Phone 8768 4400
Did you know that Art was part of the competitions in the early modern Olympic Games? Between 1912 and 1948, competitors were awarded medals for their paintings, sculptures, architecture, literature or music works inspired by sports. Artists were allowed to sell their works afterwards though, so they were deemed to be professionals. Olympians are supposed to be amateurs, so by the 1956 games, art exhibitions replaced the competition.
This seemed a much more interesting beginning to our Natter article than a comment on Covid’s impacts!
We’re rolling with the punches at the Centre as best we can. When in lockdown, only our licensed children’s services are operating. We continue to welcome children to our Occasional Care and 3YO programs and our amazing educators make everything seem normal and fun for the kids attending.
When lockdowns finish but restrictions are still in place, we offer whatever programs we can that fit the government directives. Our members have been flexible and grateful for whatever activities they can attend, and this makes it all worthwhile.
We are acutely aware of how tough this rollercoaster is on our whole community and the accompanying fatigue. Even if not financially or physically impacted, all of us are challenged mentally and so it is vital to practice self-care and reach out for help. There are multiple support services available to help you if you are struggling in any way. Please reach out to us. You may also contact Cardinia Shire Council directly for their “Help is at hand” program of support. Ring their customer service on 1300 787 624.
We have introduced a free community pantry at the Centre. Located just inside the main door, we encourage people who could do with a bit of help to take what they need. We appreciate donations of unopened food products that are within their best before date. Cash donations also make a difference as 100% of any money given for this purpose is spent on products to keep the shelves stocked.
We have already received some extremely generous private donations plus support from Beaconsfield Woolworths, and hope this initiative will continue to grow and benefit our community. Any time the Centre is open, the shelves can be accessed with no confrontation or judgement. During lockdowns, the Centre will be open during the same time as when our Children’s Programs are running.
The Victorian State Government’s Power Saving Bonus is a one-off $250 payment to help eligible Victorians experiencing energy bill stress. If you are receiving Centrelink benefits and have a Victorian residential electricity bill with your name and address on it, you may be eligible.
If you need help applying for this bonus, or know somebody who could use this help, please contact us for more information or to make an appointment. Email psb@bncinc.org.au or phone the Centre. Bookings are not essential but may help you to avoid a wait if nobody is available to help straight away. Each appointment takes less than 15 minutes.
We continue to plan and offer our usual programs and activities and make ongoing adjustments as required by the restrictions. Our Term Program is delivered in mailboxes prior to the start of every term in our local area. If you don’t see one, hard copies are available at reception or the digital version is available on our website as soon as it is ready. If you would like it emailed, please let us know by dropping a line to: contactus@bncinc.org.au.
It is with heart-squeezing sadness that we say goodbye to our dear Program Coordinator, Sue. Almost anyone who has attended the Centre during the past 12 or more years is likely to have spoken with our gorgeous, favourite person. Sue leaves for a new administration position, closer to home, which will give her a better balance for family time. We hope to have a morning tea, when restrictions permit, to give everyone an opportunity to say a proper goodbye.
The process of finding a replacement for Sue has been challenging to say the least. We received a bounty of applications from some very talented, lovely people and honestly struggled to choose just one. We think we’ve landed on the perfect fit though with Shona, who has now joined the team. Join us in welcoming her to our warm and friendly environment.
NOTICE of ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Beaconsfield Neighbourhood Centre (or Zoom)
Monday 4th October, 2021 – 7.00pm
Time keeps marching on and our AGM is fast approaching. We invite any interested people to join us. If not allowed in person, the AGM will proceed via Zoom. We also invite nominations for our 2021-2022 Committee of Management at this time. Contact us to get more information about joining the volunteer governing body of our Centre.
BNC Children’s Room
Enrolments are now open for our Occasional Care and Three-Year-Old programs for 2022. We offer flexible options for session combinations throughout the week with a variety of session lengths and age groups. Enrolment forms can be collected from and submitted to the office with your deposit. (Please note, enrolment IS NOT through an online portal). Email program@bncinc.org.au if the office is closed and you can’t wait to get the ball rolling.
So, spread the word! Do you have any neighbours, family or friends looking for a warm, vibrant, family friendly, community orientated care setting? With our recent fresh new look and exciting new extended hours timetable, we look forward to welcoming you.
Add us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates. Stay connected!
Beaconsfield Neighbourhood Centre
8 O’Neil Road, Beaconsfield
Phone: 8768 4400
Email: contactus@bncinc.org.au
Web: www.bncinc.org.au
