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We always try to do something new, and we love seeing people’s progress with trying those things. So this is where you will be able to check in to see all events new and old in our monthly newsletters! We are always so happy to share what we have done so if you love reading about it, watch this space for all the news on what we have been up to in the last month!
As we transition into October, we’re excited to share the highlights from our recent activities and the incredible progress our participants have made!
Last month, we had a fantastic outing at Aqua Golf! Our participants enjoyed two sunny days filled with laughter and friendly competition as they practiced their swings in the Hunter Valley. It was wonderful to see everyone connecting with nature and each other, making this outing a memorable experience for all.
Spring Tree of Paper Flowers
In celebration of spring, our creative spirits soared as we crafted beautiful paper flowers for our indoor spring tree. Each flower represents the unique flair of our participants, showcasing their individual creativity and talents. The tree has transformed our space into a vibrant reminder of the beauty of growth and diversity within our community.
Onboarding New Participants
Nextcares is reaching new heights! We are thrilled to welcome many new participants into our community for Support Coordination. Each new face brings fresh energy and perspectives, and we are excited to support them on their journeys to make a difference.
Our participants have been achieving personal wins this month, from exploring local parks to enjoying community events. The sunny days have inspired many to venture out, connect with nature, and engage with the community around them. It’s heartwarming to see everyone embracing opportunities for growth and connection.
What a fantastic month we’ve had! Let’s dive into the highlights that have made it extra special.
In August, we took the plunge and ventured out to the Shark and Ray Centre for two unforgettable outings. Over two days, we got up close with some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures. It wasn’t just about the thrills; it was a chance to bond outside in the sunshine and get our feet wet. We got up close and personal with Sharks, Rays, Eels, and Octopus, and learnt about marine life along the way.
As we bid farewell to the chilly weather, we’re also wrapping up our winter art projects. The creativity has truly brightened up our workspace and warmed our hearts. From snowflakes to Winter mugs, we have created some fun pieces throughout the season. Now, let’s channel that energy as we spring forward into new beginnings and fresh ideas!
This month we have also added 2 new Support workers to our growing team. Their skills and enthusiasm are a great addition to our Nextcares family and we cant wait for you to meet them in the coming months.
Here’s to making waves, creating masterpieces, and growing together!
We’ve had an exciting and productive few weeks, and we’re thrilled to share the highlights with you. Here’s a look at what’s been happening:
This month, our Community Groups enjoyed two fantastic days at Dullboys Warners Bay. We played Tenpin Bowling, with everyone showing us their skills, being so proud of their individual level. With such a positive vibe, this experience gave us not only a chance to relax and have fun but also to strengthen our community bonds. The camaraderie and positive energy from those days were truly inspiring!
Our recent team bonding and training sessions have been effective over July and August. We’ve focused on enhancing our skills and teamwork, which brings fresh ideas and a motivated team. The feedback has been extremely positive, and we’re excited to continue building on this momentum.
This month, we are pleased to introduce a new Support Coordinator to our Nextcares team. Jodie brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to her role. Already growing and connecting with her participants, Jodie has brought great energy to our COS team, and we are excited to have her onboard.
Upcoming Group Outing: Shark and Ray Centre
Mark your calendars! For our next group outing, we’ve booked a visit to the Shark and Ray Centre. This promises to be an exciting and educational experience for everyone. Stay tuned for more details as we get closer to the date!
We currently have capacity for our Community Groups that run on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Wickham. If you know anyone who might be interested in joining us or if you’re considering expanding your involvement, now is a great time to reach out!
Thank you for your continued support and commitment. We look forward to sharing more updates and successes in the coming months.
As March rolled in, we kicked off the month with the intricate art of mosaicking. Gathering bits of colored glass, stones, and tiles, each of us set out to create our own mosaic masterpieces. The process was both meditative and exhilarating, as we pieced together small fragments to form beautiful, cohesive designs. It was a perfect metaphor for how individual pieces, when combined, create something truly magnificent—much like our diverse group itself.
Following our mosaicking adventure, we turned our hands to the tactile world of pottery. With clay at our fingertips, we shaped and molded our thoughts into tangible forms. This hands-on experience was not only fun but also incredibly grounding, as it connected us more deeply with the material.
In addition to these tactile arts, we also explored the realm of collage-making. Using magazines, scissors, glue, and a lot of imagination, we crafted visual stories on paper. This activity allowed us to express our individual perspectives and styles, resulting in a vibrant tapestry of voices and visions displayed in our art space.
March wouldn’t have been complete without adding a bit of playful competition to our creative exploration. We headed out to Supa Putt for an afternoon of mini golf, where whimsical courses and friendly rivalry brought loads of laughter and lighthearted banter. It was a delightful way to connect outside the studio and add another layer of fun to our artistic month.
Throughout these varied activities, the spirit of creativity and friendship flourished within the Nextcares Art Group. Whether you were molding clay or lining up the perfect putt, there was a sense of inclusion and encouragement that permeated our group. We welcomed everyone, from seasoned artists to newcomers, to join in as we continued to explore, create, and inspire together!
As March rolled in, we kicked off the month with the intricate art of mosaicking. Gathering bits of colored glass, stones, and tiles, each of us set out to create our own mosaic masterpieces. The process was both meditative and exhilarating, as we pieced together small fragments to form beautiful, cohesive designs. It was a perfect metaphor for how individual pieces, when combined, create something truly magnificent—much like our diverse group itself.
Following our mosaicking adventure, we turned our hands to the tactile world of pottery. With clay at our fingertips, we shaped and molded our thoughts into tangible forms. This hands-on experience was not only fun but also incredibly grounding, as it connected us more deeply with the material.
In addition to these tactile arts, we also explored the realm of collage-making. Using magazines, scissors, glue, and a lot of imagination, we crafted visual stories on paper. This activity allowed us to express our individual perspectives and styles, resulting in a vibrant tapestry of voices and visions displayed in our art space.
March wouldn’t have been complete without adding a bit of playful competition to our creative exploration. We headed out to Supa Putt for an afternoon of mini golf, where whimsical courses and friendly rivalry brought loads of laughter and lighthearted banter. It was a delightful way to connect outside the studio and add another layer of fun to our artistic month.
Throughout these varied activities, the spirit of creativity and friendship flourished within the Nextcares Art Group. Whether you were molding clay or lining up the perfect putt, there was a sense of inclusion and encouragement that permeated our group. We welcomed everyone, from seasoned artists to newcomers, to join in as we continued to explore, create, and inspire together!
As February unfolded, our Nextcares Art Group geared up for a month filled with imaginative projects and captivating experiences.
We were excited to announce that our first activity for February would be crafting paper mache hot air balloons. With newspapers, balloons, and plenty of paste, we brought these whimsical creations to life, lifting our imaginations to new heights. It was an artistic journey that elevated our creativity and brought us closer together.
In addition to our paper mache adventures, we explored the art of phone photography. Armed with our smartphones, we captured the beauty of everyday moments and discovered the hidden gems of our surroundings. From candid portraits to stunning landscapes, there was no limit to the artistic possibilities that phone photography offered.
But that wasn’t all—February wouldn’t have been complete without another memorable outing. This time, we ventured to the wetland center, where we immersed ourselves in the serene beauty of nature. From observing wildlife to exploring the tranquil marshes, we found inspiration in the sights and sounds of this unique ecosystem.
As we embarked on these new artistic endeavors and adventures, we embraced the spirit of creativity and camaraderie that defined our Nextcares Art Group. Whether you were a seasoned artist or just starting your creative journey, there was a place for you in our vibrant community. We invited everyone to join us as we continued to explore, create, and inspire together!
Welcome back, Nextcares Art Group members! We hope your holiday season was filled with joy, laughter, and creative inspiration. As we dive into the new year, let’s reflect on our exciting adventures throughout the month of January.
To kickstart the year on a vibrant note, we delved into the art of making sun catchers. With colorful beads, strings, and a touch of imagination, we crafted dazzling sun catchers that shimmered with the brilliance of sunlight. Each creation reflected the unique artistic vision of our members, adding a burst of color and beauty to our art space. We had the incredible opportunity to witness the exhilarating sport of surfing at the Deaf Games. The waves crashed against the shore, carrying with them the passion and determination of the athletes. It was a thrilling experience that filled us with awe and admiration for their skill and dedication. Inspired by their resilience, we returned to our art studio with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
What better way to wrap up the sunny days of January than with a trip to the beach? We soaked up the warmth of the sun, listened to the soothing rhythm of the waves, and let the salty breeze invigorate our spirits. From sandcastle building to beachcombing for treasures, we reveled in the simple joys of coastal life, fostering bonds of friendship and creativity along the way.
As we look ahead to the rest of the year, let’s carry the memories and inspirations from our January adventures with us. Stay tuned for more artistic endeavors and exciting outings in the coming months! If you haven’t joined our vibrant Nextcares Art Group yet, now is the perfect time to get involved. Reach out to us to become a part of our creative community and embark on new artistic journeys together.
This month, our Nextcares Art Group continued to thrive and explore new artistic horizons! December was an enchanting and festive month for us as we delved into the spirit of the season, guided by our talented teachers.
To kick off the month, we embarked on a heartwarming journey of creating personalized Christmas cards. Each member poured their creativity into designing unique and thoughtful cards, spreading joy and warmth to friends and loved ones. The festive atmosphere in our art space was truly magical as we shared stories and laughter while crafting these special holiday greetings.
Following the joyous card-making session, we transitioned into the world of culinary art by decorating gingerbread houses. We adorned these delicious structures with an array of colorful candies and icing, turning them into edible masterpieces. It was a delightful experience that brought out the childlike wonder in each of us, fostering a sense of camaraderie and creativity.
As a special treat, we had a surprise guest at our December class—none other than Santa himself! Santa joined us to spread holiday cheer, share stories, and even participate in our Scavenger hunt! His visit added an extra layer of excitement and festive spirit to our adventure, making it a memorable and joyous occasion for everyone.
Stay tuned to our newsletters for updates on our artistic adventures, or get in touch to become a part of our vibrant Nextcares Art Group! Wishing you all a happy and creative holiday season!
This month, our Nextcares Art Group continued its journey of creativity, embarking on new and exciting artistic explorations! November proved to be a month filled with innovative projects and inspiring sessions guided by our talented teachers.
We began the month by immersing ourselves in the natural world, as we transformed ordinary rocks into stunning succulent gardens. Through careful selection and arrangement, each member crafted a unique and visually captivating piece, adding a touch of nature to our artistic repertoire.
Next on our artistic agenda was the delightful world of dot painting butterflies. Under the expert guidance of Fae, we explored the intricate technique of dot painting to create beautiful and vibrant butterfly designs. The precision and creativity involved in this project allowed each participant to infuse their own style into these charming winged creations.
In our quest for diverse artistic experiences, we delved into the fascinating realm of printmaking with Karen. Armed with various tools and techniques, we translated our ideas onto paper, producing an array of distinctive prints. The printmaking sessions were not only educational but also provided a platform for self-expression and experimentation.
As we wrap up November, our Nextcares Art Group can look back on a month filled with succulent gardens, dot painting butterflies, and printmaking adventures. Each project brought its own set of challenges and triumphs, fostering a sense of camaraderie among our group members.
Stay connected with us on our news page for upcoming updates on our artistic adventures, or feel free to get in touch if you’re interested in joining our vibrant Nextcares Art Group. We look forward to sharing more artistic experiences and creations with you in the months to come!
This month, our Nextcares Art Group continued to thrive and explore new artistic horizons! October was a particularly creative and engaging month for us as we delved into various art forms, guided by our talented teachers.
To kick off the month, we embraced the intricate world of mosaics, skillfully crafting vibrant and diverse pieces that reflected the unique talents within our group. The kaleidoscope of colors and patterns brought a new dimension to our artistic endeavors, allowing each member to express their creativity in a visually stunning way.
Following the mosaic adventure, we delved into the mystical realm of dream catchers. Under Sharon’s expert guidance, we weaved intricate patterns and chose meaningful elements to create personalized dream catchers. It was a mesmerizing experience as our dreams and aspirations took tangible form, hanging beautifully in our artistic space.
Pottery, a timeless and hands-on art form, also found its place in our October curriculum. Sharon led us through the delicate process of molding clay into expressive and functional pieces. From pottery plant hangers at the beginning of the month to more intricate creations as we progressed, our pottery sessions were filled with joy and a sense of accomplishment.
Stay tuned to our Newsletter for updates on our artistic adventures, or get in touch to become a part of our vibrant Nextcares Art Group!
This month, our Nextcares Group did it all!
Our Support Coordinators reached out to the Newcastle Knights to help our participants meet their goals of attending a game. Not only did they help us meet that goal they smashed it went Newcastle Knights superstar Dom Young came into our office with a signed jersey! Helping us prove to our participant that no goal is too big. Again a HUGE THANK YOU to the Newcastle Knights!
So with our month kicked off the Nextcares Team set off, and in September the was no lack of creativity for us to admire. We spent so many of our days at the Newcastle Chalkwalk admiring all of the artist’s hard work. We saw giant spiders, lovely ponds, and an octopus taking over the street!
Yet with all the crazy creativity going on in the office and on the streets our group of participants definitely felt inspired. We got up, up and way into our projects starting with our DIY Kite class! Then we looked within during our mosaic mirror Group.
As always at Nextcares there no shortage in activities so, get in touch if you want to join our group, and see where we are going to next. Or stay tuned to our Newsletter for all the amazing updates!
This month, our Nextcares Art Group released their inner artists!
We started off the month with learning how to draw perspectives, and ended up with some amazing train track drawings. We then used oil pastels to add colour and life to our amazing work!
Our participants loved working with our Pottery Teacher Sharon to make and design some colourful vases with different faces. Some people modeled the vases after themselves, other made them to look like family or carers but everyone had a blast doing it!
We also started up our TUESDAY ART CLASSES! We are so excited to welcome a new group and look forward to keeping you updated as it grows, so keep an eye out. We also have some cooking classes starting up on Wednesdays so as always if you are interested.
Get in touch if you want to join our group, and see where we are going to next. Or stay tuned to our Newsletter for all the amazing updates!
This month, our Nextcares Art Group has started breaking out of the comunity centre!
Our group started off the month with some amazing pottery plant hangers, thanks to our teacher Sharon, and made some custom journals!
Yet we didn’t just leave it at amazing crafts this month! Our group went to the Hunter Valley Wildlife Park and had a blast. We saw lazy lions, wily wolves, curious crocodiles and so much more. A favourite was the hungry goats and alpacas that pushed each other out of the way when snacks were available! Of course you can’t discount the kangaroos that were so much softer and more friendly then we expected.
We also ventured out to the Newcastle trams to head down to the Newcastle museum to see the Aboriginal art exhibitions! After seeing all the wonderful art piece in the “First Aboriginal” area, we went onwards to see the old clothes people wore and the tools they used. Then we went the the Super Nova room to experiment with science, there we worked together using leverage to lift a car, played with magnets, and saw gusts of wind suspending balls in mid air!
It was great seeing everyone on the trams, using their opal cards. We have a lot more trips in mind and everyone will be going on the trams like a group of experts soon enough! So get in touch if you want to join our group, and see where we are going to next. Or stay tuned to our Newsletter for all the amazing updates!
This month, our Nextcares Art Group has mastered all things yarn. The group have enjoyed twisting and braiding together different colours, making their projects perfect for their spaces.
The group made some beautiful Plant hangers, winter wonderland hangers and scarves for their snowmen!
When we took a break from the yarn, our group worked with Mosaic tiles, to make their own master pieces, and even used clay to make some beautiful planters which we will be sharing the results of next week!
While the purpose of the two-hour activity is to experiment with all things creative, our participants love having a chance and space to catch up with each other each week. They have already formed such amazing friendships with each other, and worked hard to welcome our new members to the group!
It is always amazing seeing everyone so concentrated both on their crafts, and on encouraging each other. The group seem to let their worries be put to rest for a few hours, and instead focus on completing their projects their way.
Get in touch if you want to join our group, Or stay tuned to our Newsletter for all the amazing updates!
