STRONGER TOGETHER: Integrity—The Quiet Decisions That Define Us

Last updated:
10/02/2025

"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the importance of integrity in professional settings, emphasising that true integrity is about aligning actions with values, even in small, quiet moments of hesitation.

By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea

Tanya O'Shea, IMPACT Community Services Managing Director

The email was ready. All she had to do was hit “send,” and the report would be off her desk and out of her hands. Yet she hesitated. It wasn’t that the report contained untruths—more like some omissions.

Her boss had reassured her it wasn’t a big deal; the client just needed to see progress. But something didn’t sit right. She hesitated, rereading the content, knowing that sending the report as it was would be misleading.

When faced with a choice like this, between what’s easy and what’s right, what would you do?

It was a small moment, an easy decision to justify. But that’s the thing about integrity—it rarely announces itself in grand gestures. More often, it’s found in quiet moments of hesitation, in the split-second choices between what’s right and what’s convenient.

Integrity isn’t just about honesty; it’s about consistency. It’s aligning actions with values, even when no one is watching. It’s keeping your word, owning mistakes, and speaking up when something isn’t right.

It is not about doing what’s popular, avoiding conflict, or bending the truth to fit a narrative. It’s not making excuses, blaming others, or staying silent when something is clearly wrong.

Of course, integrity isn’t always easy. We live in a world that often rewards shortcuts and values success at any cost. In some workplaces, silence is expected, and ethical lapses are overlooked in favour of results. The pressure to conform, to protect one’s job, or to stay in someone’s good graces can make compromise tempting.

But while cutting corners might bring short-term gains, the long-term cost is steep: credibility, trust, and self-respect.

Often the most respected professionals and leaders aren’t necessarily the most successful on paper—they’re the ones known for their character. People may forget achievements, but they remember who they could trust.

So how do we cultivate integrity? It starts with self-awareness. Ask yourself:

In the end, integrity is the foundation of trust, the currency of strong relationships, and the mark of a truly principled professional. It isn’t just about how others see us—it’s about how we see ourselves.

"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses how adopting a scientific mindset of curiosity and adaptability can help us navigate life more effectively by challenging our assumptions and remaining open to new ideas and experiences.

By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea

Tanya O'Shea, IMPACT Community Services Managing Director

In our daily lives, we often operate under a set of assumptions and hypotheses shaped by our upbringing, societal norms, family expectations, and personal experiences. These assumptions can range from how we believe people should behave to what we expect our lives to look like.

While these mental frameworks can provide a sense of stability and predictability, they can also lead to a fixed mindset, limiting our openness to new ideas and experiences.

Consider the assumptions we make about others. For instance, you might believe that a colleague should always be punctual, so when this colleague arrives late, it can be easy to feel frustrated or disappointed.

However, rather than rigidly adhering to this expectation, it's important to remain open and compassionate. What if this person had a personal crisis before work or was involved in a car accident? By considering these possibilities, we can respond with understanding and empathy, rather than judgment.

Similarly, societal and familial expectations can heavily influence our life choices. From a young age, we are often influenced by both implicit and explicit messages about what defines success, happiness, and fulfillment—such as finishing school, going to university or getting a trade, securing a full-time job, getting married, buying a house, and having children.

These messages can shape our career paths, relationships, and even our self-worth. Adhering too strictly to these external expectations, however, can prevent us from exploring alternative paths that might be more aligned with our true selves.

Intrinsically, it can also manifest into feelings of inadequacy, increased stress, and even result in symptoms associated with mental health issues like anxiety and depression. By being overly focused on meeting others’ expectations, we may neglect our own needs and desires, leading to a diminished sense of self-worth and overall wellbeing.

To navigate life more effectively, it can be helpful to adopt a mindset akin to that of a scientist, who develops and tests hypotheses with an open mind, formulating assumptions based on initial observations, before carefully undertaking an experiment and analysing the collated data.

When the results do not align with their initial assumptions, they report their findings, continuing to refine their theories to better reflect reality. This approach demonstrates a genuine willingness to adjust their understanding based on new evidence.

This iterative process of hypothesising, testing and adjusting can also be a valuable model for our personal lives. Applying this approach may help us to be more open and appreciate that often our assumptions are simply flexible guardrails rather than rigid beliefs that require validation or support by others.

Perhaps you followed a particular career path because it was revered by family, and you thought it would bring you happiness - but it doesn’t. Being open to new opportunities may create purpose and lead you to more fulfilling opportunities.

So, while assumptions and hypotheses are a natural part of human cognition, it’s essential to embrace a mindset of curiosity and adaptability.

Just as scientists refine their theories based on new evidence, we too can benefit from remaining open-minded and flexible in our thinking. By adopting this approach, we can better navigate the complexities of our world, leading to a more fulfilling, and purpose-driven life.

"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses how embracing our mortality can motivate us to focus on what truly matters, leading to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea

Tanya O'Shea, IMPACT Community Services Managing Director

Death is a topic we rarely discuss openly, yet its inevitability is a reality we all must face. Denial or avoidance does not alter this fact. For many, mortality often feels like a distant, almost abstract concept, something for our 'future selves' to confront. Yet, embracing our mortality can profoundly influence our behaviours and priorities, empowering us to live more meaningful and fulfilling lives.

In 2009, I commenced my honours thesis examining gambling behaviours, more specifically whether being more aware of your own mortality would increase a person’s urge to gamble. This research opened my own mind to just how differently individuals react when mortality is discussed. There is no doubt that being aware of our own mortality is confronting, yet people react quite differently when faced with it. For some, reflecting on our own mortality is too challenging and they prefer not to think or talk about it. For others, it acts as a powerful motivator.

When we recognise that our time is limited, there is an increased likelihood that we will prioritise what truly matters. Instead of getting caught up in trivial concerns or future anxieties, we become more attuned to the here and now, cherishing our relationships, passions, and experiences. We begin to appreciate the ordinary moments that make up our days. Simple pleasures, like a warm cup of coffee in the morning or a walk in the park, become precious.

Research supports this notion. Studies in the field of psychology suggest that contemplating our mortality can enhance our focus on intrinsic goals—those that are inherently rewarding, such as personal growth, relationships, and community involvement—over extrinsic goals like wealth, fame, or status. This shift can lead to greater life satisfaction and wellbeing.

However, sustaining this focus on what truly matters can be challenging especially when daily responsibilities—managing work, finances, schedules, home, and family commitments—often take precedence over being present.

To counteract this, we can cultivate habits that keep us grounded in the present, such as:

Accepting our mortality can profoundly change the way we live. By embracing the reality of death, we can become more empowered, grateful, and present, while also ensuring we are living our values and making a positive difference on the people and world around us.

As the saying goes, "Yesterday is gone, tomorrow isn't promised, today is a gift." So, let's cherish each moment and strive to live in a way that reflects what truly matters to us.

"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the importance of taking small, consistent steps towards achieving long-term goals, as highlighted by her conversation with Mat Grills on the IMPACT’s Stronger Together podcast.

By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea

Tanya O'Shea, IMPACT Community Services Managing Director

I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Mat Grills for the latest episode of IMPACT’s Stronger Together podcast. Mat is a family man, ultramarathon runner, business owner, community advocate, and all-around local legend. Our conversation was wide-ranging, from health and wellbeing, vegan diets, and training, to careers, time management, overcoming setbacks, and tattoos, but the one theme that truly resonated with me was the importance of taking small steps and repeating them consistently.

Mat shared his insights on how consistency is the foundation of success in any area of life, whether it’s business, athletics, or personal growth. He emphasised that showing up every day, even when it’s challenging, is crucial to achieving long-term goals. “You will not get results, and you won't achieve anything if you do something for a week or a month or six months. Anything worthwhile, you need to be consistent,” Mat explained.

This principle of consistency is something I have experienced firsthand. When I started my gym training, I began with simple resistance bands from Kmart. It took me 12 months of consistent effort before I felt ready to invest in a full home gym. This gradual build-up not only strengthened my physical fitness but also ingrained a habit of perseverance and dedication.

Mat also highlighted the significance of small steps. In a society that often glorifies quick fixes and overnight success, it’s easy to overlook the power of incremental progress. Mat’s approach to coaching new runners is a testament to this. For those that haven't run in some time, he encourages them to start with a five-minute walk or even just putting on their running shoes without leaving the house. Many question it, but he encourages them to “trust the process and start with small steps.” This philosophy extends beyond athletics to all areas of life, including business.

When Mat decided to open a coffee shop, he set a goal to do one or two small tasks each day towards that objective. Whether it was making a phone call, sending an email, or jotting down an idea, these daily actions accumulated over time, leading to the successful launch of his business. “These small steps and daily practices add up over time. Before you know it, you’re that much further down the road,” Mat explained.

In our community services organisation, we often see individuals feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of the challenges in front of them. The fear of failure or the uncertainty of where to start can be paralysing. This is why we advocate for picking one small thing to focus on. This approach not only reduces overwhelm but also creates a ripple effect, gradually transforming other areas of life.

As we embark on a new year, let’s embrace the power of taking that first step, no matter how small. Consistency and small steps may seem simple, but they are the building blocks of lasting change and achievement. Reflecting on Mat’s journey and my own experiences, I am reminded that progress is not always about giant leaps but about the steady, unwavering commitment to taking baby steps—just putting one foot in front of the other.

So, whether you’re starting a new fitness routine, launching a business, or pursuing personal growth, remember that big dreams are built from small beginnings. Doing one small thing every day to take you a step closer towards your goal is important. Trust the process, stay consistent, be patient and celebrate the progress you make along the way. In time, you’ll look back and realise just how far you’ve come.

Raymond Toms began his journey into aged care with trips from Fiji to Australia, where he volunteered up to twice a year for three months at a time through IMPACT Community Services’ Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS).

His time as a volunteer not only brightened the lives of residents but also deeply impacted his own life and career. The ACVVS gave him a chance to form meaningful connections, explore new paths, and make a genuine difference in the lives of older people.

Visits were filled with heartfelt conversations and shared stories.

“The highlight of my experience,” he recalled, “was seeing their smiles and knowing I’d made a difference.”

The connections he formed and the life stories he heard were invaluable, giving him a new perspective on life and grounding him in ways he hadn’t anticipated.

Inspired by his volunteering experience, Raymond pursued a Diploma in Aged Care Nursing in Fiji. However, when he sought employment in Australia, he discovered that his qualifications didn’t meet Australian standards.

Undeterred, he returned to Fiji, completed a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), and then earned a Certificate III in Aged Care from a college in Sydney.

This determination paid off, and Raymond has now been working in the aged care industry for four years, with each step rooted in his volunteering experience.

Raymond’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact volunteering can have on young people. “Just do what your heart tells you and go for it,” he said, encouraging others to follow his path.

“It’s incredibly rewarding.”

Volunteering not only provided him with invaluable experience but also shaped his career and personal growth. 

For young people wanting to make a difference, the ACVVS offers a chance to create meaningful connections and discover new life paths.

Raymond’s journey shows that volunteering can open doors to unexpected opportunities, fostering a sense of purpose, growth, and community along the way.

Interested in volunteering? Contact IMPACT Community Services Aged Care Volunteer Visitor Scheme Coordinator on 0448 035 891 or 07 4153 4233 to find out more and start making a difference today! Volunteers are needed in the Bundaberg, Childers, Monto, Gin Gin, Gayndah, Mt Perry, and Biggenden areas.

"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the emotional roots of procrastination and introduces the “5, 5 or 5” tool as a practical strategy to overcome it.

By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea

Tanya O'Shea, IMPACT Community Services Managing Director

We've all been there – the looming task, the weight of responsibility, yet the feeling of being stuck, unable to get started. It’s a common scenario, yet one that often comes with a sense of guilt or frustration. Why do we procrastinate? And more importantly, what can we do to overcome the inertia that holds us back? Let’s explore the reasons behind procrastination and some practical strategies to reignite motivation, starting with a powerful tool that can help you break the cycle of delay.

The Emotional Underpinnings of Procrastination

Procrastination isn’t just about poor time management or laziness; it’s often deeply tied to emotions. Fear, perfectionism, self-doubt, and even past experiences can all fuel the procrastination habit. When faced with a task, especially one that feels overwhelming or emotionally charged, the brain seeks comfort and safety. It may choose avoidance as a defence mechanism. The discomfort of beginning a task, or the anxiety over its potential outcome, can be enough to make even the most motivated person freeze.

The brain’s resistance to discomfort can trigger a cycle of avoidance, making it even harder to start. Over time, this can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and frustration, which only further deepen the procrastination pattern. The question then becomes: how do we break this cycle?

The 5, 5 or 5 Tool: A Simple Way to Overcome Procrastination

One of the most effective strategies for overcoming procrastination comes from Rebekah Ballagh’s book 101 Ways to Find Calm. In it, she presents the 5, 5 or 5 tool, a simple but powerful method designed to counter procrastination and overwhelm. This tool helps by breaking tasks into manageable chunks, creating small wins, and giving you permission to start small.

5 Seconds – Act Immediately

When you think about a positive action, such as tackling a task, give yourself five seconds to act. Research shows that when you delay taking action, your brain starts rationalising reasons to avoid it. The simple act of counting down from five and starting the task immediately helps you bypass that mental resistance. It might not feel easy, but the sense of achievement and progress you’ll experience after acting quickly is incredibly rewarding. By acting swiftly, you disrupt the cycle of procrastination and create momentum.

5 Things – Break Tasks into Small Steps

When you’re faced with a daunting to-do list, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and paralysed by the sheer volume of work ahead. The 5 Things approach helps by breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Instead of focusing on the big picture, commit to completing just five things. This method makes the task feel less intimidating and often generates the momentum needed to continue. Even if you don’t finish everything on your list, five steps forward is a step in the right direction.

5 Minutes – Start Small and Give Yourself Permission to Stop

One of the most common barriers to motivation is the thought that you have to commit hours to a task before you can take a break. This fear of long, drawn-out work sessions often leads to procrastination. The 5 Minutes rule helps you overcome this. Promise yourself that you will work for just five minutes, and then give yourself permission to stop. Often, once you start, the task becomes easier, and you may be motivated to continue beyond the five-minute mark. If not, you’ve still made progress – and five minutes is better than none.

Moving Beyond Procrastination

Procrastination is a complex issue that often goes beyond simple laziness. It’s rooted in our emotional responses to tasks and the discomfort we feel around them. The 5, 5 or 5 tool offers a structured way to break the cycle, making it easier to start and continue working, even when motivation feels out of reach. Whether you’re dealing with perfectionism, fear of failure, or a mountain of tasks, this tool can help you create the momentum needed to get back on track.

So, next time you find yourself stuck, remember you don’t have to conquer everything all at once. Just take five seconds, five steps, or five minutes, and see where it takes you.

"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the importance of letting go of old habits, negative emotions, and limiting beliefs to make room for new growth and opportunities in the new year.

By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea

Tanya O'Shea, IMPACT Community Services Managing Director

As we usher in a new year, there’s an inherent sense of renewal and possibility in the air. It’s a time to reflect on the past and consider what we’ve been carrying—emotionally, mentally, and even physically. While we often focus on adding new habits, goals, or achievements, this year, the most powerful action we can take may be to let go of what no longer serves us.

“Letting go” is a deceptively simple concept, but in practice, it can be harder than it seems. We tend to cling to things that hold us back—old habits, negative emotions, limiting beliefs, and relationships that no longer nurture us. These attachments can feel like weights, subtly pulling us down, but because they’re familiar, we continue to carry them.

The idea of "letting go" sounds easy enough: simply release the grip. However, letting go is much more nuanced than that. It requires not just releasing something physically, but also understanding why we hold on in the first place.

To help you explore this, try the following exercise for “Letting Go”:

  1. Grab something you can hold in your hand—a small plant, a stone, or any object.
  2. Wrap your hand tightly around it and repeat these instructions to yourself: "Do not let this go." "Hold on tightly." "Do not allow my grip to loosen."
  3. Keep holding for one minute, focusing on the sensation of your grip.
  4. Now, release it. Drop it. Immediately.

What do you notice? Is there a lingering sensation in your hand, a reminder of what you just held on to? Did you hesitate before letting go, even for just a moment? Was there a part of you that wanted to keep holding on, even after you made the decision to release it?

This exercise, inspired by 101 Ways to Find Calm by Rebekah Ballagh, demonstrates a powerful aspect of letting go. It's not just about the physical act of releasing; it’s about understanding the emotional imprint left behind.

When we let go of people, habits, or emotions, we often feel a similar tug—a hesitation, resistance, or a sense of loss—even when we know deep down that it's time to move forward.

As you reflect on this, ask yourself some important questions:

It’s crucial to remember that "what we resist, persists." The more we cling to something out of fear, guilt, or habit, the more tightly it holds us in its grip. “Letting go” isn’t about force—it’s about giving yourself permission to release what no longer serves you, with grace and compassion. The emotions that arise in this process—whether they’re fear, sadness, or even relief—are all valid. Give yourself space to feel them and move through them at your own pace.

This year, as you embark on your journey of growth, don’t just focus on adding new things to your life. Focus on what you’re ready to let go of. By clearing away the dead wood, you’ll make room for healthier habits, more fulfilling relationships, and fresh opportunities to take root and flourish in 2025.

"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses how the relentless pursuit of perfection has infiltrated every aspect of our lives, especially during the festive season, and advocates for embracing “enoughness” and celebrating small victories as we move into the new year.

By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea

Tanya O'Shea, IMPACT Community Services Managing Director

Perfection has become a relentless pursuit, and in many ways, it has overtaken our cultural narrative. What was once a personal ambition has now morphed into a widespread societal expectation, infiltrating every facet of our lives.

Extremism in the quest for flawless outcomes—whether in our careers, appearances, or relationships—has gone mainstream. Now, more than ever, the bar for success seems impossibly high, and for many, it feels like "good enough" just isn’t enough anymore.

This pressure reaches a peak over the festive season, a time traditionally meant for rest, reflection, and connection. But today, the holidays have become another stage for perfectionism.

From idealised family gatherings to the pursuit of the perfect New Year’s resolution, the stakes seem higher than ever. The idea of starting fresh in the new year has become less about small, realistic changes and more about dramatic, immediate transformations.

It’s not enough to just improve; the expectation is that we must radically overhaul our lives in pursuit of an unattainable perfection.

Social pressures play a significant role in perpetuating this cycle. The expectation to have the perfect holiday experience is reinforced by media portrayals and societal norms. Advertisements and social media posts often depict idealised versions of the holidays, creating unrealistic benchmarks that many feel compelled to meet.

Whether it’s the perfect family photo, the ideal gift, or the flawless holiday dinner, the imagery of the "perfect" holiday season is omnipresent. This can lead to a sense of failure or inadequacy when reality inevitably falls short of these lofty ideals.

At the heart of this drive lies a deeper emotional current—insecurities, fears, and anxieties that often go unspoken. Perfectionism becomes a way to avoid facing vulnerability, a way to mask those feelings of self-doubt and fear of judgment.

When we constantly compare ourselves to idealised versions of others, as seen on social media or in advertising, the pressure to perform perfectly becomes all-consuming. These unrealistic standards leave little room for the quiet power of moderation or the acceptance of "good."

This obsession with perfection doesn’t just harm our mental health—it distorts our understanding of progress. Social media and consumer culture have taught us that success must be extreme, that even small victories are insignificant unless they can be showcased in grand, flawless displays.

And as we approach the new year, these expectations feel even more pressing. The idea that we must completely transform ourselves, our lives, and our relationships in a matter of days is not only exhausting—it’s damaging.

As we move into 2025, it’s important to recognise that "good enough" is not a failure. It’s an acknowledgment of our humanity, of the fact that growth, progress, and happiness don’t need to be perfect to be meaningful.

Let’s make this year about letting go of extremism and instead embracing ‘enoughness’, celebrating moments of calm, and enjoying the small, everyday victories that truly define success.

"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses how the Christmas season can evoke both joy and complex emotions, urging us to find balance and meaning amidst the disparities and challenges it brings.

By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea

Tanya O'Shea, IMPACT Community Services Managing Director

The Christmas season often carries the promise of cheer and togetherness: twinkling lights, festive carols, and cherished traditions. For many, it’s a time filled with warmth, nostalgia, and connection. However, the same elements that bring joy can also stir up complex emotions, especially when family dynamics or personal losses come into play.

Christmas has a way of reaching into the corners of our memories, bringing both laughter and tears to the surface. Before working in a community service organisation, I had heard, yet never really paid close attention, to people speaking about Christmas as a negative time of year. Doesn’t everyone celebrate Christmas by relishing in the happy smiling faces of children and families as they welcome gifts and share a feast around a table filled with family and friends?

The reality is that many people in the world, and in fact in this community, are spending Christmas alone because they don’t have any family or friends around. And some won’t be celebrating with a fancy lunch because they are struggling to pay for basic food, rent and electricity.

It is a jarring realisation, that has led to me shifting my priorities at this time of year. The material significance has waned and been replaced by finding ways to spend time with people I love – recognising how blessed my life has been to have had people who have shaped my growth and learning, and with whom I could share my thoughts and experiences.

And while the smell of a roasted ham and the sight of Christmas lights transports me back to a simpler time, I now see the huge disparities that exist within people and families, particularly around this time of year.

Many are dealing with a disparity between their own hopes and expectations and the reality of what is. This uncomfortable truth leaves me conflicted, navigating the mixed feelings of joy and hope with compassion, seeing the pain being experienced by others because of loss of friends and family members due to death, divorce, violence, deployment, incarceration, poor health, estrangement and poor choices.

At no other time of year is there such a concentrated comparison that serves to stir up feelings associated with pain and regret. 

Finding Peace in the Season

Acknowledging these mixed emotions is the first step toward navigating the complexities of the holiday season. Here are some suggestions for finding balance and meaning during this time:

  1. Honour Your Feelings: It’s okay to feel a mix of happiness and sadness. Give yourself permission to grieve, laugh, or even take a step back from traditions that feel too painful this year.
  2. Create New Traditions: If old traditions just bring heartache, consider creating new ones. Host a “Friendsmas,” volunteer at a local shelter, or start a new holiday ritual that brings positivity into your life.
  3. Set Boundaries: Family gatherings can be joyful but also challenging or a source of stress, especially with unresolved conflicts. Politely but firmly set boundaries to protect your emotional wellbeing.
  4. Remember Loved Ones: Incorporate small gestures to honour those you’ve lost. Light a candle, hang an ornament in their memory, or share a favourite story about them during the holiday meal.
  5. Focus on Gratitude: Even amidst sadness, reflecting on the positives in your life—your health, friendships, or small joys—can help shift your perspective.

Reframing the Holidays

Christmas is not a one-size-fits-all experience. For some, it’s a boisterous celebration, while for others, it’s a quiet moment of reflection. Whatever your circumstances, remember that it’s okay to redefine what the season means to you.

Above all, be kind to yourself. The holidays are as much about finding peace within as they are about spreading joy outward. Whether you’re revelling in the memories of family get togethers or navigating the emptiness of loss, know that your feelings are valid, and you’re not alone.

"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the importance of having an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) in Queensland to ensure personal wishes are respected and to support a more efficient healthcare system.

By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea

Tanya O'Shea, IMPACT Community Services Managing Director

It’s not a topic that many of us are eager to discuss, but the importance of having an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) in place cannot be overstated. In Queensland, as in many other places, an EPA is a crucial legal document that ensures your wishes are respected and your affairs are managed if you become unable to make decisions for yourself.

An EPA allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf regarding financial, personal, and health matters. This proactive step can prevent significant stress and confusion for your loved ones during challenging times. Without an EPA, the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) may need to step in to appoint a decision-maker, which can be a lengthy and stressful process.

Recently, I attended a Wide Bay Hospital and Health Services meeting where social workers delivered a compelling presentation on the importance of having an EPA. They highlighted real-life scenarios where the absence of an EPA led to delays in critical decision-making, ultimately affecting patient care and hospital efficiency.

The most obvious advantages of creating an EPA through a solicitor of your choosing is the pre-existing relationship you share. This trusted relationship means your solicitor is already familiar with your values, preferences, and unique circumstances, ensuring that your wishes are more accurately represented and respected, while providing greater peace of mind for you and your loved ones—not something that the standardised QCAT process can replicate.

Equally as important, but less well-known, is the benefit of having an EPA on the healthcare system. When QCAT is not involved, decisions can be made more swiftly, potentially reducing the length of hospital stays. This not only benefits the individual but also alleviates pressure on the healthcare system, freeing up beds for other patients in need.

By encouraging everyone in our community to establish an EPA, we can ensure that personal wishes are respected and that the healthcare system operates more efficiently. It’s a simple yet powerful way to take control of your future and support the broader community.

In Queensland, setting up an EPA is straightforward. It involves completing a form and having it witnessed by an eligible person, such as a justice of the peace, commissioner for declarations, solicitor, or notary public. It’s a small investment of time that can provide immense peace of mind.

So, while it may not be a comfortable topic, talk to your loved ones, friends, and family. Know that setting up an Enduring Power of Attorney is a responsible and caring act. It protects your interests, supports your loved ones, and contributes to a more efficient healthcare system.

"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the Clothesline Project, a powerful visual statement against domestic and family violence, highlighting the importance of raising awareness, community action and support for survivors.

By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea

Tanya O'Shea, IMPACT Community Services Managing Director

Less than a week after bells tolled 101 times in Australia to honour lives lost to gender-based violence this year, two more tragic deaths highlighted the urgency of addressing domestic and family violence (DFV). Hoa Tek Chiem, 69, and his wife, Kim Heang Gau, 68, were killed in Sydney, allegedly by their own son.

This tragic incident serves as yet another heartbreaking reminder of the far-reaching devastation of DFV and the critical need for collective action to end this scourge on Australian society, through raising awareness, fostering understanding, and standing together as a community to say NO to violence.

As part of Zonta Club of Bundaberg’s 16 Days of Activism, IMPACT Community Services hosted a Clothesline Project at Hinkler Central Shopping Centre, from 25-29 November, creating a powerful, visual statement against DFV.

The display featured t-shirts designed by participants from IMPACT’s programs, each telling a unique story of resilience, healing, and hope.

The colours of the shirts carry profound meaning:

In the weeks leading up to the event, participants came together to decorate their shirts during a morning tea hosted by IMPACT. Queensland Police attended to show their support, and the session concluded with a yoga class to promote calm and reflection.

One particularly moving story from the event involved a woman and her son who worked together on a shirt featuring a ship and anchor. For them, the ship symbolised moving forward, while the anchor represented strength and stability. Their creation was a powerful testament to their resilience and their determination to navigate life’s challenges together.

The therapeutic nature of the activity is undeniable. Creating art helps release emotions and offers a sense of control and purpose. Each shirt, whether covered in intricate designs or powerful words, represents its creator’s journey toward healing.

The display invited the community to engage with these deeply personal stories. It fostered awareness and understanding of DFV’s far-reaching impacts while emphasising the strength of those who have endured it.

Members of IMPACT’s Intensive Family Support team were on hand throughout the display to connect with the community and raise awareness through meaningful conversations and the provision of information and resources on this devastating issue.

While the Clothesline Project has concluded, its message remains: we must stand united as a community against DFV, honour those we’ve lost, and support survivors in their healing. Keep these conversations going and let’s work toward ending all kinds of violence for good.

"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya reflects on the deep emotions stirred by the ‘Ringing of the Bells’ ceremony on Day 1 of the Zonta Club of Bundaberg’s 16 Days of Activism campaign, where each toll represents a life lost to gender-based violence in Australia this year.

By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea

Tanya O'Shea, IMPACT Community Services Managing Director

As I sat in Buss Park on what was a solemn Monday, the air was heavy with the weight of remembrance. The day marked the beginning of the Zonta Club of Bundaberg’s 16 Days of Activism campaign, coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

The ‘Ringing of the Bells’ ceremony was about to commence, and each toll would resonate in memory of every woman and child who lost their lives to gender-based violence in Australia this year. The bell tolled 101 times—an alarming and heartbreaking first in triple figures.

The sound of each bell echoed through the park, a stark reminder of the lives cut short, and the families forever changed. As I listened, I reflected on the profound impact this violence has on our community. Each toll was not just a number; it represented a person, a story, a future that was stolen.

Throughout the 16 Days of Activism Campaign, the Zonta Club of Bundaberg has organised various events to raise awareness and promote action against violence.

One of the most poignant events is the Red Shoes Project Art Installation, opening on Saturday, November 30th, behind Fairymead House at the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, Thronhill Street entrance, Bundaberg North.

This is the fourth installation of its kind in Australia, with 500 pairs of shoes painted red by community members, each pair recognising a life affected by domestic and family violence. It’s a powerful visual representation of the impact of violence and a call to action for all who see it.

As the campaign draws to a close on December 10th, we will gather once more in Buss Park for the final ‘Ringing of the Bells’ ceremony. This time, the bells will toll for every woman and child lost to gender-based violence in 2024, including over the past 16 days. The hope is that the number will not have increased, but history tells us otherwise.

Sitting there, I was filled with a mix of sorrow and resolve. The tolling bells were a call to action, a reminder that we must continue to fight for a future where no more lives are lost to violence.

My hope is that one day, we will no longer need to gather in Buss Park for such a sombre occasion. Until then, we must stand together, support one another, and work tirelessly to eliminate gender-based violence from our community.

"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses IMPACT's recognition as one of the Diversity Council of Australia’s Inclusive Employers for 2024-25 and our ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace.

By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea

Tanya O'Shea, IMPACT Community Services Managing Director

As Managing Director of IMPACT Community Services, I am immensely proud to share that we have been named one of the Diversity Council of Australia’s (DCA) Inclusive Employers for 2024-25. This recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering a workplace where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best.

This week, we are also celebrating Inclusion at Work Week (November 18-22). It’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on our achievements and renew our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace. It’s a time to engage in meaningful conversations, share experiences, and learn from each other to further enhance our inclusive practices.

At IMPACT, diversity and inclusion are not just corporate buzzwords; they are the bedrock of our organisational culture. We believe that diversity—the rich mix of people from different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives—enriches our workplace and enhances our ability to serve our community effectively. Inclusion, on the other hand, is about ensuring that this diversity is not only acknowledged but celebrated and integrated into every aspect of our operations.

Our recent recognition by the DCA reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team. The Inclusion at Work survey highlights that 3.0% of our employees identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, 18.2% have a disability, 78.8% are women, 12.0% identify as LGBTIQ+, and 21.2% are over the age of 55. These figures not only surpass national averages but also underscore our commitment to creating a truly representative workforce.

The survey results also reveal that 62% of our employees feel they are part of an inclusive team, compared to 46% in the broader Australian workforce. This is a significant achievement and speaks volumes about the inclusive culture we have cultivated.

Additionally, 59% of our managers are considered highly inclusive, compared to the national average of 31%. These managers are instrumental in fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, differences are celebrated, and inappropriate behaviours are promptly addressed.

As we celebrate this recognition, we remain acutely aware that our journey towards inclusivity is ongoing. There is always room for improvement, and we are committed in our efforts to build an even more inclusive future where every employee feels safe, valued, and included, and that everyone in the community is respected, connected, progressing, and contributing.

For now, though, I want to say thank you to every person in the IMPACT Community Services team for being part of this incredible journey. Your dedication and commitment are unwavering, and by continuing our work, we will further embed the rich characteristics of diversity and inclusion within our families, our workplaces and our broader community.

IMPACT Community Services held an end-of-year event for the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) on 6 November 2024, celebrating volunteers from Bundaberg, Childers and Gin Gin. The event brought together these dedicated individuals to thank them for their remarkable contributions throughout the year.   

In January – September 2024, ACVVS volunteers provided over 5,600 visits to older people in Bundaberg, Gin Gin, Childers, Gayndah, and Monto, offering companionship and connection to those who might feel socially isolated.  

At the celebration, IMPACT recognised the dedication of volunteers with service awards, honouring those who have generously given their time to ACVVS for 1, 2, 5, and 10 years. All other volunteers received appreciation certificates, with some having served more than 10 and even 20 years.   

IMPACT Managing Director Tanya O’Shea, Health and Support General Manager Nancy Oosterhof and ACVVS and ACVVS Coordinator Heather Hinsbey expressed their gratitude at the event.  

"Our volunteers are the heart of this program. Their dedication has brought joy and comfort to hundreds of older people in our community,” Heather said.    

“Through simple acts of kindness - sharing a conversation, playing a game, or just being there to share a cup of tea, our volunteers create connections that truly uplift the spirits of those they visit.  

“Our volunteers also play a vital role in sharing stories across generations, preserving valuable life lessons and experiences that might otherwise be lost.”   

This annual event serves as a special thank you to our volunteers, acknowledging the significant difference they make in the lives of local seniors. Each visit fosters meaningful relationships and enhances the wellbeing of those older people in our community who may suffer from loneliness.   

The End of Year Celebration for our Gayndah and Monto volunteers will be held separately.   

For more information on how to get involved, please contact IMPACT on or 4154 4233 or visit the ACVVS page on IMPACT's website.

"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the profound impact of small acts of kindness in our daily lives and how they create lasting connections and a more compassionate world.

By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea

Tanya O'Shea, IMPACT Community Services Managing Director

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou

These words capture the heart of kindness and its unique ability to leave a lasting impression on the hearts of others, shaping memories and connections that can endure a lifetime. It’s not about grand gestures but the simple, genuine moments that make others feel valued and seen.

In our fast-paced, digitally driven world, the significance of kindness is sometimes overshadowed by the hustle of daily life. Yet it’s often in these small, unassuming acts that we discover the true essence of our shared humanity.

A colleague once shared a story from her childhood that beautifully illustrates this. As the new kid in school, she felt painfully shy and out of place. On her first day, she sat alone at lunch, until a girl from her class came over, sat beside her, and offered half of her sandwich with a warm smile and friendly conversation. That small gesture changed everything; it made her feel seen, welcomed, and valued.

Decades later, she doesn’t remember what they talked about or even what was on the sandwich—but she remembers exactly how she felt. That simple act of kindness left a lasting impact, inspiring her to be a welcoming presence for others.

Kindness is a universal language that transcends barriers, connecting us on a deeply human level—and its impact goes beyond the moment. Research shows that kindness benefits both the giver and the receiver, boosting mood, reducing stress, and fostering well-being. Within communities, kindness becomes a powerful bond, building trust and a sense of belonging across generations, cultures, and socioeconomic lines.

World Kindness Day, celebrated on 13 November 2024, is more than a reminder; it’s an invitation to embrace kindness as a way of life through small, everyday actions that collectively contribute to a more compassionate and understanding world.

Whether it’s a compliment to a colleague, a thank-you to a service worker, or a supportive word to a friend, these moments matter. They create a ripple effect, fostering a world where people feel valued and connected.

Imagine the world we could create if each of us committed to one small act of kindness each day.

So, here’s a challenge for us all: let’s choose kindness—not just for one day, but every day. Kindness has a way of coming back to us, shaping the world around us for the better. With each small act, we can make others feel seen, appreciated, and connected, just as one child’s simple gesture continues to resonate in a heart decades later.

Please note: This website may contain references to, or feature images, videos, and voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have passed away.

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