Nate single-handedly raised the funds over a two-year period, walking over 50 kilometres in the Steps for STEPS fundraising events.

Carmel Crouch, Managing Director of STEPS Group, introduced Nate to the crowd at the non-profit’s 2024 Grand Winter Ball to officially recognise his support and hard work.

“I am very proud to recognise Nate’s incredible commitment to STEPS Pathways College and our students as well as his awesome fundraising efforts,” Ms Crouch said.

“I would like to acknowledge Nate’s exceptional loyalty and amazing dedication to our organisation by honouring him with our ‘STEPS Pathways Young Ambassador’ award,” she said.

Nate, a Grade 5 student from Sunshine Coast Grammar School, graciously accepted the title on stage, giving his own acceptance speech in front of a crowd of STEPS Pathways College students, STEPS staff and volunteers, local business partners and sponsors, and other supporters from the community.

“I promise that I will do my best to represent you and our community, and I’ll continue to spread the word about STEPS,” he said.

“I will also keep walking every year to raise money for students, and I’ll happily help STEPS wherever I can and whenever you need me.”

With the school holidays coming up in a matter of weeks, Nate plans to continue his tradition of visiting the STEPS Pathways College students and spending his breaks supporting STEPS Charity.

A young man of his word, Nate is looking forward to participating in Steps for STEPS in early 2025.

About STEPS Pathways College:

As the first and only boarding college for people with disabilities and autism in Australia, STEPS is leading the change to create a brighter future for our students and all young people with disabilities and autism throughout the country. At STEPS Pathways College, students learn independent living skills through a combination of classroom and community-based training, as well as everyday life skills learned on the College campus, accommodations, and facilities that reflect true independent living.

Find out more about the STEPS Pathways College.

Located in the heart of Darwin’s city of Palmerston, Harvest Corner Community Garden has been running since 2012, offering opportunities for community members to plant, grow and nurture a variety of plants.

STEPS students have been actively using this beautiful green space to build gardening, horticulture, and communication skills, along with taking the opportunity to interact with the local community.

AMEP teacher Amila says the Harvest Corner Community Garden has provided a chance for students to demonstrate their unique cultural background through sharing their gardening methods and flavours with other community members.

“The students love to engage in activities outside the classroom where they can communicate with each other and share their stories of their countries and their culture.  

“The Community Garden is a wonderful way for our students to learn more about each other’s traditions through growing and cooking food and to celebrate the diversity of cultures in our community by contributing to the community garden, a place that all the community can enjoy,” says Amila.

With the collective management of the Harvest Corner Community Garden continuing up until 2026, the STEPS team are looking forward to continuing to cultivate the garden space as well as the community relationships that foster out of the shared space.

Local employers from Charlie’s and Little Flyers joined staff and students to celebrate the achievement of STEPS’ amazing Casuarina cohort.

After two weeks of work experience, nearly half of the participants from the program had secured employment, joining the industries of interior designing, childcare and hospitality. 

STEPS Casuarina runs Ready for Work program twice a year aiming to prepare eligible students to join the Australian workforce with the necessary knowledge, skills, and confidence. 

Are you an AMEP student looking for work? You may be eligible to take part in STEPS’ Ready for Work short course. Get in touch with us to find out how to enrol!

On Friday 8^th March, the students joined radio hosts Mark & Caroline and Todd & Sami and a group of dedicated walkers to take on an exhilarating 30km trek from Maroochydore to Caloundra raising money along the way from local businesses and the community.

STEPS Managing Director Carmel Crouch says the funds raised will help provide students at STEPS Pathways College with a life-changing experience, allowing them to dream bigger than they’ve ever dreamt before and create a life with more independence than they ever thought possible.

“We know that people with a disability and autism can be more, do more and achieve more, and our graduating students are living proof of this,” says Carmel.

“It was such a pleasure to see all the smiling faces of the STEPS Pathways students. Except for the bits where I was walking, I didn’t like those bits. But the rest of the day was magnificent!” says Mark Darin, 92.7 MIX FM Breakfast Announcer.

“It was a big day, 30 kilometres was a long way to walk, and I was whinging most of the way, but the generosity of the coast made it worth our while,” shares Caroline Hutchinson, 92.7 MIX FM Breakfast Announcer.

Todd & Sami, 92.7 MIX FM Drive Announcers, share the sentiment.

“To watch our team at MIX and the team at STEPS give it their all made us so proud. What a wonderful and fun event for a wonderful local place that is helping colour the future of so many young Coasties.”

The incredible total of $64,233.57 is a testament to the Sunshine Coast community’s caring nature and generosity.

“The money we raise at this year’s Steps for STEPS will help us give more young people with a disability and autism the opportunity to show the world what they’re capable of,” says Carmel.

During this session, they learned essential skills such as using a hoist and slide sheet for patient transfers, providing pressure area care, managing falls, and performing bed baths.

Our face-to-face Individual Support class commenced in February 2024, and the presence of an experienced trainer onsite has been instrumental in providing immediate support for all learning inquiries. This approach has garnered positive feedback from our current students.

Chloe enjoyed her time at the veterinary hospital, but her time was cut short as she had an allergic reaction to some of the animals.

Chloe performed all tasks competently and showed initiative at times when her supervisor was busy.

Nyalueth has a great work ethic but needs a little more practice in answering business telephone calls. Our trainer Wendy has been working with Nyalueth to assist her with answering phones in the workplace.

Nyalueth performed all tasks competently and showed initiative at times when her supervisor was busy.

To help with the transition to work in Australia, Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) students may be eligible to participate in STEPS’ Ready for Work program. Interested? Follow the link to find out more.

Vinnies Palmerston were really happy with Chariya, expressing she fit in very well with staff and volunteers and they would be more than happy for Chariya to continue volunteer work with them. Chariya really enjoyed working at Vinnies, and hopefully she will continue with her volunteer work.

To help with the transition to work in Australia, Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) students may be eligible to participate in STEPS’ Ready for Work program. Interested? Follow the link to find out more.

The aim of the exercise was to practice their communication skills as well as learning to work as a team, honing their time management skills and learning to complete tasks.  

The tasks on the worksheet included maths, reading, writing, oral communication as well as workplace, health, and safety (WHS) knowledge. Students took photos to share with classmates later in the classroom as a follow-up activity. 

With guidance from their trainer and in a fun and dynamic setting, students had the opportunity to learn outside the comfort of their classroom, boosting their confidence in speaking English in public and with other participants who come from other language and cultural backgrounds. They also benefited from boosting their social skills getting to know one another. Some students also enjoyed displaying their leadership skills in the team activity. 

Afterwards the class went through the tasks on the worksheet to make sure each team scored points for correct answers. The lesson ended on a high note when everyone got to enjoy a delicious ice cream!

Deb Lewis has been a volunteer at STEPS for 12 months, helping to support and empower our students. Her love of hospitality means she was well suited at Café on George. Since then, she has become a reliable and multi-skilled volunteer. Her dedication and commitment are evident in her interactions with staff, the community and fellow volunteers. Her bright and bubbly nature makes Deb a well-liked and valued member of our STEPS community.

Although Deb started off as a volunteer, she found her passion in the disability sector and quickly became a student of STEPS Education and Training, recently completing her Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021) at our Bulcock Street campus. Deb went on to do her placement through STEPS which has now led to her accepting a paid position with STEPS Community. Throughout her study and placement Deb continued to volunteer in Café on George and has ensured that her rostering in her new role includes leaving time to continue her volunteer position. Her dedication and commitment to our volunteer program is very much appreciated and valued.

Thank you, Deb for all of your hard work you do to help change the lives of others. We look forward to your ongoing supports through your volunteer work.

Under the guidance of her Job Readiness Trainer Carla Elliott, Illona studied and received her Supervisor Food Safety certificate and her Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate.

Illona’s goal was finding work in a supermarket. After door knocking and dropping in resumes across the Coast for several months, Illona got the opportunity to interview with the manager at Whites IGA Baringa, who offered her work experience. Illona had previously worked at Coles on the Gold Coast for ten years before relocating to the Sunshine Coast, so she came with some experience.

After her work experience finished, IGA offered Illona casual paid shifts. As a dedicated long-term supporter of STEPS, IGA continues to encourage and support people with disabilities and is in the process of hiring another one of STEPS’ Work Mates participants. Managers and staff at Whites IGA have included Illona as part of the team from day one. Without their continued support STEPS could not provide invaluable work experience opportunities for these participants.

Illona’s trainer Carla says Illona is very keen and dedicated to her job. The management and staff were immediately impressed with her cheerfulness and can-do attitude with every task she was given. Illona’s success goes to show she just needed an opportunity to showcase her skills and commitment. When asked how she feels about working at IGA, Illona expresses a sense of pride and happiness says Whites IGA ‘is the best place’ she’s ever worked at.

Find out how STEPS can help support you into employment today by visiting STEPS Work Mates.

It is great to see all the students working together to create some wonderful dishes, while honing LLN (language, literacy and numeracy) skills as part of the SEE program.

On Friday July 28 STEPS staff at Gympie and local community members came together at Nelson Reserve for NAIDOC Family Fun Day.

STEPS Gympie business manager Rachael Moore says they had a fantastic time celebrating the day and especially enjoyed the dance performance.

STEPS Group Australia had an interactive stall at the event and invited the community to participate in rock painting.

NAIDOC Week celebrates the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year’s NAIDOC Week theme was “For our Elders.”

With flags and banners raised high, clapping sticks bringing the rhythm to impromptu dancing, and cheers from supporters on the side-line, the atmosphere was electrifying at this year’s Deadly Day Out event held at Riverway, Pioneer Parklands. 

Deadly Day Out attendees had the opportunity to share in the celebration and witness traditional dancing, traditional food stalls, storytelling by elders, children’s activities, and community services stalls.  This year’s NAIDOC Week theme of For Our Elders honours the communities’ elders, who play important roles of leading, teaching and sharing history and cultural wisdom in their families and communities.  

At the Deadly Day Out event, STEPS staff met other community service providers and elders in the NAIDOC committee and discussed what STEPS provide in the community.   

Students completing CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support at our Noosa campus today walk away with a fresh set of skills that will help them make a difference in their new career in the aged care and disability sector.

Graduate Cody Watson, a former civil construction worker, came into the course with a clear objective.

“I wanted to come into a field where there was going to be plenty of work, and I’ve always liked helping people. I wanted to break into the aged care and disability sector, and I thought if I do my studies and complete the course, that would give me the tools I need and the knowledge I need to make a good start.”

Cody didn’t let the lack of prior experience in the field stop him from making an impression with his employers during his course placement. He received employment opportunities through both his placements at St. Vincent’s aged care facility and with Sapphire Disability Services. And even before graduating from his course, Cody got offered a position to work in Individual Support with STEPS.

Cody said he enjoyed his overall learning journey with STEPS.

“I chose to study with STEPS because of their reputation, and the quality of the course, and where STEPS can take me as an organization.

“The course was great, and I’ve recommended friends of mine to come and do the course as well. I can’t fault it. The trainers were great. The whole course was delivered smoothly,” he said.

Baljinder Ajimal, known amongst his trainers and classmates as Happy for his positive and upbeat attitude, said he is loving his new job in aged care.

Baljinder was working as an IT specialist in India before coming to Australia. His career changed drastically in a new country, where Baljinder worked in many different industries, from kitchen to handy work.

Three years ago Baljinder got offered a job as a kitchen hand in an aged care facility.

It was through a serendipitous chat with some nurses in the aged care sector that sparked his interest in support work. Following the conversation, Baljinder found out that STEPS was offering a Certificate III in Individual Support and seized his chance to embark on a new career that he was passionate about.

“The best thing about STEPS is we can join the classrooms, and they have wonderful teachers.”

He said it was a feature that made STEPS stand out, claiming there were “not many classes like that these days after Covid.”

Baljinder acknowledges that he worked hard for years in different jobs before finding his footing in the disability sector and encourages other migrants to embrace the opportunities that STEPS offers.

“If you’re from a different background and you think you can’t do it or you can’t make it, you always can. I come from IT and kitchen work, and this is a big change, but I am loving it.”

Contact our team and see how we can help you start your care in Individual Support today – training@stepsgroup.com.au

It was an incredible achievement for Amalynn who was offered the chance to fly with her husband to receive the award in Melbourne alongside STEPS managing director Carmel Crouch and CEO Luke Henderson.

Amalynn said she had experienced a whirlwind of emotions in the lead up to the ceremony.

“I don’t even know to explain how I feel right now,” she said.

“I haven’t been able to sleep for the last week, I have so much gratitude for everyone that has been a part of my journey, this award means everything to me.”

Amalynn’s journey in the AMEP has been nothing short of extraordinary, starting in 2021 at the Casuarina Level 2 class, she was determined to improve her English skills and communication abilities. Her dedication resulted in achieving 10728NAT Certificate II in Spoken and Written English and 10729NAT Certificate III in Spoken and Written English.

Recognising her potential, Amalynn enrolled in the SLPET Ready For Work course, where she completed a ten-week program and gained practical experience in a childcare setting. While discovering her true calling in caring for adults, she pursued the Certificate III in Individual Support, overcoming challenges and excelling in her coursework.

Amalynn’s commitment paid off as she obtained her qualification in December 2022, followed by a successful 120-hour work placement with Territory Care and Support Services. Impressed by her abilities, they offered her a position as a Disability Support Worker within their Activities Hub.

Amalynn expressed her gratitude for the support she received and her passion for helping older Australians lead fulfilling lives.

Amalynn’s Individual Support trainer, Tanya Mathews said it was an absolute privilege to support Amalynn throughout her studies.

“Her dedication has been outstanding, as she would reach out to me late at night and even on weekends. Her natural empathy and care for others make her a perfect fit for the disability and age care industry,” Tanya said.

Executive head chef Luke Thomas brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this year’s ball, having trained in Brisbane and gained international exposure across various continents, including Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Mr Thomas has honed his skills in renowned establishments, including prestigious five-star hotels in the UK, such as the Orchraney Resort and Gleneagles in Scotland, where he contributed to Andrew Fairlie’s two Michelin-starred restaurant.

Returning to Brisbane, Mr Thomas made his mark at the award-winning Caxton Hotel, winning the QHA Restaurant of the Year three times in five years. Having now work at the Caloundra RSL for ten years, he has found immense joy in his craft and is excited to bring his culinary passion to the STEPS Grand Winter Ball.

“When I first heard of STEPS, I was immediately drawn to their commitment to the community,” Mr Thomas said.

“Having had the opportunity to work closely with Alastair McLeod for the previous two winter balls, I witnessed the grand scale of the event and the joy it brings to everyone involved. It was an incredible experience.”

For this year’s ball, Mr Thomas has curated a menu that perfectly complements the winter ambiance.

“I’m looking forward to the sense of completion once it’s all done. There are nerves that come with such a significant event, but the satisfaction and achievement afterward are unparalleled,” he said.

With a belief in the power of simplicity and attention to detail, Mr Thomas aims to create a memorable dining experience for all attendees of the STEPS Grand Winter Ball.

STEPS managing director Carmel Crouch said this year’s ball will be made even more exceptional with the addition of Mr Thomas.

“For this year’s STEPS Grand Winter Ball, we were determined to infuse a distinctive local touch into the event,” Ms Crouch said.

“We wanted to showcase the remarkable talent present in our community and bring forth an authentic experience that truly represents the essence of our region. I know Luke will bring just that.”

Tickets to the event are almost sold out but are still available at thestepsgrandwinterball.com.au

1. Clear out dead or diseased plants

Before winter arrives, take the time to clear out any dead or diseased plants from your garden. These plants can harbor pests and disease that can spread to other plants and harm your garden. Use sharp pruning shears to cut away any dead or diseased branches and dispose of them in your green waste bin. Not only will this protect your garden from pests and disease, but it will also help your remaining plants to thrive.

2. Add compost and mulch

Adding compost and mulch to your garden beds is essential for nourishing your plants and protecting their roots from the cold. Compost is rich in nutrients that your plants need to thrive, and it also helps improve soil structure and water-holding capacity. Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil and regulate soil temperature, which is important for protecting your plants from frost. Spread a layer of compost over your garden beds and then top it with a layer of mulch. Aim for a layer of mulch that is 5-10cm deep, being careful not to let it touch the stems of your plants.

3.Prune your trees and shrubs

Pruning your trees and shrubs before winter can help to promote healthy growth and prevent damage from high winds and heavy snowfall. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and trim back any overgrown branches that could become weighed down with snow or ice. Prune your trees and shrubs with sharp pruning shears, and be sure to make clean cuts. This will help your plants to stay healthy and strong throughout the winter months.

4.Protect your plants from frost

Frost can be a major problem for gardeners in Queensland, as it can damage or kill tender plants. To protect your plants from frost, cover them with a frost cloth or hessian sack. Be sure to remove the coverings during the day to allow your plants to get sunlight, and then cover them again at night. You can also protect your plants from frost by planting them in sheltered areas or close to walls, which can provide some protection from the cold.

5.Keep watering your plants

While you may not need to water your plants as frequently in winter, it’s still important to keep them hydrated. In fact, in dry winters, your plants may need more water than usual. Water your plants deeply once a week, and be sure to water them early in the day so that any excess moisture can evaporate before nightfall. Avoid watering your plants during the evening, as this can lead to moisture build-up and increase the risk of fungal disease.

By following these five essential tips for winter gardening in Queensland’s subtropical climate, you can ensure that your garden remains healthy and vibrant throughout the winter months. Clearing out dead or diseased plants, adding compost and mulch, pruning your trees and shrubs, protecting your plants from frost, and keeping them hydrated are all important steps to take for successful winter gardening. Whether you’re growing vegetables, flowers, or tropical plants, these tips will help you prepare your garden for winter and keep it healthy and beautiful all season long. For more hints, tips or tricks, come visit our STEPS Garden Centre team.

It was a day filled with cultural performances, workshops, and delicious food.

The day featured a variety of cultural performances by STEPS Adult Migrant English Program and Skills for Education and Employment students who entertained guests with belly dancing, music, didgeridoo playing, a choir as well as a multicultural lunch with dishes from Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Sudan, China, Congo, Afghanistan, and Ukraine.

City of Palmerston also hosted an official Citizenship Ceremony, which was a symbol of inclusivity and diversity and a highlight of the day.

Australian Citizenship ceremonies are important events that signify the achievement of becoming an Australian citizen and are held regularly across the country.

The ceremony is a public event that symbolises the welcoming of new citizens into the Australian community, celebrating the diversity and inclusivity of Australian society and acknowledging the contributions that new citizens bring to the country.

In addition to the Citizenship Ceremony, the Harmony Day event also provided an opportunity for attendees to learn more about different cultures through workshops and cultural performances.

The event showcased the importance of embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity not just in the workplace, but also in the wider community.

It is heartening to see organizations like STEPS and the City of Palmerston leading the way in promoting these values.

The Northern Territory Government generously provided a grant to STEPS to organise a multicultural lunch for the attendees.

Business Manager Yvonne Coleman was thrilled with the success of the event, saying “It was a wonderful opportunity to learn more about each other’s traditions and to celebrate the diversity of cultures in our community.

We are so grateful to everyone who helped make this event a success, and we hope to continue promoting inclusivity and diversity in all that we do.”

To learn more about STEPS Adult Migrant English Program and the Skills for Education and Employment program please contact us on 1300 131 965.

Elsewhere in the world, thoughts of winter conjure up images of frost, deep snow, bare trees and dead plants. But not here. In Australia, we’re lucky enough to enjoy just about every type of climate under the sun. From the humid tropical wetlands of Queensland, and through the arid outback, the perfect balance of subtropical New South Wales, to the cold wintery conditions of Melbourne and Tasmania, the conditions here in Australia are perfect for planting a wide range of attractive (and sometimes edible) plants and flowers in winter.

This is a list of 33 plants, flowers and veggies which will thrive in the Sunshine Coast winter:

Ageratum (Floss Flower)

Originally from Mexico, Ageratum (also known as Floss Flower) is exceptionally easy to grow. In fact, you should preen it attentively or you might find it takes over your winter garden. Ageratum grows small, soft, blue, pink and purple flowers atop its lime green leaves which look a little like candy floss, hence the name.

Carnation

Ideally suited to both the wet and dry lands of the north, northeast, and northwest of Australia, carnations will flourish wherever there is an abundance of sunlight and a shortage of rainfall – just as there tends to be even during winter here in Australia. Carnation is a flower famous for decorating the arms of prom queens and the lapels of prom kings, as its beauty and perseverance are undeniable, especially in the depths of winter.

Kangaroo Paw

Kangaroo Paw grows wild throughout Western Australia, and even graces part of that province’s emblem. It’s also suitable for the Queensland climate. It’s best to plant Kangaroo Paw in the cooler winter months so that it can get a nice foothold in your garden before summer comes. That way, this perennial will stay in bloom year-round.

Bird of Paradise

Native to South Africa, the Bird of Paradise plant evolved to be pollinated by the same colourful birds its intriguing flowers seek to imitate. An easy winter grower, it’s well suited to the tropics of Australia, especially in the winter. Each plant planted in winter will sprout several flowers from each stem, the blooms of which resemble a tropical bird’s head and plumage.

Flame Creeper

The Flame Creeper is a hardy climber with a wiry stem that can grow to almost ten feet tall. Suited to a mixture of sun exposure and damper root beds, it typically climbs up through, or on top of, other plants to find the sunlight it needs to flower profusely. Its flowers are red and fiery (hence the name) and will flourish in spring in temperate zones, but in winter in tropical and subtropical territories such as Queensland. Strangely enough, it also does very well in the Scottish Highlands.

Verbena

Verbena are super easy-to-care-for, attractive and fast-growing plants ideally suited to the well-balanced conditions of a winter in the subtropics. These flowers are as resistant to frost as they are to intense sun and heat, and will add a beautiful (and much needed) splash of riotous colour to any Sunshine Coast winter garden.

Forget-Me-Knots

Typically, forget-me-knots are a sure sign that spring is underway and summer is just around the corner. Whether you’re out in the country with a massive garden to curate, or working with a small urban plot of land, forget-me-knots planted in winter will bloom before the cold has gone thanks to the kind climate of the Australian subtropics.

Petunia

Beautiful, instantly-recognisable petunia can bloom year round if cultivated properly, and will thrive in a Queensland winter thanks to the warmer temperatures. In a healthy petunia, you can hardly see the stems for the huge masses of pink, purple and blue flowers sprouting in big cloud-like forms.

Melaleuca (Tea-Trees)

Also known as honey-myrtles or paperbarks, the tea-tree melaleuca is a hardy shrub native to Australia, playing an important part in many Aboriginal cultures and modern relaxation therapy. The tea-tree (which produces tea tree oil) flourishes in winter in the subtropics, including Queensland. It adds a healthy dash of greenery to your winter garden, and can either grow as a shrub up to fifty-two feet high, or as a tree growing up to one-hundred-and-fifteen feet high. Its flowers range greatly in colour from yellow to white, cream, red, and mauve. There are over eighty species of melaleuca to plant!

Grevillea

Another shrub native to Australia, and thus prepared for Australian winter, is the grevillea. Grevillea’s bloom with beguiling caterpillar-esque flowers coloured deep wine red to the most delicate of pinks. In temperate areas on the edge of the subtropics they thrive during the colder winter months, producing flowers much larger than their cousins in other, warmer areas.

Remember, if you’re planning to add a bit of colour to your garden during the Winter months, drop by STEPS Nursery on Ulm Street South, Caloundra, for a wide range of plants suitable for any home garden.

“It’s so great seeing them graduate but it breaks your heart at the same time because it’s like your own children are leaving home.”

When putting her hand up to volunteer for half a day each week in 2017, STEPS volunteer Linda Ritchie would never have imagined just how invested she would become.

Five years on, after having transitioned to volunteering four days per week, Linda is now reluctantly waving goodbye to the students at STEPS Pathways College, as she prepares to move her life to Mackay.

Linda joined the college as a volunteer at its inception, helping the first ever cohort of students, a group of just six at the time, navigate their way towards a life on independence.

Linda’s versatility and willingness to help wherever she could is what made her so valuable on the campus and is why she formed such an inseparable bond with the students.

“I used to do a bit of everything,” she said.

“I’d help out in the kitchen, in the classroom and I’d also take students to any appointments that they had.”

“I’d also come to learn the body language of each of the students and if I saw someone wasn’t coping or feeling down, I’d just give them a bit of a nudge and help them along the way.”

Linda’s announcement was of course met with plenty of hugs, gifts and tears, as students say their goodbyes to someone who has helped change their lives forever.

Linda said her daughter has already booked her into disability volunteering up north, something she hopes will fill the gap left by the faces she’s come to know so well at the college.

“It’s going to be incredibly sad to leave these lovely people, but I probably try not to think about it too much,” she said.

“This was and always will be my happy place, I just love it so much.

“When STEPS comes to Mackay, I’ll be at the door waiting.”

Sarah admits she’s excited to see where her photography skills will take her in the future, and when catching a glimpse of her work for the first time, her sense of optimism is well and truly justified.

Sarah prides herself on incorporating a wide spectrum of colours and styles into her work and says she’s truly grateful to be able to capture such beautiful flora and fauna in the STEPS Pathways College backyard.

With a little under four years’ experience in the hobby, Sarah said her friends and family have been blown away with the progress she’s made in such a short time.

“I got my first Canon camera in 2018 as a Christmas present then I started to teach myself how to use the right settings for different lighting situations,” she said.

“Ever since I got my camera, a lot of people are amazed at the excellent eye I have for photography.”

Sarah has since upgraded to quite an impressive setup and now boasts a lens with a whopping 800mm focal length, allowing her to capture even the smallest details in her photographs.

Often referred to as one of the hardest subjects to capture, Sarah says she feels at peace when photographing birds and other wildlife.

“Nearly every day of the week I would spend my time out capturing the amazing images and identifying all the bird species that are living in the Australian wilderness,” she said.

“When going birdwatching all the time I get to meet other photographers who would give me photography tips for my camera settings. I am lucky enough to have fellow photographers and family and friends surrounding me that are so supportive.”

Sarah has been a student at the college since October of 2021 and has already come a long way on her journey towards independence.

She hopes to eventually live in her own place and become employed after graduating, preferably in the field of photography.

“My experience at STEPS Pathways College so far has been so amazing. I have learnt so many independent skills already and gained lots of independence which I didn’t have before arriving here,” she said.

Sarah currently has three Instagram pages, @sarahwallacephotography, @sarahwallacebirdphotography and @birdlife_photography.2000, all with a combined follower count of more than 5,000.

“We are still people who want to be treated equally.”

Those are the words of Courtney Ryan, a STEPS Pathways College boarding student and a young adult living with autism.

For Courtney, like many of the students staying at the college, Autism Awareness Month brings a sense of empowerment and the hope for more inclusion and equality throughout the community.

The month of April also offers the perfect opportunity for those who are unfamiliar with autism and other disabilities to put themselves in an uncomfortable position and start a conversation.

STEPS Pathways College training manager Karen Caldwell said simply starting a conversation with someone is one of the best ways to raise awareness around the topic.

“What I see is people seem scared to talk to someone who has a disability of any sort. They don’t want to offend so they don’t start a conversation,” Mrs Caldwell said.

“Starting a conversation about autism is the same as talking about mental health or any other disability, it’s about making yourself vulnerable enough and living in the space of being uncomfortable. Just go up, say hello and listen to them.”

Mrs Caldwell said the simple act of listening and showing you care can make a tremendous difference, especially for someone who feels like they may not fit in.

“When you get our students to talk about themselves, they come alive,” she said.

“Getting that network of friends who like them just the way they are is so important and when you come to the college you get to see that although everybody’s unique, we’re all a team. We all count on each other, and we all work together.”

And it’s that team spirit that makes STEPS Pathways College feel like home for so many of the students who take the enormous leap out of their comfort zones when enrolling in the course.

It doesn’t take long for the students to start feeling more comfortable however, with the unique college environment offering a rare opportunity for the young adults to truly be themselves.

“Pathways is all about showing our students that there are ways we all need to behave to be able to operate in society, but we also teach our students that you don’t have to be anybody other than who you are,” Mrs Caldwell said.

“Students learn the essential skills that they need to keep themselves healthy and safe and we also equip them with the skills that they need to be able to socialise with the rest of the world.”

For Courtney, she’ll be using her skills to secure a position in business administration after she graduates… that is when she’s not kicking butt in martial arts during her down time, having just obtained her purple belt.

“My hope is that I’ll be treated the same as others when I start looking for a job,” she says.

Autism Awareness Month runs across the entire month of April and aims to improve the lives of people living on the spectrum by providing helpful resources and raising awareness around the topic.

Brightening your home with indoor plants and greenery has always been fashionable, but in today’s culture it’s never been more popular. Millennials and all younger generations are becoming known collectively as the ‘houseplant generation’; more often parents to succulents and foliage than to children.

But with so many different types of houseplants coming into your home, it can be difficult to know how to keep them healthy, happy, and luscious year round. Especially for those of us living in more extreme climates, indoor plant care can be a little tricky. 

From our own personal experience, we’ve compiled a list of the top 9 tips for looking after your house plants. From how to water and feed them, to repotting, pruning, and placing them around the home, read on to become the Zen master of indoor plant care in 2022!

Top 9 Tips for Indoor Plant Care in 2022

Tip #1 – Choice

It can be tempting to buy plants based solely on their looks. After all, there are some really gorgeous houseplants out there. However, if you don’t have the right conditions at home to care for these plants, it’s going to be really hard to keep them alive and healthy. We suggest thinking about how much sunlight, humidity, and heat your home gets on a daily basis before choosing which plants to introduce to that space. Once you’ve got your plants home, observe them closely for a few weeks, taking notes on how much water each one drinks, how much sunlight they need, and where they are best placed.

Tip #2 – Water

Plants need four basic things: air, soil, sunlight, and water. Ironically, however, one of the most common killers of indoor plants is overwatering. Too much water basically drowns the roots of a plant, causing them to eventually rot and thus stopping them being able to drink the water. The best way to water just about any plant is to first test the saturation of the plant’s soil by sticking your finger into it. You should only water your plant when you can push your finger in and feel that the soil is dry up to the knuckle (middle of the finger). If the soil is at all damp, leave it to dry out a little longer before watering.

Pro Tip: Water your plants using room temperature water to maximise absorption. Reduce the amount you water your plants in winter, when most houseplants are dormant. Water cacti like you would any other plant (even if that sounds crazy!), just make sure their pots have adequate drainage.

Tip #3 – Drainage

Not all plants require drainage, but creating a good drainage system can make your job as a plant owner that much easier. You can either buy pots with drainage holes in the bottom and place them on trays, or place a layer of pebbles and small rocks beneath the soil in regular pots. This ensures that excess water will not clog the soil and oversaturate your plant’s roots, but drain away instead.

Tip #4 – Temperature

Different plants thrive under different temperatures, but the likelihood is that your home is going to be a relatively consistent and singular temperature, fluctuating only in summer and winter. If your houseplants get too cold, their roots can freeze, which may eventually kill them. Too hot, and your houseplants may wither. Try to keep your houseplants away from the coldest or hottest parts of your home, and maybe give them a nice rug to sit on instead of the cold bare floor!

Tip #5 – Humidity

Generally speaking, indoor plants (except for cacti) like humidity. A lot of indoor foliage plants are native to tropical and rainforest environments, and so thrive when those circumstances are recreated. Grouping your plants close together helps to raise humidity levels, as does spraying their leaves with water every few days (or every day in winter). Alternatively, of course, you can buy a humidifier for your home that will keep your plants feeling nice and pampered all year round.

Tip #6 – Maintenance

A little TLC never hurt anyone. To help your houseplants thrive, keep their leaves clean by giving them a wipe with a damp cloth once a month. Make sure to also trim away any dead foliage, snipping above the node at a 45 degree angle to encourage regrowth. Keep an eye on the needs of each individual plant, checking for mould on the soil or wilting, browning leaves (signs of overwatering), as well as for crisp edges around the leaves or stagnated growth (signs of underwatering).

Tip #7 – Sunlight

All plants need sunlight, yes, but different plants prefer different intensities of light. Some are used to open exposure to hard sun, whilst others grow in the shade when out in the wild. Research your specific plant types to determine if they need direct sunlight, indirect sunlight, or shade. If they need direct light, place them on a windowsill or as close to a south-facing window as you can. If they need indirect light, place them a metre or two from the window. If they need shade, find somewhere cool and shady (but not dark) to place them.

Tip #8 – Food

It may seem a good idea to feed your houseplants ‘plant food’ from the store, especially if they’re looking a little worse for wear. However, be careful. Outdoor plants need fertiliser much more than indoor plants do, and too much plant food can actually be harmful to the plant. Generally speaking, fresh soil will have more than enough nutrients for your plant. If you still want to feed them, however, then do so during the growing season (spring and early summer).

Tip #9 – Repotting

Last, but not least, let’s talk about potting. Your houseplants need to be repotted once every 12-18 months to keep them fresh and healthy. Repotting doesn’t mean that you have to put your plants in a different pot, it just means getting rid of the old soil, and replenishing the pot with new stuff. For most houseplants, a 10-10-10 soil mixture of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus works best, however flowering plants prefer potassium-heavy soil, whilst foliage plants prefer nitrogen-rich soil. Succulents and cacti require specialised potting mixtures. When repotting, you can choose to pot your plants in a bigger pot than before to encourage them to grow. Just make sure the pot isn’t too big, or else the plant’s roots won’t be able to absorb water from the soil before it drains away. One size up is just fine.

A Final Thought…

Looking after your indoor plants doesn’t have to be some massive chore. It’s actually super easy to keep most houseplants happy and healthy year-round. The most important thing to do is simply to observe the behaviour of your plants in those first few weeks, so that you can get used to their likes and dislikes. Always make sure to test the soil before watering, give your plants the humidity and sunlight they need, and repot them once a year. The rest will take care of itself! If you’re still unsure about becoming a plant parent, start out with some succulents – the hardiest of the houseplants!

But for some, this day can mark the beginning of a new journey and a fresh start.

This year 39-year-old Waratya Nasomkhwan, from Udon Thani in Thailand, will officially become an Australian citizen.

Waratya worked as a massage therapist in various salons and spas in Samui Island in South Thailand to help support herself and her son which she raised by herself.

Waratya first travelled to Australia as a tourist on a holiday visa in 2013, but after relocating to Australia permanently three years later, she could hardly speak any English.

Waratya decided to enrol in the STEPS Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP), something she credits massively to obtaining her newfound citizenship.

“When I first came to Australia my English was weak since I didn’t learn any English back in Thailand,” she said.

“I think STEPS did not only teach me English but supported me a lot in preparing for the citizenship exam. Moreover, the school updates me with all the new information needed for me to live in this country.”

Waratya now lives with her partner which she originally met whilst working in Thailand, and their three sons aged 11, four and two.

She is currently studying an English course and plans to use this to make an impact on other’s lives.

“When I finish my Certificate III in English I want to enrol in an aged care course. Since I like to help people, I think this course is ideal for me and I will have a job I love doing,” Waratya said.

The STEPS Adult Migrant English Program offers unlimited hours of free English lessons to helps migrants learn practical English to help them access services, work, study and enjoy their lives in Australia.

If you think this course may suit you or someone you know, click here.

Got a serial plant killer in your life? Check out these indoor and outdoor plants that are so hardy they can survive just about anything or anyone.

Indoor plants:

1. Zanzibar Gem

Known to ‘thrive on neglect’, the Zanzibar is a low-maintenance plant that is drought-tolerant – it can survive weeks without water and can tolerate low light areas. Just pick a spot in the house with adequate lighting and water every two weeks.

Keep in mind: this plant is toxic to pets if ingested.

2. Philodendron Imperial Green

A popular variety that is Ideal for the failed plant parent, situate this beauty in bright, indirect light and let it add a pop of green into your living space.

Keep in mind: this plant is toxic to pets if ingested.

3. Monstera Deliciosa

With broad green leaves that split, this eye-catching plant is easy to keep happy. Place it in bright, indirect light, give it some water and watch it grow.

Keep in mind: this plant is toxic to pets if ingested.

Outdoor plants:

1. Zamia furfuracea

Commonly known as the cardboard palm, this hardy plant is perfect for both dry and coastal gardens. It will thrive in both full sun and partly shady conditions.

Keep in mind: this plant is toxic to pets if ingested.

2. Philodendron Xanadu

Perfect for the South East Queensland climate, get that tropical look in your garden with a Xanadu. It’s easy to grow and flourishes in full sun to partial shade.

Keep in mind: this plant is toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

3. Cordylines

Add a pop of colour to your garden. Once established, these lush plants need very little care.

Keep in mind: this plant is mildly toxic to pets if ingested.

4. Bromeliad

Drought tolerant, this vibrant plant is the perfect low-maintenance addition to the garden and is pet friendly.

Need these plants now? We have all these plants and more in-stock at STEPS Nursery. Call 5458 6023 for enquiries or drop into our little oasis located at Ulm Street (south), Caloundra.

1. Herbs – harvest in 0 to 8 weeks
Herbs are a staple in any veggie patch and are the perfect plants for gardening novices. Herbs like sage, parsley, coriander, rosemary, thyme, and mint are perfect for growing in the cooler months. Plant with full sun and harvest in a matter of weeks – although a lot of herbs can be picked right after planting seedlings.

2. Baby carrots – harvest in 4 to 8 weeks
These orange babies grow quicker than regular sized carrots and are the perfect easy-to-grow root crop for the winter period. They prefer full sun and are wind tolerant, so, pick a spot in your garden with good drainage and start planting. Be careful not to overwater as it can lead to root rot.

3. Kale – harvest in 4 to 8 weeks
This hardy plant is easy to grow in a sunny position with well-drained soil. Pick regularly to get a longer cropping period.

4. Tomatoes – harvest in 10 to 12 weeks
Reddy for some tomatoes this winter? Grow them in a sunny position that is protected from wind. They need regular and thorough watering and most require a support. Don’t grow them in the same soil year after year as it can lead to disease.

5. Lettuce – harvest in 6 to 14 weeks
Freshen up your salads and sandwiches this winter with your very own home-grown lettuce – It’s easy to grow and grows fast. Plant in a spot that has both sun and shade and has good drainage. You can promote faster growth by regularly picking the leaves.

6. Rocket – harvest in 6 to 7 weeks
Three, two, one, blast off! Get leafy greens in your garden super-fast, just as the name implies, rocket is a quick growing plant. You can eat the baby leaves after a few weeks, keep in mind that young leaves have a milder peppery flavour than matured leaves that have more of a kick.

7. Peas – harvest in 9 to 11 weeks
Preferring the cooler temperature, this little veggie and winter go together like two peas in a pod! It’s easy to grow peas in poor soil and they even add nitrogen to the soil. Most varieties need support to grow and ensure you don’t overwater when first planted. Plant in a partial or full sun position.

Links:

https://www.sgaonline.org.au/lettuce/

If the pandemic has made one thing clear, it’s that job security has never been more valuable than it is today.

And although most industries have struggled to adapt and overcome these unprecedented challenges, one industry in particular has continued to experience exponential growth.

In fact, over the past two years, the care industry has cemented itself as one of the most in demand industries in Australia.

Put simply, the industry needs more workers.

In fact, according to analysis conducted by the Committee for Economic Development of Australia (CEDA), the industry will face a workforce shortage of at least 110,000 over the next 10 years.

So, what’s in it for you? Well apart from stepping into a secure role where your services are truly valued, you’ll be making a real difference in someone’s life and going home each day with a true sense of satisfaction.

As a support worker, no two days are ever the same, with plenty of variety and highly flexible hours on offer. From helping with meal preparation and household chores, to providing emotional support and going shopping, you can be assured that each day will bring its own set of unique challenges.

Don’t think you’re suitable? The care industry is accommodating to people of all ages, experience levels and backgrounds. Whether you’re unemployed, a young adult looking to get away from retail or hospitality, or a parent or grandparent who’s simply looking for a career change, the care industry may be just want you need to find security in your work life.

Demand is showing no signs of slowing down, and STEPS Education & Training can provide you with the free training needed to break into the industry. Click here for more information.

RTO: 1847

Most of these fantastic plants contain essential oils that mosquitoes find repugnant, so you might need to crush some of their leaves onto your skin to get the most benefit.

1. Basil

The humble, beautiful basil plant is a natural mosquito beater as these flying felons can’t stand that sweet smell. Basil is easy to grow and unleashes its pungent aroma without the need for you to pluck its leaves and rub them on your skin.

2. Catnip

While it might be heaven for cats, catnip is absolute hell for mosquitoes. Catnip produces nepetalactone, an essential oil that repels mosquitoes when the leaves are crushed. Catnip is best grown in containers to stop it from getting out of control.

3. Citronella

One of the most well-known mosquito deterrents, the overwhelming aroma of citronella plants masks the odor of carbon dioxide produced from our warm-blooded bodies. This stops mosquitoes from homing in on you. These plants can get quite big so are best grown in planters or gardens.

4. Lavender

The luscious smell of lavender does more than promoting a good night’s sleep – it also mollifies pesky mozzies and other insects. Using dried lavender is a great technique, so hang or place a few sprigs anywhere that mosquitoes can get in.

5. Lemon Balm

A member of the mint family, lemon balm is a multi-purpose plant that can also chase away marauding mosquitoes. This fast-growing herb is best kept in a container in case it begins to take over your garden.

6. Lemon Thyme

Sensing a theme here? The strong, fresh citrus scent of lemon thyme is the bane of mosquitoes, interfering with their ability to detect people to annoy. Lemon thyme does well as a container plant or as part of a herb garden. To get the mosquito-beating benefits, pick a couple of leaves and rub them against your skin to set the potent essential oils free.

7. Marigolds

Magnificent marigolds are more than just a pretty face – they’re also easy to grow and give off a pungent scent that messes with mosquitoes. Give them a space in your garden near a vegetable patch or use cut marigold flowers as mobile mosquito defences.

8. Rosemary

As any chef will know, rosemary is a particularly potent herb. But this strong smell has another purpose – it’s excellent at repelling mosquitoes. These bush-like herbs can be grown pretty easily in containers and are recommended repellents from the New York Botanical Garden. You can also snip off a few sprigs and hang them around windows or doors to dissuade mosquitoes.

Want to get your hands on some of these natural mosquito countermeasures? We have all these plants and more at STEPS Garden Centre, phone (07) 5436 6023 to find out more.

This is something STEPS managing director Carmel Crouch has been doing for more than 32 years after beginning her journey to create a better, fairer life for people with a disability.

What started as a group of concerned parents wanting more for their children, grew into a national not-for-profit organisation providing a buffet of ‘hand up’ services with opportunities for thousands of people with a disability and autism every year. 

After being at the STEPS helm for more than three decades it seems Carmel has lost none of her passion, as evidenced by her latest achievement for people with a disability and autism, STEPS Pathways College.

STEPS Pathways College is a ground-breaking model aimed at giving young adults with a disability and autism the chance to learn a broad range of skills to prepare them for lifelong independence. 

The College provides students with a holistic living and learning environment in which their skills can be fostered and tested before entering the community ready to tackle life as an independent young adult.

When asked what Carmel’s drive was in establishing STEPS Pathways College, it seems not much has changed. Carmel says she will never stop searching for ways to create a more inclusive society for people with a disability.

“Being a parent of child with a disability can be scary. Parents today still live in fear wondering what will happen to their child when they are no longer there to take care of them,” she said.

“I talk to parents every day who are desperate to find a way to ensure their child will live a long healthy and happy life. My greatest achievement so far is to give parents that opportunity to see their children graduate from STEPS as incredibly confident and capable young adults.”

Carmel said the demand for places at the College is growing and growing, particularly now that students were able to access their NDIS funding to support their learning.  With plans to replicate the College throughout Australia over the next 5 years, Carmel hopes to make independent living for people with a disability the new norm in Australia.

“We still have a long way to go to create truly inclusive living for people with a disability, but I intend on committing my life to make the changes we need to get there.”

 Check out our 13 fun and different ways to use this wonderful herb.

1. Zingy salads

Mint is a great ingredient to toss into summer salads, adding a fresh-tasting zing and some gorgeous green colour. It’s is also a nutritional powerhouse despite its small serving size.

2. Cool cocktails

This herb has long been a popular ingredient in some of the world’s best-known cocktails. Use it to put the mojo into a mojito or whip up a refreshing mint julep.

3. Ice cubes

It’s not just cocktails that this refreshing herb can spruce up. Freezing some mint leaves into some ice cubes gives you a handy way of flavouring anything from water to lemonade.

4. Sauces

Mint is also a magnificent ingredient at the stove. Minty sauces help give lamb chops a real kick, while it can also be used as an alternative to basil when making pesto.

5. Supercharged smoothies

On a health kick? Throw some mint leaves into your blender when making your morning smoothie for a refreshing menthol blast and a dose of vitamins.

6. Refreshing teas

Several common types of mint, like peppermint, can also be infused to make a tranquil tea. Peppermint tea is proven to help when calming complaining tummies.

7. Sugar

Jazz up a dose of sugar! Mix mint leaves and sugar in a blender and allow it to dry to create a minty baking ingredient or sweetener.

8. Basting

A sprig of mint makes a brilliant basting brush when cooking out on the barbie. Simply dab the sprig into your sauce and slather over the meat to infuse it with minty flavour.

9. Chocolate dip

For a decadent but refreshing treat, douse some mint leaves in some melted dark chocolate and allow to set in the fridge.

10. Chewing gum leaves

Avoid the rubbery feeling of chewing gum by replacing it with some fresh minty leaves for a natural breath freshener.

11. Beautiful bath salts

For a sumptuous evening soak, combine some dried mint leaves with some Epsom salts. You can also add some essential oils or cucumber slices for a few different spins.

12. Fabulous face masks

Add some invigorating crushed peppermint leaves to your clay face mask for a revitalizing home spa treatment.

13. Potpourri

Dried mint leaves can also help freshen up your home. Cocoon them in some cheesecloth and hang them in the wardrobe or tuck them under your pillow and inhale that wonderful menthol scent.

Want more mint in your life? STEPS Garden Centre have all your herb mint needs covered.

Call (07) 5458 6023 or drop in at 9 George Street, Caloundra, Queensland, 4551

Trainer Tanya Mathews from STEPS Education and Training College shares why starting a career in care is a good move. Tanya has been helping students gain qualifications in care online for a long time. While Tanya lives in Alice Springs, her students are scattered across Australia. She’s passionate about providing students with individualised support and helping them gain the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their new career. 

Tanya helps people gain a CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support, the training is available through Skills for Education and Employment (SEE). 

Why chose a career in care? It is a fast-growing industry with job security, and meaningful work. 

“If you enjoy working with others and want to advance your skillset, studying care online with STEPS basically gives you guaranteed employment because there is so much work in the disability and aged care sectors. Not only that but you are going to have purposeful employment.” 

Why study a care course online? It’s flexible, tailored learning that fits in with your life. 

“Our course is self-paced, or more accurately, it’s self-directed learning in consultation with our trainers. What I think is really amazing about this program is that it’s flexible to work with what’s happening in the student’s actual home life. For some, studying later in the evenings works or some people get on in the early in the morning. Students are able to pace themselves and manage their own study. 

I have had some students – after enrolling in the course – gain part-time employment and have then not been as flexible during the day. In those cases, I have catered to their schedule and organised evening virtual sessions with them, giving individual support so they can complete their course while working.”

What’s great about STEPS’ online course? You get the support you need. 

“At STEPS you really get the support you need to succeed. I’ve taught students who weren’t confident about studying at first, but with our level of study support, I found the further we progressed in the course the more their confidence grew. So, I definitely feel this course is for anyone who has had doubts about whether they can take on vocational education. Because I’ve taught students who have had those doubts, and today, they are qualified and working in the care industry. I believe our staff at STEPS provide such a strong support base and tailor learning to the individual – and I think that’s what sets us apart.” 

If you are interested in studying a CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support, check your eligibility by contacting training@stepsgroup.com.au or call 1300 131 965. 

While Kerry’s activism and immense passion for Indigenous rights and understanding is well known amongst the community now, Kerry’s heritage almost went undiscovered.

Growing up, Kerry had never looked very far into her own family history, with relatives rarely choosing to discuss the past.

“I actually had an older cousin who brought my heritage to my attention for the first time and, when we discussed it, I was so fascinated by it from that point forward,” Kerry said.

Kerry’s drive to uncover her roots was further ignited by a chance encounter, which she has referred to as “fateful”.

“When I was 19, I was actually sitting outside and two Aboriginal ladies came up to me and we started to discuss looking into my ancestry and my responsibility to do so,” Kerry said.

“This really stirred me and drove me to start formally looking into my family history.”

Kerry visited an elder from the Mandandanji people, where she was invited to put a family lineage together to present for recognition.

“I was lucky enough that my cousin had begun to find some of the background knowledge already and we were able to start the process of finding all the photos and documents about our ancestry,” Kerry said.

Kerry adds that the process was difficult. Many pieces of information were missing and some cemetery records about her family had even been burnt.

However, with great support from dedicated friends and family, Kerry was able to compile the appropriate documents and begin the official process of having her heritage recognised.

“I was able to go back with all the photos and documents that I had collected and went back to show to the Mandandanji and they were able to recognise my family and say ‘yes, you’re one of our people’,” Kerry said.  

“While I was there, I got to meet some family members – family that I had never met before.”

Discovering her heritage also allowed Kerry to find a long-lost family member, with Kerry now able to identify her great-great grandmother, Esther, in a previously unmarked burial site.

“With my grandmother’s grandmother, it was hard to find out what happened, but we eventually discovered that she was in one of the unmarked cemetery plots in Toowoomba,” Kerry said.

Kerry added that finding and honouring Esther helped her find a “small piece of closure” regarding her heritage and family. 

“Since I met those two women when I was 19, there was a strong ancestral connection and drive that did not leave me until I had found Esther.”

Kerry hopes that Indigenous knowledge becomes more appreciated by all Australians, so that important culture, traditions, and customs are understood for generations to come.

“There are a lot of great things that I really think everyone could pick up on,” Kerry said.

“The sense of helping one another and the community far exceeds what is often depicted.” 

Kerry highlights that this exemplary caring nature is a huge driver in her own work as the CEO of STEPS Group Australia, an organisation which has been striving for disability rights and inclusion in all spaces since 1989.

“In Indigenous culture, we don’t actually have a word for disability, it’s just about how you can help another person if they’re struggling with something,” Kerry said.

“That’s really a different approach to what we see in some other cultures. It’s about knowing what’s going on with everyone else around you and making room for them no matter what.”

“I’m excited to be working with STEPS. They’re passionate about community inclusion and there are great parallels between the Indigenous community and what STEPS want to achieve in our community.”

Kerry concluded by adding her hopes that NAIDOC week is a time where everyone can come together and begin seeing the beauty in different cultures and heritage.

“I think sometimes it’s the small things that make the biggest difference,” Kerry said.

“Though this journey I have met some of the most beautiful people, and these are traditions worth getting to know.”

1. Herbs – harvest in 0 to 8 weeks

Herbs are a staple in any veggie patch and are the perfect plants for gardening novices. Sage, parsley, coriander, rosemary, thyme, and mint are perfect for growing in the cooler months. Plant with full sun and harvest in a matter of weeks, although a lot of herbs can be picked right after planting seedlings.

2. Baby carrots – harvest in 4 to 8 weeks

These orange babies grow quicker than regular sized carrots and are the perfect easy-to-grow root crop for the winter period. They prefer full sun and are wind tolerant, so, pick a spot in your garden with good drainage and start planting. Be careful not to overwater as it can lead to root rot.

3. Kale –harvest in 4 to 8 weeks

This hardy plant is easy to grow in a sunny position with well-drained soil. Pick regularly to get a longer cropping period.

4.  Tomatoes – harvest in 10 to 12 weeks

Reddy for some tomatoes this winter? Grow them in a sunny position that is protected from wind. They need regular and thorough watering and most require a support. Don’t grow them in the same soil year after year as it can lead to disease.

5.  Lettuce – harvest in 6 to 14 weeks

Freshen up your salads and sandwiches this winter with your very own home-grown lettuce – it’s easy to grow and grows fast. Plant in a spot that has both sun and shade and has good drainage. You can promote faster growth by regularly picking the leaves.

6. Rocket – harvest in 6 to 7 weeks

Three, two, one, blast off! Get leafy greens in your garden super-fast, just as the name implies, rocket is a quick growing plant. You can eat the baby leaves after a few weeks, keep in mind that young leaves have a milder peppery flavour than matured leaves that have more of a kick.

7. Peas – harvest in 9 to 11 weeks

Preferring the cooler temperature, this little veggie and winter go together like two peas in a pod! It’s easy to grow peas in poor soil and they even add nitrogen to the soil. Most varieties need support to grow and ensure you don’t overwater when first planted. Plant in a partial or full sun position.

Need these plants now? We have all these plants and more in-stock at STEPS Garden Centre. Call (07) 5458 6023 for enquiries or drop into our little oasis located at Ulm Street (south), Caloundra.

As a leader in training and education for the disability sector, STEPS launched the inaugural Hobart Support Worker Recognition Award which acknowledges the role of our brilliant Support Workers who work tirelessly to make their community a better place.

We received numerous, incredibly strong nominations from various organisations operating in the Greater Hobart region.

STEPS would like to proudly announce the winner of the inaugural Hobart Support Worker recognition Award 2020 as Rose Riley from Montagu Community Living.

“Working in the industry for over 20 years in a variety of roles, (I am) a fierce defender of people’s rights and a great coach and mentor for new support workers,” Rose said.

The manager from Montagu Community Living has nothing but high praise for Rose, focusing on Roses “unflappable” character and ability to ‘de-escalate any challenging situations with her calm and kindly manner.”

All seven business who nominated Support Workers for the award have supported STEPS with student placements from the CHC33015 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing or Disability) course run by STEPS in Hobart.

STEPS would also like to thank everyone who was nominated for their incredibly selfless and tireless work they do in the community and wish everyone a Merry Christmas and happy new year.

Are you looking for a rewarding career as a Support Worker? STEPS is offering the CHC33015 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) in Hobart from March 2021, and are taking expressions of interest from 25 January 2021

For more information on current and upcoming Individual Support courses, head to our courses page today

These Champions for Change are nominated in recognition for their hard work in improving access to higher education. The champions are noted by the National Centre as people “who regularly go above and beyond to make the Australasian tertiary education landscape more inclusive and accessible for everyone.” David has proudly worked with STEPS since 2016 and is an avid and passionate advocate for improving tertiary education access for those with disabilities.

David is recognised for his ongoing work to improve access, participation and employment outcomes for students with disability and was instrumental in the creation of University Specialist Employment Partnerships (USEP).  USEP now operates at 13 Australian Universities, and is designed to provide individualised and specialist career support to students with disability, utilising staff from Disability Employment Services to work alongside University careers and equity staff.

Speaking with David about his nomination, David offered his thanks to the EPHEA for the recognition.

“Thank you to Equity Practitioners in Higher Education Australasia (EPHEA) for facilitating this award, to recognise the work that often goes on ‘behind the scenes’.

“It certainly is a delight to do what I do because of the people I get to work with along the way.

“We have so many focused and passionate professionals in Australia willing and able to make a positive difference for students with disability in tertiary education and I’m honoured to work alongside you.

“Together we really can make positive change, as we shift through 2020 toward the future.”

David’s passion grew from personal experience, with David facing inaccessibility during his education due to his colour vision deficiency. One of David’s greatest passions surrounds the removal of barriers for people with colour vision deficiency, as well as furthering protections and inclusive design in the Australian landscape.

David also took the time to note the specific difficulties that have arisen in 2020.

“This year has been very challenging for so many in the Tertiary Education sector including in the equity field. 

“An Australian Disability Clearinghouse on Education and Training (ADCET) Survey had a quote in it that really stuck in my head.  

“One practitioner wrote that it was overwhelming having to be the support for students, staff and family while going through the same worries for yourself. 

“This year we saw the sector show up to support each other – getting innovative, talking and sharing ideas, strategies, resources, fears, hopes and more.

“Next, we will need to focus effort on graduate opportunity availability and supporting students to understand and articulate their unique skills, viewpoints and experience in the current environment.”

David also added that he is looking forward to working with his colleagues to develop and implement national training focusing on Universal Design for Learning in Tertiary Education, due to begin early 2021.

Our wholehearted congratulations go to David for all that he has achieved and for all that we know he will go on to accomplish.

Held at the Kawana Sports Precinct, STEPS have created a very special Christmas party where families living with autism and disability can enjoy a fun-filled day in a supportive environment.

Directors of the The Fleet Office, Jim and Angela Lee say putting on an event like the STEPS Autism Treehouse Christmas Party brings the community together and gives children and parents a day they look forward to every year.

“It is wonderful to be a part of something so unique and beneficial to the community here on the Sunshine Coast,” Jim said.

“We’ve had a great relationship with the STEPS Autism Treehouse for a number of years and to be able to contribute in such a way is really very special for us,” he said.

STEPS Group Australia Managing Director Carmel Crouch said despite the challenges many organisations face due to COVID-19 with running events, this very special Christmas Party was not optional but essential.

“There’s no doubt 2020 has been a very tough year for organisations across the Coast and in particular charitable organisations,” Carmel said.

“Christmas however is a very magical time of the year for all children and for those especially living with autism and disability and we are so pleased to be able to offer a space in the community that is safe and fun filled where families can connect and support each other.”

“We anticipate this year’s Christmas Party will be bigger and better than ever and thanks to the generous support from Jim and Angela at The Fleet Office, we have the opportunity to once again host the Coasts biggest Christmas Party for children, young people and families living with autism and disability.”

The Christmas Party offers many different activities such as a sensory tent, rides, a mobile rock wall and of course Santa!

Tickets starts from $15 each, $50 for a family of four or $60 for a family of five, with all activities included in the price of the ticket.

For more information about STEPS support services and events (07) 5458 3000 or visit https://www.stepsgroup.com.au/ndis-services/

STEPS Autism Treehouse program coordinator Jessica Winnell facilitates regular social groups for Coast parents and teens with ASD, to connect in a familiar space, and to share the joys and challenges that autism brings to their lives.

Jess is the mother of children on the spectrum and says her own experiences help her to help others.

“I can honestly relate to what families are feeling and the challenges they are facing on a day-to-day basis,” Jess said.  

“I can really listen to parents about what they are going through and draw from my own experiences to help them get through what can be a very challenging and confusing time, especially on top of dealing with a global pandemic. 

“I can also take some of the stress out of the whole process for them by explaining what has worked for me and how to get the ball rolling with things like funding, group therapy, suggest helpful resources like books and podcasts, I think I have tried every single online program and some work better than others.

“Whenever we are having a tough time at home with the kids we always seek help and I encourage all the families we connect with to do the same.

“A lot of parents have found this year to be really difficult, and we would love to see parents come out and have a break and a free meal, connect and socialise with us, even for a couple of hours,” Jess said.

Jess says her autism journey wasn’t always easy for her family, even though she felt a weight had been lifted after her eldest son was diagnosed with ASD, she then had to navigate what to do next, and that was often overwhelming.

“As a parent of a child with autism you do begin to get used to standing out of the crowd or your child being different to the other kids,” she said.

“It can be really hard at first and you almost have to grieve what you thought parenting would be like.

“But I was determined for my son to get all of the same opportunities as every other child in the class room and this is how my passion grew for inclusion in schools for all kids with additional needs,” she said.

Jess says she’s proud to be a part of the Sunshine Coast autism community, an amazing group of people that have such a wonderful spirit.

STEPS run regular free morning teas for parents and carers, alongside a range of programs from educational workshops, social groups, NDIS support coordination and major fundraising events each year. For more information and to secure a dinner booking contact us today or follow STEPS Autism Treehouse on Facebook.

The Parent & Carer Social Group Dinner is: Funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services. Visit www.dss.gov.au for more information.

In these challenging times due to Coronavirus, STEPS Staffing Solutions can provide businesses with an answer to their current employment concerns and needs in a safe and supportive way. 

STEPS Staffing Solution manager Debbie Rawlings believes this is a critical time for many local businesses facing uncertainty.

“Many businesses need staff but may not feel comfortable committing to permanent roles in the current climate,” Ms Rawlings said.

“We understand, that now more than ever, businesses need to place the right people into their organisations for a safe and sustainable future.

“Our services are underpinned by our commitment to people, our community and work health and safety,” she said.

STEPS Staffing Solutions is part of STEPS Group, a not for profit organisation making a difference by providing opportunities through a range of community services, charitable programs, education and training and employment support.

“One of the things clients love about choosing our recruitment services is knowing they are helping young people with a disability reach their goal of independence through STEPS Charity, which raises funds for STEPS Pathways College.

“Our clients love that they can also be part of something bigger, that by working with us they not only benefit their business, they’re helping to create opportunities and give back to the community,” Ms Rawlings said.

With 40 years of combined industry experience, the team at STEPS Staffing Solutions have extensive recruitment expertise backed by processes designed to provide compliant and responsible services.

STEPS Staffing Solutions is a Registered Queensland Labour Hire Provider and Corporate Member of the Recruitment, Consulting & Staffing Association of Australia.

Visit www.stepsstaffingsolutions.com.au  to find out how their services can help your business through the coronavirus and beyond.

The idea for the College was simple, it came from a place that all parents of children with disabilities experience day in, day out – ‘What’s going to happen to my child when I’m not here?

STEPS Group managing director Carmel Crouch, whose 48-year-old son with a disability is still living at home, said for her, this perspective has always been her driving force.

“This idea of the college comes very much from my personal point of view, I always thought there had to be some way we could make opportunities for young people with disabilities to become independent,” Ms Crouch said.

“Now the College has been up and running for three years, we’re clear how successful the learning model is, we’ve had our first cohort graduate into independent living, so expansion is the way forward for us,” Ms Crouch said.

“We’re excited to announce we will have a new expansion built by November this year, to accommodate a further four boarding students, and we’re looking to accommodate another 14 students, in a ready built complex soon.”

STEPS Pathways College also runs a day program, providing flexible learning five days a week, and the opportunity to experience campus-life for students still living at home.

The day program is now available online and is accessible Australia-wide, the interactive program includes a combination of online classwork, group discussions and project-based activities to enhance the participants’ learning and reduce isolation.

STEPS Pathways manager DJ McGlynn believes the exponential growth of their programs is a true testament to their success.

“Every single element of our training program has an educational underpinning, we see it working everyday as we witness the confidence and capacity of our students grow,” Mr McGlynn said.

“The nine-module curriculum is a mix of classroom learning with time to explore concepts and hands-on practical applications, every student has an individual plan tailored to their needs, it’s a true training program, not a therapy program.

“I’m constantly surprised by how much a student can do when given the opportunity.

“When you put the right resources in front of students, they really come out of their shells, and the peer support is amazing to see, they all help each other out, they all love the campus-lifestyle,” Mr McGlynn said.

Looking to the future, the passionate team at STEPS have very big plans on the table, and they invite the world to come and join them, either as a student, a parent or a much-needed supporter of STEPS Charity, donating funds to build the expansions and to keep the dreams of so many families alive.

Mr McGlynn said he’s receiving applications from all over Australia, as far as Tasmania, Western Australia and Alice Springs and welcomes everyone to apply.

The college is best suited for young adults with intellectual disabilities, Down Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder, a simple suitability assessment process is completed as part of the application.

To find out more about the College and their life-changing initiatives, visit stepspathways.com.au or call STEPS on 07 5458 3000.

Caption: STEPS Pathways College is expanding to deliver independent living to more young adults with disabilities (photo taken pre-COVID19).

Like all organisations within the events industry,  STEPS Autism Treehouse is facing unprecedented challenges due to COVID-19, our highest priority is the safety and well-being of our supporters, team and community.

In this ever-changing situation, along with guidance from the public health authorities we have made the decision to cancel the 2020 STEPS Trek for Autism presented by The Fleet Office.

We are devastated that the cancellation of our much loved event will directly impact our ability to provide support to our community through access to resources, like skills programs, education and social events.

While this is disappointing for both you and us, please be assured that anyone who has registered can request a full refund or roll over their ticket to next year’s event. We have sent emails to each person who has registered for the event with update information.

Of course we want to see everyone at next year’s STEPS Trek for Autism which will take place on May 2, 2021.

In these difficult times the world is experiencing, we are thankful that we are powered by the STEPS Autism Treehouse community, our tribe is strong and made up of the best kind of humans there are.

Let’s continue to celebrate the amazing joy that autism brings to our lives, we can all help to support each other – even from 1.5m away! 

We will continue to monitor and update you on any changes on STEPS Autism Treehouse events as they come to hand.

For more information about the current health warnings please visit www.health.qld.gov.au

Thank you for your incredible support, see you at the trek next year!

STEPS Autism Treehouse charity manager Anne Nioa says by trekking, participants are directly impacting the lives of Sunshine Coast families living with autism.

“There’s a trekking adventure for all abilities, and it’s also a great idea for businesses to get teams on board for the event” Anne said.

“The full 22km Trek from Coolum Beach to Cotton Tree is the most challenging option, or you can choose to take on the half trek of 11.5kms from Mudjimba to Cotton Tree.

“This year we’ve also added the 5km ‘Family Fun Fiver’ which will give more families the opportunity to get involved, which is fantastic as helping families who are living with autism is the reason behind this event.”

With the Trek taking place on the Saturday of the Labour Day long weekend, Anne says the idea is for participants to make the event part of a scenic getaway and adventure experience.

“People have already begun signing up for the event from Brisbane, keen to take advantage of the stunning Sunshine Coast beaches and scenery along the Trek’s route,” she said.

“The route takes trekkers along one of the nation’s most beautiful stretches of coastal pathway, so it’s truly a special experience as well as a rewarding cause,” Anne said.

A non-profit organisation, STEPS Autism Treehouse focuses on building community and connecting families, children and young people living with autism and provides support through access to resources, life skills programs, education and social events.

The STEPS Trek for Autism presented by The Fleet Office will kick off at 7am from Tickle Park, Coolum Beach while the Half Trek starts at 8am from the Mudjimba Surf Lifesaving Club. The Family Fun Fiver begins at 9am from Cotton Tree Park.

Team participation is encouraged, with teams receiving 10 per cent off the registration price.

Early bird registration is now open for a limited time with $10 off the regular price. Contact our team for further information or follow the event on Facebook.

Ms Nioa replaces founding director Claire Gilmour, who successfully negotiated the organisation’s merger with STEPS Group Australia in 2017.

Ms Nioa, who managed the Tourism, Events and Marketing portfolio as a member of the Fraser Coast Council from 2004 to 2012, brings years of experience running successful organisations to STEPS Autism Treehouse, which provides resources, education and social events to families, children and young people living with autism.

A former furniture and homewares importer, real estate agent and business strategist, Ms Nioa thanked outgoing coordinator Claire Gilmour for her incredible contribution to the organisation and said she was excited to be joining such a respected and admired charity at a pivotal point in its life.

“My goal is to grow STEPS Autism Treehouse so that we can expand our reach and extend our services – not only to the Sunshine Coast and into the Wide Bay region, but as far north as Cairns and even south all the way to Hobart,” Ms Nioa said.

“As a former councillor and business owner in the Wide Bay area I have a deep understanding of and connection to the community, and I know that there is a real need for an organisation like ours in this part of the state.”

Ms Nioa said she also had a deeply personal connection to the STEPS Group.

“My daughter Ariana, who has Down Syndrome has been attending the STEPS Pathways College in Caloundra since 2017 and graduated last year,” Ms Nioa said.

“It’s a living and learning facility for young adults with disabilities and it’s really allowed her to begin an incredible new chapter in her life. She’s wanted to go to college ever since her older brother Jackson started university and this has given her the opportunity to shine.”

Ms Nioa, a single mother who raised her children alone after her husband lost a battle with bowel cancer in 1997, knows first-hand how important organisations like STEPS Autism Treehouse are to the community and to parents like her.

“As the mother of a young person with a disability I understand how important it is to know that there are services out there that you can lean on,” Ms Nioa said.

“Raising a child with a disability presents such unique challenges to parents that it can sometimes feel like an all-consuming responsibility. An organisation like STEPS Pathways College has not only given my daughter Ariana new options in life, it’s also given me greater opportunities.

“In fact, Ariana now has so much confidence that she and her best friend have moved into an apartment together in Caloundra. Her independence has also given me my own independence and I would like to help other families on that important journey.”

For more information about STEPS contact us today

This year’s event was the biggest and best yet, with more than 750 people in attendance, up almost 50 per cent from last year, it was a very special day where families from all over south-east Qld living with disability enjoyed a fun-filled day in a supportive environment.

Santa arrived on his Harley, with gifts for all the kids, there were fun waterslides, amazing rides, crazy goop, animals, chill zones, loads of sports to try, and STEPS Nursery had kids’ activities and handy Christmas gift ideas.

The free mini-massages for parents and carers were a big hit,  as well as the handy information provided at stalls on topics such as the NDIS, disability support, autism support groups and allied health professionals.

Thanks to the support of the wonderful sponsors, Vantage Homes Qld, the Sunshine Coast Council,  together with all event partners, STEPS united likeminded people to celebrate and highlight the importance of providing the only Christmas event for Coast families living with autism and disability.

Vantage Homes Director Glenn Carmichael said they believe in contributing towards the communities where they operate, by sponsoring local community activities.

“Vantage was thrilled to be involved once again with the Christmas party and our staff helped with the set up and clean-up, which I think highlights what a fantastic community organisation STEPS Autism Treehouse is,” he said.

STEPS Group Managing Director Carmel Crouch said the event is one she holds very close to her heart, bringing partners, volunteers and the Coast community all together on the day for the event.

“To see so many children having so much fun, in an event created just for them, so they can feel supported and have a great time, especially at Christmas, is just very special,” she said.

“Participating in Christmas events is something most families might take for granted, but when your family is living with autism and disability, it can be almost impossible to attend regular events as children can feel overwhelmed, meaning the whole family misses out.

“With such a huge boost in attendees from last year, this event is clearly very much needed in our community.

“We believe the best way to support families and young people living with autism and disability, is by providing the opportunity to connect with others in their community in a safe, and supported way.”

Sunshine Coast mother Emma Robbins said without events like the STEPS Autism Treehouse Christmas party, her family would be severely limited in their Christmas community engagement.

“Our 10 year old Lucas has both Autism Spectrum Disorder and Cerebral Palsy, this event has allowed our family to participate at such a magical time of year, our children looked forward to the rides, activities and roaming action figures, all provided in such a non-judgemental supportive environment,” she said.

For more information about the services and events from STEPS Autism Treehouse contact 5409 9014 or visit www.stepsautismtreehouse.org.au

Video by Raw Lens Media

Moving into a first apartment is a thrilling and memorable time for anyone, but it is a particularly poignant moment for Morgan, his family and the STEPS Pathways College team who have now successfully graduated their entire first cohort of students into fully independent living.

Morgan, was one of the original cohort who started at STEPS Pathways College when it opened in 2016. The Caloundra based College was a community labour of love, where young people with a disability are taught skills for independence and the opportunity to live a life of their own design. Boarding students are accommodated on campus in a modern apartment complex called Murphy House after the Murphy family who donated labour and supplies to help build it.

Morgan’s Mum, Robyn McCarthy says when she held her “precious baby boy” in her arms 25 years ago, never in her wildest dreams did she think he would be living away from her, let alone moving into his own home.

“Morgan is incredibly excited to be moving into his own unit,” Robyn says.

“He has always wanted to be independent. He is a happy, friendly and very social young man who loves just being ‘one of the boys’. His favourite statement has always been, ‘I do it!’

“STEPS Pathway College has been a Godsend. The progress I have seen in Morgan since starting at the College is incredible. He has learned to shop, cook, catch public transport, order meals and generally ooze confidence in all he does. He still requires prompting and reminders, but his ‘I do it’ attitude is very evident when he comes home for holidays – he plans meals, shops and cooks for me.”

Robyn laughs when recalling an incident which reaffirms Morgan’s newfound independence. “After attending his Down Syndrome Challenge Weekend camp, my daughter arrived to collect him only to find he’d already jumped into a taxi and headed back to Murphy House without her!”

When Morgan moved into Murphy House, Robyn says he had the companionship of his friend Ariana who moved in at the same time, making his move out of home a little easier. Despite this, Robyn says it was still nerve-wracking.

“As his mum, I have had to learn to ‘let go’ which was incredibly difficult for me in the beginning because no one cares for your child like a mum does,” Robyn says.

“However, I can honestly say that the staff at STEPS Pathways College do. My weekend visits quickly reduced to fortnightly, then monthly. My daily phone calls and FaceTime chats are now also weekly, and I don’t worry about him eating poorly (or too much), being clean and tidy, being lonely, being unsafe or vulnerable – the STEPS staff make sure he is ok. This has meant that I can live my life without constantly having to think about and for my boy – or ‘Big Man’ as Morgan likes to refer to himself.”

And now, with Morgan moving out of Murphy House and into his own apartment, Robyn says it’s wonderful to know he will continue his connection with STEPS Pathways College through attending the day program and being with his College friends most days.

“I have happy tears and my heart is full, knowing he will have supported independence from people who love him almost as much as I do.”

STEPS managing director Carmel Crouch says it’s a proud moment, knowing the entire first cohort of STEPS Pathways students are now living independently.

“Having watched the College go from a concept to a buzzing learning environment and the first educational program of its kind in Australia, to witnessing the pride and joy on our students’ faces as they transition to the next stage of independent living is incredibly special,” Carmel says.

“The whole community and the many who helped the College become a reality should be proud as we witness our first group of students set out for life as confident, educated and informed young adults.”

For Robyn, she says she has a heart full of pride for her ‘Big Man’ and gratitude for the program which gave them both “lives we could only ever dream of having.”

“I cannot thank Carmel and the STEPS Pathways College team – DJ, Jason and Steph – enough for their support in all aspects of Morgan’s life over the last two years,” Robyn says, “And all the incredible College staff who work with, support, teach and accompany him and the other students each day and night.

“I am so very, very proud of my Big Man!”

Held at the Kawana Sports Precinct on Field 5, the STEPS Autism Treehouse Christmas Party is a very special event where families from all over south-east Qld living with disability can enjoy a fun-filled day in a supportive environment.

Santa has left the North Pole and is on his way with gifts for all the kids, there’ll be fun waterslides, amazing rides, crazy goop, animals, chill zones, loads of sports to try, and STEPS Nursery with kids’ activities and handy Christmas gifts to purchase too, there’s even free mini-massages for parents/carers, as well as stalls from local allied health professionals, and all included in the $10 per person ticket price.

Thanks to the support of wonderful sponsors, Vantage Homes Qld, the Sunshine Coast Council’s Cr Jason O’Pray together with all event partners, STEPS get to unite likeminded people to celebrate and highlight the importance of providing the only Christmas event for Coast families living with autism and disability.

Vantage Homes Director Glenn Carmichael says they believe in contributing towards the communities where they operate, by sponsoring local community activities.

“Vantage is thrilled to be involved once again with the Christmas party and many of our staff have already put their name down to help with the set up and clean-up, which I think highlights what a fantastic community organisation STEPS Autism Treehouse is,” he said.

STEPS Group Australia Managing Director Carmel Crouch maintains the best way to support families and young people living with autism and disability, is by providing the opportunity to connect with others in their community in a safe, and supported way.

“Christmas is a very magical time of year for children, and we want children with disabilities to experience that magic too, we also want to provide a space that parents can come along to and feel supported, and maybe even relax for a few hours,” Carmel said.

“We are focussed on creating opportunities for young people living with autism and their families to enjoy life to the full, and develop meaningful connections with their community, thanks to partners like Vantage Homes, we can provide these opportunities.”

Sunshine Coast mother Emma Robbins says without events like the STEPS Autism Treehouse Christmas party, her family would be severely limited in their Christmas community engagement.

“Our 10 year old Lucas has both Autism Spectrum Disorder and Cerebral Palsy, navigating large social events are often too overwhelming for him socially, emotionally and physically, resulting in both him and his neurotypical siblings missing out on most community based events and activities,” Emma said.

“This event has allowed our family to participate at such a magical time of year, our children look forward to the rides, activities and roaming action figures, all provided in such a non-judgemental supportive environment,” she said.

For more information about the services and events from STEPS Autism Treehouse contact 5409 9014 or visit www.stepsautismtreehouse.org.au

Image: Toby and Oscar are ready to party at the Christmas Party.

Santa arrived on his Harley Davidson with gifts for all the children, as key sponsors from Vantage Homes Qld, the Sunshine Coast Council’s Cr Jason O’Pray and event partners gathered to highlight the importance of providing the only Christmas event for Coast families living with autism and disability.

STEPS announced the winners of the Christmas Party Arthouse Colouring Competition, Ella and Emma, who have won exclusive VIP experiences at the Christmas party, including a private marquee with bean bags, exclusive early access to the venue and rides, and food and drink vouchers on the day.

Held at the Kawana Sports Precinct December 1, the STEPS Autism Treehouse Christmas Party is a very special event where families from all over south-east Qld living with disability can enjoy a fun-filled day in a supportive environment.

Vantage Homes Director Glenn Carmichael says they believe in contributing towards the communities where they operate, by sponsoring local community activities.

“Vantage is thrilled to be involved once again with the Christmas party and many of our staff have already put their name down to help with the set up and clean-up, which I think highlights what a fantastic community organisation STEPS Autism Treehouse is,” he said.

STEPS Group Australia Managing Director Carmel Crouch maintains the best way to support families and young people living with autism and disability, is by providing the opportunity to connect with others in their community in a safe, and supported way.

“Christmas is a very magical time of year for children, and we want children with disabilities to experience that magic too, we also want to provide a space that parents can come along to and feel supported, and maybe even relax for a few hours,” Carmel said.

“We are focussed on creating opportunities for young people living with autism and their families to enjoy life to the full, and develop meaningful connections with their community, thanks to partners like Vantage Homes, we can provide these opportunities.”

Sunshine Coast mother Emma Robbins says without events like the STEPS Autism Treehouse Christmas party, her family would be severely limited in their Christmas community engagement.

“Our 10 year old Lucas has both Autism Spectrum Disorder and Cerebral Palsy, navigating large social events are often too overwhelming for him socially, emotionally and physically, resulting in both him and his neurotypical siblings missing out on most community based events and activities,” Emma said.

“This event has allowed our family to participate at such a magical time of year, our children look forward to the rides, activities and roaming action figures, all provided in such a non-judgemental supportive environment,” she said.

The event is designed to be the most fun children will have all year with rides, activities, Santa with gifts, chill-out zones, allied health exhibits, massages for parents, all in a supported environment, and all included in the $10 ticket price.

For more information about the services and events from STEPS Autism Treehouse contact 5409 9014 or visit www.stepsautismtreehouse.org.au Tickets http://www.bit.ly/SATChristmasParty

Main image: Cr Jason O’Pray, STEPS’ Carmel Crouch and Vantage Homes Qld launch the 2019 Christmas Party

This project is proudly supported by Sunshine Coast Council’s grants program 

Waterslides and obstacle course – Funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services. Visit www.dss.gov.au for more information.

Through the collaboration of STEPS Autism Treehouse and presenting partner Eloff & Andrews Clinical Psychology (E&A), the Seminar presented a wealth of information for families living with autism and offered a unique professional development opportunity for carers, educators, occupational therapists and psychologists all of whom were in attendance.

STEPS CEO Kerry Staines said it was fantastic to see so many from the community attend, with people from as far away as Lismore travelling to the Sunshine Coast for this event.

“It clearly shows there is a need for world-class autism resources locally, and it’s through events like this that STEPS Autism Treehouse can connect Sunshine Coast families, children and young people living with autism and provide support to our community with access to resources and education,” Kerry said.

E&A’s Managing Director Karra Eloff said their dedicated autism team supports hundreds of individuals and families on the Sunshine Coast adjusting to a diagnosis of autism.

“These families and the other professionals that support them in our community deserve access to world-class resources and support. We were excited to bring this to the Coast alongside STEPS through the Autism Seminar,” Karra said.

World-renowned autism specialist Professor Tony Attwood presented on key and timely topics such as identifying the distinctive learning style of children with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and focussing on cognitive abilities for better learning, creating ASD friendly classrooms, strategies to reduce challenging behaviours and ways to reduce bullying and teasing.

Emceed by Claire Quarrell, the Seminar featured a panel of industry experts with global knowledge who were ready and primed to answer audience queries through an App called ‘Pigeonhole Live.’ Along with Professor Attwood, the panel consisted of Dr Johann Eloff of Eloff & Andrews Clinical Psychology, Dr Lisa Bridle from the Community Resource Unit, and Sara Thomas from STEPS’ Behaviour Support team. More than 71 questions were submitted by the engaged audience, proving once again there is a demand for information from local families living with autism and the professionals who support them.

In attendance were an array of exhibitors with a vast array of information, educational resources and support services on offer including National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) planners, Eloff and Andrew Clinical Psychology, Chatter-Boxes Speech Pathology, Happy Eaters Feeding Clinic, All About Autism, Stripes Special Needs Resources, Bushkids, Montrose and Enhanced Health and Fitness.

Kerry said the success of the seminar was due to many in the community. “We’re incredibly grateful to Eloff & Andrews Clinical Psychology who made the event possible along with the Maroochy RSL for their sponsorship and hospitality,” she said.

“A big thank you to our speakers, experts and exhibitors, but mostly, we are thankful for everyone who bought a ticket and carved time out of their busy schedules to attend and make the day the success that it was.”

After the success of the inaugural seminar, STEPS aims to expand this event into a two day, autism conference in 2020 where participants can access the most up to date information and research and put the Sunshine Coast on the map as a place where people living with autism can access resources, life skills programs, social events and world-class knowledge.

“We’re continuing to listen to the community, evolving and growing our services so we can fill the gaps and meet the needs of families locally,” Kerry said.

Held at the Kawana Sports Precinct, STEPS have created a very special Christmas party where families living with disability can enjoy a fun-filled day in a supportive environment.

Vantage Homes Director Glenn Carmichael says they believe in contributing towards the communities where they operate, by sponsoring local community activities.

“Vantage is thrilled to be involved once again with the Christmas party and many of our staff have already put their name down to help with the set up and clean-up, which I think highlights what a fantastic community organisation STEPS Autism Treehouse is,” he said.

STEPS Group Australia Managing Director Carmel Crouch believes the best way to support families and young people living with autism and disability, is by providing the opportunity to connect with others in their community in a safe, and supported way.

“Christmas is a very magical time of year for children, and we want children with disabilities to experience that magic too, we also want to provide a space that parents can come along to and feel supported, and maybe even relax for a few hours,” Carmel said.

“We are focussed on creating opportunities for young people living with autism and their families to enjoy life to the full, and develop meaningful connections with their community, thanks to partners like Vantage Homes, we can provide these opportunities.”

Sunshine Coast mother Emma Robbins says without events like the STEPS Autism Treehouse Christmas party, her family would be severely limited in their Christmas community engagement.

“Our 10 year old Lucas has both Autism Spectrum Disorder and Cerebral Palsy, navigating large social events are often too overwhelming for him socially, emotionally and physically, resulting in both him and his neurotypical siblings missing out on most community based events and activities,” Emma said.

“This event has allowed our family to participate at such a magical time of year.

“Our children look forward to the rides and activities and roaming action figures, all provided in such a non-judgemental supportive environment,” she said.

The event is designed to be the most fun children will have all year with rides, activities, Santa with gifts, chill-out zones, allied health exhibits, massages for parents, all in a supported environment, and all included in the $10 ticket price (per person).

For more information about the services and events from STEPS Autism Treehouse contact 5409 9014 or visit www.stepsautismtreehouse.org.au

Waterslides and obstacle course – Funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services. Visit www.dss.gov.au for more information.

“All he really knows is love – he just loves everyone, he’s got the purest heart. He’s a little boy with autism, but he’s a little boy first,” Jim Lee- father.

STEPS Autism Treehouse build community and connect Sunshine Coast families, children and young people living with autism.

We provide support to our community with access to resources, life skills programs, education and social events.

Find out more at www.stepsautismtreehouse.org.au

Videography by Raw Lens Media Co.

2019 has seen considerable growth in enrolments with six students now enrolled in the day program and 10 in the boarding program. New students Jemma, Caelan and Mitch have recently been welcomed to the college, and we look forward to forming new friendships and travelling the pathway to independence with them.

Excursions off campus continue to bring a wealth of hands-on experience to the students. Fridays are spent learning about community connections, one of the nine core areas of learning at Pathways College. Excursions include trips on public transport and learning about road and passenger safety. It’s an opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of independent travel, including personal safety, making payments and pre-planning.
Health and wellness has been a very popular classroom subject recently with many of the group participating in extra curricula fitness activities in their spare time.

Tom, Sonya, John and Claire all signed up to personal training sessions at the local gym and are enjoy going there after class to work out as a recreational activity. Class sessions of aqua aerobics at the local pool have been a very popular way to get fit over the summer also.

Monday mornings are spent menu planning for the week’s meals. Student’s show great enthusiasm researching their favourite recipes and heading out to do the weekly grocery shopping. Nutrition and a healthy diet are another area of learning and the introduction of The Healthy Eating Choices Today Awards (HECTA) have been fun way to encourage a healthy diet as part of everyday life. Melissa and Morgan have recently won the awards, both recognised for their healthy food choices and cooking skills.

Time spent at Pathways College really is so much more than just learning the skills for independent living, it’s a place where wonderful friendships are formed, adventures experienced and memories made.
The students have formed wonderful connections and close bonds in their time at the college, the upcoming graduation will mark both an ending and a beginning, full of warm memories of the past and big dreams for the future.
It’s also a milestone for the families, friends, supporters and volunteers who have all played an important part of the Pathways College journey.

We look forward to many more graduations to come.

Help us to create a brighter future for people with a disability in our communities, donate today.

The vehicle of choice is a specially-fitted virtual reality bus, which will allow 448 participants to virtually explore different career paths including mining, agriculture, health, construction, horticulture and aquaponics.

After the virtual reality goggles are removed, participants will then receive guidance on local social, education and career services that may help them on a new pathway.

STEPS Group Australia NDCO Debbie Rooskov said the virtual reality element will be the same, but the event will look very different in each community.

“My colleagues and I are currently travelling Western Queensland working with local services to prepare 14 community events that meet local needs. The ideas that have risen will certainly make each community event unique, which is very exciting” Debbie said.

“It’s intended that this event will establish a platform to build future collaborative activities on over the coming years, so this is just the start.”

Queensland NDCOs have partnered with enVizion to offer the virtual reality experience, which normally tours remote and rural Indigenous communities in northern areas of the state.

“We haven’t done anything on this geographical scope before. We’re hoping to see a range of jobseekers, people leaving school, and mature age community members looking for a career change visiting the bus,” Debbie said.

“Many of the communities we’re going to are affected by drought, as well as higher levels of anxiety, mental health issues and youth unemployment.

“We’re wanting to raise aspirations around careers and awareness of support available.

“I think the most exciting part of this project is bringing something new, innovative and targeted to communities that don’t usually get these opportunities,” she said.

The 23-day journey will visit Blackall, Charleville, Cloncurry, Cunnamulla, Hughenden, Longreach, Richmond, Winton, Mt Isa, St George, Woorambina, Charters Towers, Emerald and Roma.

This project received funding from the Australian Government – Building Better Regions Fund – Community stream.

A leading expert in Autism Spectrum Disorder, Professor Attwood will be presenting the latest information for people living with and caring for children with Autism at Caloundra RSL on Friday 20th April 2018.

With more than 240 attendees expected, STEPS Autism Treehouse has organised the workshop for families, carers, and educators of children with Autism.

Professor Attwood will deliver strategies designed to improve social understanding and build friendship skills among children, explore adolescent issues among teenagers with level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and outline helpful strategies for managing difficult behaviour in children with ASD.

STEPS Autism Treehouse Coordinator Claire Gilmour said she was thrilled to be hosting Professor Attwood and have the opportunity to access his wealth of knowledge and expertise.

“This workshop has been a much anticipated event for our families who are a part of STEPS Autism Treehouse.

“Having expert information and a chance to come together to add to our knowledge base is so important, not only for families who have a loved one with Autism, but also for the wider community,” she said.

For some high school students with a disability this will soon be a virtual reality thanks to an initiative from the National Disability Coordination Officers Program hosted by STEPS Group Australia.

A virtual reality program will tour rural high schools in far north Queensland to encourage students with a disability to consider attending university.

The 360 degree video will allow students to gain an insight into what university life is like, how accessible campus life can be and how disability support services can help.

Three university students feature in the short film, sharing their own experiences of transitioning to university and the tools they use to help them succeed in their studies.

North QLD NDCO David Swayn said the virtual reality video is an innovative solution for students in rural and remote areas, who previously would have had to travel hundreds of kilometres to tour a campus.

“This technology breaks down physical and geographical barriers and allows the user to explore a uni campus from anywhere,” he said.

“It’s an experience with the information built in rather than attending an information session or simply relying on a brochure.

“Early research has shown strong engagement from young people with a disability, particularly those on the autism spectrum because it allows students to explore and familiarise themselves with a new environment in a safe location, with the ability to stop the exploration at any time.”

For more information, contact David Swayn at davids@stepsgroup.com.au.

A new program is set to change this statistic by providing support to university students with a disability in their final year of study as they transition from the classroom to the workplace.

The University Specialist Employment Partnership (USEP) program is an initiative spearheaded by some innovative thinkers within the Australian Government’s National Disability Coordination Officer Program.

STEPS Group Australia’s National Disability Coordination Officer David Swayn helped to develop the USEP program to fill a gap in supporting people with a disability between university and work.

“At the moment there isn’t any funding available for early intervention for uni students in the crucial final year, where students would benefit from work experience and internships,” David said.

“We are taking a solution-focused approach where innovators in the sector work together to offer employment support in a student’s last year.”

The USEP program is being piloted at Griffith University with further implementations expected across the country.

The initiative involves having an on-campus consultant working holistically with students and the university’s support services, potential employers and local employment services.

“USEP brings together innovative support services to make an impact and give graduates the best chance at being offered the jobs they want,” David said

For more information contact David Swayn at davids@stepsgroup.com.au.

Health and wellbeing benefits of being out and about in the garden have been well-researched, with studies consistently showing that people involved in gardening experience a broad range of improvements to their general wellbeing including mood, social and teamwork skills, self-confidence and quality of life.

A recent study on allotment gardeners actually found that people experienced an increase in self-esteem and decreased levels of anger, depression, confusion and anxiety after a session in the garden.

Young people can also benefit from a good potter around the garden with evidence to show improvements both inside and outside of the classroom. Studies have proven that students who get their hands dirty in the garden show improvements in interpersonal skills, self-confidence, responsibility and teamwork skills. Parents will also be happy to know that children involved in maintaining edible gardens are more likely to form positive ideas and attitudes around health and nutrition.

Time poor? There’s some good news for you too. Apparently the amount of time a person spends in the garden has no significant effect to the amount of change in wellbeing. So whether you’re a weekend warrior or a bit more serious about your gardening endeavours you’re sure to feel the benefits!

So what are you waiting for! Whether you’re a novice or experienced gardener there are many opportunities for you to get involved in your own garden or by spending time at a garden centre like STEPS Nursery.

If you’re interested in becoming a STEPS Nursery volunteer and discovering the wellbeing benefits of gardening for yourself, contact 07 5858 6023 or nursery@stepsgroup.com.au.

Leading Ladies Lunch is an afternoon of fine food and networking with women on the Coast who share ambition, passion and success in life.

Date  12/05/2017
Time  12pm – 3:00pm
Venue  See Restaurant, 123 Parkyn Parade
Price  $79 includes 3 courses with drinks (beer, wine and soft drinks)
RSVP  to STEPS Charity on 5458 3028

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What is your role here at STEPS?
I am the nursery manager, so I manage the day-to-day running of STEPS nursery. I also manage the volunteers, and students from Currimundi Special School when they come in, and train people on propagation skills by either seed or cutting.

How long have you been working here at STEPS? How did that come about?
I’ve worked here for about 7 months. I was ready for a new challenge, I wanted to work with people with disabilities and I saw it advertised. I love teaching people and I think it is just a great opportunity where I can give all of myself and train young people living with a disability.

[mk_blockquote style=”quote-style” font_family=”none” text_size=”12″ align=”left”]I love working with young people with a disability in the nursery and seeing them achieve their goals.[/mk_blockquote]

Can you tell us about the people who volunteer at the nursery? What kind of work do they do to help out?

Each volunteer brings something different to the team and we have a broad range of volunteers. At the moment I’ve got one volunteer helping me setup a routine-program for people with disabilities who volunteer here throughout the week. I’ve got guys here from a building background that build different things for me. Everybody does the watering and weeding. Everybody is pretty diverse in what they do. They’re really great and it doesn’t matter what I ask them to do, they always oblige.

What is it you enjoy most about working at STEPS nursery?
I love working with young people with a disability in the nursery and seeing them achieve their goals. I also like how the nursery gives me the opportunity to meet new people in the community and provide them with quality plants.

What do you like least about your job?
The heat.

What is your most memorable moment here at STEPS?
We had a garden club that visited STEPS and about 28 people hopped of the bus, and it was just amazing to see the surprise on their faces when they saw this nursery: it was like they discovered a hidden gem. Then they all just started buying plants one after another. Three people were working full time at the cash register and it was nonstop. It was fantastic, the volunteers took it upon themselves to help the customers carry things in – it was just a team effort.

Who is it that you are most glad to have met at STEPS?
That is a hard one as each and every person brings something different to the team but I will say Jason, our nursery and site manager. With all the support he has given me, he has made my job a lot easier. He has such a great personality and has a heart of gold.

Is there one thing you wish people knew about gardening?
A plant will only grow as high as you want it to grow. Some gardeners come in and I might have a plant on the floor that they really like but they don’t think they can get it because it grows to 3 metres and that’s too high. Don’t be concerned about its height, if you want a plant only to grow a metre, it will only grow a metre, you just cut the top off it. If you like something, if you like the colour, like the flower, don’t worry about how high it grows.

Is there anything else you would like people to know?
A lot of people understand gardening is good for your soul and I believe more people should get involved with their gardens. Take the time and enjoy your garden, even if it’s only for half an hour on the weekend, it is perfect for the soul. I don’t really have to go home and garden because I do it here but I do.

STEPS Nursery and All Things Garden present the first annual Sunshine Coast Plant Swap!
Bring along your seedlings and plants to swap with other community members for new and exciting additions to your garden.
Come along and enjoy a sausage sizzle, plant pest and disease Q&A, a Kokedama workshop, kid’s activities, plants galore and more!
Money raised will help fund the expansion of STEPS Nursery to allow for a greater variety of plants and more opportunities to give back to the community.

Date 25/02/2017
Time 9am to 4pm, BBQ all day. Main Plant Swap 1pm – 3pm. Kokedama workshop at 11am and plant pest and disease experts on hand from 12:30pm.
Location STEPS Nursery, 9 George St, Caloundra (additional parking on Ulm St.)

Want to swap some things from your garden?  We have just a few important rules to remember.

• Plants need to be in a container
• Label plants as best you can
• Plants should be well watered
• Pest and disease free plants only
• Established plants or cuttings are preferred
• You will receive a token for each plant you bring to redeem for a plant of your choice
• Bring boxes, bags or trays to help you get your new plants home
• Any remaining plants at the end of the day will be donated to STEPS Nursery

Date  29/04/2017
Time  All day event
Cycle from Toowoomba to Mooloolaba  
Price  $250

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Date  17/03/17
Time  12pm – 3:30pm
Venue  The Lakehouse Sunshine Coast, 15 Freshwater Street, Mountain Creek
Price  $150pp or $1500 table of 10, includes: 2 courses, cheese platter and 3.5hr drinks package (beer, wine & soft drink)
RSVP  10/03/17 to STEPS Charity on 5458 3028

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But you won’t just see plants growing here, you will also find a busy bunch of students, volunteers and people with a disability who all come to the garden to gain work experience, learn new skills, socialise and work as part of a team.

A quiet stroll around our gardens and it’s clear to see why George Street Nursery and other community gardens are thriving. The needs of people from all corners of the community are all met within the grounds, from the retired volunteers who come to socialise, to the school groups who love to get their hands dirty every week and the visitor searching for that elusive native they haven’t been able to find anywhere else.

The sense of pride in the work and accomplishments among volunteers and school groups is obvious – commonly in the form of the quiet contented look on their faces, other times with more obvious smiles beaming from ear to ear – knowing that the hard work they put in now will have rewarding results in the weeks and months to come.

What we’re most proud of is our community feel. In a day and age where community is constantly being diluted from our lives, the pride in community is obvious in the atmosphere. It’s the common bond among regular volunteers and school groups, but also the successful ingredient that is bringing more and more visitors every day.

The age old saying ‘you reap what you sow’ has obvious meaning within a nursery. We’ve taken that sentiment within the community, we believe that in giving to the community we are also receiving from the community. Every single day, the generous people of our community are donating seeds, bulbs and cuttings of all sorts of weird, wonderful and exotic plants from all over. It’s a great thing to be a part of.

The George Street Nursery is open 8:30am to 4:30pm Monday – Saturday.

The Nursery has some fantastic and proactive volunteers who have developed an educational, interactive garden area. Thanks largely to the funds received from this grant, this area will soon boast a wood-fired pizza oven and timber nest boxes, it is hoped that this will be used by local schools as an educational facility as well as being open to all who wish to visit and enjoy the experience.

Members of the public can visit the gardens and purchase fresh home grown vegetables and a range of healthy native & domestic plants at very reasonable prices. STEPS Charity Manager, Cheryl McGrath said, “People love to come in and have a look, purchase stock and help out in the garden. They just enjoy being part of the wonderful community spirit and camaraderie that thrives in the Nursery”.

The George Street Community Nursery has hosted two recent training programs and students have contributed a great deal to the upgrade and productivity of the Nursery, increasing stock numbers and maintaining current stock in excellent condition.

Potting up plants, mixing potting media, propagation with seed and cuttings, weeding, pruning and general safe work practices were just some of the skills that TAFE students walked away with after their time at the Nursery. Three of the participants will be going onto further training in Horticulture and Conservation and Land Management

Photos here are of the graduation of our first training participants who worked towards a Certificate II in Construction Pathways.

Facility upgrades and training programs were funded by the Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations through the Local Employment Coordinator Flexible Funding Pool.

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Photos

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The George Street nursery, which began as a Council facility, enjoys a proud 15 year heritage of hosting hundreds of trainees, volunteers and participants within a funded horticultural program.

Together with partners BARUNG Land Care and Smart City Training, STEPS will continue the proud tradition at the facility through a reinvigorated ‘sustainable social business venture’. STEPS and its business partners will combine to make the nursery a hive of activity, hosting disability employment activities, community training and work experience programs and environmental initiatives.

BARUNG Land Care will provide expertise in operational and nursery planning, environmental planting, seed collection and local market knowledge to the business, along with green educational and volunteer programs. Smart City will provide qualified horticulture trainers who will oversee a new planting program, and also other professional services to ensure the nursery becomes a sustainable venture and participants are assisted along their career path. “This partnership will be a win/win situation for all parties,” said STEPS’ Business Opportunity Manager, Greg Poultney. “We are laying solid foundations for a community native plant nursery we can all be proud of.”