108 Bargara Rd
Bundaberg East, Qld, 4670
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the vital importance of community engagement and collaboration in addressing and overcoming the challenges of gender-based violence, as highlighted in our podcast episode 7 featuring Jo Leverett from the Zonta Club of Bundaberg.
By Tanya O'Shea, Managing Director, IMPACT Community Services
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, spanning from November 25 to December 10, brings global attention to an issue that’s often concealed in the shadows until it's tragically too late—gender-based violence.
Statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare on gender-based violence in Australia are alarming to say the least:
IMPACT Community Services is passionate about this movement, which aims to do more than just raise awareness about gender-based violence; it seeks to create a lasting and positive change that echoes throughout societies.
In our most recent STRONGER TOGETHER Podcast (Episode 7), I sat down with Jo Leverett, Zonta Club of Bundaberg board member and Zonta Advocacy Committee chair, to discuss the importance of community engagement and collaboration in preventing and eliminating gender-based violence.
Our conversation shone light on the indomitable spirit of those who have turned personal tragedy into powerful advocacy. The heart-wrenching stories of Hannah Clarke and Allison Baden-Clay, as shared by their families, emphasise the pressing need for societal change, inspiring legislative reforms such as the landmark legislation on coercive control in Queensland.
Over the 16 Days of Activism, the Zonta Club of Bundaberg’s projects, such as ringing bells to honour the victims of gender-based violence or lighting up fig trees in orange, are powerful expressions of support and memory.
Yet, our responsibilities extend beyond symbolic gestures. We must continually challenge ourselves and our community to recognise and address all forms of violence, broadening our understanding and language to encompass the diverse experiences of individuals facing violence and oppression.
As we approach the Day of Community on December 8, we extend an invitation for everyone to gather in Buss Park. Wear orange, symbolising a brighter future, and make the pledge to a future free from all forms of violence.
Our strength lies in unity; together, we can be the change. Remember, if the discussions in this column resonate with you, support is available. Contact Lifeline at 13 11 14 or visit impact.org.au for additional resources.
IMPACT Community Services Limited (IMPACT) is a high profile, community owned organisation supporting the most vulnerable and marginalised members of our community. Since 1978, we have been supporting local people experiencing disadvantage, poverty and exclusion. Our vision is to improve lives. IMPACT is also a Child Safe Organisation committed to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.
We are recruiting multiple Support Workers, in both permanent part-time and on contract basis within our Family Mental Health Support Service and Positive Start Parenting Program.
The Family Mental Health Support Service and Positive Start Parenting Program provide early intervention and support to assist children and young people with or at risk of developing mental health concerns.
As a Support Worker, you will:
To enjoy this role, you will have:
Our offer to you
Our benefits include:
To find out more, view our Position Description
How to apply
Submit your application today and provide your:
IMPACT welcomes all applications, including from Indigenous Australians, people with a lived experience of mental health concerns and recovery, a disability, those who identify as LGBTIQ+ and from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
We believe that diversity in our workplace makes us stronger and we provide equal opportunity to all. IMPACT is proud to be an INCLUSIVE EMPLOYER 2022-2023 with the Diversity Council Australia. Selection for all vacancies is made on the basis of merit.
The successful applicant will be required to obtain background checks prior to employment, including a Working with Children Check and an NDIS Worker Screening clearance.
Your application will include the following questions:
IMPACT Community Services Limited (IMPACT) is a high profile, community owned organisation supporting the most vulnerable and marginalised members of our community. Since 1978, we have been supporting local people experiencing disadvantage, poverty and exclusion. Our vision is to improve lives. IMPACT is also a Child Safe Organisation committed to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.
The Family Mental Health Support Service provides early intervention and support to assist children and young people with or at risk of developing mental health concerns.
We are recruiting multiple Support Workers in Bundaberg, in both permanent part-time and on contract basis.
As a Support Worker, you will:
To enjoy this role, you will have:
Our offer to you
Our benefits include:
To find out more, view our Position Description
How to apply
Submit your application today Via Seek and provide your:
IMPACT welcomes all applications, including from Indigenous Australians, people with a lived experience of mental health concerns and recovery, a disability, those who identify as LGBTIQ+ and from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
We believe that diversity in our workplace makes us stronger and we provide equal opportunity to all. IMPACT is proud to be an INCLUSIVE EMPLOYER 2022-2023 with the Diversity Council Australia. Selection for all vacancies is made on the basis of merit.
The successful applicant will be required to obtain background checks prior to employment, including a Working with Children Check and an NDIS Worker Screening clearance.
Your application will include the following questions:
IMPACT Community Services Limited (IMPACT) is a high profile, community owned organisation supporting the most vulnerable and marginalised members of our community. Since 1978, we have been supporting local people experiencing disadvantage, poverty and exclusion. Our vision is to improve lives. IMPACT is also a Child Safe Organisation committed to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.
Our Customer Service Officer - Administration provides an exceptional customer experience for everyone who contacts the customer service team based at our Bundaberg head office. As the first point of contact, you will be the ambassador of our vision, mission and values.
The role of Customer Service Officer – Administration has a primary focus of:
You will do this by:
Our offer to you:
To enjoy this role, you will have:
How to apply
Submit your application Via SEEK today and provide your:
IMPACT welcomes all applications, including from Indigenous Australians, people with a lived experience of mental health concerns and recovery, a disability, those who identify as LGBTIQ+ and from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
We believe that diversity in our workplace makes us stronger and we provide equal opportunity to all. IMPACT is proud to be an INCLUSIVE EMPLOYER 2022-2023 with the Diversity Council Australia. Selection for all vacancies is made on the basis of merit.
The successful applicant will be required to obtain or provide prior to employment, a Working with Children clearance and an NDIS Worker Screening clearance.
Your application will include the following questions:
In our latest podcast episode, we are thrilled to bring you an exclusive conversation with an extraordinary athlete, 5 time Olympian Nat Cook. Known for her remarkable journey in the world of sports, Nat shares invaluable insights that transcend the boundaries of the volleyball court, offering lessons in resilience, determination, and the power of a winning mindset.
Nat Cook's story is not just about athletic prowess; it’s a narrative of relentless perseverance. From her early days watching the Commonwealth Games to conquering the sands of beach volleyball arenas, Nat’s journey is a compelling testament to what the human spirit can achieve. In this episode, she opens up about her inspirations, challenges, and the moments that shaped her into a gold medallist.
For Nat, resilience is not just a concept; it's a lived experience. She delves into how resilience powered her through rigorous training, competitive pressures, and the highs and lows of an elite sporting career. Her stories provide a blueprint for anyone looking to foster resilience in their own lives, whether in sports, business, or personal challenges.
What does it take to think like a champion? Nat Cook breaks down the 'Olympic mindset' — a unique blend of focus, discipline, and positivity that can be applied far beyond the Olympics. She shares strategies for maintaining this mindset, overcoming setbacks, and setting the stage for success in any endeavour.
Building Bridges with Community and Legacy Nat’s commitment to her sport extends beyond her personal achievements. She discusses her initiatives like Athletes Australia view at Green and Gold Athletes, aimed at supporting young athletes facing barriers. This part of the conversation highlights the importance of giving back, mentorship, and creating pathways for the next generation of champions.
Inspirational Takeaways for Everyday Champions Whether you’re an aspiring athlete, a professional facing career hurdles, or simply someone looking for a dose of motivation, this podcast episode with Nat Cook is a treasure trove of wisdom. Her story is a reminder that with the right mindset, resilience, and support, achieving your dreams is within reach.
As Nat puts it, the journey to gold is about much more than medals; it's about the lessons learned, the lives touched, and the legacy left behind. Tune in to our latest episode and let yourself be inspired by one of the most resilient champions of our time.
In this enlightening Stronger Together episode, we tackle the often overlooked topic of men's mental health with our esteemed guest, Aaron Schultz, founder of the Outback Mind Foundation. Aaron's insights shine a spotlight on the unique challenges faced by men in today's fast-paced society, particularly those grappling with the unpredictability of shift work and other modern-day pressures.
Drawing from his extensive experience and personal journey, Aaron underscores the significance of aligning with the Earth's natural circadian rhythms. He believes that by attuning ourselves to these inherent patterns, men can find a more harmonious mental space, even amidst the complexities of contemporary life.
We further discuss a myriad of actionable strategies for maintaining balance and mental wellness. From the grounding effects of nature and the calming benefits of stretching, Aaron offers practical techniques to help men release tension and achieve inner tranquillity. The conversation also touches on the vital role employers and communities play in creating supportive environments for men's mental wellbeing.
Emphasising the importance of community-wide efforts, Aaron passionately advocates for a collective approach in addressing and de-stigmatising men's mental health issues. This episode serves as a poignant reminder of our shared responsibility to uplift and support men in their journey towards mental harmony.
Welcome to "Stronger Together", a transformative podcast experience that delves deep into the fabric of community wellbeing and individual resilience. Hosted by Tanya O'Shea, Managing Director of IMPACT with a bachelor's degree in psychology, and Kate Rumballe, IMPACT's Communications Officer with over two decades of experience as a journalist and communications professional.
This series is a lifeline for those in need.
In this gripping episode, we tackle the often taboo and deeply unsettling topic of Domestic and Family Violence. We're joined by Emily, a courageous survivor willing to share her harrowing journey from the clutches of abuse to the path of recovery. Her story is a stark reminder that domestic violence doesn't discriminate; it could be happening right next door.
Emily's narrative begins seven years ago when she met a man who seemed like the epitome of charm and kindness. However, the facade soon crumbled, revealing a cycle of coercive control and escalating violence that culminated in life-threatening situations. Emily's story is not just a tale of survival but also a call to action. With alarming statistics indicating that last year alone, 57 women lost their lives to domestic violence, and this year, the count has already reached 35, the episode underscores the urgent need for community intervention and systemic change.
But what about the bystanders? This episode also addresses the crucial role that friends, family, and even strangers can play in breaking the cycle of abuse. Domestic violence is not just a private issue; it's a community crisis that requires collective action. Bystanders have the power to intervene, offer support, and even save lives. Whether it's noticing the signs, offering a listening ear, or taking steps to ensure someone's safety, your actions could make a world of difference.
This episode is an eye-opener. We discuss the grim statistics, the laws around coercive control, and the steps that each one of us can take to make a difference. We also provide resources for immediate support, making it a comprehensive guide for anyone affected by or working in the field of domestic violence.
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If you are concerned for the immediate safety of yourself or someone else, please call 000 for emergency assistance.
In an era overshadowed by mental health challenges, this month's "Stronger Together" podcast by IMPACT Community Services is a call to action.
Host Tanya O'Shea challenges organisations, mental health experts, and community leaders. It's not just about recognising mental health issues; it's about taking action against the growing crisis.
We're joined by Jannene Thorn, Manager for Mental Health at IMPACT. Together, they highlight the crucial role of Peer Support Workers. These individuals, shaped by their personal journeys and compassion, bridge the gap between those facing challenges and the support they need.
Why is peer support so vital? And how can organisations leverage it for real change? We address these questions, emphasising the need for systemic shifts and shared responsibility. Are you struggling with your mental health or stuck on a waiting list? This episode will give you insight into navigating the mental health system, and how you can access support while you wait.
It's not just about recognising the mental health challenges; it's about taking proactive steps to address the escalating mental health crisis.
Introduction: This case study examines the experience of a distressed and suicidal adult living in a regional town who faced significant challenges in accessing timely mental health support. The individual eventually sought assistance from IMPACT Community Services. The case study highlights the barriers encountered by the individual and the steps taken by IMPACT to address them, ultimately leading to the client’s successful recovery and relocation.
Case Description: The adult, residing in a regional town, embarked on a 3 hour drive seeking help at the nearest Mental Health Unit. Unfortunately, they were turned away and referred to another community organisation, which also denied assistance, citing that they lived out of their catchment area. This rejection left the individual (and their partner) feeling hopeless and further exacerbated their distress. Recognising the urgency of the situation, a Mental Health Support Worker from IMPACT engaged with the individual the day they presented and continued their support the following day.
Challenges Faced: One of the significant challenges encountered by the individual was the extended wait time to access professional mental health services. Despite any immediate referral from IMPACT for evaluation, the adult would have to endure up to a 7-week wait to secure an appointment with a psychologist. This delay in care, coupled with their distressed and vulnerable mental state, added to their distress and increased the risk of self-harm.
Intervention and Support: IMPACT Community Services played a crucial role in bridging the gap between the individual and mental health services. Recognising the urgency, IMPACT de-escalated the client ensuring their immediate safety and stabilisation, established a safety plan, supported their access to the nearest Mental Health Unit (+/-150kms) managing their expectations and promoting their ongoing engagement and access to treatment and medication. The Mental Health Support Worker also supported the individual throughout their relocation process, recognising the potential benefits of a change in environment for their overall wellbeing.
Outcome: Through the unwavering support provided by IMPACT and their partner, the adult successfully navigated the challenges they faced. The combination of ongoing engagement with a Mental Health Support Worker, access to treatment, and engagement with a appropriate services led to the individual’s improved mental health. With the support of IMPACT, the individual made the decision to move out of the region, providing a fresh start and additional opportunities for growth.
Conclusion: This case study underscores the critical importance of accessible and responsive mental health services, particularly in regional areas where resources may be limited. Despite initial rejections and lengthy wait times, the individual in this case found solace and recovery through the timely intervention and support provided by IMPACT. This case highlights the significance of non-clinical support in filling gaps in mental health care and the potential positive outcomes when individuals receive comprehensive support tailored to their needs.
This further emphasises the need for continued efforts to improve mental health care accessibility and reduce barriers to timely intervention in regional communities.
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This month, we address the current challenges that many people are facing, such as the rising cost of living. Sandy shares practical strategies and tips on managing finances and improving financial fitness.
We also discuss the importance of open conversations about money and seeking support from financial counselors.
Sandy provides insights on how to make small changes that can lead to big impacts over time, and shares ideas on finding joy and creativity within a limited budget. We also explore strategies for tackling debt and making proactive choices to improve one's situation.
Additionally, we touch on the topic of homelessness and discuss practical strategies for individuals and families in these circumstances, such as obtaining quality tents and accessing gym facilities for showers and other amenities.
Join us as we delve into these important topics and provide valuable resources and ideas to help individuals and families navigate through challenging financial situations. Remember, we're all in this together, and together we can become stronger.
In this captivating podcast, join our hosts Tanya and Kate as they delve into the complex and timely topic of mental wellbeing. Coming out of the challenging times of COVID and facing various crises, many individuals are struggling with their mental health. However, mental wellbeing is not always easily understood or visible. Through insightful conversations, Tanya and Kate explore what mental wellbeing truly means and how it can be nurtured.
Drawing from their experiences at Impact, they discuss the use of simple scales, such as the flourishing scale, to understand and articulate mental wellbeing. They shed light on the importance of connections and purposeful living, emphasising the impact of social relationships, personal competence, and optimism for the future.
The hosts also examine the role of technology in mental wellbeing, acknowledging its potential to both hinder and support flourishing. They explore the detrimental effects of doomscrolling and offer practical strategies to regain control, such as disrupting patterns and engaging in digital detox. Small changes can make a significant difference in breaking free from negative loops and reclaiming agency over our lives.
With the aim of helping listeners move towards a state of flourishing, Kate and Tanya delve into the concept itself. They delve into the research that shows only a small percentage of individuals are flourishing, while a larger portion languish. The hosts passionately discuss practical steps that can be taken daily to enhance mental wellbeing and step into a flourishing state.
Join Kate and Tanya on this transformative podcast journey as they empower listeners to understand their mental wellbeing, disrupt harmful patterns, and navigate the path towards flourishing. Take control and prioritise your mental health to live your best life. Thank you for listening to this episode of "Stronger Together" We hope you enjoyed the conversation and gained valuable insights.
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Tanya O'Shea, the Managing Director of IMPACT Community Services, has been honoured with the Outstanding Leader Award (greater than $3million revenue) at the inaugural Not-For-Profit Leadership Awards, recognising her visionary leadership on a national scale.
This prestigious accolade highlights Mrs O’Shea’s remarkable contributions to empowering communities and driving positive change.
Under her leadership, IMPACT Community Services has become a beacon of hope, providing essential support to thousands of individuals facing disadvantage, poverty, or exclusion. Her visionary leadership has helped inspire IMPACT’s more than 200 staff who deliver services across the Bundaberg, Wide Bay, Burnett and Discovery Coast regions.
“I am honoured to receive the Outstanding Leader Award,” Mrs O'Shea said.
“To win this category, it’s awesome.
“This recognition is a testament to the unwavering dedication of the remarkable team at IMPACT who work tirelessly to improve the lives of those in need.”
In accepting the award Mrs O’Shea reflected on the transformative growth journey that leadership has enabled, acknowledging the challenges leaders face while emphasising the ultimately rewarding nature of the role.
She also mentioned that when the opportunity to apply for the award arose, her focus was more on crucial funding opportunities than personal recognition, as financial viability is paramount in the non-profit sector. She said however going through the nomination process for this award was a reminder of the importance of pausing and reflecting on her own leadership.
The win underscores the importance of fostering an inclusive workplace culture and prioritising self-care, knowledge sharing, and staff development.
Mrs O’Shea has also established WellCalm Leaders, a mentoring practice dedicated to empowering leaders to unlock their full potential while maintaining self-leadership within their personal and professional life.
She said the challenges facing the not-for-profit sector, which represents 11% of the Australian workforce and equates to more than 1.47M people, were more complex than she had ever seen in her 24 years working in this space.
“Prioritising self-care is more important than ever for today’s leaders,” Mrs O’Shea said.
The other finalists in the Outstanding Leader category (greater than $3million revenue) were from national organisations, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists and Social Ventures Australia.
The Not-For-Profit Leadership Awards, provided by the Australian Scholarships Foundation, serve as a platform to honour exceptional leaders who strive to create a better future for communities across Australia. The winners undergo a rigorous evaluation process based on their contributions to the sector, as assessed by their peers.
Meanwhile, earlier this month Mrs O’Shea launched IMPACT’s new Stronger Together podcast which investigates the everyday challenges people currently face, providing insightful tips and techniques on how to retain/regain control. The first episode explores the little things we can all do to improve our mental wellness. Stronger Together Podcast Series - Impact Community Services
Samantha Russell is a proud new mum who works at IMPACT’s New Image Laundry.
Sam is an integral part of the team and has made incredible progress both personally and professionally in the four years since she started work at the laundry.
“Early in my life I developed a panic disorder which was quite hard to deal with. It got so bad I wasn’t comfortable leaving the house,” Sam said.
“Looking back, I was in a really hard spot, but I’m so proud of how far I’ve come.”
New Image Laundry is one of IMPACT’s social enterprises, designed to help people maintain employment by providing a supported working environment.
Laundry manager Daniel Leary said when Sam first started she was quiet, unassuming and had been unemployed for an extended period of time.
“Now, she’s just blossoming,” he said.
“It’s just wonderful to see how Sam’s confidence has grown – both at work and as a Mum but it hasn’t been without its challenges.”
There was a stage where Sam had given up on the ability to work and drive because she was too anxious.
“I thought about how we could help Sam, so I connected her with some of IMPACT’s other programs – Mental Health and the Cooee Group.
“One of our Mental Health Support Workers Wendy Lindeman really took Sam under her wing and guided her through the difficult time.”
Sam said IMPACT and the laundry team were extremely supportive and assisted her to get the help she needed to get back on track.
“The laundry staff are like a second family to me,” she said.
“I know that I’m supported here and that it’s a safe environment that I can come to, even if I’m having a bad day.
“IMPACT has helped me learn new and different skills, develop coping mechanisms and work through my challenges.
“It’s been great to talk to other people who face similar struggles and learn about what they do to cope.”
Danny said Sam has improved immensely over the last few years and is now a Quality Control Supervisor, which plays an important role in the business.
“Sam is great at what she does and is pivotal in ensuring the laundry is maintaining its customer base,” he said.
“Without quality, we don’t have customers and without customers, we don’t have a business.
“Sam is always the one that steps up and helps without being asked, she just takes it on her own shoulders.
“When you look at where Sam was four years ago compared to now, it’s truly a great success.
“Down the track I can see Sam being a wonderful mentor for people working through similar challenges.
“I’m incredibly proud of Sam and am excited to see what the future has in store for her.”
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses fear and self-reflection.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
What are you afraid of? Heights, snakes, flying?
All of these fears are valid, and very common amongst us. But what about when it comes to your day-to-day life? Is fear holding you back from doing something you want to do? Perhaps it is related to a relationship, work, or study.
Fear, like all emotions, is the physical sensation that we experience when biochemical and electrical chain reactions occur within our body.
Yet here’s the thing.
Our brain can’t distinguish between what we imagine and what is real. Perhaps we hear a noise and start imagining someone is breaking into our home. Our brain starts producing stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol to prepare us to fight or run – it is part of our human wiring to keep us safe and survive dangerous situations.
But when fear becomes a driving force in decision-making where the stakes are considerably less life-threatening, we need to evaluate exactly what is causing our fear and why.
We need to determine whether what we fear is an immediate threat or a legacy of our past that we continue to carry with us. Maybe it is fear of rejection, failure, or judgement that is preventing us from making a change or pursuing an interest.
Often, we know what we should do, but fear paralyses us or holds us back.
We look for answers and confirmation everywhere but within. And it is why we are never truly satisfied, nor do we find peace in the opinions of others.
What is one thing that you would do today, if you knew that you couldn’t fail?
Time to get real.
What is holding you back from doing it?
Is it fear? If so, are you going to be in danger if you do it?
If not, you have given yourself a green light to get clear about what is driving that fear and how you start putting strategies in place to overcome it.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses self care plans and why we struggle to enact them.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
The human capacity for creating and upholding habits and routines is incredibly fascinating – and the adoption of positive wellbeing practices, and lack thereof, is no exception.
For the most part, we know what’s good for our wellbeing, physical and mental health, or we know where to find out more information.
We know that we should be getting adequate sleep each night, eating healthy, drinking water, taking time for ourselves – and yet, more and more people are feeling tired, burnt out and stressed.
What is contributing to this rising mental health crisis people are facing and are self-care plans the answer? Or do they simply add to the stress?
People know what self-care’s important and yet seldom is it enacted or upheld.
10 years ago, amid a busy professional and personal life with two children, study for multiple degrees and board services, I found myself completely exhausted daily.
It took my GP telling me a stroke weas in my immediate future if I didn’t address the effect that stress, and pressure was having on my life – so I got to making a change.
With wellbeing a constant practice in my life, I’m exploring what motivates and disciplines others.
What I’m most curious to know now is, why? Why are people struggling to maintain and implement a self-care plan in their life when it is designed to make daily life a little less stressful.
Do we have a proclivity for self-sabotage, do we feel time poor, do we feel selfish for prioritising ourselves?
This is an area I am eager to investigate in an upcoming project and I would appreciate your help, should you’d be inclined to share.
Questions will relate to what you know about self-care and whether you actively engage in maintaining your wellbeing.
This is not a criticism, but an exploration of local perspectives on mental health, self-care plans, the challenges of a self-care plan, and what more could be done to make a bigger difference in your life?
If you would like to contribute, please visit www.impact.org.au and complete the survey on our home page at Self-care and wellbeing survey - Impact Community Services.