Bill Shorten MP opens Community Hub in Dapto

Customers, staff and partners enjoyed a fun-filled celebration in October as we officially opened our brand-new Dapto Community Hub.

Welcome to country

The day kicked off with a warm welcome from our CEO, Liz Forsyth, who introduced local Elders for a heartfelt Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony. Liz then thanked the Elders and handed over to Northcott Chair, Kirsten Armstrong.

Kirsten commented: “We’ve called it a Community Hub, and we’ve called it a community hub for a reason. Community is absolutely fundamental to Northcott’s Strategic Plan. We want to be purposeful and focused and a real part of our communities.”

Customers have their say

The audience heard some inspiring words from two of our customers Rachel and Jack. Rachel explained the impact of attending programs and receiving support from Northcott has had on her life – giving her new skills and greater independence.

Jack talked about how he started with Skills 4 Life which helped him learn to cook healthy meals and book his own appointments. He has now moved on to Work and Study where he has written a resume and completed work experience in several roles. Jack was followed by a speech from local MP Stephen Jones, who then introduced NDIS Minister Bill Shorten.

It’s going to be the stories that are held here, the conversations that are held here, the hopes and dreams which are excited by the experiences here. This will be a place of hopes. This will be a place where we see the whole person. We’re not opening a building today, we’re creating a village of hope.

Bill Shorten MP

The highlight of the event was the incredible performance by the Dapto High Aboriginal Dance Group and Didgeridoo Group. Their talent and cultural showcase left everyone impressed.

To wrap up, we gave our VIPs a guided tour led by our amazing customers and staff, and presented Bill Shorten with a unique gift of “Shortenbread” specially baked for the occasion.

Everything under one roof in Dapto

The Centre now houses all our Wollongong services under one roof, including Allied Health & Clinical services and Group supports. Housing and Individual supports also operate from the new location

Find out more and take a video tour around the centre here.

Services in Dapto