2012/2013 Annual Report

2012/2013 Annual Report
CONTENTS
P
age No.
Vision, Mission and Values
Board & Staff
President’s Report
Executive Officer’s Report
Manager of Corporate Services Report
Manager of Employment Services Report
Manager of Support Services Report
Round Table Committee Report
Living Skills, Advocacy, Arts & Community Partnerships Team Report
Greater Mobility & Communication Team Report
Positive Behaviour Support Team Report
Sponsors, Donations & Work Placement Businesses
Volunteers
Financial Report
The Christie Centre Inc acknowledges the support of the
Departments of Human Services Victoria, The Department of
Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs
as well as our contributing funding partners.
VISION, MISSION &
STRENGTHS &
VALUES
OPPORTUNITIES
VISION
Supporting people to have meaningful lives
in their community.
MISSION
Connecting people with people.
VALUES
Open and honest communication.
Building strong relationships with
Service Users
Their families
Other services
Community
Team work and collaboration.
Respect.
Accountability.
STRENGTHS
A committed, professional
and
knowledgeable Board, Management
and Staff who are keen to continue
the growth of the CHRISTIE CENTRE
INC.
Sustainable organisation with an
increasingly strong balance sheet
A flexible, dynamic and enthusiastic
team which provides high quality and
innovative personalised services
Long
history
and
tradition
of
designing, developing and delivering
a wide range of disability support
services
Exceed or meet a range of standards
and quality systems which support our
services ISO 9001:2008 Accreditation
Certification
in
the
new
DHS
Standards and Disability Standards
Ongoing development of strong
networks, contacts and partnerships
90% + staff retention engenders
continuity, retains knowledge base
OPPORTUNITIES
Continue to understand, develop and
grow individually funded services
Seek
non-traditional
grants,
sponsorship, tenders submissions and
project funding
Balance the ratio of Government to
Non-Government income
Expanding our existing services to
meet other community needs
Significantly promote our brand and
reputation throughout the region
To build awareness of the Christie
Centre Inc
Continue to increase customer
satisfaction
More flexible delivery of support
Improved accounting and awareness
of true costs
To be a niche provider
The introduction of NDIS
COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT
as at 30th JUNE 2013
2013
PRESIDENT
Mr. John Fleming
VICE – PRESIDENT
Mrs. Debi Glasson
TREASURER
Mr. Simon Rule
GENERAL COMMITTEE
MEMBERS
Ms Sue Hermans
Ms Fiona Morgan
Ms Inga Dalla Santa
Mr Brian Erskine
Mr Ross Humphries
Mr. Stan Alves
PATRON
Current Members:
John Fleming – President joined the
committee in 1983. John has served as an
ordinary member, Treasurer and has been
President since 1990. Interests are in policy,
finance and employment.
Debi Glasson – Vice President joined the
committee in May 2003. Debi has a personal
interest in programs and future opportunities
for people with disabilities; her daughter
currently attends LSOP 4 days a week.
Simon Rule – Treasurer joined the committee
in 2008.
Simon works as the finance
manager at Wentworth Shire Council. Simon
has lived in Mildura for over 4 years and in his
spare time he likes competing in triathlons.
Simon’s Uncle, Matthew Englefield, attends
the Christie Centre.
Inga Dalla Santa – joined in March 2012.
Inga is a legal practitioner with a sense of
social responsibility who brings to the
Board some balance and advice on legal
matters and social justice.
Fiona Morgan – joined in March 2012.
Fiona is a teacher at the Mildura Specialist
School who is interested in gaining a
greater understanding of options for
students who leave the specialist system
at age 18. Her association strengthens
the transition process for students and
their families.
Brian Erskine – rejoined in November 2011.
Brian’s interest in rejoining the Committee
after a couple of years break was inspired
by his interest in building the profile and
sales of our chocolate range. With his
sales experience and personal and
professional networks, this has been his
main focus.
Ross Humphries – I joined in mid 2012
because I felt that I could make a
difference to the Centre’s participants
through my current links with education
and then I found the Chocolate
Company to which I knew I could help
with my background in retail/business. I
also have experience in Business
Management,
Education,
Project
Management & Marketing.
Sue Hermans – joined early in 2011. Sue says
“I have admired the commitment of the
families of people who participate and the
support staff for many years”. Sue has many
years of experience in our industry, we
appreciate her input with future planning
strategies. Sue will not be renominating for a
further term.
LIFE MEMBERS OF THE CHRISTIE CENTRE
Cr. W. J. Christie
G. Lee
Bill Holcombe
J. Doudney
J.R. Jones
Mrs L Augustine
R.G. Lake
F.A. Holcombe BEM
A. Anderson
D.C. Stone
Mrs. B. Whitley
D.A. Augustine
L.M. McGrath
P. Bishop
P Saunders
J.A.(Gus) Fleming OAM
Mrs D Stone MBE
W.D. Keir
Mrs. M. Cupper
J.M. Fleming
L. Cameron
STAFF MEMBERS
as at 30th JUNE 2013
2013
MANAGERS
31st
Glenda Hiskins (till
December 2012)
Florence Davidson (from 3rd December 2013)
Daryl Brown
Krister Jonsson
Cindy Howard
(Executive Officer)
(Executive Officer)
(Manager of Corporate Services)
(Manager of Employment Services)
(Manager Support Services)
TEAM LEADERS & SUPPORT STAFF
POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR SUPPPORT TEAM
Bernadette Chaplin – Leader
Helen Parmenter
John Romeo
Lee Hanby
Matthew Teasdale
Nicholas Matalae
Susan Elliott
Sharon Brettig
Louise Theodore
GREATER MOBILITY & COMMUNICATIONS TEAM
Sheridan Marr - Leader
Andrewina Fisher
Amanda Sammut
Carol Cramp
David Duffield
Jessie-Lee Cordwell
Judy Gulbin
Karen Baird
Peter Lock
Vicki Tregenza
LIVING SKILLS, ADVOCACY, ARTS & COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS TEAM
Danielle Pearce - Leader
Alison Goullet
Kathy Dubois
Alison Pearce
Norelle Bate
Bianca Bugeja
Mark Pettet
Ivan Behsmann
Melissa Castleman
Jenny Chaplin
RELIEF STAFF
Aleisha O’Brien
Cheryl Taylor
Gillian Hogan
EMPLOYMENT SERVICES STAFF
Alison Pearce
Dale Gane
Jenni Dal Farra
Kim Chapman
Chris Elmitt
Kellie Hollingworth
Sammy Johnson
Barbara Hinge (March 2013 – June 2013)
CORPORATE SERVICES / CLEANING / TRANSPORT
Don Crothers
Kim Fullager
Adele Kennedy
Jan Goullet
Jill Morgan
Dot Leech
Ron Leech
Toni Romeo
(Transport)
(Quality Coordinator)
(H.R. & Quality Assurance)
(Receptionist)
(Payroll)
)
)(Cleaning Staff and amenities)
)
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
It is always a pleasure to have the
opportunity to present our annual report to
you at our Annual General Meeting.
This meeting tonight allows us the
opportunity to demonstrate to you that the
Christie Centre has functioned within the
strategic directions set by the Board and
that we believe that we have met and
exceeded the general expectations of the
community.
The report you have before you is a
reflection of the achievements the Christie
Centre has made during the last twelve
months.
I want to thank you, our interested
members of the community that have
supported the Christie Centre and for you
attendance here tonight.
The Christie Centre is in a strong and vibrant
organization, offering a diverse range of
services and activities. The Christie Centre
is known for its quality service and program
delivery throughout Australia.
As you will see later in our financial report
our income and asset base has us in a very
secure position.
Last year we bid fare well to our long
standing Executive Officer Glenda Hiskins
and introduced our new Executive Officer
Florence Davidson who has brought with
her a strong sense of local ownership and
the attitude that nothing is impossible.
Welcome aboard Florence, you have our
confidence in the way you are managing
our business.
hours of unpaid work, our sincere thanks for
your contribution.
This contribution alone equates to many
thousands of dollars in money value as well
as the physical and emotional support to
our supported workers and clients.
Fundraising is a wonderful opportunity to
promote our work in the community, and
the Police & Fireman have the Golf Day
down to a fine art.
Not only is this fantastic in the way the
Christie Centre is promoted, it provides
opportunities for our clients above and
beyond
the
normal
funding
type
arrangements we receive.
This year’s fundraising and donations take
the grand total to around the $200,000
mark.
Our loyal band of policeman, firemen, Lou
and the crew do an absolutely fantastic
job each year.
To Florence, Cindy, Daryl, Krister and
especially the dedicated and wonderful
staff we are fortunate to have at Christie
Central, Life Skills, Mildura Chocolate
Company, ArtRageUs and Aroundagain –
thank you.
The Board passes on their gratitude to
everyone associated with the Christie
Centre in making this a successful year.
I have no doubts that your presence,
dedication and determination to provide
quality services are the primary reasons we
are so successful.
Volunteers and Fundraising are important
to organizations such as ours; the Christie
Centre has been fortunate with the support
of both our volunteers and fundraisers.
To our Board, thank you for your
contribution towards another fantastic year
and to past board member, Sue Hermans
for her support as a committee member
during a very busy time in her own life.
We must again highlight the outstanding
contribution made by our volunteers,
between our Day Services, Aroundagain
and the Chocolate Company our
volunteers have amassed thousands of
In what will be our next challenge, the NDIS
(National Disability Insurance Scheme)
presents us with the opportunity to explore
new ways to do our business in the future.
EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S REPORT
I am very proud to provide my first annual
report since becoming the Executive
Officer in December 2012. The opportunity,
to, take on the role after the stewardship
provided by Glenda Hiskins over a long and
illustrious career is an exciting and inspiring
one. It is rare in these times for people to
remain committed to any one organisation
for such a lengthy period and Glenda is to
be
commended
for
her
excellent
leadership,
collaborative
ventures,
continuing improvement and vision for the
Christie Centre.
The welcome received from team
members, participants, families and the
Board has allowed for a relatively quick
transition and the support is greatly
appreciated.
The first six months of the year saw the
recruitment process and the handover of
service aspects occur, saw a consolidation
of our quality framework and the transition
of students from the Mildura Specialist
School for the 2013 year start. A wide range
of personal gains and outcomes for
individuals was achieved. As well as
celebrations including the Wild West Spring
Ball, Tri State Games, Art exhibits and visits
to Melbourne to participate in both
sporting and cultural events.
In January our year was marred by the
tragic events which saw the traumatic
passing of our Team leader Cathy McPhee,
this has had a profound and significant
effect on all who worked with her. It has
also galvanised our resolve to make a
stand and ensure that the Christie Centre
upholds it’s commitment to providing safe
environments for all. As such we assisted in
the facilitation of the Cathy Cared
Community walk against violence in
partnership with the White Ribbon
Foundation and the family and friends of
Cathy. We became an endorsing agency
of the IGUANA (Interagency Guideline for
Addressing Violence, Neglect and Abuse)
project and provided skill development in
advocacy and self-awareness through our
communication projects. From adversity
opportunities can be presented that grow
into outcomes that see us as contributing
citizens within our community.
The second half of the year has allowed a
number of achievements to be realised
including meeting the outcomes of our
strategic plan, specifically the re-modeling
and reorientation of services to meet the
changing landscape. With this came a
restructure of services, combining of teams
and a focus on flexibility without
compromising our commitment to person
centred practice and individual outcomes.
Our ability to be NDIS (National Disability
Insurance Scheme) ready holds us in good
stead for the roll out of new opportunities
and new people who may be eligible for
our services. It provides a huge incentive to
explore and define who we are and what
we provide.
It has also challenged us to refine our
systems and develop robust ways to track
individual costs and services. Much work
over the past 6 months has focused on the
true cost of service delivery and the ability
to further expand our range of service
options. This sees over 18 different programs
offered weekly at our 12th street complex
and a further 44 diverse options at
Artrageus and Life Skills a real testament to
the teams striving to meet individual’s
needs, interests and aspirations.
We were successful in having a Business
review of our ADE (Adult Disability
Enterprise) services both Aroundagain and
the
Mildura
Chocolate
Company
undertaken and this has provided a solid
foundation for our next steps in becoming
an identified social enterprise, meeting the
needs of individuals whilst having a
sustainable and viable business.
The work involved does not just happen but
is created in partnership with the teams
involved, with local businesses utilising the
service and the support of our community
to make it successful.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
TEAM WORK
This year saw the launch of a community
partners
program focusing
on
the
collaborative and supportive mutual
benefit both parties could achieve when
we work together. The in kind support,
financial assistance and use of the Christie
Centre’s business services has also
cemented strong links in partnering
together to spread the shared value of the
positive impact people with a disability
have in our community. This was
showcased in the Empower magazine with
enormous support from Majella Ballard,
building on our established partnerships
with all other service providers strengthens
our capacity to meet individual’s needs.
I take this opportunity to acknowledge and
thank the teams that combine to make up
the Christie Centre Inc., their commitment
and willingness to try new and at times
more challenging options, to strive for best
outcomes and to advocate for the needs
of people we support leads to some
remarkable achievements.
As we head into our Diamond Jubilee year
in 2014 we have much to celebrate and
much to plan for forging greater
partnerships with local, regional and
National services has led to exchanges of
ideas and resources which strengthen our
practice
and
provides
for
more
collaborative coordinated outcomes for
people we work with.
BOARD OF MANAGEMENT
The Board have shown vision and courage
this year in moving forward on a range of
alternative support options and ensuring
that the voice of those we support is given
amplification as we set forward into a new
and dynamic future for Disability services.
The commitment to rolling out the NDIS
leaves many unanswered questions at this
stage, there is some trepidation in regard to
what does this mean? How will we need to
change and adapt? How will planning and
service delivery be coordinated? Our role is
to ensure that the service we provide is the
best service option for people and that our
core premise of person centred practice
remains central to our scaffold of service
delivery.
The leadership team Cindy, Daryl, Krister,
Danielle, Bernie and Sheridan who have
been instrumental in managing the
transition are to be applauded.
Our corporate services team have
strengthened the foundation of the
administration tasks to support the work of
the agency and the teams to have a
seamless process for all accounting and
personal invoicing. This has been a huge
task and one necessary to have us ready
for individualised funding. Jan, Jill and
Adele make it seem easy.
I take this opportunity to thank our many
supporters, families, participants, partner
agencies and the broader community who
support the work of the Christie Centre Inc
and who ensure people with disabilities are
valued citizens within our community.
VALE
During the year we were saddened by the
passing of three members of our Christie
Centre community: Cathy McPhee (Team
Leader),
Desmond
Towle
(former
participant) and Noella Hemming (current
participant).
Florence Davidson
EXECUTIVE OFFICER
CORPORATE SERVICES REPORT
Once again the past financial year has offered many challenges in the Corporate Services
Division of the Christie Centre.
VOLUNTEERS
The year has seen numerous changes in the
financial and administration areas of the
Volunteers are an essential part of the
centre and I would like to take this
overall operations of the organisation.
opportunity to thank the team for their
Without the assistance of our wonderful
commitment and hard work during this time
and dedicated group of volunteers the
of continuing change.
agency would struggle to function. The
Christie Centre is very grateful for their
We are in a period of major change with
continuing support and enthusiasm. The
the National Disability Insurance Scheme
table below illustrates how many hours of
being
introduced
by
the
Federal
support our volunteers donated.
Government and as a result there will be
more significant changes in the years
If we use an average wage rate of $30 per
ahead.
hour (including on costs), the volunteer
hours below would equate to a payroll
ADMINISTRATION STAFF
figure in excess of $200,000. The Christie
This year has seen an addition to Corporate
Centre could not continue to operate if this
Services with Adele Kennedy joining the
was paid in wages and salaries and
team. Adele is responsible for Quality
illustrates how important volunteers are to
Assurance and Human Resources. She was
the organisation. On behalf of everyone
instrumental in preparing the organisation
associated with the Christie Centre I would
for our recent Quality Audits ISO 9008
like to thank all the volunteers for their
accreditation, DHS 1 standards and
support over the past year and continued
National Disability Standards.
support into the future.
Volunteer Hours
580
1376
Day Services
Mildura Choc Co
Aroundagain
5126
IMPROVEMENTS
FUNDRAISING AND DONATIONS
The Christie Centre has spent in excess of
$120,000 over the past twelve months (in
excess of $400,000 over the past 3 years)
upgrading
facilities,
equipment
and
technology for the benefit of staff and
participants. Some of these items this year
include:
Along with our volunteers, the Christie
Centre relies heavily on fundraising income
and donations to support the programs
and facilities we currently enjoy. As can be
seen from the table below, we continue to
receive great support from the community.
Major fundraising activities for the year
were the Police and Fireman’s Annual Golf
Day, Mildura Show Spinning Wheel and the
Port to Port team.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Computer and Software upgrades
Wi Fi Connections
Ceiling Hoist for movement of
participants
Trailer for carrying luggage on trips
New wheelchairs for movement of
participants
Repairs to verandas for outdoor
activities
I would also like to take this opportunity to
thank the Merbein District Community Bank
for their continued support of the Christie
Centre through the numerous equipment
grants we have received as well as Mildura
Rural City Council for their grants.
We have not budgeted for as many capital
items for the coming year however we will
of course, continue to maintain our assets
in a safe working condition.
FUNDRAISING/DONATIONS
Year
Income
Expenses
Surplus
2013
$43028
$5970
$37058
2012
$46807
$8382
$38425
2011
$46114
$12782
$33332
2010
$59366
$7575
$51791
2009
$45875
$7977
$37898
We are extremely grateful to everyone who contributed to the above amounts and for their
continuing support of the Christie Centre.
Daryl Brown
MANAGER CORPORATE SERVICES
EMPLOYMENT SERVICES REPORT
•
AROUNDAGAIN
This was a year of consolidation. Staff,
volunteers and supported employees have
all worked extremely hard throughout the
year on our current businesses.
STAFF
Staff have done a great job in keeping the
business going, despite being one staff
member less than the previous year. The
fact that we still managed to equal sales
for the previous year is a testament to this.
MILDURA CHOCOLATE COMPANY
It has been a difficult year this past year
with quite a few staff changes, but sales
are finally starting to increase. Production is
being consolidated and the introduction of
the Every Day chocolate range has proven
to be extremely successful.
STAFF
In addition to this staff continue to provide
great support and encouragement to our
supported employees.
Unfortunately we have had quite a few
staff changes during the first eight months
of this year making production planning
quite difficult. Things have settled down so
we are able to increase our production.
VOLUNTEERS
PROMOTION AND MARKETING
We have an amazingly dedicated crew of
volunteers who tirelessly and unselfishly
come to Aroundagain and work. They are
very much part of the Aroundagain team
and their contribution is immense and
greatly appreciated.
SUPPORTED EMPLOYEES
We continue to have a content and
satisfied work force who carry out their
various tasks very well. We believe that we
provide a very supportive and encouraging
work environment.
SHOP AND SALES YARD
Whatever goods we receive, we are able
to sell (we wish we had more goods) and
we work hard to keep the shop and yard
looking presentable for our customers.
AROUNDAGAIN DOCUMENT DESTRUCTION
This business continues to grow steadily with
new customers joining on a regular basis.
OTHER
• Surveyors Pegs – This business is
steady, albeit unspectacular.
It
provides a good fill-in job in
between customers at the receival
station.
•
E-Waste – work and income from this
has
decreased
dramatically.
This position is extremely important and it is
working out extremely well, with the
promotion of the business and increased
sales as a result.
VOLUNTEERS
We have an excellent crew of extremely
dedicated volunteers, who work very hard
and whose assistance is immeasurable.
SUPPORTED EMPLOYEES
The team is doing an excellent job with the
existing and new products as well as
learning new skills. The work environment is
continuing to be very supportive.
PRODUCTION
We have narrowed the range of our
chocolates that we are producing, which
allows production to be more specific and
focused.
Krister Jonsson
MANAGER EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
SUPPORT SERVICES REPORT
We are close to achieving our goal of
ensuring each participant has a Person
Centered Plan which sets out their goals
and aspirations, the disability supports
(services and products), and other supports
the person requires.
The Support Services have grown this year
and due to demand we took the
opportunity to advertise for extra qualified
support staff. The support services team
remains committed to ongoing quality
improvement and extension of knowledge,
this year sees 9 team members completing
their Advanced Diploma in Disability Studies
and 4 more staff completing their
Certificate 4 in Disability.
MICRO BUSINESSES
A few individuals and groups are working
towards their own Micro Businesses. These
businesses will not only provide a valued
product within our community but provide
individuals with the opportunity to learn
new things and use their interests and skills
to gain meaningful occupation and the
possibility to build their own businesses
INCIDENTS
Our focus was to increase the number of times we captured minor incidents within our
organisation to assist us to look at opportunities for improvement.
As you can see from the pie charts below, we have increased the number of minor incident
reports and decreased our Category 2 incidents.
10
8
6
Cat 1
4
Cat 2
2
Minor Incidents
0
This year
Cat 1
Last year
Cat 1
Cat 2
Minor Incidents
Cat 2
Minor Incidents
RESTRUCTURE
STAFF ACHIEVEMENTS
In April 2013 we had a restructure with the
teams which meant we went from five
teams to three teams. Change brings with it
new ideas, challenges and opportunities as
well as the chance to shine. Danielle,
Bernie and Sheridan have definitely shone!
We had several staff who were recognised
formally by management, both personally,
and in the Christie Centre Newsletter. A
perpetual Staff Achievement trophy was
presented to the staff whose contributions
to teamwork, quality of service, safety,
and/or innovation most add value to the
service we offer. Well done Kathy, Sue,
Mel, Peter, Carol and Lee.
The new structure requires employees to
master new skills so they can assist
participants to accomplish outcomes that
are exciting and diverse. The partnership
with Sunraysia Community Health Services
has assisted in greater access to speech
pathologist Amber Baird on site for one day
per week to enhance the communication
capacity for all.
A
“YEAR’S
OF
SERVICE”
award
acknowledges the period of time that an
employee has been with the Christie
Centre. To be eligible to receive this award
an employee has to have been employed
for a minimum of 5 years with us. This
award allows us to thank the employees for
this continual service to the Christie Centre.
This year we had 4 employees whose years
of service were acknowledged, Vicki
achieved 10 years, Mel, Sammy and Jenni
achieved 5 years continuous service each.
MILDURA SPECIALIST SCHOOL
NDIS AUSTRALIA
NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme)
is fast upon us and the Christie Centre will
be focused on ensuring people with
disability are given every opportunity to
make their own decisions and exercise
choice and control. We recognise that the
role of families and carers is often essential
in supporting people with disability to
realise these goals and look forward to
working with you throughout such an
exciting time!
Cindy Howard
MANAGER SUPPORT SERVICES
The Mildura Specialist School ran two bus
tours during the last week of August. These
tours are an introduction to the Christie
Centre for the MSS students and their
families/carers.
A total of 12 excited
students and 4 families looked around our 5
sites.
At the end of the tour everyone enjoyed a
BBQ at ArtRageUs for Wednesday’s tour
and at Aroundagain for Friday’s tour.
Comment from one student after visiting
our Mildura Chocolate Company “I want to
work here next year!”
ROUND TABLE COMMITTEE REPORT
Members for 2012-2013:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Tanya Riley,
Luke Hudson,
Daniel Wilson,
Sarah Davis,
Michael Lang
Emma Gerber
Support Staff – Alison Goullet
Meetings are held every Tuesday afternoon at Life Skills.
The year 2012 – 2013 saw a big change for
the committee. The members of the
committee are Luke Hudson, Daniel Wilson,
Sarah Davis, Tanya Riley, Michael Lang and
Emma Gerber. Although it remained an
advocacy committee for the individuals at
The Christie Centre the name changed
from the Client Committee to the Round
Table Committee. This change was due to
a shift in industry terminology and gave an
opportunity to refocus the committee and
ensure that all sites were being properly
represented. The Committee went back to
basics and first revisited the reasons for
having an advocacy committee and what
we wanted to achieve for the year. It was
decided we wanted to provide a voice for
all individuals at The Christie Centre, to
focus on issues affecting individuals with a
disability and to run and assist with special
functions and fundraisers.
The committee began this refocus by
setting up comments boards and posting
them at Christie Central, ArtRageUs, Life
Skills, Aroundagain and Mildura Chocolate
Company. The committee also worked on
understanding the rights and responsibilities
of people with a disability and the
organisation. In addition to this the
committee was asked to discuss and
distribute information on how to treat each
other and common sense guidelines for
appropriate clothing while at The Christie
Centre, these are still works in progress.
Earlier in the year the committee were
pleased to be able to assist management
to select a new disability support worker for
the Life Skills site and were happy to
welcome Ivan to the team.
Throughout the year the committee
followed the NDIS discussions and learned
about what it will mean for individuals and
The Christie Centre. In October we hosted
an information day at ArtRageUs for the
NDIS with a guest speaker who also set up
a discussion group to take back opinions
and information to the NDIS.
The committee was pleased to be able
help and to organise many functions
throughout the year most notably the
Easter Picnic, Awards Night, The Volunteer’s
Thank You evening and an Open Day at
Life Skills on the International Day of People
with a Disability. Fundraisers for the year
included Jeans for Genes Day, Biggest
Morning Tea, and a DisabiliTea.
The Round Table Committee was able to
help with an issue at the laneway near KFC.
The traffic situation was becoming
dangerous for individuals who used the
footpath to access the Waves centre and it
was believed that the signage was not
adequate. The Round Table committee
wrote to the Mildura Rural City Council and
was able to get the signage changed and
made more visible.
Although the committee members may
change next year we are looking forward
to continuing to be a voice for everyone at
The Christie Centre Inc.
LIVING SKILLS,
SKILLS, ADVOCACY,
ADVOCACY, ARTS & COMMUNITY
PARTNERSHIP
PARTNERSHIP TEAM REPORT
OUR MAIN ACHIEVEMENTS
EVENTS AND TRIPS
A grant from Mildura Rural City Council in
November 2012 for $6,000 upgraded Life
Skills computers. Individuals used the skills
learnt within programs to participate in
online footy tipping and utilized the on
line booking systems for planned trips.
A visiting Melbourne Theatre Company
staged a performance of “A Pocketful
Of Joy” at the ArtRageUs studio during
May. Our Arts Coordinator Mark and
staff from ArtRageUs invested a lot of
time and effort to ensure this production
went ahead, thereby offering an
opportunity for individuals and families to
experience live theatre.
ArtRageUs received an all in one
computer which made accessing
resources and enhancing technology
an easier process for all to capitalize on
opportunities within the Arts.
An Awards Night at the Working Man’s
Club in November 2012 with 100 people
attending showed the level of support in
recognising outstanding achievements in
Living
Skills,
Advocacy,
Arts
and
Community partnerships.
The NDIS awareness strategy saw the
Christie Centre, as one of 900
organisations across Australia supporting
the DisabiliTea campaign. The Sunraysia
residents have continued to support the
NDIS by attending morning teas to learn
more about the difference it will make in
people’s lives.
ADVOCACY AND ACCESS
Advocating for better access, saw the
Mildura Library install easy-to-read
signage as well as colour coded spines
on the books
to
encourage
independence for people using the
library.
Mary Reid from AMIDA (Action for
Independence
&
Dignity
in
Accommodation) held two information
sessions for individuals who may be
seeking accommodation in the future.
She was able to explain the processes of
independent living and encouraged
individuals to learn about their Housing
Rights so they could feel more
empowered in their own home.
The individuals who attended these
sessions responded really well by
engaging in conversation and asking
questions relating to their own situation.
The Sunny Street singers entered the
Mildura Eisteddfod for the first time this
year.
They performed two of their
original songs “Life is Fun” and “The
Floods”. It was a wonderful experience
for all.
The group also performed
throughout
the
year
at
various
community venues such as the Mildura
Senior Citizens, Princess Court Homes
and various Christmas breakups.
The Money Skills Program held two
excursions away during 2012 – 2013. A
day trip to Swan Hill and a 4 day trip to
Melbourne to see an AFL match. The
group helped plan both trips and where
possible agreed to use public transport .
We would like to thank the families that
came along and supported the group,
without family support this trip would not
have been possible.
Inclusion in numerous local events adds
to the experience of being involved,
active and contributing within our
community.
This
allows
greater
opportunity and a chance to practice
the skills we learn every day in every
environment.
Danielle Pearce
TEAM LEADER
GREATER MOBILITY & COMMUNICATION
TEAM REPORT
OUR MAIN ACHIEVEMENTS
COMING TOGETHER
Dirty Duds Day – Central teams worked
together to do some maintenance on the
Sensory Garden.
We lined the raised
garden beds, prepared the ground for new
footpaths and packed and topped the
crusher dust around the trampoline.
After the Easter break, the Recreation,
Respite and Aged Care Team and the
Sensory, Communication and Mobility
Team merged together to become one
larger team that has the main focus of
empowerment and wellbeing.
Leon’s 80th Birthday – The Christie Centre
celebrated Leon’s milestone with morning
tea in the Sensory Garden. Leon had
invited some of his long-time friends to join
the celebrations.
The new team is providing a broad range
of programs with emphasis on physical
wellbeing such as swimming and physio,
activities that boost participation and
engagement like cooking and gardening
and other options that provide pleasure
and enjoyment such as our music and
sensory programs.
Fun and Fitness Program – An all inclusive
exercise program held monthly in the
Sensory Garden that focuses on fun, group
exercises that people of all physical abilities
can participate in.
Music Program – Christie Central hosts 2
music programs on Wednesday’s each
week. There is active participation through
playing instruments, singing, choosing
songs, dancing, writing songs and listening
to Kathy sing.
Alzheimer’s Australia provided training in
Dementia (and its effect on people with
Down Syndrome). A brilliant session that
enabled staff to learn what changes to
expect and how best to support someone
with a disability who also shows signs of
early onset dementia.
Communication Matters – With the skills
and knowledge of Amber Baird, Speech
Pathologist who is currently working at the
Christie Centre, staff are learning more
effective ways to offer choices for
individuals with complex communication
needs and refreshing useful means of
communication for all.
As we continue to grow as a team, we are
striving to come up with innovative
programs that not only engage the
individuals we support, but benefit them,
the Christie Centre and the community. The
upgraded garden beds are now growing
vegetables to eat in our cooking programs
thanks to the gardening group.
We have several more individuals taking
the opportunity to participate in creative
art at ArtRageUs studio as well as the
introduction of joint programs between Life
Skills and Central which enables greater
inclusion between participants.
Some
volunteers from Life Skills are coming to
Christie Central to offer assistance to
individuals who enjoy 1:1 assistance to take
part in activities.
Our team is looking forward to the next
twelve months, building on skills and
continuing to strive for excellence in the
disability field. We have micro businesses to
set up and grow; individual needs to meet
as they change with age and physical
ability, new participants to get to know
from the Mildura Specialist School, plus all
the exciting changes as we prepare for the
NDIS.
Sheridan Marr
TEAM LEADER
POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR SUPPORT
TEAM REPORT
REPORT
The past 12 months have been productive and fulfilling for our team, despite challenges at
times.
OUR MAIN ACHIEVEMENTS
OUR BIGGEST OBSTACLES
Multiple communication successes with our
client group, expertly supported by Speech
Therapist Amber Baird – enhanced
communication strategies to help reduce
inappropriate behaviours & improve
participation.
Encouraging
group
cohesion
acknowledging the individual.
Our success in advocating to have new
picnic facilities (large recycled plastic
picnic setting) installed along with other
works at Buronga Wetlands. We frequent
this venue often due to its suitability and the
upgrade is greatly appreciated.
WHAT IS NEXT
Client and staff enjoyment of dress-up
days.
Our team’s involvement in Community
events such as Cathy Cared Community
Walk, Eli’s Fundraiser as well as the IGUANA
(Interagency Guideline for Addressing
Violence, Neglect and Abuse) Launch.
Inviting families/carers to help celebrate
people’s birthday celebrations.
Gary’s and Roger’s Trip to the Clipsal 500 in
Adelaide (PCP goal).
Support for a Market day at Aroundagain,
May 2013.
PROGRAM SUCCESSES, especially in music,
communication, skill-building programs,
independent lunch, shopping and road
crossing.
The modifications made to Boyden Street
for ‘out of hours’ options, as well as the
relocation of the chook pen from Central
to the rear yard. We also had the front
access made more wheelchair friendly with
the addition of a ramp.
Involving one of our clients directly in the
purchase of their new shoes was a huge
success.
The success for the Friday evening ‘Let’s Go
Out’ respite program and very positive
family/carer feedback.
Bernie Chaplin
TEAM LEADER
whilst
Additional time required to complete
behaviour-related notes, case notes and
incident reports that comply with evidence
based practice.
To further develop the micro-business at
Aroundagain
Equipping the Boyden Street Sensory Room.
Setting up a Hyperbaric pod room and
preparing for ‘out of hours’ options.
Continuing to apply innovative program
ideas
to
stimulate,
empower
and
meaningfully engage people who use our
service.
Striving for continuous improvement to
maximise outcomes & enhance quality of
life people through ‘best practice’.
PERSON CENTRED PLANS ACHIEVED
PBS Team Clients
P.C.P. Goals Met
No Goals
1 Goal
2 Goals
3 Goals
All Goals
Our team is well advanced in completing a
Person Centered Plan for each of the 18
individuals we support.
I believe that the Positive Behaviour
Support team’s strength lies in its consistent
team approach, receptiveness to change
and challenge and mutual respect not only
for one another but also staff from other
teams. ability to recruit staff with suitable
experience, skills and a flair for managing
behaviours of concern.
AUSTRALIA DAY DRESS UP
SUNNY STREET SINGERS
SPINNING WHEEL STAND AT
THE MILDURA SHOW
SPONSORS,
SPONSORS, DONATIONS
and WORKPLACE BUSINESSES
The Christie Centre thanks our community supporters; donations and fundraising assists us to
purchase equipment and facilities. We value our partnerships with local businesses as it
provides the people we support with opportunities to participate as valued members in our
community.
THANK YOU, YOUR SUPPORT REALLY MAKES A DIFFERENCE
SPONSORS
SPONSORSHIP
LEVEL
Excel Business Electronics
Dr B Murphy
Tilley’s Furniture
S Jones & Associates
W Walker
John Merks
J & G Hiskins
Maude Crang
Lee Cubit
Neale O’Connor
Don & Glenys Crothers
AndPak (Aust) Pty Ltd
GOLD
GOLD
GOLD
GOLD
GOLD
GOLD
SILVER
SILVER
BRONZE
BRONZE
BRONZE
BRONZE
DONATIONS
Frank W McCormick
Mildura Golf Club
Rotary Club of Mildura
Police & Fireman’s Golf Day
Mildura Court Fund
N & L Saunders
Fishers Stores (Community Benefits Scheme)
Cathy McPhee Memorial Donations
Ideal Fabrications
CPM Builders
Peter Devilee
AR & DM Mansell Trust
Dahlsens
Byrne Plastering
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Intec Mildura
Lifestyle Developments
Good Deal Tyres
Foreman-Sheean Electrical
Devilee’s Airconditioning & Electrical
Weightman’s Packaging
Leonards Plumbing
Gallagher Insurance
Sunraysia Community Health Service
Mallee District Aboriginal Services
Sunraysia Autism Spectrum Support Group
WORKPLACEMENT BUSINESSES
David Carson Electronics
St. Vinnies, Mildura
Barry Plant, Mildura
Mildura Base Hospital Café
Hollis Accounting
Regional Building Consultants
Southern Cross Business Advisors
Jacan Design
Mildura Sports
Collie & Tierney
Murray Valley Citrus Board
Ruby Hair Design
Allstate Conveyancing
Joywood Fashion
CLIENT CONTRACT WORK BUSINESSES
Tankard Dental
Mildura Rural City Council
Mildura City Heart
Mildura Tourism
D.P.I. Plant Standards
Australian Table Grape Ass.
Mallee C.M.A
Mildura Base Hospital (Meals on Wheels)
VOLUNTEERS
THOSE WHO CAN, DO
THOSE WHO CAN DO MORE, VOLUNTEER
AROUNDAGAIN
Anthony Burt
Bob Hill
Fred Posgate
George Malic
John Walter
Loretta Kerridge
Tony Fabbeni
Asher Philp
Bronwyn McAllister
Geoff Syme
Jim Wilton
Joy Fechner
Nadien Mayfield
CENTRAL
Coralie Jackson
Cheryl Taylor
Jessie-Lee Cordwell Joy Teasdale
Kylie Phillips
Lorraine Keil
Mark Webb
Sharon Brettig
STUDENT PLACEMENTS – 2012
Christine Mangan
Wendy Freckleton
POLICE & FIREMAN GOLF DAY
Members of the Police Force
Simon Middleton
Mark McDonald
Members of the Fire Brigade
Peter Bishop
Lou Cameron
Tim Cameron
Mildura Lions Club
David Loader
Snow Del Chau
Ian Ballantyne
John Hiskins
Glenda Hiskins
Donata Carrazza
Coralie Jackson
John Fleming
Life Skills & Central cooking groups
CHOCOLATE SHOP
Alison Pearce
Annette Hill
Jessica Lambert
Juls Chan
June Stevenson
Maureen Wilton
Michael Tanner
Amanda Doolan
Claudia Homeyer
Jill Jones
June Gugger
Marianne Glover
Melissa Tucker
LIFE SKILLS
Cassie Higgins
Christine Roberts
Coralie Jackson
ARTRAGEUS
Jan Erskine
Sue Holmes
Lilianna Manchevicic
SHOW SPINNING WHEEL
Alison Goullet
Andrewina Fisher
Bianca Bugeja
Chris Dowdy
Daryl Brown
Debi Glasson
Geoff Steedman
Glenda Beattie
Helen Parmenter
Jenny Chaplin
John Fleming
Jude Burrows
Karen Baird
Kate-Lyn Rogers
Lee Hanby
Mark Pettet
Norelle Bate
Peter Lock
Sheridan Marr
Sue Elliott
Anthony Burt
Bernie Chaplin
Cindy Howard
Danielle Pearce
Dave Duffield
Don Crothers
Glenda Hiskins
Hannah Hunt
Jan Goullet
Jill Morgan
Josh Brown
Judy Gulbin
Karen Buchecker
Leah Fleming
Maddison Lambert
Matthew Reyne
Peter Bate
Rosie Denecke
Simon Rule
Vicki Tregenza