We have welcome and embraced the first month of spring, nature and animals awaken around us bringing bursts of colours and energy. We are excited to share all the exciting happenings and opportunities this season has to offer. 

So, what’s been happening in September? 

• Moved offices TO A BIGGER LOCATION! Stay tuned for the address. 
• Facilitated two RESPITE stays. 
• Held two Friday night socials. 
• Welcomed new support staff to the team! 
• Our mowing team has expanded lawn locations- WOOHOO. 
• One of our original staff members performed at the ‘Stars of Newcastle’ charity event- keep an eye out for who it was and how it went. 
• Two of our Participants attended Comic-Con!

The Role of Families and Caregivers in the NDIS

The NDIS is crucial for supporting individuals with disabilities, however, families and caregivers play an essential role in maximising their benefits and below is how they contribute: 

1. Advocacy and support: family members act as advocates ensure their loved one’s needs and goals are clearly communicated to the NDIS in plan meetings. 
2. Navigating the system: families assist in navigating the NDIS which can be very complex, assist with paperwork and help to understand policies. to meet delaines. 
3. Encourage independence: families help participants develop skills and independence in daily tasks and social interactions. This empowerment allows for a sense of autonomy which is a key goal of the NDIS. 
4. Emotional support: Strong support networks provide stability, emotional reassurance and help individuals face challenges with resilience. 
5. Monitor progress: Families assist with tracking and assist in working towards gaols offering feedback during reviews and offering ongoing support ensuring that the supports remain relevant and effective. 

Families and caregivers are an essential part to a NDIS journey, enhancing the experience and helping achieve meaningful outcomes. By working together, families and NDIS participants can create a brighter and more independent future.

Staff Good News ALERT- Jesse R

Jesse recently performed in the stars of Newcastle charity fundraiser event!

What charity were you raising money for? Cancer Council 

How much did the event raise? Together we were able to raise $195,069. 

How was training leading to the event and was it hard to memorise the dance? It was definitely a challenge trying to remember the dance, but I had great teachers and a great support system which made it easier. 

Do you have any advice for next year’s contestants or advice for people getting out of their comfort zones? Just have fun. Life can be so stressful and sometimes stepping out of your comfort zone makes you realise that you’re capable of doing things that you thought you couldn’t. It was a great opportunity to meet new people and learn something new all while raising money for an incredible cause that’s close to my heart. I am grateful that I got to be a part of it and grateful for the experience.

A massive thankyou and congratulations to Jesse for being part of this amazing event!

Tips and Tricks

Starting a garden in spring is a great way to embrace the start of the season! Her are some of our tips to help kick start you garden!

• Choose your location: Look for a spot with 6-8 hours of sunlight a day and ensure its easy to reach for watering and maintenance. 
• Plan your garden: Decide on the types of plants you would like based off preference and climate, e.g.: herbs, flowers or veggies. Designing a simple sketch of the garden will ensure space us used effectively. 
• Prepare the soil: Remove rocks and weeds, check pH nutrient levels and alter with compost or organic matter as needed. 
• Start seeds indoors: Being growing seeds in trays indoors in a sunny location. 
• Transplanting: Slowly introduce indoor plant trays to outdoor conditions over a week then move into garden bed after acclimating. 
• Mulching: Use organic materials like straw or wood chips around the plants to lock in moisture. 
• Watering: Water early mornings or late afternoons to avoid evaporation. Consider drip irrigation for water preservation. 
• Maintenance: Inspect your garden for pests, disease or weeds and utilise organic fertilisers to promote health growth.
• Dig deep and bloom Bright!

Tasty Treats in the Treehouse by Adrian

Oreo Dessert

Ingredients: 190g Oero Biscuits. 40G Melted Butter. 240ml Thickened Cream. Utensils: Knife Mixing Bowl Large Zip Lock Bag Electric Mixer Setting dish large spoon

Feel free to add berries, crushed KitKat or anything you desire. Tag us and let us know what you’d add into this dish to make it your own!

Instructions: 

• Scrape filling from Oreos and place in a bowl. 
• Place open Oreo in zip lock bag. 
• Once all separated start to crush biscuits as small as possible. 
• Add melted butter into zip lock bag. 
• Lock bag and mix butter with crushed biscuits. 
• Spread 2/3’s of crushed mixture into setting dish. Pat down with a spoon until level. 
• Pour thickened cream into white filling mixture that was set aside. Use electric mixer until smooth. 
• Pour cream mixture over mixture in setting dish. 
• Sprinkle left over crushed biscuits on top of set mixture. 
• Leave to set for 3-4 hours in fridge the enjoy!