Across Sydney and the Central Coast we have over 150 current pairings, with more than 75 buddies and 400 volunteers still waiting on a match.
Having so many matches means we have plenty of stories to tell. As such, last month we launched a new feature entitled the ‘Gig Buddies volunteer vault’.
Here’s how our new column works: simply, we invite a current volunteer to talk about their experiences with the project.
Megan kicked off proceedings in July and today it’s the turn of Dean, pictured below (L) alongside buddy Andrew (R).
- How long have you been volunteering with Gig Buddies?
I’ve been volunteering with Gig Buddies for just over four years now.
- Is Gig Buddies your first volunteering role?
l have done one-off days of volunteering here and there, but Gig Buddies is my first committed volunteering role.
- Why do you volunteer with Gig Buddies?
At the time of signing up for Gig Buddies, I was looking around at all volunteering opportunities but Gig Buddies stood out the most. I love the flexibility of the volunteer work and, having family members who have learning disabilities, it seemed like a no brainer.
- How would you describe your volunteering experience with Gig Buddies?
Volunteering for Gig Buddies has been a fantastic experience.
I've been paired with my buddy Andrew since I first signed up with Gig Buddies and throughout the time we have done some pretty fun and exciting things that neither of us have experienced before.
Being a full time employee and working 10+ hour days can also sometimes be difficult to fit in volunteering, but Gig Buddies is incredibly flexible and can work with my schedule.
- Tell us about some of the highlights from your time volunteering with Gig Buddies?
Apart from becoming great friends with Andrew, some highlights are: taking Andrew clubbing for the first time, seeing Toto live, going to the Picton Train Festival and donating blood together (below), just to name a few.
- What would you say to someone reading this who is thinking about volunteering with Gig Buddies?
If volunteering is something that you're looking to get in to, Gig Buddies is in my opinion the best.
You are free to be yourself and can easily work around your busy schedule. It's a great organisation with a great community. The connections you build will easily last a life time.
"….Gig Buddies is incredibly flexible and can work with my schedule….”
We hope Dean’s story resonates with our existing volunteers - and with those who are also thinking about signing up.
Our Gig Buddies volunteer vault runs on the last Monday of each month. We look forward to sharing another viewpoint in September.
Are you looking to volunteer?
We need volunteers! Click on the image above for current roles on the Central Coast and the graphic below for opportunities in Sydney.
If you have any questions or would like more information, contact us via Facebook or email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org
Spring into action
We’re down to the final few tickets for our two musical outings in September.
As a reminder, on Saturday 17th we invite you to join us either on the Central Coast for their free concert, featuring Dan Sultan and other acts, or head west and hit up Workers Blacktown for an 80s offering.
For more information, including how to reserve your spot, load up the event links below.
Please note, our comedy catch up at Kirribilli Club (8/9) and Bus Stop Films movie night (13/9) have both sold out.
If you have any questions about our forthcoming events, get in touch: we can be reached via Facebook Messenger, email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org or via text or phone call on 0411 252 228.
Go west
On the subject of our catch ups, thanks to everyone who ventured west last Thursday for our Western Sydney hub launch.
We headed to Dooleys Lidcombe where we were joined by buddies, volunteers, parents and support workers.
On the night attendees met the Gig Buddies team, while also finding out more about who we are and what we do. It was wonderful to connect with so many people.
If you attended and would like to sign up, load up the links below. Likewise, if you reside within the area and would like to join us or find out more about the Gig Buddies project, head to our website: www.gigbuddiessydney.org
Finally, to see more photos from Thursday’s Western Sydney hub launch, click here.
Each and every week we invite buddies to connect with us for our weekly chat.
Our chats take place via Zoom. To attend get in touch via text: 0422 061 990 or Facebook Messenger.
Welcome, welcome
Last Wednesday night was a hoot - thanks to everyone who joined us in Zetland for drag bingo.
Say hello to Ryan and Craig (above, L - R). It’s great to have you on board and we look forward to hearing about your forthcoming catch ups.
Prepped and ready to go
Additionally, we’re delighted to showcase our latest batch of trained volunteers.
Thanks to Ellyce and Beth (above, L - R) for joining us on Zoom on last Friday.
Are you in the market for Gig Buddies’ merchandise?
Click on the image above to get your fill on Gig Buddies goodies. If we haven’t got the size you’re after, get in touch via text: 0422 061 990 or Facebook Messenger.
COVID-19 Vaccinations update
The NSW Chief Health Officer has extended the current exemption that allows workers (and volunteers) who have received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine to continue to work if they have been assessed as being essential to the operation of the service.
All workers (and volunteers) who have not yet received their booster must also take reasonable steps to get the booster as soon as practical. The exemption has been extended to September 6 2022.
If you haven’t done this yet, it’s important that you send the latest copy of your vaccination certificate to Gig Buddies ASAP. The certificate must show the dates on which you have received all THREE doses of the COVID vaccine.
Similarly, for those who have been granted an exemption from a medical professional, we require a copy of any relevant documentation.
You can access your vaccination certificate through your Medicare or MyGov account. Please send this certificate to info@gigbuddiessydney.org or via text/WhatsApp it to 0411 252 228.
Matthew Collins
Gig Buddies Central Coast coordinator
Would you like more information about Gig Buddies Central Coast? You’re only a click away. Connect with us via the links below.
Fancy revelling in legendary status? If so, please support us in our cause to get more people out to live events in Sydney.
Donations over $2 are tax deductible and all are gratefully received.
Gig Buddies Central Coast is an initiative of ACL Disability Services.
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