The ‘vault’ is back. It’s time to shed some light on another of our wonderful volunteers.
This is how our ‘Gig Buddies volunteer vault’ feature works: at the end of each month we invite a current volunteer to talk about their experiences with the project.
Today it’s the turn of Rodrigo, pictured alongside buddy, Stavros (below, L -R).
- How long have you been volunteering with Gig Buddies?
I've been with Gig Buddies for more than two years.
- Is Gig Buddies your first volunteering role?
No. While living in New Zealand I volunteered with SPCA (Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Incorporated), helping with maintaining the centre.
- Why do you volunteer with Gig Buddies?
I moved to Australia a couple of months before joining Gig Buddies. After reading about Gig Buddies online, I thought it'd be an opportunity to make friends.
Looking back now, I can definitely see how much my buddy, Stavros, helped me to meet new people, have new experiences, and explore new parts of the city.
- How would you describe your volunteering experience with Gig Buddies?
Awesome! We have been to soccer games, museums, and Gig Buddies’ events.
It's worth mentioning: Stavros is a rock star! Everywhere we go, people know him!
Nothing compares, however, to the heavy metal concerts we've been to. Stavros is a metalhead! He introduced me to local bands. He knows their members and they are always happy to see us around!
We enjoyed many concerts and we already have plans for many more!
"I started with Gig Buddies looking for friends and ended up having a family!"
- Tell us about some of the highlights from your time volunteering with Gig Buddies
It's true we always have a great time together! And I absolutely love those moments. However, the small conversations and messages are so special to me. Stavros is a kind and lovely person!
I have a six-month-old baby and it has been amazing to see how much Stavros cares about my family and me. The day Stavros and his mum met my little one was so special.
One day, we were at a metal concert and someone asked if we were brothers - we promptly replied "yes"!
- What would you say to someone reading this who is thinking about volunteering with Gig Buddies?
I started with Gig Buddies looking for friends and ended up having a family!
"…. I thought it'd be an opportunity to make friends”
A huge thanks to Rodrigo for sharing his Gig Buddies’ story. We hope his words resonate with our current batch of volunteers, plus those who are thinking about signing up.
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
Out and about
Last week we dropped our social intentions for the month of November.
Our quiz event in Waverley has now sold out, while the three other outings - dinner in the Shire, a night out at Parramatta’s Albion Hotel and the INXS tribute night on the Central Coast, are also on the verge of doing so.
To find out more about our November socials (and to sign up), load up the links below:
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.
Fun at the footy
Talking of our socials, thank you to everyone who joined us on Saturday in Marrickville for the AFLW clash between Sydney Swans and Fremantle Dockers.
We were front and centre at Henson Park. Unfortunately for the majority in attendance, the Bloods went down 28 - 42.
To see more snaps from Saturday load up this link.
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.
Drawing against the clock
The last Thursday of the month is approaching - and that means only one thing! Our online social gathering is back.
We invite you to join us this Thursday (27/10) on Zoom for a round of Halloween Pictionary.
Pens and pads at the ready, we’ll be showcasing our artistic talents against the clock. Please note, we’ll be starting at the slightly later time, going from 8.30 - 9.30pm.
To join us online, load up the link below:
Thursday 27/10
All online games will take place via Zoom. For information on how to use Zoom, load up the following easy read guide written by Learning Disability Wales. Alternatively, click here to check out our 'how to use Zoom' video.
If you have any questions or would like more information, send us an email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org or call/SMS us on 0402 708 814.
Doubling up
We’re delighted to reveal two new pairings.
Welcome Cassi and Ella (above, L - R) plus RJ and Sharon (not pictured). It’s great to add new matches to the family.
Two up
Likewise, it’s great to share news on another two trained up volunteers.
Thanks to Michelle (above) and Rahul (not pictured) for joining us on Zoom recently.
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.
Access and Inclusion Reference Group
Central Coast Council is calling for new members to join their Access and Inclusion Reference Group.
If you're a community member who lives with a disability, a family member or carer of someone living with a disability, or you're currently working in the disability sector - submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to join the Access and Inclusion Reference Group!
This is your opportunity to provide input and expertise to guide the ongoing implementation of the Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan (2021–2025).
Applications are due by 5pm, Friday 28 October.
For more information, including how to submit an application, click here.
Self Advocacy Sydney Inc
Self Advocacy Sydney Inc has a new office in Gosford offering free leadership and peer support programs for people with an intellectual disability.
They offer two types of free support for people with intellectual disability.
Leadership: a service created for persons 18-35 with intellectual disabilities; the objective is to provide people with the skills and confidence to become leaders in their community and/or workplace.
Peer Support: a service created for persons 18 and over with an intellectual disability; tailored to the client’s needs, interests and goals, the aim is to give people the skills and confidence to advocate for themselves.
For more information about Self Advocacy Sydney Inc, click here. Alternatively, call 0401 150 048 or email Ben or Andie on laps.gosford@sasinc.com.au
Hold the press
Following today’s edition, the newsletter will be taking a two week break.
Readers can next get their Gig Buddies news fix on Monday 14 November.
COVID-19 Vaccinations - AN 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 December 4 2022.
If you have already obtained your booster please send your certificate to info@gigbuddiessydney.org or via text/WhatsApp it to 0411 252 228
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. For more information on how to obtain a copy, click here.
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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