Flourish Magazine - Winter 2024

EVERYONE IS WELCOME AT TAPEROO

It’s 10.30am on a Thursday morning and in the heart of the Lefevre Peninsula, Adelaide, a group of locals gather around a table, cups of tea and coffee in front of them, the warm flow of friendship between them.

It could be any group of friends catching up, but today these regulars at UnitingSA’s Taperoo Community Centre are discussing healthy food choices with group leader and volunteer, Janet Ockenden.

In the background, the Centre’s long-time Coordinator, Kathy Miller (pictured), is busy greeting everyone who comes in the door, taking calls and checking emails.

Kathy knows everyone’s name, stories and passions.

I get such joy watching people grow and develop.

- KATHY

It’s no wonder everyone agrees she is the Centre’s lynchpin.

“She’s the best,” regular attendee Belinda says.

“She looks after us,” NDIS client Susan adds.

Indeed, Kathy’s motto is “enter as strangers, leave as friends”.

Kathy’s been managing the Centre since 2004. She says her work is a labour of love. She is thankful for the volunteers who help her run a huge program of activities from painting, cooking and book appreciation, to men’s counselling, meals on a budget and independent living skills. Their kindness and support constantly motivate her.

“I consider myself a creative person and the Centre gives me so many opportunities to come up with ways to engage people,” Kathy says.

“I feel lucky.

“Working in this community is just wonderful. The people living on the Lefevre Peninsula have such a strong spirit and there are so many interesting people living here.”

There are many heart-warming success stories among those who have attended the Centre over the years, including a current participant who learned to read and write at the age of 74.

Others who were once reticent and shy, have blossomed in confidence as they’ve learned new skills. Others who live alone and were uncertain about trying something new, have made important new connections and friends.

“We have people who come here every single day and others who just attend for a particular group.

“Everyone is always welcome.”

Taperoo Community Centre, located at 14/20 Yongala Street, Taperoo, offers people of all ages and all backgrounds low-cost programs, workshops and accredited training courses.

For more information, drop in or call (08) 8248 2122. To download a timetable, visit unitingsa.com.au/tcc.