ConnectGV – Grand Opening 2021

$5.3 MILLION BUILDING WILL

CONNECT THE GV

ConnectGV’s multimillion dollar state-of-the-art building will open its doors in April — four years after it was part of a brainstorming discussion. Charmayne Allison talks to the movers-and-shakers behind the momentous project and what — and who — it took to get it off the ground inside this special 20-page feature.

PAGE 3

THE FACE OF DISABILITY SECTOR

PAGES 8-9

TIMELINE OF CONNECTGV’S HISTORY

PAGES 14

SUPPORTED INDEPENDENCE

Page 2—‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021

COMMITTED TO KEEPING BUSINESS LOCAL

MORETTO BUILDING ARE EXTREMELY PROUD TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW ConnectGV BUILDING.

113 Vaughan St, Shepparton | Ph: (03) 5831 4065 www.morettobuilding.com.au

‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021—Page 3

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

Passionate about disability sector A

sk ConnectGV chief executive Carolynne Frost about the rewards of heading up the Shepparton disability service provider, and she’ll wax lyrical.

There’s the quiet joy she feels in walking through the facilities each morning and interacting with clients.

There’s the satisfaction in seeing clients win the Cameron Gray Memorial Award, which recognises the efforts and achievements of ConnectGV community members.

“I love seeing our clients achieve,” she said.

And finally, there’s the excitement and anticipation she feels when walking through ConnectGV’s new Day Options facility.

“We’re getting to the pointy end where it’s nearly complete and we’ll start to move our things in,” she said.

“There’s this real sense of nostalgia setting in. I’m looking at the old and I want to make sure we’ve made our predecessors proud.”

Carolynne has dreamed of working in the disability sector ever since she was a little girl.

“I think it was as early as Grade 6,” she said.

“My dad is an amputee, so I grew up seeing a lot of resilience and can-do attitude to life.

“I don’t know whether that was something that guided me into this field.”

After attending primary and secondary school in Shepparton, Carolynne took her first step towards this passion.

She completed a Bachelor of Applied Science at Deakin University, specialising in intellectual disability.

And while studying, she started working in residential facilities, becoming a team leader in both long-term and short-term accommodation facilities for adults and children.

By 1999, she was working in the specialist services team at the Department of Human Services as a human relations practitioner specialising in disability and sexuality.

The following decade was spent providing clinical support to people with a disability alongside a multi-disciplinary team.

Her clinical work largely centred on complex trauma and identifying risk and protective factors.

“By the end of my 10 years, I was working with young people who were exhibiting sexually dangerous behaviour,” she said.

In 2009, Carolynne made the move from the public to the private sector, completing

further studies throughout the years in forensic disability, managing and developing teams, complex trauma and offending behaviour.

“It was important to have a level of empathy and understanding,” she said.

As part of her Bachelor of Applied Science, she also became a registered nurse with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.

“As a CEO now, that’s why I’m so hands-on — because my background is clinical,” Carolynne said.

Carolynne first joined ConnectGV in January 2014, as the manager of future directions.

“That role was pretty much to start prepping for the transition to the NDIS. It was tough, trying to get my head around the changes,” she said.

“But that’s just the sector. Nothing’s stagnant, nothing ever remains the same. You are constantly looking at ways to reinvent.”

In December 2015, she was appointed as chief executive officer.

“It was daunting. Luckily I had a husband who probably had more belief in me than I had in myself,” she said with a laugh.

“And I’ve got a wonderful team too. You never do a role like this on your own.”

The position has come with its challenges — in addition to constant changes under the NDIS, ConnectGV has worked hard to meet the developing compliance standards.

The organisation is now under the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, an independent agency established to improve the quality and safety of disability supports and services.

“ConnectGV has really risen to those obligations over the past five years,” Carolynne said.

“It really has been a robust change in terms of compliance. The expectations are very different, in a good way.”

But the challenges are far outweighed by the rewards, as she continues to watch clients thrive under the care and support provided by ConnectGV. Looking to the future, Carolynne hopes ConnectGV will utilise every inch of its new Day Options facility, also inviting the wider community into the space.

“Training and education will be a real focus for us, and bringing registered training organi-

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sations through that can access that space and deliver quality training to our participants that marries up with other programs ConnectGV is delivering,” she said.

There are also big plans to increase ConnectGV’s accommodation portfolio, which currently includes six facilities.

“We want to normalise the transition for young clients from school into vocational training, and from home to supported accommodation,” Carolynne said.

“We would really like to support and cater for people wishing to do that.

“So we’ll look at building another accommodation facility in the next couple of years.

“We’ve got some land that’s ready to go, so we just need to start doing some planning around what that facility will look like.”

Carolynne said ConnectGV wouldn’t be where it is today without its brave board and dedicated, “wonderful” team of staff.

“My growth from 2016 is all down to having worked with the most amazing board,” she said.

“The people that make up the board of ConnectGV are really here for the right reasons and have supported me all the way along.”

ConnectGV Building Our Future

You can help by purchasing a ConnectGV limited edition brick paver that will be visible for years to come.

Since 1954 ConnectGV has been building on what matters to provide a future for local people with a disability.

Pavers will be laid in the BBQ and sensory garden area behind ConnectGV’s new state of the art facility.

There is four brick paver options: 1. A single brick paver with name(s) engraved - $100 2. A double brick paver - $200 3. A single paver + contribution to a donation paver for a current participant of ConnectGV - $120 4. A single hand drawn paver for those with a creative flair - $100

This is a great opportunity to purchase a special gift, a permanent keepsake that will be etched in ConnectGV history Funds raised from brick paver sales will assist with purchasing specialised equipment that supports ConnectGV participants to achieve their goals and dreams.

12 Bowenhall Street, Shepparton | T: 5821 2466 | W: connectgv.com.au | Facebook/connectgvshepp

Page 4—‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

State-of-the-art day services W

hen the need for a new Day Options facility was first highlighted in 2017, ConnectGV immediately swung into action and started brainstorming a solution.

It all started when the floor dropped in the common area of the old Day Options facility at 11 Bowenhall St, Shepparton.

“It was like a trampoline,” ConnectGV chief executive Carolynne Frost said.

While the floor was speedily repaired, the dilapidated facilities, which were built in 1954, continued to show their age, with walls beginning to crack.

“It was like, now or never,” Carolynne said.

“We’ve got to do this and be brave and start lobbying the government for funds to assist.”

As ConnectGV started campaigning, Regional Development Victoria threw its support behind the cause.

Shepparton’s Cheryl Hammer, a 2018 state election Liberal Party candidate, also worked !"##$%&'()*&+,))-$-.$/*)0#&1"#2)34&&5)6+&/7#+)8"99+#:5);$97**+)<"2%$5) 0*19$$);"#=*)+#:)09$>+#:/+)?"*&$/)7#)@/"#&)"@)&1$)#$A)B+2)CD&7"#*)@+%797&2E

hard to give ConnectGV a voice.

“Then (Federal Member for Nicholls) Damian Drum picked up on it,” Carolynne said.

At last, in December 2019, after months of passionate lobbying, the Federal Government announced $2 million in funding for the new facility.

And in April this year, the state-of-the-art $5.3 million facility — largely funded by the community and ConnectGV — will open its doors to staff and clients.

The sleek new space will aim to cater to a wide variety of activities for clients with both high and low needs.

It will also endeavour to meet expected service delivery growth and allow the organisation to better respond to the health and wellbeing needs of clients.

The growing number of young people and school-leavers transitioning to ConnectGV

‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021—Page 5

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

facility set to open doors in April has also been considered as part of the centre’s design.

The facility will include a dedicated sensory room and gym, as well as a dedicated art studio.

“We’re really excited about this and would love to welcome the community into that space to work with us,” Carolynne said.

“So, anyone with expertise who would like to share that with clients. It may even be in a paid capacity, such as an art teacher or art therapist.”

The space will also feature a dedicated music room, computer room and multipurpose room which can be opened up into a larger space if needed.

“We’ve also set it up so the wider community can access it if they want to hire it out or partner up for anything,” Carolynne said.

There will also be a large boardroom upstairs, which will double as a learning space.

ConnectGV’s administration office will move from its current home in Wyndham St to set up shop at the Bowenhall St centre.

“So we’re all going to be back together under the one roof, which will be nice,” Carolynne said.

“Our business has grown through the NDIS with our support co-ordination, so the NDIS team will also be in that space as well.”

So what sets this new facility apart?

“It caters for all abilities,” Carolynne said.

“We’ve set it up so everyone, from all levels of ability, are involved in the community.

“We are just so excited for clients to come in and see it for the first time.”

Page 6—‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

Just like an extended family

Helping make dreams come true

Jayson Smith has been a ConnectGV client since he was a 16-year-old. He’s now turned 30 and considers the service to be like a family.

ConnectGV client Brad McGillivray has been with the disability service provider for five years.

He talked about the difference ConnectGV has made in his life.

You were nominated for an award at ConnectGV — can you tell me about it?

worker support me.

Will you be using the new facility much?

What do you think of it?

Yes, I will. It’ll be interesting and good to see.

When I won the award I helped cook the barbecue and it’d be nice to see some new updated buildings. I think there are a couple of rooms to play games and stuff.

I got nominated for the award for how outstanding my recovery was from my brain injury in 2018. I never thought I’d get full custody of my son Logan, if my life hadn’t changed and I’d not gone through rehab and everything and come out better than ever.

The support from the boys telling me I could do it, they’ve made me a way better man.

• What are some of the things ConnectGV has helped you overcome?

ConnectGV has helped me manage bills and all types of things which can help me, they’ve been really good.

• I’ve been told you’re into your sport — can you tell me about that?

I’ve done parkrun which I love a lot. I’ve been doing it for nearly one year now. I lost nearly 30 kg and finished my run goals.

• You’ve also gone on a trip to Bali?

I’d never been overseas before so I was really excited. It was great. I got the support from Chris and the boys at ConnectGV.

What has that support entailed?

• How long have ConnectGV?

Being there when I needed them, helping me through the court process; when I put myself down they kept pushing me up.

you

been

with

I’ve been with them for nearly five years.

They’ve helped me feel much better by myself and about myself.

It almost looks like a family — is that what it feels like?

Yeah, that’s exactly what it is, brothers, sisters, they’re there when you need them and when you’re at your worst. Being with them when I’m out in the community too helps me feel less nervous. I have anxiety problems and don’t like to walk around by myself, so it’s nice to have a

He’s an avid sports fan and ConnectGV has helped him travel to Melbourne for major sporting events and also helped him organise a trip to Bali.

heading to watch more sport. I’ve been watching the US Masters on TV.

• What sort of activities have you been doing? !"#$%&'()*+,'$"#$'-%&&./+01'*$' 2*3.'"'4")*2#'+%',*)5 6*/+78.9':.;"&'<*$,.8

Primary Care Connect (PCC) have been a trusted primary health service provider in our local community for 30 years. We have over 25 programs focusing on a range of health and wellbeing supports. We pride ourselves on providing person centred and consumer driven care that allows people to take control of their lives and bring about change. We provide these services across the Greater Shepparton, Moira and Strathbogie regions.

PCC would like to extend our congratulations to ConnectGV on the celebration of their new building.

We acknowledge their continued efforts for benefiting people with a disability and their families and this milestone will take it to a new height!

I’ve been doing golfing and running and a lot of other things. I’ve been playing golf at Kialla and up at golf courses around the place.

I’m a sports person and I’m excited to be

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Congratulations ConnectGV on building a better future for your beautiful community.

# " !

For more information about our services visit: www.primarycareconnect.com.au or call us on (03) 5823 3200. @PrimaryCareConnect @primarycareconnect

‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021—Page 7

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

Donation supports life-changing work I

f it weren’t for ConnectGV, Shepparton’s Barry Kruse doesn’t know if he’d be here today.

Which is why he didn’t think twice about donating $50,000 towards the fit-out of the centre’s new Day Options facility, as long as it helps the life-changing work of the centre continue for decades to come.

“ConnectGV provides an area where people with disabilities can be safe, stimulated and included in the local community,” he said.

“It really is amazing.”

For the past 20 years, Barry’s son Nathan, 38, has been a client at ConnectGV. He started attending the centre after leaving Graham Street Special School at 18.

“ConnectGV had programs like music and swimming and tenpin bowling,” Barry said.

“It gave him access to a community and kept him occupied. And learning new life skills has been very good for him.”

Initially a day client, Nathan moved into supported accommodation 10 years ago after Barry’s wife Carmel died.

“I was very unwell at the time, and ConnectGV was a lifesaver for me,” Barry said.

“If it hadn’t been for ConnectGV, I don’t think I’d still be here.

“They were incredible.”

Nathan has lived in supported accommodation ever since.

“He loves it at the house, because there’s always activity going on, whereas at home he was an only child,” Barry said.

A board member for 13 years, Barry spent stints as treasurer and board chair and

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3x $100

also served on the fundraising and building committees.

Barry said ConnectGV’s board had always been future-focused.

“We were always looking ahead to the day when the current Day Options building became obsolete, and putting away funds that would enable us to build something that was state-of-the-art for people with disabilities,” he said.

At last, that day has arrived.

Barry said everyone involved should be very proud of the new Day Options facility.

“I think it’s the most fantastic building you could imagine,” he said.

“The building means there will be a lot of new programs for clients, and much better facilities for them to attend.”

While the fundraising committee had aimed to raise $100,000 to provide new equipment for the building, COVID-19 hampered plans.

And so Barry decided to step in, donating $50,000 from his own pocket.

“I was in a position where I was able to help,” he said.

“And I’d rather do it now than wait until I die, so I can see what happens to the money and get some pleasure from it.”

While Barry usually shuns the spotlight, he hopes by opening up about his donation, others will be inspired to give as well.

“Hopefully, it might help someone else to think, ‘Yes, I could do that too’,” Barry said.

“Please, give generously. We still have a lot of equipment that’s got to be paid for.”

3,--)4.56%><=)%A)AB)#%!"##$%&#'()%8<.*%*<(%(,-%?".*"-@

Vouchers to be won!

*

As a proud supporter to the ConnectGV, The Good Guys Shepparton are giving 3x $100 Vouchers to be used in the Shepparton store only.

Name: .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Phone Number: ............................................................................. Email: ......................................................................................................................

To Enter - Scan QR Code or email editor@sheppnews.com.au or Post your entry to PO Box 204, Shepparton, Vic, 3632 1/130-160 Benalla Rd, Shepparton VIC 3630

|

(03) 5832 9000

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www.thegoodguys.com.au/shepparton

*Terms and Conditions apply. Please view www.sheppnews.com.au for details.

Page 8—‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

A history of ConnectGV 1953

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<&)=((7$7>$,(!),7$"(?5*%'5%1

The need was highlighted for a centre to provide opportunities and training for children with a disability. A public meeting was held, attended by 200 people representing more than 60 organisations. As a result, a committee of parents, community members and Rotary Club of Shepparton representatives was established and fundraising for a service began.

1954

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The Goulburn Valley Centre for Intellectually Handicapped Children was launched, operating two mornings a week with nine children at Shepparton’s Deakin Reserve Recreation Hall. It wasn’t long before numbers increased and, in December 1954, the committee purchased two blocks of land for a purpose-built facility. In October that year, the Minister for Health announced the government would subsidise four-fifths of the cost of the capital. The total build was £17,000 and the committee made up the balance of £3400.

1957

A new purpose-built facility at Bowenhall St, Shepparton, opened — a building which is still utilised today.

1958

An adjoining block of land in Bowenhall St was purchased for possible future extensions.

1960

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The committee purchased land on the corner of Bowenhall St and Chertsey Rd — now the location of one of ConnectGV’s residential facilities.

1961

The committee purchased two blocks where the administration building was, which is now the site of the new day services facility.

1962

The first public appeal to raise funds was launched. Patricia Smith became the Shepparton entrant — and the winner — of the statewide Country Girl Quest to raise funds for the Goulburn Valley Centre for Intellectually Handicapped.

1964

Plans for the kindergarten extension were completed.

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1966

A successful application for funding the extension was granted, with $44,217 received.

1968

A $55,000 kindergarten wing extension opened. Funds to build this wing were donated

by Arthur Levette and Ron Stephens and it was named the ‘Stephens-Levett Wing’.

1970

The need was identified for a residential facility to enable respite for families, as the only option at the time was in Melbourne. Children were cared for by devoted parents but they were concerned who would care for their children when they could no longer do so. The committee began to promote the importance of a local option.

1975

Land was purchased in Lemnos and short-stay accommodation was provided, mainly offering respite for parents and carers.

1980

The Victorian Education Department took over the education of children up to pre-vocational age. A special development school was co-located at the centre and remained until it relocated in 1983 to Gowrie Street Primary School in Shepparton.

1981

The International Year of Disabled Persons was introduced by the United Nations as a call for a plan of action with an emphasis on equal opportunities. Since 1998, the International Day of People with Disability has been celebrated annually on December 3.

1982

Wharoongai, a 12-bed residential facility, was opened in Lemnos, born from the vision of the committee in the early 1970s.

1985

The centre underwent significant renovations, with $48,287 contributed by the Department of Community Services, $39,910 from the health commission and $61,803 by the GV Centre. This included upgrades such as ramps, automatic doors, airconditioning, a new roof, carpets and provision for more suitable furniture.

Congratulations ConnectGV on your new building!

Wishing ConnectGV every success from their new building.

A wonderful initiative we are proud to support

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‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021—Page 9

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE 1986

The Intellectually Disabled Person’s Act was amended and required clients play an active role in the determination of their options.

1986–1989

Social enterprises were established with an emphasis on community access and employment options. Flower Power, Mooroopna Primary School canteen management, Good Looking Lawns, operation of the Shepparton News canteen and gardening activities commenced.

1991

The ‘Intek’ fundraising group ceased activity after raising more than $50,000 in 10 years.

Intek comprised generous, hardworking community members who saw the importance of a dedicated fundraising group to assist management to meet annual service costs.

1993

Cameron Gray Memorial Award was introduced in memory of Cameron’s time with the GV Centre and his active participation in community organisations such as Sherbourne Apex Club, Shepparton Cycling Club and in tenpin bowling. This award is given at the end of each year and continues to be a sought-after honour.

1999

With a change in options offered, the board adopted a change in name to GV Centre Disability Services, to reflect this. GV Centre became a not-for-profit under the Companies Act.

1999

Christmas trees were planted at the soonto-be-established social enterprise Billabong Garden Complex. The sale of magnificently shaped Christmas trees would become the major annual fundraiser for the GV Centre.

2000

Quality assurance was established to demonstrate the GV Centre’s commitment to quality and as a leader in the disability industry.

2002

Social enterprise Billabong Garden Complex opened. With day activity ‘The Herb Farm’ (now known as the Billabong Propagation Nursery) operating for 10 years, the need was established for a retail outlet to sell the plants to the community and ensure ongoing employment options.

2004

A move to greater community access saw Wharoongai close, and residential facili-

ties within close proximity to the CBD were opened. The centre also celebrated 50 years of existence.

2006

The expansion of programs, particularly social enterprises, saw a lack of facilities to adequately run the various options. As a result, The Factory in New Dookie Road was purchased.

2008

Billabong Sweets and Treats and GV Ragz were co-located at The Factory.

2009

Billabong Sweets and Treats was officially opened by Federal Member for Maribyrnong and Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Children’s Services Bill Shorten.

New brand ConnectGV and the ConnectGV Foundation were launched.

2010

New residential option, the My Future My Choice house, opened. It was constructed to accommodate up to six young people with a disability that were either living permanently in residential aged care or whose parents were aged 65 years or older.

2011

New purpose-built home for Billabong Garden Complex was opened in Numurkah Rd, Shepparton.

2011

The inaugural annual ConnectGV fundraiser was held with 180 people attending, and $151,452 was raised from the sale of a Charity House plus a goods and services auction. Proceeds supported the construction of independent living and respite units.

2012–2014

Annual ConnectGV fundraisers raised about $53,000 to provide respite options for local families of children with autism. Elaine Slender retired after serving ConnectGV for 47 years.

She started with the organisation in 1965 and has a room in the Day Options facility named after her.

2013

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Act was introduced. A more flexible approach to day options, “individualised options”, was launched. Through self-directed support meetings, clients advise what they would like to do and options are sought within the community. Clients can participate in regular activities or change them on a daily or weekly basis.

Congratulations on your new building ConnectGV, from all the team at Camerons Lawyers

2013

Independent living and respite units were officially opened. Respite services began for local families of children with autism. Trial sites began transitioning to the NDIS.

would provide more flexibility, greater choice, access to technological advances in support and a space that could be shared with the community. ConnectGV began lobbying to raise more than $2 million for the build.

2014

2018

ConnectGV celebrated 60 years.

New social enterprise ConnectGV Contracting was established to further provide employment through community connections for local people with a disability.

ConnectGV Contracting provides a “ready workforce” for local business. The crew provides services to improve business efficiencies in the areas of garden maintenance, packaging, cleaning, collating and event set/pack up.

2015

2018

ConnectGV ambassadors were announced: Adam Furphy of J. Furphy & Sons, Kate Palmer of Netball Australia, Professor Avni Sali of the National Institute of Integrative Medicine (NIIM); and Chris McPherson of McPherson Media Group.

2014

Day Services manager Leah Ross retired after 28 years at ConnectGV. The organisation launched a recruitment campaign after long-standing chief executive Bruce Giovanetti retired from ConnectGV on December 31 after serving 22 years in the role.

ConnectGV purchased 4000 square metres of land in MacIsaac Rd, Mooroopna. The board commenced discussions around the existing Day Options facility and the maintenance and repairs required to bring it up to standard.

2016

Shepparton Community Share was established and the 2016 — 2020 Strategic Plan was developed.

2017

There is a continued focus on community and business partnerships to provide individualised options and employment within the local community.

2019

The NDIS was introduced for the Goulburn area on January 1 to provide funding directly to individuals.

Individual support plans identify what goals people with a disability would like to achieve and what support and funding is needed to achieve them.

The Federal Government pledged $2 million for the Day Options facility build.

2020

Annual ConnectGV fundraisers raised more than $15,000 to contribute to recreation and leisure options for people with a disability.

The sod was turned for the new Day Options facility.

Online programs were introduced as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

2018

2021

The board established the need for a new Day Options facility. The new facility would replace the existing building, constructed in 1954, and

Staff and clients moved into the new Day Options facility in April. The official opening of the new building is to be held in June.

Congratulations to ConnectGV on the opening of your new

building and facilities. s.

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Page 10—‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

Meet the ConnectGV Board of Directors !"##$%&''()%&*+,-

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I was elected to the ConnectGV board seven years ago when my son Sam began attending ConnectGV Day Options.

My role on the board was initially as a director — from there I progressed to vicechair and I am currently in my second term as chair of directors.

Our family chose ConnectGV for Sam because of the staff’s strong commitment to ensure the clients are supported in the very best way they can be.

The reputation of this organisation is one that is built on the solid respect and strong values it holds in the community, along with the broad width of opportunities it provides to ensure clients’ needs remain central in achieving this.

My contribution at the board is twofold; as a parent I believe I give a voice to the cli-

ents and their families and care-givers.

I am also an executive manager at a local non-for-profit organisation that also values and invests in the Goulburn Valley.

I am so excited as we move closer to the transition into the new build.

I believe this building further evidences the commitment of ConnectGV to ensure clients and staff have the very finest facility.

In this ever-changing landscape of disability providers, this new build will further cement our commitment to the local community, recognising and prioritising the needs of all people with a disability.

&+.%.+#/,+."0,)%1,&"2&*+,I have owned The Woolshed at Emerald Bank for the past four years with my wife Angela.

I have been in the hospitality sector for more than 30 years and have a strong business background and extensive experience in the commercial building sector, having built over half-a-dozen commercial buildings in Shepparton.

My family consists of my wife Angela and three children, Amelia, Samuel and Isabella.

I have been on the ConnectGV board since 2012, and in that time I have been vicechair, chair and am currently vice-chair again.

I was invited to join the board by the previous chief executive, Bruce Giovanetti.

I knew absolutely nothing about the disability sector, but thought this was a great opportunity to be able to learn.

I am passionate about ConnectGV. Unless you are directly involved with a family member or someone associated

with a disability, it can be difficult to fully understand what it is like to have a disability. It has been an immense learning curve, and has enriched my life greatly.

I think one of the most rewarding aspects that I have seen with ConnectGV is how important it is for people with disabilities to be able to have and lead a meaningful and purposeful life.

This is why it has been such a driving force for me personally to have the new day services building come to fruition.

It has been my highest priority for the past five years as a ConnectGV board member. The current 60-year-old building is literally falling apart, and is not servicing our clients’ needs anymore in this evolving landscape.

I am based in Shepparton with my family (partner and two kids) and have lived here my whole life.

I have a background in accounting and have over 10 years’ experience in the accounting industry. I am also a CPA (Certified Practicing Accountant) and have completed a Masters in Business Administration.

I currently work as the chief financial officer at the McPherson Media Group and I am the director of a local accounting firm, AHA Accounting and Business Solutions.

I joined the ConnectGV board in 2017

and during that time have held the position of treasurer.

The main reason I joined the board was to give back to the community.

I am passionate about supporting people with a disability, and those values were in line with the values and beliefs of ConnectGV. I think the building is an amazing opportunity to not only continue supporting people with a disability but also grow in the local community.

&+-'0$##"%7-'34)%3"&-"4+-$8&*,"7%"9"&64,1" I was born and raised in Shepparton, completing both primary and secondary schooling in the area before gaining a Bachelor of Applied Science at Deakin University.

I am also a registered nurse with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.

I have worked in the disability sector since 1999, in both the public and private sectors, building on my knowledge and understanding of disability supports within community service organisations.

I joined ConnectGV in January 2014 as the manager of future directions.

In December 2015, I became the chief executive officer and company secretary at ConnectGV. The new build at ConnectGV has been a major project over the past 12 months but has also been a long time in the planning.

The reality of its completion is setting in.

It is incredibly exciting to think about the opportunities that will emerge from our new space for local people living with a disability

and their families.

ConnectGV founders understood back in 1953 the importance of having a dedicated space that would provide opportunities to grow and build on skills and experiences.

Today the need still remains to align experience of space with quality programs.

We can proudly invite and share with our community our Bowenhall facility.

I am most excited about the prospect of establishing new partnerships within the community while also strengthening those established along the way.

The new build really has been about building on what matters ... our future at ConnectGV.

&*-,34,#"%+#:"-3'#)%;'+-:%.".;"I have lived in the Shepparton region all my life.

I have four adult children and am a doting grandmother of two, a boy and a girl.

I currently work at McPherson Media Group as the director of content and audience.

My experience in media has enabled

me to bring marketing and community knowledge to the board.

My connection to ConnectGV began when I was a secondary student, in the late 1970s.

I was lucky to spend some time at the centre under a school-work training program.

Since then I have always taken a per-

making local

work FREE

PRICE

SAME DAY

PROMISE

DELIVERY OC Griffith Connect GV AD .indd 1

sonal interest in the happenings of the organisation and am passionate about the service the centre provides for people with a disability in our region.

So, when I was asked in 2012 to join the board, I jumped at the opportunity.

Since it was established, ConnectGV has continued to grow and adapt as an

organisation to the needs of its clients, and more recently NDIS. But the opening of this new stateof-the-art building will be one of the most significant milestones for the board, the staff and more importantly the clients and their families.

Office Choice Shepparton

Proud Business Partners Of ConnectGV

93-95 Benalla Road, Shepparton 03 5821 6466 sales@officechoiceshepparton.com.au 6/04/2021 1:11:49 PM

‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021—Page 11

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE !"#$!%&"'()*$'(+&#",!(&-$-#$!. )"/0(,%*"0&%!/1%$$ I am a 70-year-old retired solicitor who served approximately 33 years at Camerons Lawyers, the majority of that time as a partner until retirement in 2015.

I am separated with four adult children and two grandchildren.

I have served on the board for about 22 years and performed the roles of treasurer and chairman and most of that time on the finance committee.

I think it was 1996 when the then chairman and the chief executive approached me about joining the board.

I had been looking for a way to make a community contribution and so the approach was timely and fortuitous.

I had no hesitation in accepting because at that time I thought the organisation was so important in providing services and support to people with disabilities and also supporting their families.

That has proven to be the case, and my passion to make ConnectGV a great place for the clients and staff has only grown since then.

I hope my background as a solicitor has allowed me to make useful contributions by bringing a legal perspective to issues the board has had to deal with from time to time.

I am so pleased we have been able to replace the old outdated (Day Options) premises with a new building with modern facilities which our clients and staff richly deserve.

Community support has been absolutely fantastic. Special thanks to (Federal Member for Nicholls) Damian Drum for his efforts in obtaining Federal Government assistance.

16"%%&5$''3+&#",!(&-$-#$!

I am a partner in SKS Hub, which is a business improvement consulting firm. I am married to Cindy and we have three beautiful children — Charli, Tessa and Archie.

I joined the board in late 2017 and soon after was elected as the chairperson of the infrastructure sub-committee and I am also a member of the finance committee.

In the middle of 2017 I was approached by the then board chair Cam Mangiameli to see if I might be interested in joining their board.

The timing was perfect as I was looking at ways I could do something for the community.

To be honest, I was aware of ConnectGV but had no idea as to their history or what they did.

I went on the path to find out more and do my due diligence before putting myself forward to be considered.

I was extremely impressed with the organisation, the passion of the team, and the capability of the board and the chief executive.

I am proud to now be serving my second term on the board.

My background is business ownership and management. The key skills I bring to the board are strategic thinking, analytical approach and solid commercial and finance

understanding.

ConnectGV has been operating since 1954 and is a leading disability service provider in the Goulburn Valley.

Supporting people with a disability in our community is such an important social requirement.

I believe we have the best team, provide a great range of services and support for people with a disability and their families.

We have options available to provide opportunities for our clients to discover the possibilities to achieve their goals and dreams.

We started the new Day Options facility project with the objective of providing a building that allows our clients to find out what is possible.

We have created a beautiful space that I am sure our clients and their families will love.

The whole project has always been through the lens of building something amazing for our clients and the team that supports them.

We have achieved this with great spaces for our clients to enjoy and a sensational work area for our back-of-house teams with openplan layout and plenty of natural light.

It is all about the possibilities and not the disability.

Congratulations ConnectGV

2,0$%&4*''&5*!5-,0+&#",!(&-$-#$!

I am a retired school principal who now mentors and coaches 24 school leaders across the state.

I have a grown family, with lots of grandchildren, and am belatedly learning to play golf.

I joined the board in 2013 and am now a retiring member (2021).

I was invited to join as principal at Verney Road Special School at the time I joined the board.

I saw it as an opportunity to really understand the transition into adulthood for our students and what that meant in terms of learning programs to secure their future as lifelong learners.

It was also my chance to give back to the community, to volunteer my skills and knowledge.

I have contributed leadership, education, disability knowledge, coaching and relationship skills to the board.

As the principal of a specialist school, I saw the journey a family experienced bringing up a non-typical child, who often endured multiple disabilities.

I believe our city of Shepparton should and does provide strong choice in service

provision for ongoing learning and development of the young person when they leave school.

ConnectGV does this so well.

They ensure an active, stimulated lifelong learning agenda for adulthood for all their clients, ensuring equality of opportunity for people of all abilities. As a retiring board member, it’s wonderful to see this step into the future, for ensuring longevity for the next 100-plus years for the organisation.

I believe people with disability deserve the best.

The new building provides a high quality, outstanding environment for ConnectGV clients to experience and grow in, every day.

My congratulations to Carolynne, her leadership team, all the staff, the board and every client of ConnectGV and their families for such visionary action.

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Together with my husband Peter, we own FOOTT Waste Solutions, the largest family-owned waste and recycling business in northern Victoria.

We have three adult children — Zane, Aidan and Annalise who were brought up in Shepparton, as I was.

Peter’s brother has special needs, giving our family an insight into the joys and challenges of assisting him to live his best life.

The opportunity to join the ConnectGV board has been a fantastic experience in learning what a caring and positive community can achieve together to support those who, when given the right support, can live rich and engaging lives.

I have been a ConnectGV board member for three years with additional roles in quality review and fundraising sub-committees.

During my time the management team and board have worked diligently to integrate the NDIS into our new business model to future-proof the provision of disability services in Shepparton.

I am beyond excited for the dedicated staff and clients at ConnectGV to move into this stateof-the-art building.

Seeing this dream become a reality is an absolute tribute to the local families in 1961 who were determined to establish an all-abilities centre in Shepparton, and to the many community members over the past 60 years who have kept the vision alive.

With this new building, new vision and new restructure, there is no doubt ConnectGV is on track to being the very best all-abilities service provider in regional Victoria.

I look forward to continuing to be part of the team in supporting people with all abilities and their parents and carers to realise their full potential.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ConnectGV On their new building which will make a significant contribution to our community for years to come.

Congratulations to ConnectGV on the completion of its new building.

ConnectGV has provided a wonderful service to Goulburn Valley residents for decades. This new building will help the organisation continue its important work in our community into the future.

Suzanna Sheed MP

INDEPENDENT MEMBER FOR SHEPPARTON DISTRICT

www.suzannasheed.com.au Phone: 03 5831 6944 5 Vaughan St, Shepparton VIC Funded from Parliamentary Budget. Authorised by: Suzanna Sheed, 5 Vaughan St, Shepparton VIC 3630.

Page 12—‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

Connecting clients with NDIS funding C

onnectGV NDIS manager Alex Foster may not work directly on the floor with clients — but she knows by helping people with a disability navigate the murky water of the National Disability Insurance Scheme, she’s making their lives that little bit easier.

“I love our clients and I love our carers,” she said.

“And while some days are tougher than others, it’s all worth it in the end.”

Alex has wanted to work in disability since she was a child.

And at just 18, that dream came true when she started working at ConnectGV as a receptionist before moving into accounts and working as an executive assistant.

As the centre began to transition to the NDIS system, Alex was appointed as ConnectGV’s first NDIS officer.

And from January this year, she has served as its inaugural NDIS manager, heading up a team of five.

This includes two NDIS officers who manage intake, quotes, agreements and onboarding of all clients, as well as all ConnectGV billing.

There is also a staff member in plan management, who pays people’s NDIS-funded support on their behalf.

And finally, there are two support co-ordinators, who help connect clients into services.

Alex said the NDIS aimed to provide people with a disability the funding they needed to access “reasonable and necessary support”.

“It’s not a one size fits all, it all comes down to the person themselves and the support network they already have around them,” she said.

“And then NDIS fills in the gaps — it’s there to cover their day-to-day support needs.”

It sounds simple, but Alex said this didn’t come without its complexities.

Beginning its transition to the NDIS in January 2019, ConnectGV was in one of the last regions across the entire country to move across to the new system.

The biggest challenge was the massive administration load that came with the NDIS. “It’s a huge amount of paperwork and evidence you’ve got to supply,” Alex said.

“Many clients we had at the time of our transition were on the previous government funding, so they automatically came across.

“But it wasn’t guaranteed the funding they were getting under the old way would be matched under the NDIS.” In transitioning, clients and any selected representatives have had to endure intense three-hour planning meetings.

From there, information from the meetings is passed on to another delegate who identifies the goals each client has for their plan, in turn determining funding.

Alex said planning meetings could, at times, be confronting, with clients and their representatives urged to share their “worst case scenario days”.

“If you’re saying everything’s rosy and peachy all day, every day, you won’t get what you need when you’re in crisis,” she said.

“It can be a bit daunting and full-on for carers — because while there’s so much clients can do, thinking about what they can’t do can be an emotional thing.

“And for clients advocating for themselves, that can be even tougher, because they want to present as ‘No, I can do all these things, I’m really capable’.”

While many clients and carers were initially hesitant to transition, Alex said this attitude was gradually changing.

“I think they now see the positives of why NDIS was needed,” she said.

“It was a bit tough before with people wanting to use multiple providers. The funding wasn’t flexible enough to say, ‘I want to do three days here and two days there’, because it all went to the one provider for the most part.

“But now that they’ve got the control of their overall budget, they can say, ‘I only want to come to you for these days’. That flexibility is all in their hands.”

Above all, the NDIS aims to give more choice and control to people with a disability.

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For Alex said F anyone new to the h NDIS, NDIS Al id the scheme had plenty of resources available to help clients and their representatives.

“For those people coming in who aren’t funded yet, we as a provider can’t do too much, because we don’t do the interviews and allocate money,” she said.

“But we try to point them in the right direction and give them as much support as possible.”

And if ConnectGV can’t provide the support services a client is seeking, Alex’s team will do their best to point people in the right direction.

“We know we’re not always going to be the perfect fit for people,” she said.

“If there’s someone we think might be better suited, we let them know. We just want to give them the best possible outcome.”

GV Batteries are proud supporters of ConnectGV.

Congratulations to ConnectGV

on their new building.

Everyone and their Dog is welcome at GV Batteries.

From Ken, Jen and the team at Mooroopna Glass MOOROOPNA

3 Alexandra St, Mooroopna

(03) 5825 1326

Phone Les & Julie Hughes 58212488.

34 North St, Shepparton VIC 3630

‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021—Page 13

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

Generous community funds the future CHARMAYNE ALLISON

T

ables and party lights lined Bowenhall St on Friday, March 19, as 160 guests gathered for the ConnectGV Past, Present and Future Soiree.

More than $14,000 was raised at the sellout event.

And there was no more fitting location to hold the fundraising gala than on the street between the old and new Day Options facilities.

“This year was all about our new facility,” ConnectGV chief executive Carolynne Frost said.

“The evening was an opportunity to come together, to celebrate our history and look forward to future prospects within the new building.”

Last year’s fundraiser was cancelled due to COVID-19, so the board was relieved restrictions allowed this year’s event to go ahead.

The aim of the evening was to create a special experience, while also raising funds for dedicated projects within the organisation.

It also gave the community a chance to get a glimpse of the new $5.3 million Day Options facility, which will become the centre of ConnectGV’s operations in coming weeks.

It will replace the dilapidated facilities across the road, which were officially opened on March 13, 1957, almost 64 years to the day of this year’s fundraiser.

Carolynne said ConnectGV’s dedicated board had been key in seeing the new building become a reality. “(They) were brave enough to say back in 2017, it’s time, our clients deserve the best, let’s do this for the future of ConnectGV and let’s carry on the legacy of our predecessors and make them proud,” she said.

“ConnectGV board members over the past four years have been key to ensuring the dream of a new state-of-the-art facility is realised.”

In total, a staggering $74,000 has been raised in the past year.

These funds will be used to purchase specialised equipment for the sensory room, gym, music and art rooms.

There are also plans for the inclusion of a sensory garden.

“ConnectGV cannot thank our local community enough,” Carolynne said.

“We have been fully backed to progress our services in order to remain current and sustainable into the future under the NDIS. “We truly are surrounded by wonderful people.

“We look forward to staying connected and we invite our community to share in this new space that we have created.

“Join us as we begin to write the next chapters for ConnectGV.” Admin moved into the new building from March 29, followed by clients from April 12.

!"##$%&'()*+,-)./#/0$1)23$4)5"6&$17)8"/19):;%$<%=/;1)!/.)>/#0;/.$3;7) 8"/19)%=/;1)?$##@)!""A)/#9)8"/19).$.8$1)-%"&&)B$33@C

Wendy Lovell MP Liberal Member for Northern Victoria Region

Sounds Around would like to Congratulate the team at ConnectGV In the modern workplace, collaboration means conferencing. Whether you’re dialing in from the road, joining from home, or hunkered down for the day in the executive conference room. Our conferencing solutions are here to help you accomplish more in every meeting — without inviting frustration.

Our passion is to satisfy our clients with the best visual and audio systems available in Victoria and Southern New South Wales. In recent years we have taken our business to a new level featuring advanced BOSE Professional equipment for large and small boardroom conferencing, pubs and venues. Video wall and digital signage boardrooms and venues are fast becoming important equipment for businesses across the Goulburn Valley.

CONGRATULATIONS TO CONNECTGV ON THE OPENING OF THEIR FABULOUS NEW DAY CENTRE. p: (03) 5821 6668 e: wendy.lovell@parliament.vic.gov.au /wendylovellMP

Authorised by

Wendy Lovell MP, 222 Wyndham Street Shepparton.

Funded from Parliamentary Budget

Page 14—‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

Offering independence and growth Ben Grapentin, 24, has been a ConnectGV client for five years.

He is a supported employee at Billabong Garden Complex and recently moved into one of ConnectGV’s independent living facilities.

With help from ConnectGV, Ben has also attended several Tri State Games, which provide opportunities for people with a disability to compete against peers in sporting activities.

Ben talked about the difference ConnectGV services and support have made in his life.

• Throughout your life, what have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced?

Being understood. Filling wheelbarrows at work with potting mix.

• What have been the best things of which you’re most proud?

I am a member of the Mooroopna Golf Club with my dad Ralph Grapentin.

• You work at Billabong Garden Complex — what are some of your duties there?

Potting, collecting orders, weeding, cleaning, plant identification, pruning and propagating plants.

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• How many years have you been to the Tri State Games?

Four years. (My friends) Ben, Emma and Sam went to the Tri State Games four years too.

• In which events did you compete?

I competed in the 100m of running and I won a gold medal.

• What were you most proud of achieving at the Tri State Games?

Winning medals. I won 19 medals and I won a second runner-up trophy.

Congratulations to

ConnectGV

We Congratulate Boards, Centre Managers, Committees and Staff past and present and Excited Clients of ConnectGV.

• You do lots of different activities at ConnectGV. Can you tell me about some of them?

Swimming — I have been doing some laps for the Tri State Games.

I also go tenpin bowling and volunteer at Meals on Wheels — I did really well doing Meals on Wheels.

• How has ConnectGV helped you?

It’s built my confidence to do my job at Billabong Garden Complex.

It’s provided activities and independent living.

• You’ve just moved into ConnectGV’s independent living — what do you do there?

Making loom bands (craft activity), writing AFL scores, computer activities and housekeeping.

I stay fit and active to continue to work and play sports.

• What do you think about ConnectGV’s new Day Options facility?

The new building looks big and very nice.

• Why do you think ConnectGV is such an important part of the community?

Because it helps people with disabilities to grow and be independent.

BRUCE MACTIER BUILDING DESIGNERS

Congratulate

CONNECTGV ON THE OPENING OF THEIR NEW PREMISES. “We are proud to have assisted with this project that will allow for the growth of such an important service in our community”

WE SPECIALISE IN RESIDENTIAL / COMMERCIAL / LOCAL GOVERNMENT /

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‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021—Page 15

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

Service had huge impact on Geoffrey’s life G

eoffrey Trudgeon wouldn’t miss a day at ConnectGV if he could help it.

A client for 50 years, he’d spend every moment he could at the centre.

Looking back, Shepparton’s Kevin Trudgeon can now see the sheer impact ConnectGV had on his late brother’s life.

“Through the expertise of the centre, he was able to enjoy a different quality of life to what would normally be expected,” he said.

“It meant everything for Geoffrey, but it also meant so much to me and my family.”

Born on January 16, 1932, Kevin’s younger brother Geoffrey was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at a young age.

“Geoffrey … did not have the power to put words together into sentences, and he was also profoundly disabled in his lower legs and feet,” Kevin said.

“Naturally, my parents were concerned with this but never ceased to find ways and means of improving Geoffrey’s quality of life.

“He was always part of the family and participated in everything we did.”

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In the late 40s and 50s, residents began campaigning for better disability care in Shepparton.

And in 1954, at 20 years old, Geoffrey became one of the first clients at the new Goulburn Valley Centre for Intellectually Handicapped Children, known today as ConnectGV. His family watched Geoffrey blossom throughout the years at the centre, as he was provided with programs that were meaningful to him.

He obtained some mobility and was able, by gestures and other means, to make himself completely understood.

“Geoffrey loved going to the centre and would not miss a day unless he was very ill,” Kevin said.

Geoffrey was there for 50 years.

But during that time, changes were made as the management committee became aware the parents of clients were getting older, and wouldn’t be around forever.

In the early 1980s, the organisation purchased 8 ha of land on Old Dookie Rd, where it established a hostel, Wharoongai, for 14 clients.

“Our parents had died two years prior to the establishment of that centre, and during that time Geoffrey had spent time with myself and my sister,” Kevin said.

“When Wharoongai opened in 1982, Geoffrey was one of the first clients there.”

He remained there for a further 20 years, being totally cared for by hostel parents Lil and Bill Daish.

He and 10 other clients were even supported to take a trip around Australia.

“That was a wonderful thing … I know the clients at that time were very impressed and pleased with everything they’d seen and done,” Kevin said.

Geoffrey continued at the centre until 2002, when he completely lost his mobility.

He transitioned into total care at a nursing home in Shepparton, living for another 11 years before he passed away at age 81.

“It was an incredible age for anybody with cerebral palsy to have achieved,” Kevin said.

Throughout his brother’s years with the centre, Kevin played key roles in its inner working, serving as a president, treasurer, life member and committee member.

But it was through Geoffrey’s involvement that he experienced the life-changing impact of ConnectGV firsthand.

“Always, the centre has progressed and been able to forecast the needs of people with a disability in the community,” he said.

“Even now, ConnectGV is embarking on a new era whereby the old buildings are now obsolete and they are progressing to provide new facilities for their clients.

“The centre will continue to operate, providing the right facilities for people with a disability to enjoy a vibrant life in the community in which they live.”

Early efforts sowed seeds for the ConnectGV of today

I

f Kathleen Darveniza was here today, she’d be amazed by the progress made by ConnectGV. “She was a lady that moved with the times,” her daughter Kath Piastri said.

Kathleen’s involvement with the centre began in the 1950s, while it was still just a dream.

After her son Mark was diagnosed with an intellectual disability while in kindergarten, she had joined other Shepparton parents and carers in calling for a disability service in the region.

“ConnectGV wasn’t there then. There was nowhere for these children to go,” Kath said.

So Kathleen — along with about six other local women — took matters into her own hands.

“They held a little class with a group of students at Deakin Reserve,” Kath said.

“They had to clean the club rooms out after the football players made a big mess.”

Kathleen also threw her heart and soul into fundraising efforts for a new centre, joining the ladies’ fundraising committee.

They set up street stalls outside Fairley’s Department Store (where Harris Scarfe is now).

Once a month, Kathleen would cook items to sell.

The group would also hold big fetes, with the CWA pitching in to help, as well as fundraising luncheons at Shepparton Golf Club.

“ConnectGV is very organised in what they do now — times have changed,” Kath said.

But it was because of these early efforts of a small group of women that ConnectGV exists today for people like Kathleen’s son.

Mark, now 72, currently lives at ConnectGV’s accommodation facility on Chertsey Rd. “Mark is very happy there,” Kath said.

CONNECTGV ON YOUR NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART BUILDING GV Plumbing would like to congratulate ConnectGV on their new building and contribution to the community.

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“And the houses are great, because they give Mark 24/7 care.”

After years of tireless fundraising to see ConnectGV become a reality, Kath knows her mother would be awestruck by the new state-

of-the-art Day Options facility on Bowenhall St. “It looks amazing,” she said.

“I’m sure she’d be blown away by where ConnectGV is at today.”

Congratulations to ConnectGV on their new building.

7946 Melbourne Road, Shepparton

(03) 5823 2600

Page 16—‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

Joy found in making a difference W

hen looking at the rewards of working in the disability sector, it often comes down to the little things.

Baby steps, which can eventually lead to life-changing leaps for clients.

“They might not have been able to complete a task by themselves,” ConnectGV human resources manager Kali Frost said.

“But with a little bit of work and support, that can change.

“Being able to help somebody become more independent or achieve one of their goals — you can’t beat it.”

Kali works with staff, student placements and volunteers at the disability service, looking after employee welfare and recruitment, performance and training.

In her role, she has front-row seats to witnessing the widespread sense of achievement enjoyed by all who work at the organisation.

“You might help a client who is struggling with something or having a bad day,” she said.

“We’ve had clients with goals to go on a holiday and we’ve been able to support them in doing that.

“Or they might have been able to apply for employment or go through the supported employment program.

“All of that makes a real difference in their lives.”

There is a wide range of employment

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opportunities at the service, from behindthe-scenes work such as administration and accounting, to a hands-on role as a disability support worker.

While Kali said ConnectGV was always looking for staff, there was currently a particular need for people to fill middle-management roles.

“So somebody that’s looking to step up and take their career to the next level,” she said.

“We’ve got a lot of staff members that have been with us for 20-plus years, so we are at that stage where some of those long-standing

staff are going to retire.

“They’ll really leave a hole in our organisation, so we’re looking for the next generation to filter through and take on leadership roles.”

The service also has opportunities within its social enterprises — including the brand new Work Ready Connect, which aims to re-engage people with the workforce.

In addition to the disability sector, this new program also supports vulnerable residents such as migrants, women returning to the workforce or people with injuries.

“ConnectGV isn’t the end point,” Kali said.

“We’re trying to get them stability and a solid reference check and aid them to work with our partners to get that open employment they’re looking for.

“So we’re trying to be that middle ground to expose people to work.”

As a well-recognised disability support service provider in Shepparton with a focus on community, Kali said ConnectGV was working to become the local employer of choice.

And she encouraged anyone interested in joining the team to get in touch.

“We’ve had people join us from retail, we’ve had truck drivers, we’ve had accountants — there’s such a variety of employment here, suited to so many skillsets,” she said.

Mentorship and training can be provided if someone is considering a change of employment or starting off in the workforce and considering a career within the disability sector.

“If anyone’s sitting back and thinking, ‘I’d love to make a difference’, I can’t stress this enough: get in touch with ConnectGV and we can have a conversation about what you can offer,” Kali said.

The team at Everyday Supplies would like to congratulate everyone at ConnectGV on the opening of their new facility

• Cleaning Chemicals and Equipment • Washroom Amenities • Staff / Tea room supplies • Window Products • Vacuums, Polishers & Scrubbers • Open to the public • Free delivery in the GV

28–36 New Dookie Rd Shepparton VIC 3630 (Near sale yards) | PH: (03) 5831 7228 www.everydaysupplies.com.au | office@everydaysupplies.com.au “The GV’s locally owned and operated specialist for all your Cleaning, Washroom and Equipment needs since 1997”

‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021—Page 17

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

Helping people achieve their goals C

To be eligible for ConnectGV accommodation, this must first be identified as a goal in clients’ NDIS plans.

onnectGV is a registered NDIS provider committed to offering individualised options for people with a disability and their families to ensure their goals and dreams can be achieved.

The organisation is for a fully inclusive community — and to that end, it seeks partnerships that allow it to offer many of these options within the community.

INDIVIDUAL SUPPORT PROGRAM

ConnectGV’s Individual Support Program enables participants to maximise opportunities to increase their skills so they can reach their goals — whether educational, vocational or community and social.

The Individual Support Program provides a holistic approach for each participant, and is divided into three development areas: Pathways This area actively focuses on promoting independence in everyday life through the development of skills.

Participants are given the opportunity to develop their independence with an emphasis on accessing public transport, money handling and gaining practical experience in a workplace environment.

The Pathways team also works with school leavers who have finished Year 12 to help them prepare for work and assists with employment

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pathways, developing tailored activities to meet each client’s needs.

Community, social and inclusion This area supports participants within the community, and provides vital support in clients’ homes.

Individuals are aided to access and participate in community and recreational activities.

Engagement and participation This area delivers meaningful activities that promote social inclusion and participation, sensory development and integration.

Programs focus on engaging client participation and are tailored to individual support needs.

EMPLOYMENT

ConnectGV operates a number of social enterprises, including Billabong Garden Com-

plex, Billabong Sweets and Treats, GV Ragz, Flower Power flower deliveries and ConnectGV Services.

Working conditions are based on an award and wages are determined by assessment of productivity against an award rate.

Employees are supported to develop skills, enabling them to work across the various businesses, should they wish to do so, or equipping them to seek mainstream employment.

ACCOMMODATION

A number of modern accommodation units have been built by ConnectGV to provide supported accommodation in each home, and more recently to provide independent living options.

SLES (School Leaver Employment Supports) ConnectGV’s School Leaver Employment Supports program, or ‘SLES’, is aimed at young adults who have finished Year 12.

It is ideal for people with a disability with aspirations of gaining employment down the track.

Staff work with individuals, identifying supports to help them develop the necessary skills to increase their chances of open employment in the future.

To qualify for SLES, contact ConnectGV now as students must be assessed for this program while still at school.

WORK READY CONNECT

Work Ready Connect provides supported employment and training options via ConnectGV’s innovative 360-degree “learning factory” and social enterprise, CGV Services.

Participants contribute to the community as they obtain the practical and accredited work-ready skills and experience local employers urgently require.

Work Ready Connect graduates are matched with local industry partners to commence meaningful employment with an industry partner that needs their skills and labour.

CLEAVE'S CONGRATULATES CONNECTGV ON THEIR RELOCATION AT CLEAVE'S WE STOCK A HUGE SELECTION OF ARTISAN POTS

We Stock A Range Of Unique, Quality Artisan Pots To Suit Any Home And Outdoor Living Space These Are A Beautiful, Timeless Investment - Visit Our New Website

www.cleavesgardensupplies.com.au

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Sand and Soil • Coloured Mulches • Mushroom Mulch • Organic Compost • Organic Veggie Mix Soft Fall for Kids’ Playgrounds • Sand for Kids’ Sandpits • Statement Rocks • Decorative Pebbles Washed River Stones/Rocks • Pavers • Sleepers • Retaining Walls • Gabion Baskets • Gift Vouchers

OPEN 7 DAYS

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A:20 Wanganui Rd, Shepparton - E:info@cleavesearthmoving.com

Page 18—‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

ConnectGV’s goals for the future ConnectGV has never been afraid of change.

• Focusing on pre-accredited training courses and pathways.

• Collecting and using data and knowledge about clients and markets to co-design products and services that meet their needs.

Especially if that change means better care and expanded opportunities for people with a disability in Shepparton.

Which is why, looking to the future, the organisation is set on growing and improving in every way possible.

Operations • Aligning ConnectGV processes with NDIS Operational Guidelines and Royal Commission findings.

• Ensuring staff and the ConnectGV community have a strong voice on issues relating to quality and safe service delivery.

• Developing employment programs that enhances ConnectGV’s reputation as a major employer of vulnerable members of our community.

ConnectGV’s vision: • A fully inclusive, safe community that enhances the principles of ‘Being, Belonging and Becoming’.

ConnectGV’s mission: • Supporting people with all abilities and their parents/carers to realise their full potential, always in a safe environment.

ConnectGV’s values: • Transparency: We demonstrate this through our values. We understand the importance of open, honest and respectful communication for all.

• Leadership: We lead with integrity, humility, positive influence and accountability.

• High standards: Are our way of life.

• Collaboration: We invest in one another, we are on the same team.

ConnectGV’s goals for the future: Client • Promote the benefits of the services and supports ConnectGV provides.

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Operations • Develop strong and progressive leadership across the organisation; Strengthen and evolve operational efficiencies; Develop strategic partnerships; Develop consistency of practice, standards and model of care; Improve communications and help all key stakeholders stay informed and connected.

Knowledge and learning • Strive to create a culture of performance and commitment that supports creativity and leadership.

Financial • Design finance functions to meet tomorrow’s challenges. Incorporate financial analytics across the span of ConnectGV. Broaden marketing scope.

These goals will be achieved through multiple steps including: Client • Promoting contemporary and evidence-based services that drive improved outcomes for participants.

Knowledge and learning • Building expertise within teams to support and mentor new staff entering the sector.

• Attracting and retaining people to support current and future workforce needs.

• Upskilling appropriate staff and participants into different roles.

Financial • Growing ConnectGV business and services.

• Working with industry partners to ensure sustainable funding models that support positive social impact.

‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021—Page 19

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

Drum praises ‘the very best’ new facility I

t was Saturday, May 18, 2019 and the Coalition had swept in to snatch the federal election in a shock victory.

The moment it was confirmed, Federal Member for Nicholls Damian Drum picked up the phone and called ConnectGV chief executive Carolynne Frost.

“I said, ‘Do you know what this means’?,” he said. “‘We’re going to win this election, and you’re going to get your money’.

“She just cried.”

Mr Drum has been following ConnectGV’s evolution for many years, and had heard about the desperate need for a new Day Options facility to replace its dilapidated premises.

“There have been many changes and it’s been quite a long journey to where they are now,” he said.

“When saying the previous building was falling apart, that’s not an exaggeration. It was on its last legs.

“They were doing such fantastic work in the community, so to have them operating out of such an ageing facility was pretty horrible.”

Through community fundraising, ConnectGV raised $3 million for a new Day Options facility, which would also house its admin team.

But an additional $2 million was still needed to make the dream of a new centre a reality.

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As the 2019 federal election approached, Mr Drum started working to nail down the funding.

“I was even chatting to my political opponent in the Labor party, to see if they could pledge the funds if they won,” he said.

“In the end, we couldn’t promise prior to the election. However, we could promise if we won, we would find the funding.”

But with a Coalition win looking unlikely, Mr Drum said the pledge rang a little hollow.

Until “miracles” happened, and the LiberalNationals pulled off a stunning victory.

“We were so rapt to be able to provide the funding in the end,” Mr Drum said.

With the disability sector still coming to grips with the new National Disability Insurance Scheme, Mr Drum said this new building was needed now more than ever.

“In previous years, they would receive block funding, which would allow them to run programs,” he said.

“Now, all funding goes to the individual, so ConnectGV has to work out what programs and services people with disabilities want and need.

“With the new facility, they can ensure they’ll be able to provide that.”

Mr Drum walked through the build site of ConnectGV’s new Day Options facility several months ago, when it was nearly finished.

His early review: “Now they’ve got the very best”.

“It’s been a long time coming, but they haven’t had to skip anything with this facility,” he said.

“People with a disability in Shepparton will now get more and more opportunities to be their best and reach high levels of community participation.”

While Mr Drum said the Coalition “helped a bit” by providing funding, he insisted the new Day Options facility was a testament to ConnectGV’s hard work.

“It was unusual to see a community disability service come to the table with so much money already saved, and that’s due to their incredible fundraising efforts,” he said.

“It just showed how well supported they are by the Shepparton community.”

Congratulations to ConnectGV ON THEIR NEW BUILDING Through the incredibly valuable service ConnectGV provides to our local community, we are thrilled to have employed Michael Darcy for over 25 years. Michael is a well-respected and hardworking team member at Furphy’s Engineering and we are grateful for the connection that was made by ConnectGV all those years ago.

106 New Dookie Rd | (03) 5832 1400 | www.furphyengineering.com.au

Page 20—‘ConnectGV Grand Opening Feature ’, April, 2021

SOCIAL ENTERPRISES

Your purchase makes a difference!

Your purchase provides training and employment for local people with a disability.

ConnectGV Social Enterprises holds a Labour Hire License and is Social Traders Certified. That means whilst value adding to your business or government department, your purchase assists to meet social procurement requirements and strengthens community partnerships.

BILLABONG GARDEN COMPLEX

Garden • Gifts • Café

Retail Sales Discover exciting new plants and everyday varieties, water features, plant health products, gorgeous gift shop and the on-site Garden Kitchen Café.

Billabong has all you need to make your garden grow, along with displays for ideas and inspiration.

Many plants are grown on-site to local conditions, Ideal for local gardens.

Wholesale and Trade Sales Enquiries welcome. Plants can be purchased in bulk or contract grown to your requirements.

Nursery Open 7 days Weekdays until 5pm Weekends until 4pm Café Open Tuesday – Sunday 295 Numurkah Road, Shepparton T: 5821 8632

BILLABONG SWEETS & TREATS

Bagged Lollies and Chocolates Bulk Lollies for Events • Custom Lolly Packaging

Located at Billabong Garden Complex, choose from an assortment of confectionary.

Purchase individual bags or order bulk supplies for lolly buffets, events and fundraising, or ask about a regular delivery to your local workplace.

Call to arrange bulk orders and custom packaging.

295 Numurkah Road, Shepparton T: 5821 8632

FLOWER POWER

Seasonal Arrangements • Flowers for Events Local Deliveries

Located at Billabong Garden Complex, choose from fresh seasonal flower arrangements seven days, or call to book a delivery to your local workplace, home or as gift.

295 Numurkah Road, Shepparton T: 5821 8632

CONNECTGV SERVICES

Third Party Logistics • Packaging and Collating Garden Maintenance • Cleaning

CGV Services, provides a ready workforce to undertake jobs that can be labour intensive and take staff away from their usual role within your business.

Whether it be packaging, collating, cleaning, event set up or pack up or garden maintenance, CGV Services will maximise effectiveness and efficiencies in your business.

8 New Dookie Road, Shepparton T: 0439 653 433

GV RAGZ

Cleaning, Polishing and Trade rags

Various grades of rags to suit all requirements from high quality lint free cotton for detailing, glass work and polishing to lower grade cloth for mopping up spills, general cleaning and trade use.

Free local delivery is available when ordering three or more bags.

8 New Dookie Road, Shepparton T: 5822 1716

Employment for people with a disability through community connections www.connectgv.com.au