.
Finding Home
Shirley-Anne’s
Journey to Stability and Strength
Growing up near Murwillumbah, Shirley-Anne always carried a sense of resilience, but her path has been far from easy. Now living in South Tweed Heads, she has found stability, a supportive community, and a network that makes her feel truly understood and valued.
Feeling Lost
For years, Shirley-Anne struggled with her mental health, leading to multiple suicide attempts. One left her with burns to 20% of her body. After hospitalisation, she found herself living in her car. She was isolated, with no real support from family, who didn’t fully understand what she was facing.
She spent six months on the streets before life began to change. One morning, the Momentum Collective Team met her outside Fred’s Place in Tweed Heads, a drop-in service offering food, showers and essential support for vulnerable people.
Soon after, Momentum Collective’s Team connected her with mental health services. She was admitted to Tweed Hospital’s psychiatric ward, where she was diagnosed with Huntington’s disease—alongside existing anxiety, depression and schizophrenia.
Huntington’s is a rare degenerative condition affecting the nervous system, with no cure. Its symptoms include cognitive, physical and psychological challenges, often intensified by mental health conditions. With the diagnosis came a new level of medical and emotional support.
Finding Home
Momentum helped Shirley-Anne secure temporary housing. She eventually moved into a transitional duplex in South Tweed Heads, where she worked to rebuild her health. COVID lockdowns in 2020 presented setbacks, but with the support of her team and doctors, she
found the right treatment balance. Today, she’s thriving in a permanent social housing home that fills her with peace, pride and a sense of belonging. “It’s just so wonderful!” she beams.
Karen, one of her long-time Support Workers, recalls her journey with admiration.
“Shirley-Anne’s story is sad and extensive—and she is courageous,” says Karen. “From domestic violence to her Huntington’s diagnosis, she has shown incredible strength throughout her life.”
A Time for Renewal
Over the years, Shirley-Anne has also rebuilt her relationship with family. With better understanding, bonds have been restored. She now shares a close connection with her children and extended family.
While she once enjoyed the gym, swimming and line dancing, she recently took a break from those activities, but hopes to return soon. Her support team assists her explore interests, accompanies her to movies, and provides assistance four days a week.
Shirley-Anne (left) with Momentum Collective Support worker, Karen (right).
The Tenant Forum A Space to Be Heard
In the first half of the year, we were proud to host the Tenant Forum, a dedicated event designed to give our community housing tenants a voice and foster a stronger sense of community.
A Forum for Connection and Conversation
Held in a welcoming and relaxed environment, the recent tenant forum began with a morning tea, an opportunity for tenants to connect with each other and chat with staff over refreshments.
The session continued with a presentation of key feedback from the latest tenant survey, highlighting shared experiences, concerns and ideas for improvement.
An open Question and Answer session followed, giving tenants the chance to ask questions directly and receive real-time responses from the Housing Team. The honest conversations and constructive suggestions were a valuable part of the day.
To close the event, everyone enjoyed a casual sausage sizzle, a relaxed way to keep the conversations going.
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed. We are listening, and your feedback is helping to shape better services and support for all our tenants.
Colin (left), Momentum Collective’s General Manager of Housing, with one of our tenants at the forum.
Resilent Kids Program
At Momentum Collective, we’re proud to share the success of our ‘Garden to Table’ workshops that form our Resilient Kids program, now in its third round. This initiative has been an incredible journey for our young participants and dedicated staff, cultivating gardens and preparing delicious food while learning new life skills and making cherished memories.
A Blossoming Experience
In each session, our participants dive into the practical experience of building and nurturing garden beds. For many, this is their first time getting their hands dirty in the soil, planting seeds and watching them grow. Participants enjoyed the whole experience, especially the gardening and cooking. Their enthusiasm is a testament to the program’s engaging nature.
From Garden to Kitchen
The journey takes them from the garden to the kitchen, where they learn valuable cooking skills and transform the produce they’ve grown into delicious meals. This farm-to-table approach teaches them about healthy eating and instils a sense of accomplishment and self-reliance.
Moments That Warmed Our Hearts
Among the many heartwarming stories, one stands out.
Fiona
Miller, our Operations Manager for Richmond Valley, shared:
One of my favourite stories is of one young participant who was exceptionally helpful— cleaning tables, putting rubbish away, helping his teammates. I commented to his teacher, who said it was exceptional behaviour for him and not always the way he behaved at school.”
Such transformations highlight the program’s positive impact.
Growing Confidence and Connections
As the workshops progressed, we noticed participants becoming more open and communicative. By fostering a safe and inclusive environment, each child felt comfortable expressing themselves and contributing to group activities. We deeply
what ' s happening In Casino, NSW
cherish this growth in confidence and social skills.
Overcoming Challenges Together
Designing workshops that cater to varying needs and abilities was quite a challenge. However, through engaging, hands-on activities and a focus on teamwork, we ensured that every participant felt included and valued. This collective effort made the program’s success even more rewarding.
Looking Ahead
With one more ‘Garden to Table’ session planned under our current funding, we’re actively exploring ways to integrate similar initiatives into our regular youth programs. We aim to continue providing these enriching experiences, nurturing plants, and the potential within each young individual.
We’re incredibly proud of our participants and staff for their dedication and enthusiasm. Together, we’ve created a vibrant community where learning and growth flourish.
WEDNESDAY AFTERNOONS
After-School Drop-In at The Oak Centre
Every Wednesday during school term 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Craft, games and good food for kids and young people in a relaxed, welcoming space.
FRIDAY MORNINGS
Community BBQ at the Neighbourhood Centre
Every Friday 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Kick off your morning with a hot breakfast and great conversation. Everyone is welcome.
MONTHLY MARKET DAYS
Community Market at The Oak Centre
Held monthly – dates vary
Enjoy a BBQ, browse local donations and connect with the community.
FIRST MONDAY OF THE MONTH
Community Garden Working Bee
First Monday of every month 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Come get your hands dirty! Volunteers welcome to help maintain and grow our shared garden space.
Resilient Kids: Garden to Table Program
Final round this term
Our popular hands-on program teaching kids how to grow, harvest and cook fresh food is wrapping up for the term. Stay tuned for the next round!
A Hug, a Handwritten Letter and the Heart of Community Support
A Moment That Mattered
At the Casino Neighbourhood Centre, every day brings new challenges, and unforgettable moments. Leonie, a warm and compassionate team member in our Bloom NDIS Program, recently experienced one of those moments that reaffirmed her purpose.
Late one afternoon, a visibly distressed young man arrived. Traveling from Brisbane to Coffs Harbour, he had been removed from a train in Casino when his card declined. With just $36 in his pocket and no local contacts, he faced a weekend alone, broke and without shelter.
A student in the care sector, he tried to remain composed. But his worry was obvious, and most services were already closed.
Quick Thinking, Lasting Impact
Leonie didn’t hesitate. She reached out to Our 2 Hands, a local not-for-profit, and together they secured him a train ticket.
He returned in tears, handing her a handwritten thank-you note and asking for a hug.
“Even though sometimes we feel hopeless, there is always a light waiting to give you directions,” he wrote.
Moments like this make everything worth it,” Leonie said. “We shared something special— two strangers who understood what it means to be helped.”
Learning with Heart
Leonie is completing her Certificate III in Disability Support through Bloom, our traineeship program combining practical experience with a clear career path. After starting in disability employment and earning a Certificate III in Community Services, she joined Momentum Collective in 2020, and enrolled in training to make a deeper impact.
“I love my job, but I know I’ve got more to give than just a few minutes at the front desk,” she said.
Her first placement confirmed that. “It was a group outing. The Support Worker was so gentle and inclusive. Clients were having fun and really enjoying themselves.”
Just Getting Started
Whether through Bloom, Supported Independent Living, or case management, Leonie is just getting started. Her story reflects the heart of what we do at the Casino Neighbourhood Centre—lifting lives, sharing hope and reminding people that someone is always willing to help.
Restful Refuge Project: Creating
Comfort and Safety for Families in Need
Supporting Recovery Through Comfort
Momentum Collective was proud to receive a generous $25,000 grant from the Ballina RSL Club in support of our Restful Refuge Project. This crucial initiative focuses on improving the wellbeing of women and children who are rebuilding their lives in our domestic and family violence refuges.
Replacing Worn Beds with HighQuality Rest
A safe place to rest is one of the most fundamental needs for women escaping violence and trauma. Over time, the beds in our shelters had become worn and outdated, falling short of the comfort and dignity we strive to provide. Thanks to the support from the Ballina RSL Club, we are now replacing these with high-quality, supportive beds that offer families the peace they deserve.
A good night’s sleep is more than comfort— it’s the first step towards healing.”
Healing Begins with Rest
The impact of this upgrade goes far beyond just furniture. It’s about creating an environment where women and children can feel safe, sleep
well and begin to heal. A restful night’s sleep plays a vital role in physical and emotional recovery, especially for individuals who have experienced the stress and upheaval of domestic and family violence.
Community Partnerships Making a Difference
Momentum Collective is committed to creating spaces that offer safety and long-term wellbeing. The Restful Refuge Project brings us one step closer to that goal. Our partnership with the Ballina RSL Club is a powerful example of how local support can create lasting, positive change for vulnerable members of our community.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Ballina RSL Club for their continued support and dedication to community welfare.
You will get the support you need to live independently or maintain your lifestyle. When you sign up to receive our services, you will benefit from our open and understanding approach, where you will feel valued, heard and respected.
Contact our friendly team today for a quote or info@mymomentum.org.au
Community Support Making a Difference –Thank You!
Momentum Collective extends a heartfelt thank you to all who have generously donated so far this year. Your support is helping us reach more people and provide critical services where they’re needed most.
A special shoutout to the Rainforest Ridge Community, Bunnings, Daughters of India, Steven Bekue and Zonta, District 22 for your outstanding contributions.
You Can Make a Difference Too
By donating to Momentum Collective, you’re assisting individuals and families across Northern NSW and South East QLD access vital support services. Every donation is allocated based on need, ensuring your contribution has the greatest possible impact, whether it’s supporting individuals living with disability or mental health conditions, or enhancing youth and family programs in your local area.
Together, we can build stronger, more supported communities.
Artwork donated by Steven Bekue.
School supplies donated by Zonta, District 22.
Donations made by Bunnings in Tweed Heads.
Donations by Zonta, District 22.
Donations by Zonta, District 22.
Fashion with Heart: Supporting Women in Need
When local clothing label Daughters of India opened their doors for a recent warehouse sale, their focus extended far beyond fashion—it was about giving back. As people gathered to shop, something even more meaningful was happening behind the scenes: a powerful effort to raise awareness and support women and children affected by domestic and family violence (DFV).
At the centre of this initiative is Chloe, Boutique Manager at Daughters of India in Tweed Heads, who suggested Momentum Collective’s DFV services as the charity to support. The team embraced the idea wholeheartedly. Together, they raised $3,000 and donated 200 beautiful dresses, small gifts of beauty and confidence to women rebuilding their lives.
For Chloe, this cause is personal. From a young age, she watched someone she cared about navigate the challenges of DFV with strength and resilience.
“Watching her pick herself up and continue forward, no matter the obstacles, left a powerful impression on me,” she said.
Chloe was also raised by a strong single mum who fostered children for 15 years.
Through that, she came to understand how widespread DFV is in Australia.
“It’s tragic that the rates are so high. With more awareness and better support, more people would feel safe to seek help—for themselves or someone they care about.”
where that spark might lead?”
When researching a local organisation to support, Momentum Collective stood out. Its mix of education, community services and holistic care showed a deep commitment to empowering women.
“When I called about donating the dresses, I felt genuine gratitude on the other end of the line. That made me feel we’d made the right choice.”
The Daughters of India Team hoped the sale would do more than raise money. They wanted to start conversations about DFV, an issue that often remains hidden.
And the dresses? Chloe hopes they’ll bring a spark of light to someone’s day.
“You could be coming from a very dark place, but when you put on something that makes you feel beautiful, even for a moment, it can shift everything. Who knows
Supporting women-focused causes has always been core to Daughters of India. They also fund women’s empowerment programs in India, from providing new mums with health packs to teaching sewing and life skills.
“If we have hands to give or energy to offer, we should. Life becomes richer when we use our gifts to lift others,” Chloe says.
Daughters of India showed how a single idea—a sale, a dress, a donation—can touch many lives. Now it’s your turn.
Your donation can open the door to safety, strength and a fresh start for women and children experiencing DFV. Together, we can create brighter futures where every woman feels seen, supported and safe.
Chloe (left), Boutique Manager at Daughters of India with Maddison from Momentum Collective.
