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Get creative this summer with BCR Art Sparks - a hands-on art and ceramics program for young people with an NDIS plan. Think art, clay, imagination and loads of fun! It will be on every Monday during the School Holidays from 10am to 2pm in the BCR Communities Creative Space at 18 Sanctuary Point Road. Make new friends, try a range of different art techniques and take home your amazing creations. Spaces are limited so make sure you book your spot by phoning 1300 222 748 or emailing info@BCRcommunities.com

Christmas cheer is arriving early for some Bay and Basin families, thanks to the generosity of Basin Shores Community Association residents. For the past three weeks, residents have been leaving donations at their community centre to create beautifully assembled Christmas hampers. These hampers, packed with festive goodies and essential items, will be distributed by BCR Communities, to families in need. The project reflects the power of community spirit and kindness. Resident and former florist Sue Irvine, who took the lead in assembling the hampers, described the experience as a "labour of love." “I put my hand up to create the hampers because I was a florist for 30 years, and I still have cellophane, ribbon, and all the bits and bobs to make them special,” Sue said. “I made up little stories for each one—there’s one that will be perfect for a single mum with a baby girl, and another for a family that includes breakfast items, snacks, sweet treats for the kids, meal ingredients, and even pampering goodies for mum and dad.” Chairperson of the Basin Shores Community Association Executive Committee, John Di-Masi, highlighted the significance of this year’s donation. “We support a different charity each year, and this year, we really wanted to give to a local organisation that makes a big impact in our area,” John said. “BCR Communities is a Bay and Basin not-for-profit, so it felt like the perfect choice.” “All these hampers show what we can achieve when we come together as a community,” he added. “We hope they bring a little extra joy and comfort to families this Christmas.” The donation comes at a critical time, as many families in the region are grappling with the pressures of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Heather Marciano, CEO of BCR Communities, emphasised just how vital this support is for struggling families. “We are thankful to the Basin Shores Community Association for choosing us as this year’s recipient,” Heather said. “The cost-of-living crisis has put many local families in stressful situations. Rising rents, increased grocery prices, and higher energy bills mean that for some, a joyful Christmas is looking very uncertain this year.” Heather also highlighted the emotional and practical value of the hampers. “These hampers aren’t just about providing food or essentials—they remind families that their community cares about them,” she said. “For some, receiving this kind of support at Christmas can take a real weight off their shoulders.” Heather encouraged others to consider how they can contribute during the festive season, highlighting the power of small acts of kindness. “Whether it’s a hamper, a donation, or simply checking in with a neighbour, every gesture strengthens our community,” she said. The hampers, along with other donations of presents, food, and essential items, will be distributed to families through the BCR Communities network.

Last night, BCR Communities celebrated International Volunteer Day with our amazing team of volunteers at the Sanctuary Point Youth and Community Centre. It was an evening filled with fun, laughter, and heartfelt appreciation for the people who have always been the backbone of our organisation. We enjoyed a delicious woodfired BBQ dinner, played Singo Bingo , a lively twist on traditional bingo that had everyone singing along and laughing. The festivities continued with music trivia and entertainment by our own talented Pirates Band. Thank you to our lovely volunteer Renata, who generously baked one of her famous Black Forest cakes. This was the grand prize for the music trivia competition, and the winning team were thrilled with their prize. The night was a reminder of just how fortunate we are to have such dedicated and passionate people at BCR Communities. Our volunteers truly are the heart of everything we do. To each and every one of our volunteers: thank you for your time, energy, and unwavering commitment to our community. You are the reason BCR Communities thrives, and we couldn’t do it without you. As the year draws to a close, we look forward to another year of working together to make a difference. Wishing all our volunteers and their families a joyful holiday season and a very Merry Christmas!

ABOUT US HISTORY Our history Around 30 years ago there was a real gap in community services and supports in the Bay and Basin region of NSW, especially for young people. While the Bay and Basin lacked resources, it was rich with people who loved where they lived and were willing to give their time and energy to making sure their community had a dedicated space where local youth and families could access services, programs and activities. In 1989, a group of concerned local residents went to the Shoalhaven City Council to try and find a solution for the gap in community services. From that initial meeting the Bay & Basin Community Resources (BBCR) Committee was formed. The first goal for the Committee was to work with Council to build the Sanctuary Point Youth and Community Centre. Because of their persistence and hard work, the Centre was opened in 1991 and for over 30 years it has been a gathering place for all ages, and has held countless activities, events, workshops and social groups. It is a safe and welcoming space creating many happy memories over the years. From that initial success, BBCR continued to grow and diversify in response to the needs of our local communities. In 1993, we began our Aged Care services so local seniors could be supported to remain living independently in their own homes. In 2000 we started delivering the national Respite For Carers program in the Shoalhaven which transitioned into the HCP and CHSP services we currently provide. In 2002 we launched our radio station, Bay & Basin Community Radio 92.7FM so locals could keep connected and up-to-date with what was happening in their own community. Today we are proud to say we support over 700 seniors and people with disability in the Shoalhaven and Illawarra, and local community members of all ages access programs and events within our Community Spaces and our Activities Hub each week. Bay & Basin Community Resources to BCR Communities As our organisation has grown, our name has also evolved to better reflect our vision and mission, and the many diverse communities we support across the Shoalhaven and the Illawarra. From Bay & Basin Community Resources (BBCR) we have changed our name to BCR Communities – ‘Building Connected Resourceful’ Communities. We may have a different name today than we did in 1991 but at our heart, we are still the same grass roots organisation that is committed to partnering with our communities to provide person-centred services for all. We believe everyone living in our region has the right to live happy, healthy, productive and meaningful lives. 1/6 MISSION & VISION Our mission... We partner with our communities to provide person-centred services for all. Our vision... Communities living happy, healthy, productive and meaningful lives. Our values... Promote inclusion We proudly work with and foster the diversity of individual and community needs. Act with integrity We are honest, fair, transparent and build trusting relationships. Show empathy We are partners in your journey. Encourage wellness We value the health of each person by offering innovative lifestyle choices. OUR BOARD Meet our Board Sharon O'Brien Chairperson Sharon has been a volunteer on the Board of BCR Communities for 10 years. She has 30 years of professional experience working in the Human Services Sector and holds a Bachelor of Welfare Studies, Bachelor of Education, Diploma of Leadership and Management, Diploma of Management and Adult Education Training and Assessment qualifications. Sharon's disability experience includes leading change and quality service improvements including a Workplace Trainer pilot to support continuous improvement and compliance, and an Aboriginal Traineeship Project leading to the expansion of the learning program and traineeships across NSW. Sharon is also volunteering in a Primary Ethics teaching role within the local community. Rebekah Webb Board Director Rebekah has a background in Health, practicing as a Physiotherapist for the past seven years in the hospital and private sector, holds a Bachelor in Physiotherapy and is also the Owner/Director of Jervis Bay Physiotherapy. She also has experience as a Committee Member on the NSW Australia Physiotherapy Association Board, consulting with professional development for Physiotherapists in Australia. Rebekah is actively involved in the community through sporting clubs, Community Group Exercise classes for over 65s and ATSI Community Physiotherapy funding for our local community. Rebekah has also been involved in quality improvement projects across NSW Health, Shellharbour Private Hospital. Using her expertise in her role on the Board of Directors, Rebekah aims to continue supporting our local community with health, wellbeing, accessibility and improving resources. Danny Bosevski Board Director Danny has over 20 years of experience in the technology sector and holds a Masters in IT Management. He is an experienced Manager and leader of technical and customer focused teams, driving key business initiatives and advocating technology improvements in business. Danny’s passion for driving technological innovation to support business strategies is evident through successfully implementing client management systems and developing highly responsive and reliable IT systems. He is adept at implementing strategic business plans, driving growth, and improving operations. Danny is familiar with the challenges that not-for-profit organisations face every day and is keen to contribute to providing better outcomes for all BCR participants. Danny joined the Board of BCR Communities in 2024. John Harvey Board Director John holds a Bachelor Of Commerce (Marketing & Management) as well as being a qualified Electrical Supervisor. He is currently the General Manager of a specialised engineering company supplying bespoke equipment into the waste and recycling sectors. John has over 30 years of experience in management and sales including nine years as an Executive Manager in the disability sector overseeing the operation of one of Australia’s largest disability enterprises He held a volunteer Board of Management role for over 20 years with Fresh Hope Venues and more recently was part of the People and Culture Committee for Fresh Hope Community Care that was tasked with overseeing the renewal process of the Board of Directors. The ability to give back has always been important to John and he welcomes the opportunity to contribute to BCR Communities through participation on the Board. Claire Carson Board Director Claire holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) in Occupational Therapy, and a Master of Health Industry Management. With over 19 years of experience in the health sector, she brings a wealth of clinical expertise and leadership to her role as Board Director for BCR. Claire's academic contributions include research presented at the 2011 Australian Occupational Therapy Conference, World Occupational Therapy Conference, and 2019 Australian Occupational Therapy Conference, and two publications in the Australian Occupational Therapy Journal. Claire has worked across diverse settings, including mental health, inpatient wards, community health, aged care, and rehabilitation, providing care across the lifespan. Claire is also the Secretary for the Shoalhaven Professional Business Association, where she advocates for the integration of health services into the broader business community. As Clinical Director of South Coast Therapy and Support Group Claire has demonstrated strategic and operational leadership. She is deeply committed to advancing the health industry through innovative service models, evidence-based practices, and collaboration with stakeholders to achieve sustainable outcomes. Nathan Carson Board Director Nathan Carson is an experienced Business Manager, Project Manager, and strategic leader with a strong background in operations, financial oversight, and process optimisation. As the Director and Owner of South Coast Therapy and Support Group, Nathan’s leadership emphasises client satisfaction, quality assurance, and streamlined operations. Nathan’s experience includes managing complex projects, and his strategic planning, risk management, and leadership skills have been instrumental in driving process improvements and innovation resulting in South Coast Therapy and Support Group earning three Shoalhaven Business Chamber awards in 2024: Excellence in Innovation, Employer of Choice, and Business of the Year. These awards were reflective of Nathan’s dedication to fostering workplace culture, innovative practices, and overall business excellence. Nathan is currently studying towards his Master of Business Administration, holds a Graduate Certificate in Management, and is a Committee Member for the Shoalhaven Business Chamber. Nathan brings a collaborative, results-focused approach to Board governance, contributing strategic insight, financial acumen, project management expertise, and a passion for continuous improvement. OUR TEAM Heather Marciano CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Heather has over 15 years of experience in the not for profit sector including key strategic leadership, innovation and business transformation roles within the Aged Care and Disability sectors. Heather co-authored a research paper on ageing people with disability and presented this research internationally resulting in the development of Kemira, a purpose built community which has received local, national and international awards as the first model of its kind in Australia. Heather’s experience includes executive roles in Human Resources, Strategic Planning, Operations Management, Media, Marketing and Communications, and Stakeholder Engagement. Zanna Elliott EXECUTIVE MANAGER PEOPLE & CULTURE Zanna holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Human Resources Management and has close to 20 years of professional HR experience. Having worked in small business through to large corporate, since joining BCR Communities 4 years ago Zanna finds the not for profit community sector the most rewarding and suited to her personal values. Zanna has worked across all areas of human resources, partnering with business leaders to help them achieve strategic and operational goals, while mitigating risk and leading cultural change. Along with a strong business acumen, Zanna’s extensive professional experience has resulted in strong and trusting relationships. Lorraine Williams EXECUTIVE MANAGER AGED CARE SERVICES Lorraine has been a Registered Nurse for almost 40 years, working in community and hospitals in acute care and health management. For the last 3 years Lorraine has worked for BCR firstly as a Care Manager in but more recently as Executive Manager. Lorraine has extensive clinical experience, with a passion for clinical governance, change management, innovation and developing a positive workplace that provides quality care. Lorraine has lived in the Shoalhaven for over 27 years, raising 4 children and now has 10 grandchildren. She has experience in volunteering roles in the local community including as a volunteer exec for a local community pre-school. Sean Cleary EXECUTIVE MANAGER FINANCE, GOVERNANCE & SYSTEMS Sean is a finance specialist with over 30 years’ experience managing finances for commercial and Not-for-Profit organisations. He holds a Degree in Business and is a member of the IPA (Institute of Public Accountants). He has worked in a variety of Community Services sector organisations. He has experience in a wide range of corporate services responsibilities. Enhancing business efficiencies is a strength of Sean’s, achieving improvements through system implementation, coaching/developing finance teams and working closely with all stakeholders. Sean believes a strong and efficient ‘back of house’ service compliments and supports frontline workers enabling them to provide quality services to our clients. Michael Nurmi EXECUTIVE MANAGER COMMUNITY & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Michael has many years of experience working in the community sector. He brings knowledge and expertise in the development of social enterprises, education and training programs, volunteer management, community development and fundraising. Michael advocates for those in the community requiring a helping hand to move forward and make change for the better. He is passionate about social inclusion opportunities and demonstrating a people-centered approach in the provision of quality services. Michael supports innovation and strives to collaborate with like-minded organisation’s to identify gaps in services and ensure that the needs of our local community are met. He encourages partnerships that see Not-For-Profit, Business and Govt groups working together. Meet our Team Acknowledgement of Country Acknowledgement of Country BCR Communities acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and celebrate their continuing culture, the world’s oldest living culture, and the contribution they make to the life of this region and our country. 2024 ANNUAL REPORT 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 2021 ANNUAL REPORT 2020 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ANNUAL REPORT 2017 ANNUAL REPORT Annual Reports ANNUAL REPORTS

AGEING WELL HISTORY Home Care Packages STAY HEALTHY AND HAPPY AT HOME A BCR Communities Home Care Package (HCP) will give you the support you need to keep living independently in your own home and socially connected to your local community. Home Care Packages are designed for those with more complex or intensive care needs that go beyond what the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) can provide. Once you have been assigned your government-subsidised Home Care Package through My Aged Care, your experienced BCR Communities care team will work with you and your support network to create a personalised program based on your values, lifestyle, needs and goals. A BCR Home Care Package can support you with: Individualised supports: based around your interests and preferred activities Personal services: aimed to assist you with any personal care needs you may have Shopping: making sure you have all you need to generate healthy meals at home Meal preparation: assisting you to prepare or have delivered fresh and nutritious meals Transport: helping you get to medical or other essential appointments Declutter and packing: helping keep your house safe, tidy and organised In-home respite: keeping you company when your carer has other commitments Minor home modifications and equipment: so you can stay independent in your home Allied Health support: to assist with maintaining independence in your home Why Choose BCR Communities for In-Home Support? COMMUNITY Personalised Care Our team takes the time to understand your goals, lifestyle and values so that we can create a personalised plan that is just for you. COMMUNITY Consistent quality care You will be supported by a team of people from your local community who are experienced, caring and committed to providing the best quality support. COMMUNITY We are truly local BCR Communities was created for locals by locals and nobody understands the communities of the Shoalhaven and Illawarra better than we do. COMMUNITY We are flexible and responsive We understand that your needs and goals may change over time so we will regularly review your plan to ensure you are always living the best life possible. COMMUNITY We put people first As a community-led, not-for-profit organisation, our mission is to partner with our communities to provide person-centred services for all. COMMUNITY We are inclusive We welcome people from across our communities and celebrate the diversity they bring to our organisation. SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH. Contact BCR today to find out more about how we can support you at home Values Based Care Plans The BCR Communities difference is that we really get to know you before creating a plan of support. We use ExSitu , an innovative and award-winning app designed to provide the highest level of values-based care. We are moving from filling in complicated or confusing forms so you can sit in the comfort or your own home with a BCR care staff member and answer ExSitu’s simple card-based questions. The app will help you to identify what is important to you, what gives you joy, and how we might support you to live your best possible life. By establishing your core values and lifestyle desires, ExSitu can generate a values-based care plan that is truly personalised for you. Find out more Steps to getting a Home Care Package STEP 1 The first step in accessing a government-subsidised Home Care Package is to contact My Aged Care to check your eligibility. You can call 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au My Aged Care STEP 2 If you are eligible, a member of the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) will visit your home to provide a free home support assessment. During this meeting they will identify what your home care needs are and confirm your eligibility to receive government-subsidised support. STEP 3 My Aged Care will write to you to let you know the outcome of your assessment and the level of care you are eligible for and approved to receive. There is a waiting list for HCP funding to be assigned. My Aged Care will notify you in writing once you have been assigned a package. Am I eligible for a Home Care Package? Eligibility for a government-subsidised Home Care Package is based on your age and your support needs. A Home Care Package could be what you need if you are: need support with everyday activities need support to continue to living independently in your own home and your community 65 years or older (50 years or older for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people) OR 50 years or older (45 years or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) and on a low income, homeless or at risk of being homeless. Schedule of fees “I can’t fault them in any way and I appreciate everything they do for me because they are lovely girls and I would be lost without them.” ELAINE

AGEING WELL HISTORY BCR Communities Social Groups SPEND THE DAY WITH FRIENDS It’s time to get out of the house, have fun and spend time with your friends. The activities change every week – we might stay indoors for games, trivia or an art session or get in the bus and explore our stunning coastline or try a new café. While the activities may differ from week to week, what doesn’t change is the companionship, the conversation and something delicious for lunch! Click the buttons below to see the latest Social Group Activity Calendars. As of May 2024, we have a calendar for south Shoalhaven and one for north Shoalhaven. Dec/Jan Calendar (south) Dec/Jan Calendar (north) SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH. Contact BCR today to find out more about joining our social groups Weekly Social Groups BCR Communities has a varied calendar of social activities throughout the week including day trips, lunches out, special events, walking groups, trivia, games, art, music and more. Making friends the easy way It is harder to keep socially connected as we age, friends and family move away or health problems make it more difficult to get out of the house. BCR Communities Social Groups makes regularly meeting up with friends simple and fun, with transport available to pick you up and drop you home. Join our online social community for connection every day of the week We know that sometimes it can be difficult to leave the house to catch-up with friends, meet new friends or simply share common interests with others. There are many reasons any one of us can become socially isolated. That’s why BCR has created the BCR Communities App. Think of it as an online, or digital, Town Square - a place to meet others and get connected. You might already be a part of a social app like Facebook, or you might be completely new to online communities – either way this App is for you! You can download the BCR Communities App onto your iPhone, Android Phone, iPad or Tablet. You can even access it on your computer. Once you join BCR Communities, you will be able to take part in online discussions, share information, join interest groups – for example, the Gardening Group or the Walking Group, and take a look at our Community Connects Calendar for upcoming events and activities. Most importantly, you will be able to connect with people and make new friends. If this is of interest to you, but you think you might need help let us know and one of our friendly team will be more than happy to assist! Join BCR Communities "I haven’t been in the Wednesday Social Group for very long but I’m so glad I joined because they are a lovely group. It is great to be out of the house and meeting new people. I used to be a nurse so I’ve always been drawn to being around people." WILMA