Collaboration, team building exercises and positive vibes at our annual Case Management Training.
PROJECT AIR
Move over Hallmark, our Children & Young People are the newest artists in town.
To us, community means connection, inclusion, and support. It’s about creating a safe space where families, children, individuals with disabilities, and our team feel valued and empowered.
Comprehensive Case Management Training Strengthens Leadership at BBH & I4L
Hoop Dreams athletes achieving personal goals and significant accomplishments both on and off the court.
Connection lies at the heart of everything we do, and that bond came to life with the unveiling of Matara Matara – ‘Hand in Hand’.
We believe meaningful conversations can change lives.
tAIR, page 76
Our Artist in Residence (AIR) Project aims to inspire creativity in the children and young people we support by involving them in various activities.
The wait is over and the winner of our Office Christmas Decoration Competition is...
Caring is central to our actions, and we proudly share how we've embodied this value during the holiday season.
Content Collation STEPHANIE TONNA & RACHEL NICHOLLS
Creative Direction and Marketing MEG BLACKBURN
Sub Editors TAYLOR MOORE, TARA BRIGGS, & TAYLA BEINKE
CONTRIBUTORS
Practice and Quality Manager CLAIRE COLEMAN
This cause is closely linked with our organisation and staff who have gone through this ally.person The institute does vital research into childhood cancer and we are proud to be able to work with them ongoing to support and raise awareness of childhood cancer.
Practice & Training Officer ALICIA JOHNSON
Human Resources Administration Officer HAYLEY THRELFO
Human Resources Regional Partner STEFANIE RISTOSKI
Marketing and Community Engagements MEG BLACKBURN Program Manager, Hunter, ASHLEE KELL
Well with the Fall or Autumn season (depends on what country your from whether you say fall or Autumn so being safe with both) upon us, change is in the air. We have been working hard on delivering training across the state through Case agementMan, CARE (Children and Residential Experiences), and TCI (Therapeutic Crisis Intervention) training. The regular training opportunities we provide our team enables us to assess our processes within the organisations to ensure we are always striving to improve the support and services we provide to the community.
Therapeutic Support Worker (TSW), Hunter OWEN HING
Disability Support Worker EBONY PURU
Hello Everyone and welcome to the first edition of The Good Times magazine! We are excited to share some of the inspiring moments we have created within the first quarter of the year across Big Brown House, Integrity 4 Life and The Gray Area. We will also share stories and updates on the organisations we work with and support to give you an idea of the collaboration we are doing across the state.
Occupational Therapist, The Gray Area LEWIS MASON
Saretta Art & Design SARETTA FIELDING
Saretta Art & Design JOHN HANCOCK 123 Creative MEG BLACKBURN
These stpa few months for me have been very busy with working on new programs, services, and ways we can further work together with the wider community. We celebrated International Women's Day focusing on celebrating Women in Sport. The morning was about empowering the community with some fantastic women speaking at our event about their journey in sports and inclusiveness. It was a wonderful day for our tionsorganisa and community with around 100 people attending the event and raising over $3,500 for the families staying at Ronald McDonald House, NNSW.
Integrity 4 Life (I4L), Big Brown House (BBH), The Gray Area (TGA) and Hoop Dreams acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of this country and their connection to land, water, and community. We extend that acknowledgement to the local Awabakal people, on which our main office is located.
With this quarters theme of The Good Times being Creating Brighter Futures for All, this really is the overall goal of what we do. We want to ensure that the services we deliver to the wider community, the organisations we connect with and the people we support feel that our interaction has a lasting positive impact on their lives. With this being said, we hope you enjoy our first edition of The Good Times magazine!
We wish everyone a safe and happy holidays.
Chris Brown CEO chris@bigbrownhouse.com.au
We had people from our organisations support a cause that was close to them through a super Swim For The Starlight Foundation. It was awesome to hear of the team's commitment to raise money for a great cause close to their hearts. I was really proud of the staff volvedin and them giving it their all in the pool.
On behalf of I4L, BBH, TGA, and Hoop Dreams, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our community for your ongoing engagement, advocacy, and unwavering support of the services we provide. A special thank you to the children, young people, and individuals we work with daily—thank you for trusting us to be part of your journey.
This month I have been working towards supporting another great cause with one of our community partners the Children's Cancer Institute (CCIA) and am participating in doing 86K For A Cure that represents the 86 children who are diagnosed with cancer every month.
Well summer has hit and we have started to get some hot days across the state. We have recently started to venture out into the wider regions by spreading our services in Integrity4Life and The Gray Area. We have also been attending several meetings with possible future partners to strengthen connections as we enter the new year. We have seen a need in our Allied Health and Disability Services and the programs have had a number of referrals over the last few months. We have focused on providing a quality service to those who need it which has turned into more interest in the work that we do.
In the new year, we will be opening a new office in Sydney and will be looking to provide all services across Big Brown House, Integrity4Life, and The Gray Area. This will be a great opportunity to have the teams work together to provide a great service across the Sydney District.
We are now recruiting for a Senior Behaviour Support Practitioner and also a Program Manager for I4L that will be based in our new Sydney office and look to collaborate with other organisations that align with our values.
As we all get ready for the upcoming Christmas Break and head into the New Year, I just want to again say thank you for all the hard work and effort that has been put into this year. We have worked in so many parts of the state and have delivered services to the best of our ability to many children and families in need.
I hope that you all take the time to enjoy some laughs and food with friends and family. I am looking forward to another year of us working together during the difficult times and celebrating the great ones.
Chris Brown CEO
Written by Alicia Johnson, Training Officer
Through CARE and TCI training we look at how we can provide a sense of safety, trust, and emotional well-being which is essential for healthy child development.
In a study asking children and young people in care to describe the positive qualities of their caregivers, some of the most common themes involved the adult being pleasant to be around and to interact with, the feeling of genuine connection, and the adult being able to understand or relate to their experience.
The active ingredient of providing high outcomes for all of our children, young people, and participants is strong developmental relationships. TCI & CARE References
So far over NSW this quarter year we have delivered:
TCI 3 Day Course (online): 120 hours
TCI Refresher
Locations (F2F): We visited 4 different locations
TCI Refresher (F2F): 38 hours
Webinars: 8 hours of TCI Webinars including topics on the LSI (including how to adapt the LSI to support younger children and children who live with a disability), Self-Care and Power Struggles.
CARE Training: 12 hours
Case Management Training: 16 hours located in the Hunter Region
14.5 hours of online workshops This is approximately 208.5 hours of training for this quarter.
TOTAL ANNUAL TCI FACE-TOFACE REFRESHER HOURS
110
TOTAL REGIONS TRAINING CONDUCTED IN 5
682.5 total hours of training conducted by our Practice & Quality Team in 2024.
TOTAL ANNUAL TCI 3-DAY HOURS
504
Over the last quarter, we facilitated 636 hours of TCI training, emphasising the recovery of our children and young people following incidents. A key focus was on the Life Space Interview (LSI) and its goals, which include:
Creating a sense of emotional safety for the child after an incident. Clarifying and processing what occurred. Restoring and repairing the relationship between staff and the child. Helping the child regulate their emotions in the future. Supporting the child’s return to their day-to-day routine.
By prioritising these goals, we aim to enhance recovery not only for our children and young people but also for our staff and the organization as a whole.
This quarter, we have put a focus on our teams further embedding CARE into our foundational Policies, Procedures, and Practices. Our aim is to make CARE not merely a training, but to incorporate it into all that we do across all functions of our organisation. We acknowledge that the best way to do this is to ensure that CARE principles are underpinning all of our processes to ensure that there is congruence in our ways of working and that we all keep the best interest of Children, Young People, and their families at the forefront of our work.
Together, our organisations collaborate closely to consistently support, recognise, and value our team members. Throughout the second quarter of 2024, we have continued to grow and thrive through community outreach, strategic partnerships, and team-building initiatives. Join us in celebrating our vibrant workplace culture!
Our Sydney team took a break from the office to bond and celebrate the festive season at the Sydney Christmas Party, enjoying food, laughter, and holiday cheer while reflecting on the year’s achievements.
Dec 2024
Written by the team, about the team.
Last month, our organisations hosted a quarterly Case Management Training, bringing our office staff together for two days of learning and team bonding. To conclude one of the training days, we enjoyed a delightful team dinner, which was a fantastic way to connect outside of the office. Events like these highlight the importance of fostering strong relationships both in and beyond the workplace. A big thank you to everyone who participated—can’t wait for the next one!
Written by BBH Student, Charlie
My name is Charlie and I am currently doing my 200hr Diploma of Community Services placement with the Hunter TLs at BBH.
Upon research of potential placement options in the Hunter Region, BBH was actually my first preference! The company’s mission of helping young people to grow, thrive and feel included in the community aligned with my values and what I want in a career. It's been such a positive experience that I’ve been encouraging other Community Services students in the Hunter or Sydney region to do their placement with BBH too! Glad I trusted my gut feeling after checking out the website.
“The company’s mission of helping young people to grow, thrive and feel included in the community aligned with my values and what I want in a career.”
What I love the most about working with BBH is how supportive the team is. There are many opportunities for growth and development which I admire (and have already been lucky enough to undertake), and everyone is happy to answer any questions I have. Big shout out to TL Hayden who cops a LOT of questions as I work alongside him the most!
Some highlights (so far) have included visiting a CYP alongside a TL and it being a really rewarding experience. I received some really positive feedback in that I was playful but also gently challenged some of the CYPs thoughts and ideas that they expressed. Another highlight was definitely undergoing the Therapeutic Crisis Intervention training. I’ve been working in high schools for almost five years, and it makes me want to advocate for ALL school staff to complete the training! I’ve started to transfer the skills that I’ve learnt to the classroom, and have already seen some positive results.
Written by Stefanie Ristoski
As we reflect on the remarkable achievements of the past year, one initiative stands out for its impact on our staff, children, and young people (CYP): the LSI (Life Space Interview) Competition. This 12-week competition, running from August to November 2024, has not only increased the adoption of LSI but has also fostered a culture of meaningful interaction, supervision, and support within our organisation.
The Life Space Interview (LSI) is a verbal process that helps us turn crises into an opportunity to learn and grow. What does that mean? Think of LSI's as a structured conversation that a trusted adult has with a young person after they've experienced a crisis together. This conversation aims to; provide a sense of emotional safety, clarify events, repair & restore the relationship, teach new ways of coping & reenter the young person back into their routine. It is a crucial part of therapeutic care as it supports our young people to grow and thrive with help of trusted adults.
The LSI Competition was designed to...
...increase the use of LSI across all regions.
..embed LSI as a fundamental aspect of daily practice, supervision, and interaction with CYP.
...provide enhanced support for staff and CYP in the utilisation of LSI.
...deepen the understanding of LSI discussions in team meetings and ongoing professional development.
The results speak for themselves. There was a significant shift towards integrating this vital tool into our daily operations.
The success of the LSI Competition underscores the value of collaboration, dedication, and the collective commitment to improving outcomes for CYP.
To everyone who participated, thank you for your hard work and passion. Together, we are making a difference.
Let’s carry this momentum into the coming year and continue building on these incredible achievements!
Check out the winners
To celebrate the dedication and skill of our teams, the competition featured several categories:
Sydney, achieving an impressive 15.3% increase in LSIs.
Mel Rose, whose leadership and commitment inspired her team to excel.
Kitana, whose insightful and compassionate approach set a new standard for LSI practice.
We also extend our congratulations to the following individuals for their genuine and impactful efforts in applying LSI with CYP:
Owen Hing (Sydney Team)
Jasmine Blu (Team Leader, Sydney)
Susan Fukofuka (Hunter Team)
Kristi Wykes (Hunter Team)
Ryan Beisty (Hunter Team)
Emmanuel Awotwe (CSS Team)
David Ha (Sydney Team)
Aiden Baker (Western Team)
Is your child starting school next year? Our School Readiness Program is here to help! Join us as we work together to develop your child’s fine motor skills, social skills and group participation through a series of fun and engaging activites.
Who’s it for?
NDIS or private participantscommencing Kindergarten in Term 1 2025.
When does the program start?
The 2 hour workshop will be held mid January. What is involved in the program?
A big focus on communication, regulation, fine and gross motor skills with a Paediatric Occupational Therapist.
Ready, set, school success! REGISTER TODAY!
For more information, please contact: E: admin@thegrayarea.com.au Ph: 0400 225 866
As we bid farewell to 2024, we invite you to join reflecting on the year that was—celebrating how we’ve cared for our community and looking ahead to the opportunities that await in 2025.
Written by MYLES CHERRY, DIRECTOR OF THE GRAY AREA
As the year 2024 draws to a close, we reflect on the fulfilling and productive final quarter while expressing gratitude to everyone who has contributed to our journey.
In recent months, our team of psychologists, occupational therapists, and behaviour support practitioners has provided essential services to individuals and families across metropolitan and regional areas, including Newcastle, Port Stephens, Upper Hunter, Dubbo, Albury, Merimbula, and Bathurst. This expansion has enabled us to reach and support more communities in need.
Community remains at the heart of The Gray Area's mission. Beyond the services provided, we value the relationships we have built with participants, families, and colleagues. Grounded in a genuine commitment to understanding and supporting each individual, our work is made possible by the strong sense of community fostered within the practice and through partnerships with external collaborators and stakeholders.
We believe that every individual's story is unique and deserving of compassionate attention. We understand that life is journey of emotions, experiences, and challenges.
As the Christmas season approaches, The Gray Area extends heartfelt thanks to the support coordinators, medical professionals, collaborating organisations, families, and participants who have been integral to its work. Your dedication, trust, and collaboration is the foundation of our success in making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. We deeply appreciate the opportunity to be part of such an incredible network.
ebethebeautyofimperfectioni thirated,andhealingisfound Wenthedepthsofunderstanding. whstrivetocreateasafespace theirthoughtereindividualscanopenlyshare hillbemetsandfeelings,knowing withempathy
Looking ahead to the New Year, we remain committed to maintaining the highest standards of care, creating a strong sense of community, and expanding our services to reach even more areas. Our mission will continue to center around collaboration, compassion, and support, ensuring that everyone involved feels empowered and valued.
The Gray Area wishes everyone a peaceful and joyous Christmas and a happy, healthy start to 2025. With gratitude for the ongoing support received this year, we look forward to continuing its work and partnerships in the year to come.
Written by ASHLEE McNEIL, GENERAL MANAGER BBH
As we approach the end of the year, the festive season is a fantastic time for reflection. Reflecting over the past 12 months we are incredibly proud of the services we have delivered and the incredible outcomes we have achieved for young people and families. Our Case Work Support Scheme (CSS) has been able to support many young people through respite and provide a much-needed break to foster carers and families at this time of year.
Caring is a fundamental principle in the work we do and aligns with CARE by creating supportive environments where children feel valued, understood, and safe. For Big Brown House, effective caring involves building authentic relationships, showing empathy, and responding to the unique emotional and developmental needs of each child. The CARE model underscores that consistent, compassionate interactions foster trust and resilience, helping children heal from past trauma and develop healthier behavioural patterns. By integrating these principles into our daily practice, our staff create nurturing environments that not only meet basic needs but also promote long-term emotional well-being and personal growth for the children in our care.
As we bid farewell to 2024, we extend our best wishes to Ashlee McNeil, General Manager of Big Brown House, as she begins her maternity leave at the end of December and embarks on an exciting new chapter. During Ashlee’s absence, we are pleased to announce that Ian Campbell, General Manager of Disability Programs, will be stepping in to oversee Big Brown House.
We would like to wish you all a safe and happy holiday period and we look forward to seeing the amazing things you all achieve in 2025!
The Awesomeness Award provides an opportunity for all staff to nominate a fellow colleague by sharing examples of their great work across the organisation.
Let’s look back and celebrate our team members who were extra awesome this year!
Therapeutic Support Worker
Therapeutic Support Worker
Therapeutic Support Worker
Therapeutic Support Worker
Team Leader
Therapeutic Support Worker
Therapeutic Support Worker
WRITTEN BY IAN CAMPBELL, GENERAL MANAGER I4L
As another year comes to a close, Integrity 4 Life reflects on its steady growth.
In recent months, we’ve expanded our support services into greater Sydney, starting with a small number of participants. However, our goal is to steadily grow our reach across both metropolitan and regional NSW. We’re committed to continuing this expansion and offering support to more participants in these areas. Regional services remain strong with our STA house in Orange providing regular respite care. These regional areas often face limited resources and services, leaving participants with fewer options and less choice. We aim to provide them with a reliable, high-quality alternative they can count on.
As the year comes to a close, it’s an opportunity for reflection on where we have been, what has been achieved, where we are headed, and what truly matters. The organisation is excited to share that the number of participants in the service has doubled, and the staff team has grown accordingly.
Over the past 12 months, participant numbers have increased by 100%, and brand recognition is improving. The organisation’s reputation is strengthening, as evidenced by attendees at the recent CARE Expo in Sydney, who recognised the branding and marketing. While the focus for now is on solidifying growth in the current regions, there are plans to target Sydney more specifically in the new year. All of this is positive progress!
Continued growth and the ability to deliver quality services depend on the commitment, buy-in, and professionalism of the staff recruited. Our Disability Support Worker’s (DSW’s) play a critical role in building the organisation’s reputation and overall success. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all staff for the support they have provided throughout the year — each role and contribution is greatly appreciated. We look forward to continuing this journey with the team. Special thanks are also extended to our office staff, including team leaders and the shared services teams, whose support ensures smooth operations at I4L.
As the year draws to a close, many of us embrace the celebratory spirit of Christmas, New Year, and the holiday season, cherishing time with family and friends. While this can be a joyous period, it’s important to recognise that not everyone shares the same experience. For some, Christmas may not be a part of their traditions, or it might bring feelings of loss, pain, or trauma.
This time of year can be particularly challenging for many of those we support at I4L. As you assist our participants during the holiday season, please approach each interaction with respect and empathy. Remember, everyone has their own unique way of navigating this time, and their "normal" may look different from yours.
We hope everyone enjoys some welldeserved downtime during the holiday period, and for those who are working through Christmas and New Year, thanks for making a difference to the lives of our community
We look forward to another year of collaboration and success in 2025.
For more information on our services please visit our website
WWW.I4L.COM.AU
Written by Chris Brown, DIRECTOR HOOP DREAMS
The first ten-week term of Hoop Dreams has come to an end, and it has been a great success. The program saw a big turnout, with athletes of all ages and levels participating.
The response from the community was more than we expected, and it has been exciting to see so many people come together to play basketball and improve their fitness.
During the program, athletes worked on their basketball skills and also participated in strength and conditioning sessions. The progress made by everyone involved has been fantastic, and we are proud of how far they have come in just ten weeks. We look forward to seeing even more growth in the next term.
We are already planning our next term for Hoop Dreams. The program will continue to provide opportunities for athletes at all levels to develop their basketball skills, improve their fitness, and build confidence. Whether you are just starting out or already experienced, there will be something for everyone.
We are excited to keep growing and supporting basketball in our community. For more information about Hoop Dreams and Little Dreamers, visit our website or follow us on social media.
Meet our compassionate and dedicated team as they share the passion and purpose that drives their commitment to caring for the community.
Name: Ashlee Kell
Position: Program Manager
Hunter
Time with the organisations: 3 years
Things that fill my cup: Bush walking, music, a decent sleep, quality family time, sunshine, the beach, my dog, watching the sunset by the water. Dog, Cat, fish, bird, horse, lizard or ferret? Ash is a big Horse and Dog girl, although has a soft spot for all animals other than creepy crawlies and snakes.
My motivation stems from my own childhood and the home life I was forced to grow up in. I did not have the options available like we do these days and I had to stay in that environment or become homeless; leaving me to grow up a lot quicker than anticipated.
I worked very hard on myself and my own trauma, knowledge and understanding of support networks. Childhood trauma and its affects and healing myself to move through my own past and the want to support others.
If I can help just one child in my time in this Job, I have done enough. Every child deserves a safe home, safe adults to lean on and a safe support network. I wish to be able to help children who are vulnerable and in need to succeed in these areas and have the childhood they ultimately deserve.
How do you adapt your approach to care when working with children and young people of different ages or backgrounds? Share an example?
Every person is different, we are not put in the same basket ever.
We adapt and change our ways according to the need at the time. Generally my approach to caring for young people is getting on their level, asking them what they need from me, and how I can support them in a way that is affective.
An essential aspect of my role is recognising the diverse ages of those entering care and ensuring I work within their zone of proximal development. It’s crucial that I align my expectations with their current understanding and skill level, avoiding tasks that are beyond their capacity. This approach helps prevent setting them up for failure or discouragement and instead fosters confidence and growth.
Adapting care styles and responses to different age groups is very common and often relates directly to the personal relationship you have with that young person and how they will engage and take on your care and advice, I never force myself into someone’s life. If I am not their type of person or I am too much in their space, I will always respect their personal boundary and adjust my expectation and approach.
Ultimately, I wish to give vulnerable children a safe home base, caring support staff, an overall supportive experience where positive memories can be made. Such an important piece of what we do is role modelling and helping to educate and teach young people who may not be on the best path or has not had the best start in life. We are not in a position to judge, dismiss or demand change in their world, but we have a responsibility to teach, role model and guide for better and higher outcomes.
I know that through my experience of being on the floor for 10 years in OOHC through multiple programs, children in Residential care don’t feel seen or heard often, BBH aims to create a CARE base of knowledge to extend an undivided response that shows we are not here to discipline, judge or dismiss a child, we are here to care, let them be themselves, and guide for a better future. This is realistically the future of supporting young people in care for a n opportunity for a more positive future.
Position: Therapeutic Support Worker, Sydney Region
Time with the organisations: Since August, 2024 (about 4 months)
Hobbies: Hiking, gym, mountain bike riding, travelling around the world. Things that fill your cup: Saunas, mindfulness, making a cup of coffee from scratch, listening to techno music, swimming in the ocean.
Dog, cat, fish, bird, horse, lizard, ferret?: I actually have 3 pet mice! They are super smart and friendly.
does "caring" for others and your community mean to you?
Caring is at the heart of what I do as a TSW and as a person.
To me, it’s about offering genuine compassion and wholehearted support. It’s living by the principle of ‘love your neighbour as yourself’ and bringing that mindset into every interaction. One kind act can spark a ripple effect of positivity, which motivates me daily.
There’s no greater reward than seeing someone smile because they feel valued and supported. Whether a small gesture or a big effort, contributing to someone’s wellbeing gives me a sense of purpose and joy in life.
How do you adapt your approach to care when working with children and young people of different ages or backgrounds?
Care isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, it’s about meeting people where they are and being flexible. When working with younger children, I often use visual aids, fun games, and simple language to keep them engaged and comfortable. For older adolescents, I take a more collaborative and relatable approach, creating open conversations where they feel heard and empowered to make decisions.
I remember working with a young person who struggled with anxiety. By creating a safe space and moving at their pace, they gradually built confidence, started opening up to me and developed some awesome interpersonal skills.
What impact do you hope to make within the community in the role you are in?
My goal is to create a positive and lasting impact within the community. I aim to inspire young people to reach their full potential, foster open and safe communication spaces, and ensure they feel valued, heard, and supported. Every day is a real opportunity to make a difference, and I’m proud to contribute to building a community where everyone has the chance to thrive.
Name: Ebony Puru Position: Support Worker Time with the organisations: 3 years Hobbies: Journaling, Walking, Going to cafes, dancing, enjoying wine, reading about history, listening to music, singing and enjoying nature.
What does caring for others and your community mean to you?
Caring for others and the community means being able to listen to others as to how we can do better and validate other’s experiences so they are seen and heard.
What motivates you to work in a field that centres around providing care to the NDIS community?
I have always been drawn to serve as I saw the need for it growing up in church. My dad is also what you call a “community dad” so it was a pretty common place seeing interesting figures arriving at our house seeking my fathers advice. I see this job as an opportunity to act upon others who feel powerless and hope to give them the tools to find their voice and see their capability to build their own lives as they wish.
Have you ever worked in a team setting where caring for others was a priority? How did you foster a supportive and caring environment?
Yes but every persons definition of care will vary depending on their skill set and experience. Everyone has limits so professional and personal boundaries are key. Being genuine and having good clear communication is necessary to ensure staff and clients are onboard with what works and what doesn’t. This also sets the standard of what is acceptable and promotes accountability.
How do you adapt your approach to care when working with children and young/ participants people of different ages or backgrounds? Could you share an example?
Everyone has a niche so you may not be a good fit for the client. Although this is a job you are becoming apart of their world so their expectations of you might not meet their needs. You also have to address if you have any biases or concerns towards the client. Being open minded and not being jaded about their story will allow you to see past it and embrace the journey.
Children are impressionable and experiencing lots of changes all at once. Our job is to navigate them carefully. Positive affirmation and being a good example is a good start.
Reflecting on your role, how do you see the long-term impact of providing genuine care and support to children and young people/ participants to ensure they reach their goals.
You keep consistency and routine. Goals may vary depending on what is going on and might not be ideal to us but important to them so always keep their interest in mind and not dominate them with your way of living.
What do you think are the biggest challenges in providing consistent care to children, young people and the NDIS community? How would you overcome them?
What we give to the community has to be returned back to ourselves. Prioritising our own self growth, needs, relationships and values allows us to be better workers and people.
Name: Lewis Mason
Position: Occupational Therapist
How long have you been with the organisation: 4 months
Hobbies: Basketball, watching TV shows, gaming. Things that fill your cup: Time with friends and family, swimming in the ocean, playing basketball, quiet time watching a favourite show with my partner.
Dog, cat, fish, bird, horse, lizard, ferret? Don’t have any currently, but definitely dog!
To me children are so exciting to work with because they have an infectiously playful view on the world. Children remind me of the simple things that should make us smile every day, like getting to run around at the park, playing an exciting new game, or getting a sticker because you did a good job.
I believe that it is the right of all children to feel confident and assured in who they are, and what they love. That is inevitably what led me down the path of becoming a paediatric occupational therapist. I love my job because everyday I get to help children and young people develop their skills and work towards living an independent and fulfilling life, regardless of their experiences, abilities, or circumstances.
How do you adapt your approach to care when working with children and young people of different ages or backgrounds? Could you share an example?
Considering each individual’s context is vital to providing the level of care that each child needs. The biggest difference in my approach is often related to the age of the participant. For children in younger primary or preschool, the focus is on skill development in creatively fun ways such as games, crafts or other hobbies that interest them, so they’re often building on their skills without even knowing it!
Conversely, older children and adolescents often tend to engage best when they feel in control and in charge of their goals and intervention, so I always aim to have these participants as involved as possible in the goal setting process.
What impact do you hope to make within the community in the role you are in?
I hope to be a caring, familiar support for the children, young people, and families who need it the most. I hope to support young people to find their passions, build their capacity to connect with others, and live their lives to their fullest potential. In this role, there are times when a child has so few supports, that it can feel like nothing you do will help as much as you want it to; but I hope to continue to remind myself and others that sometimes even the smallest pebbles can make a lasting ripple effect.
To us, community means connection, inclusion, and support. It’s about creating a safe space where families, children, individuals with disabilities, and our team feel valued and empowered.
Comprehensive Case Management Training Strengthens Leadership at BBH & I4L
In November, BBH delivered the final case management training session for 2024 aimed at enhancing the skills of its leadership team. The training was designed to address key aspects of effective case management and leadership, ensuring that our leaders are equipped with the knowledge and tools.
Day 1 of Case Management Training brought BBH’s leadership team together for a valuable day of learning and skill-building. The morning session focused on a refresher of the Post-Crisis Multi-Level Response, emphasizing how to effectively debrief with staff after significant incidents. Through discussions and role-playing, participants sharpened their ability to support teams, address challenges, and foster resilience.
After lunch, external trainer Michelle White led an insightful session on reportable conduct, providing practical guidance on; identifying reportable conduct, the reporting process and required documentation, and speaking to young people after allegations without tainting evidence.
DayDay 2 of training saw the wider organisation participate in a dynamic DISC session. This session delved into team profiles, offering valuable insights into individual behavioural styles and how they influence team dynamics.
The training highlighted BBH /I4L’s commitment to continuous professional development and safeguarding excellence. Leadership participants left with some new knowledge and the DISC profiling session further solidified team bonds, setting the stage for improved synergy across the organisation.
WIL BOWDEN, HD Skills Coach
The month of November has been one for the books, with many of our Hoop Dreams athletes smashing personal goals and achieving big things on and off the court.
On the first weekend of November, Hoop Dreams saw its first ever Touring Team take the court at the Annual Seaside Classic Tournament in Port Macquarie. A weekend full of fast and exhilarating games as well as meeting and competing alongside some of New South Wales most passionate basketball teams.
With perfect weather showing off the beaches that surround the beautiful town of Port Macquarie, our Hoop Dreams athletes and their families got an opportunity to explore and relax between games dipping into the water every chance they could to implement some recovery from their massive efforts.
Led by Coach Wil Bowden we saw Hoop Dreams represented by a team of six tenacious female athletes in an U17 Girls team that wowed and amazed the competition with their amazing skills and sportsmanship. Playing teams such as Springwood, Taree, Coffs Harbour and Newcastle West our girls got a fantastic opportunity to compete and bond over the sport they love.
“Teamwork,
a
is what every single girl on this team brought to the court to win the Gold.”
COACH WIL
A very successful round of games on Saturday set the girls in high spirits and ready to compete in the finals on Sunday.
Following a planned team breakfast by the water at a local cafe, our girls were fuelled and ready for action. The semi final which saw some fellow Newcastle Athletes on the opposition team was hotly contested with our girls down 11-14 at the end of the first quarter! A motivational chat and a new plan of attack from Coach Wil sent our girls into the second quarter on a mission and they were amazing! Able to overcome the fierce start by the West team to win the Semi final 76-40.
Sunday afternoon saw the stadium set up for an exciting Grand Final against a star studded Coffs Harbour team boasting previous NSW Representatives and an Australian Centre of Excellence Scholarship Athlete. Our girls were in high spirits and came out firing on all cylinders!! An amazing overall team effort working as one on both offence and defence assured our girls an amazing victory 60-37.
Doing us proud the girls won Hoop Dreams first ever Gold Medal at our first ever Tournament. Congratulations to Kijana McCowan, Hayley De Friskbom, Charlotte Cooper, Rose Bond, Isabelle Burns, and Lilly Bower for their outstanding performance in representing the Hoop Dreams family.
Hoop Dreams are very proud and excited by the smashing success of this Touring Team and can’t wait to see them and more Hoop Dreams Teams representing us at future competitions across the globe.
Written by Meg Blackburn
Connection lies at the heart of everything we do, and that bond came to life with the unveiling of Matara Matara – ‘Hand in Hand’, a breathtaking collaboration between Big Brown House, Integrity 4 Life, The Gray Area, and renowned Aboriginal artist Saretta Fielding.
Hosted at the Big Brown House and Integrity 4 Life headquarters, the launch of Matara Matara - ‘Hand in Hand’ was a celebration of art, culture, and community, connecting both teams through our shared vision and creativity.
With it’s vibrant colours and intricate textures, the artwork represents a vivid narrative of unity, respect, and shared purpose. Matara Matara, meaning "hand in hand," visually depicts the deep partnerships between Big Brown House, Integrity 4 Life, and The Gray Area and their shared commitment to caring and supporting the community.
The visual storytelling reflects our mission: to deliver high-quality, personcentred services that empower children, young people, families, and NDIS participants to reconnect with their roots, embrace culture and diversity, and thrive within their communities.
The artwork now proudly hangs for our community to admire, while digital recreations have been crafted to feature across platforms and organisational marketing materials. These adaptations showcase our commitment to fostering connection to culture through meaningful exploration and collaboration.
A heartfelt thank you to Saretta Art & Design for tribute to the shared dedication of BBH, I4L, and reflects who we are but also inspires who we aim with compassion
for bringing this vision to life and crafting a visual and The Gray Area. This masterpiece not only aim to be as we continue to serve our communities compassion and care.
WRITTEN BY MEG BLACKBURN, Marketing & Community
We believe meaningful conversations can change lives.
Fo this RUOK? Day 2024, our teams across Big Brown House, Integrity 4 Life, and The Gray Area came together for heartfelt initiatives that extend beyond a single day.
Our goal: to break the stigma of those ‘difficult conversations’ and have open dialogue about mental health which strengthens team connections, and supports mental well-being for both our team and the community every day of the year.
Remember: A little conversation can go a long way. Let's keep asking, listening, and connecting —any day, anywhere.
We’re all about creating safe spaces for the children and young people in our care to express themselves. This RUOK? Day 2024, we wanted to do something special—something that goes beyond just asking the question. That’s why we came up with a unique way to encourage meaningful conversations about mental health: our Conversation Parcels
These parcels weren’t just packages—they were conversation starters, filled with fun and thoughtful items to make mental health an approachable topic.
Each pack included:
Baking ingredients for a hands-on, enjoyable activity to share with their carers
RUOK? themed cake toppers to add a sprinkle of positivity
Smiley face badges to spread cheer and encourage smiles
A RUOK? Day guide filled with tips and conversation starters focused on mental health
We know that sometimes the best conversations happen over shared activities, which is why we chose baking as the centrepiece of our parcels. As our children and young people measured, mixed, and decorated their cakes, it created the perfect opportunity for deeper conversations. We encouraged carers to use this time to check in, ask how they’re really feeling, and create an open dialogue about mental health.
The baking wasn’t just about making something sweet—it was about creating a moment of connection, a shared experience that could help break down barriers and make it easier for our children and young people to express themselves.
The packs helped branch out with a baking activity and conversation starters to ease our way into discussing a heavy topic for most. This was a fun and light way to make sure we are connecting the best we can and having those important conversations with our young people. Being able to support those in need daily for their mental health needs is such a privilege in our role, RUOK day is everyday here at BBH."
ASH KELL, BBH Team Leader
Building a culture of care
Our Hunter Team got into the spirit, joining in on the baking fun. R U OK? Day gave us the perfect opportunity to pause, look around, and truly connect. The baking activity served as a natural icebreaker, allowing team members to relax and open up in a comfortable, informal setting.
While R U OK? Day was the catalyst, our commitment to strengthening team connections goes beyond a single day. We are dedicated to creating a workplace where every team member feels valued and supported, no matter what. The heartfelt discussions sparked during this event have inspired us to keep the conversation going, creating an environment where checking in on one another becomes a regular part of our culture.
With our team spread across the beautiful state of NSW, we wanted to extend our R U OK? message even further this year. That’s why we embraced the theme of “Anywhere” with a creative social media campaign featuring our team members using string can telephones to ask, “R U OK?”. The goal? To raise awareness about the power of staying connected, no matter where you are.
We believe that distance or accessibility should never be barriers to reaching out and checking in on one another. Regular, meaningful conversations with friends, family, teammates, or colleagues can make a world of difference, helping to prevent small issues from becoming overwhelming.
R U OK? Day 2024 reminded us that meaningful connections don’t just happen—they’re nurtured through genuine care and open dialogue. As we move forward, we’re committed to making every day an opportunity to connect, support, and strengthen the bonds that make our community so special.
It’s not just about asking the question today. It’s about creating a culture of care that lasts all year long.
A R T I S T I N R E S I D E N C E • Supporting Communities
Our Artist in Residence (AIR) Project aims to inspire creativity in the children and young people we support by involving them in various activities.
Although we cannot reveal the artists' names, we celebrate their dedication and share their remarkable work with the community. This design is part of our Artist in Residence Project.
Written by Riza Hill, BBH Team Leader
This Christmas, our talented young people at Big Brown House have shared their creativity through beautiful holiday designs. These works are part of our , which gives themselves through various activities. Each design is unique, reflecting the personal stories and experiences of our young artists.
For our children, this project is more than just an artistic outlet — it's a chance to build confidence, find their voice, and connect with others through their work. Creating these festive pieces also allows the young people to experience the joy and empowerment that comes with seeing their art appreciated.
The designs are a reminder of the resilience, talent, and hope that thrives within our young people, even during difficult times. This project creates a sense of belonging and accomplishment, offering our kids a chance to celebrate their creativity and share it with the world. It’s a wonderful way to spread the festive spirit and showcase the bright futures ahead of these incredible children and young people
Look our for our AIR Project designs used within our community Christmas cards and email signatures.
teamwork, creativity, and the excitement of the holiday season.
The Annual Christmas Office Decoration Challenge is more than just a competition. It’s a celebration of teamwork, creativity, and the joy of the season. Congratulations to Bathurst for their spectacular win and to all the teams who brought holiday magic to life. Until next year, may your halls remain decked, your spirits bright, and your festive cheer boundless!
for our community this Christmas.
Written by Stephanie Tonna
Caring is at the heart of everything we do, and we are proud to share how we’ve lived this value in 2024 and continue to develop this principle in 2025.
As we reflect on the past year, There to Care has been our guiding principle. This campaign underscores our unwavering commitment to caring for the people and communities we serve, and we extend this to supporting and caring for our community this Christmas.
Our staff are the foundation of our work. This year, we strengthened our support by investing in professional development, fostering a culture of appreciation, and promoting wellness initiatives.
As we approach the festive season, we remain deeply committed to showing our care and gratitude for our team. We understand the importance of connection, rest, and joy during this time, so we are prioritising opportunities for our staff to spend quality time with their family and friends. To honour the year we've shared and the milestones we have accomplished, we’re planning team festivities filled with exciting competitions and events that embody the spirit of togetherness and celebration.
By recognising and honouring our staff's contributions, we aim to foster a workplace culture that inspires engagement, connection, and joy. Through these gestures, we hope to show our appreciation while setting the foundation for continued collaboration and success in the year ahead.
Our operations thrive thanks to the unwavering support of our community, and this year we’ve focused on giving back in meaningful ways. Through partnerships with local sporting clubs and charities, we’ve deepened our connections to the communities we call home, working together to make a positive impact where it matters most.
As a token of our gratitude to our community,, we’ve delivered personalised Christmas cards to each of our stakeholders. It’s our way of saying thank you and wishing everyone a joyful and festive season.
This year, we celebrated the achievements of our participants as they worked towards their goals. By promoting independence and dignity, we saw firsthand the impact of tailored support through the services we delivered.
This Christmas, we continue to support the individuals who are being supported by us. Decking the halls, and decorating Christmas trees is high on the priority list- bring that holly jolly Christmas spirit to the participants we care for.
Big Brown House stayed true to its vision this year, providing a safe and nurturing space for young people and families to grow, connect, and feel empowered. With a strong focus on family inclusion and community belonging, we’ve seen incredible growth among our young people. Feedback from our Youth Perception Survey showed that every participant felt safe at Big Brown House.
This commitment to care and connection shines especially bright during the festive season. Over Christmas, we work hard to create an atmosphere filled with joy, togetherness, and the spirit of giving. Family time visits are thoughtfully arranged, allowing young people to connect with their loved ones during this meaningful time of year. Homes are decorated with festive cheer, and each child and young person receives presents to open on Christmas morning, ensuring every individual feels the magic and warmth of the season.
In addition, we craft a special Christmas summer holiday planner designed to keep young people engaged and excited throughout the season. From decorating the house and creating handmade Christmas crafts to baking festive treats and writing heartfelt holiday cards, we fill each day with fun, meaningful activities. These moments of creativity and joy not only provide entertainment but also foster a sense of belonging and celebration. Through these efforts, we continue to demonstrate our unwavering dedication to offering high-quality, personcentred services that help children, young people, and families reconnect, thrive, and feel the true spirit of the season.
Mental health is an essential part of overall wellbeing, and we are committed to breaking down barriers to ensure everyone has access to compassionate and inclusive care. Christmas time can be a time of excitement and family, though for some, it can also be a really dark time. We stand by our commitment to ensuring that our team, community, and the people we support feel adequately cared for during this period.
In 2024, we demonstrated that care is not just a word—it’s a commitment to making a meaningful difference. Through every challenge and triumph, we upheld care as a promise to serve, support, and uplift those around us. As we look ahead, we remain dedicated to strengthening this bond and continuing our journey of compassion and connection, together.
We continue in our efforts to prove that care is more than a word—it’s a promise. Here’s to continuing our journey of care, together.
The holiday season is a time of joy and love, but for some, it can bring apprehension and challenges, especially for those battling with their mental health or supporting someone who does.
If someone is struggling over the holidays and needs support, here’s a list of services and resources available to help during this challenging time.
Lifeline 13 11 14 (includes crisis support)
Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
The Black Dog Institute 02 9382 2991
Beyond Blue 1300 224 636
SANE Helpline 1800 187 263
Relationships Australia 1800 364 277
Mindspot 1800 650 890
ARAFMI 1300 554 660
Headspace 1800 650 890
Kids Helpline 1800 551 800
