Our History

2023

Our achievements and successes have been many these past twelve months, a true team effort! Thank you to all our staff, volunteers, Board Members, students, and of course our very own Participants who have been our inspiration.

Secret Garden Fairs and particularly the Scarecrow Fair were amazing as always. Congratulations to Caroline and her team on their fundraising at the Secret Garden. Although there were some diffculties met because of the unpredictable weather, there were still amazing turnout. The Autumn Fair also had an amazing turnout despite the very hot weather. Overall, the fairs have great contribution for the Secret Garden. 

Stars Days This year we introduced Stars Days in each NWDS site as a way to recognize and celebrate the achievements of participants, careers, volunteers, and staff. These celebration days were a gerat new initiative that ensured that all of the participants's achievements were highlighted. 

Outback Adventures This year there were a total of twenty-eight Outback Adventure Camps that were provided to our participants providing them with the opportunity to build skills and enjoy new adventures. 

Volunteering Days Salesforce, Deloitte's Mervac and many volunteer groups and individuals. Rick and Marianne have supported our Corporate Volunteering. The team have carried all at the garden with a valuable amount of work completed at the new site. Many thanks to all those who have worked alongside us and supported us to continue to build the Secret Garden. 

NWDS Awards Day A massive day and great to have everybody celebrating.

Riverside Theatre Drama Performance Due to the ongoing effects of COVID-19, performances were downscaled with an audeince of their peers. Regardless, it's still great fun and high energy performances. 

Table of Eight A full year of gatherings. It continued to provide fun social evenings allowing people the chance to meet others and enjoy a meal together. 

One Mile Cafe Our cafe is a six-day-a-week venue that is also so well supported by participants and volunteers and the best scones in the Hawkesbury region. 

Website The NWDS website have been updated and redeveloped. 

2022

Christmas, Plant Fair and Autumn Fair at the Secret Garden Congratulations to Caroline, and her team on their Fundraising at the Secret Garden, they struggled at times with the weather, and we didn’t know if they were going to happen till the last minute. The Autumn Fair had a great turn out and contributed to funds to operate the Secret Garden that have struggled so much in the past 2 years.

Outback Adventure Camps This year there were 8 Outback Adventure Camps that were provided to our participants providing them with the opportunity to build skills and enjoy new adventures.

Salesforce, Deloitte’s, Mervac and many volunteers groups and Individuals Rick and Marianne have supported our Corporate Volunteering and the team have carried all at the garden with a valuable amount of work completed at the new site. Many thanks to all those who have worked alongside us, and supported us to continue to build the Secret Garden.

NWDS Awards Day Cancelled due to the impacts of group gatherings with Covid.

ACIS 100% Certification Audit 100% Well done Raelene and all the team.

Riverside Theatre Drama performance Well done to the performers and their support staff for their twelve month commitment, Lots of on line activities this year.

Table of 8’s Struggles but up and running again in 2022. It continued to provide fun social evenings allowing people the chance to meet others and enjoy a meal together.

One Mile Café is now operating 6 days per week and struggles on through the year, making expensive to meet Covid 19 requirements but cooking a hot meal at lunch each day and has been a key connection point when other areas close due to covid-19. Assisted to build Garden sales also.

Collectors Plant Fair Congratulations to Marianne and her team who returned to full force again in 2022 and proved to support a quieter event but with good sales. Thank you to the staff and volunteers who contributed many hours to make this a success.

On Line Competency Assessment System Now used for all new intakes of staff and reducing the workload for HR, whilst assisting better to train our new recruits.

Purchase of 3 Money Place, Rouse Hill This building design is to DA stage in August 2022 and has taken a considerable amount of planning to establish the best way forward for the facility.

2021

To meet the rising future demands for our services, NWDS has re-incorporated as a company limited by guarantee at the end of 2020. The Organisation’s name changed to NORTH WEST DISABILITY SERVICES AUSTRALIA LIMITED.

Spring and Autumn Fairs at the Secret Garden Congratulations to  Caroline, and her team on their Fairs at the Secret Garden, they broke all records, in our beautiful ever growing surroundings. Spring Fair, Scarecrow Festival and  Autumn Fair had all been outstanding successes contributing greatly to funds to operate the Secret Garden.

Outback Adventure Camps This year there were 19 camps provided to the participants giving them the opportunity to build skills and enjoy new adventures.

Salesforce, Deloitte, Rouse Hill Anglican College, The Foundation Project and the Community Volunteers groups and Individuals 

 Rick and Marianne have supported out corporate Volunteering and the team have carried all at the garden and a great amount of work completed at the new site. Many thanks to all those who have worked alongside and supported us to continue to build the Secret Garden.

NWDS Awards Day Celebrated in conjunction with International Day for People with disability, celebrating the achievements and efforts of both participants and staff. Thanks to Jim Taggart our Patron who makes these events very special as MC.

ACIS 100% Certification Audit 100% Well done Raelene and all the team.

Riverside Theatre Drama Performance Well done to the performers and their support staff for their twelve month commitment, resulting in a wonderful end of year performance.

1 Gift Box Road Trip To Central NSW – again NWDS were able to bless kids from Central NSW wiith generous donations from our community.

Table of 8’s Continued to provide fun social evenings allowing people the chance to meet others and enjoy a meal together. Special thank you to Jannine and the volunteers Marie, Sophia Couter, Catelyn Couter, Margaret Zalac and John Nixon.

One Mile Café is now operating 6 days per week and Jobkeeper has enabled staff to meet Covid-19 Requirements, cooking a hot meal at lunch each day and has been a key connection point when other areas close due to covid-19. Assisted to build Garden sales also.

Collectors Plant Fair Congratulations to Marianne and her team who returned to full force again in  2021 and proved to support an outstanding event with very few plants left to take home to the Secret Garden after. Lots of fun had by all.

On line Competency Assessment System Now used for all new intakes of staff and reducing the workload for HR, whilst assisting better to train our new recruits.

Purchase of 3 Money Place, Rouse Hill This land purchase will provide a great opportunity to expand services in the area and also create a base for the Admin section of NWDS.

2020

Spring and Autumn Fairs at the Secret Garden Congratulations to Marianne, and her team on their Fairs at the Secret Garden, they broke all records, in our beautiful new surroundings. Autumn Fair has been cancelled in 2020 due to Covid-19.

Outback Adventure Camps Camps were provided to participants providing with the opportunity to build skills and enjoy new adventures. Thanks to all those staff who offered their support and a special thanks to Kimberley who always provides excellent support making sure they all have a great exerience.

Salesforce, Deloitte, Rouse Hill Anglican College, The Foundation Project and the Community Volunteers groups and Individuals Rick and Marianne have suppored our Corporate Volunteering and the team have carried all at the garden with a valuable amount of work completed at the new site. Many thanks to all those who have worked alongside us, and supported us to continue to build the Secret Garden.

NWDS Awards Day Celebrated in conjunction with International Day for People with Disability, celebrating the achievements and efforts of both participants and staff. Thanks to our Patron Jim Taggart who makes these events very special as MC.

ACIS 100% Certification Audit 100% Well done Raelene and the team.

Riverside Theatre Drama Performance Well done to the performers and their support staff for their twelve month commitment, resulting in a wonderful end of year performance.

Aberdoon Art Show and Fair What a wonderful opportunity to recognise our outstanding artists! Thank you Angela for all the time and huge effort you made to create such a great day. Special thanks to the volunteers who worked tirelessly to make the day a success. Well done team!!!

Gift Box Road Trip To Central NSW – NWDS were able to bless kids from Central NSW wiith generous donations from our community.

Table of 8’s Continued to provide fun social evenings allowing people the chance to meet others and enjoy a meal together. Special thank you to Jannine and the volunteers Marie, Sophia Couter, Catelyn Couter, Margaret Zalac and John Nixon.

One Mile Café is now operating 6 days per week and Jobkeeper has enabled staff to meet Covid-19 Requirements, cooking a hot meal at lunch each day and has been a key connection point when other areas close due to covid-19. Assisted to build Garden sales also.

Collectors Plant Fair Cancelled for 2020 due to Covid-19 but became an internet event and sales were fair and the organisers tried very hard to keep all connected.

Online Competency Assessment System Now used for all new intakes of staff and reducing the workload for HR, whilst assisting better to train our new recruits.

2019

Spring and Autumn Fairs at the Secret Garden Congratulations to Marianne, and her team on their Fairs at the Secret Garden, they broke all records, in our beautiful new surroundings. If you have not visited our new garden, then please do, it is a unique and wonderful space.

33 Outback Adventure Camps Providing opportunity for people to build skills and enjoy new adventures in the past twelve months. Thank you to those staff who have supported people to enjoy new experiences!

Salesforce, Deloitte’s, Rouse Hill Anglican College and The Foundation Project Rick and Marianne and the team have carried all at the garden with a valuable amount of work completed at the new site. Many thanks to all those who have worked alongside us and supported us with Community days.

NWDS Awards Day Celebrated in conjunction with International Day for People with Disability, celebrating the achievements and efforts of both participants and staff. Thanks to Jim Taggart our Patron who makes these events very special as MC.

ACIS Certification Audit Well done Raelene and all the team.

Riverside Theatre Drama Performance Well done to the performers and their support staff for their twelve month commitment, resulting in a wonderful end of year performance.

Aberdoon Art Show and Fair What a wonderful opportunity to recognise our outstanding artists!! Thank you Angela for all the time and huge effort you made to create such a great day. Also some outstanding awards for works at the Hawkesbury Show. Well done team !!

Opal Cottage Finalized the Gardens and Grounds At our official opening in September, Opal was looking green and lush. Thank you to Kerry and her team for going aboe and beyond to ensure Opal is a facility in which to be proud.

2 Gift Box Road Trips to Central NSW Too many presents this year for one trip.

Table of 8’s Continued to provide fun social evenings allowing people the chance to meet others and enjoy a meal together. Well done to Susan, Colette, Kerry, Rowena and Glenys, and all the lovely volunteers who give so generously of their time.

Café 2753 is now operating on more days and supporting large groups visiting the garden.

Collectors Plant Fair Another wonderful event in 2019 and proved to be a record sales event while also promoting the garden to all. With over a 100 stalls the Secret Garden was thrilled to win the best stall.     

Socialites has continued to expand and a wide array of fun and exciting venues being accessed.

Risk Management System was completed and finalised  to cover all incident, feedback, complaints and Hazard Reporting. 

On Line Competency  Assessment  System Now close to being finalised and the staff have found the new system available and flexible to achieve competency.

Compliance Management System Close to being finalised and data being recorded to ensure every aspect of compliance is met in a thorough and timely manner.

2018

Spring and Autumn Fairs at the original New Secret Garden Congratulations to Marianne, and her team on their first Fairs at the New Secret Garden, they broke all records, in our beautiful new surroundings. If you have not visited our New garden, then please do, it is a unique and wonderful space.

32 Outback Adventure Campsproviding opportunity for people to build skills and enjoy new adventures in the past twelve months. Thank you to those staff who have supported people to enjoy new experiences!

Salesforce, Deloitte’s, Rouse Hill Anglican College and The Foundation Project Simon and Marianne and the team have carried all at the garden with a valuable amount of work completed at the new site. Many thanks to all those who have worked alongside us, and supported us with Community days.

NWDS Awards Day Celebrated in conjunction with International Day for People with Disability, celebrating the achievements and efforts of both participants and staff.

ACIS Certification Audit Well done Raelene and all the team.

Riverside Theatre Drama Performance Well done to the performers and their support staff for their twelve month commitment, resulting in a wonderful end of year performance.

Aberdoon Art Show and Fair What a wonderful opportunity to recognise our outstanding artists!! Thank you Angela for all the time and huge effort you have made to create such a great day.

Opal Cottage Finalized the Gardens and Grounds It’s all looking green and lush, thank you to Kerry and her team for going above and beyond to ensure Opal is a facility in which to be proud.

2 Gift Box Road Trips to Central NSW Too many presents this year for one trip.

Table of 8’s Continued to provide fun social evenings allowing people the chance to meet others and enjoy a meal together. Well done to Lisa, Colette, and Kerry, Rowena and Glenys, and all the lovely volunteers who give so generously of their time.

Café 2753 is now operating on more days and supporting large groups visiting the garden.

Collectors Plant Fair Another wonderful event in 2018 and proved to be a record sales event while also promoting the garden to all.

2017

Autumn Fair at the Original Secret Garden
Spring Fair at the New Secret Garden
21 Outback Adventure Camps
Salesforce, Deloitte’s, Rouse Hill Anglican College and The Foundation Project Volunteer Days at the Secret Garden
NWDS Awards Day- 10 years
Transitional Living Sleepovers commenced
Access-To-Art
Further development of the grounds of Opal Cottage
Gift Box Road Trip to Central NSW
Table of 8’s at Opal and Conie Ave
Café 2753 open on Wednesdays at Secret Garden
Certified to ACIS with areas of excellence noted
RDA Richmond Centre - RDA well established now

2016

Commenced providing service as a NDIS Provider
Spring Fair and Autumn Fair at the original Secret Garden
First Outback Adventure Camp to Bathurst Races
Successful Awards Day
Carer Huddles across the year
Salesforce, Deloitte’s and Rouse Hill Anglican College Volunteer days at Secret Garden
One Mile Kitchen Dinners
Access-To-Art
Successful ACIS Certification Surveillance Audit
Pollination Day at the Original Secret Garden- commenced making Bee Hotels
Trustee Dinner
New Opal Building construction finished by Zadro Construction
Shoe Box Road Trip to Central NSW
Table of 8’s each month at Conie Ave and Opal
Horse Power Day

2015

Gemhill Cottage 21st Anniversary
Hope for Homes inaugural Fete was held on 8th November
Cultural Competency Audit completed to assess future training needs
Development of new Opal Cottage at Pound Paddock
Volunteer Morning Tea at Aberdoon House, Rouse Hill during Volunteer Week
Extensive corporate volunteering days throughout the year
Greater community contributions within the HADPAC program
Development of more Outback Adventures for Participants
Increased Leisure Link community connections for Participants
Growth of interest in the Table of 8 programs
Growth of participation in the Post School Options programs
Extensive renovations completed at Lavender Cottage- more accessible and user friendly
Impressive expansion of the Opal Cottage programs
Best Stall Award won by Secret Garden at the Clarendon Collectors Plant Fair
Commencement of Animal Therapy programs
Continued development of New Secret Garden

2014 30th Anniversary Year

30th Anniversary Ball held at Castle Hill RSL
Refurbishment of Buildings - Conie Ave, Lavender Cottage
Fire water response unit installed at Gemhill Cottage
4 new vehicles purchased - 2 buses, 2 cars
Cultural Audit was completed
Work Health Safety Compliance Audit conducted November - outstanding feedback achieved and bench mark standards
ACIS Audit achieved - re-certification for 3 years
Parklea Markets stall held each Friday - selling mainly NWDS made products
ZEST Awards - NWDS a finalist in 3 categories

• Out of the Box - access2art
• Exceptional Project - Outback Adventure Camps
• Outstanding Voluntary Group - Secret Garden

New Opal Building Richmond - DA completed and finalised. Construction Certificate completed and submitted.
Noppy's Cafe at Aberdoon House Rouse Hill commenced - open to the public used as a training ground for participants, open Wednesdays.
Riding for the Disabled, Richmond set up operating from the New Secret Garden site
Mates Shed set up and fully resourced, operating from the New Secret Garden site at Richmond.

2013

ACMISS Maintenance Audit – completed and achieved
Finalist in the NSW Disability Industry Innovation Awards
Cultural Competency Audit
Introduction of a New “Skills Assessment Centre” staff recruitment approach
Restructured Core Modules and Competency Assessments
Introduced written and on-line assessment of Competency for greater flexibility
Restructure of Management Team
Excellent new Board Strategic Planning- Action Plan approach
Introduction of Ex-Officio to Board Sub-Committee
Development of New UWS Community Corner (including expanded Secret Garden site)
Created a Riding for Disabled Group for commencement in Feb 2014
Installed Coffee shop building onto new Community Corner site
Refurbished gardens and bathrooms at Gemhill Cottage, roof refurbishment underway.
Sod Turning start for Pound Paddock site (New Opal Cottage)
Law Society of NSW chose NWDS as their Charity of Choice for the year
Progress to NSW Finalist in Australian Trainee Awards
Partnership Award with University of Western Sydney
Finalised Pound Paddock arrangements to enable construction of new Opal Cottage building
Initial Table of 8 held

2012

Restructured to 1 Service Manager – Quality Service Manager.
Completed the HACC Audit with 100% Outstanding Completion / Competency.
Completed ACIMSS Certification Surveillance Audit
Finalist in the National Disability Services - NSW Disability Innovation Awards in the Leadership in Promoting Community Engagement and Employment Opportunities category
Gardening Australia filmed a television segment focusing on the Secret Garden's Food for Thought program
Hosted a Morning Tea for a carers discussion with the NSW Minister for Ageing and Disability Services Minister Andrew Constance

2011

Sway Fun installed at Lavender Cottage funded by The Fred P Archer Charitable Trust.
Liberty Swing installed in Balcombe Heights Estate with funding received from NSW Government through their Community Building Fund.
Re-opening of Aberdoon House as historic cottage and increased community links.
Lisa Rutkin was awarded a Pride of Workmanship Award through Rotary Club of Winston Hills.
James Pettersen was awarded a Pride of Workmanship Award through Rotary Club of Hawkesbury. NWDS received the “Ethics in Business Award” from Rotary Club of Winston Hills.
Marianne Dowd was awarded a first place and championship ribbon for her artwork in open company at the Castle Hill Show  in 2011 – a very talented young lady!

Art therapy activity room split into two to create a Meeting Room and PSP Coordinators’ office, providing closer location to LF’s and Roster document.  
Meeting room very useful re PCP meetings and excellent addition to the Conie Ave resources.
Redevelopment of the Conie Ave backyard to create a sensory walk included landscaping.
Conie Ave & Lavender Cottage – new information system for staff, service Users and Carers – a TV in the entrance to display up and coming events and celebrate achievements.
Bus parking bay sealed by Council.
Conie Ave – Intercom system installed. Gremmo Homes Race Day held in support of NWDS raised in excess of $50,000, which included a matching grant from Macquarie Foundation of $13,407.
Advertising sold for NWDS buses as part of race day fund raising. 14 October took responsibility for the Secret Garden service at Richmond. New Board Committee Structure accepted – now 3 Sub-committees: 

1. Compliance & Audit
2. Finance & Risk
3. Governance & Strategy

Employed Self Actualisation Coordinator.
Employed Quality Assurance coordinator. Access 2 Art display held at Castle Hill throughout December /January 2012.
ACHIEVED CERTIFICATION UNDER ACIMSS – 3 years at this time NWDS is 1 of only 18 organisations to have achieved this status.
The Attendant Care Industry Management System Standard (ACIMSS 2008) is the only National quality management standard that specifically addresses the provision of attendant care services which are any paid care or support service provided in a person’s home or community. It has been endorsed by JAS-ANZ (the Joint Accreditation System for Australia and New Zealand) and gives national recognition to a service that achieves Certification by ACIMSS. 

New Life Member David Stephenson

2010

Received community support for the Hawkesbury project in Richmond and celebrated 25th Anniversary Ball in August 2009.
Dr Jim Taggart OAM was awarded as our first patron of North West Disability Services.
Rouse Hill Town Centre Partnership has helps us to raised $14382.
Deborah Mills received the Rotary Vocational Excellence Award for District 9680.
Debbie Richter, Natalie Shaw and Oscar Pino were awarded Pride of Workmanship Awards in 2010 for their ability to “Do it once, Do it Well” ability in their workplaces.
Access 2 Art program 2009, sold 3 paintings with a total return of $760.00.
Provide student placement to 13 Medical students from the University of Western Sydney.
Reducing our workers Compensation Premiums by $150,000.
Established NWDS / Discos held at Castle Hill RSL. Refurbishment of Sensory Garden at Lavender Cottage and in Gemhill Cottage has a
Gazebo installed with a concrete pathway to enable easy access to this fantastic new Gazebo and garden area.

2009

NWDS Charity Race Day – raised $43,000 providing funds to assist purchase of a Coaster bus for the service
Partnership with North Richmond Community Bank has provided $200,000 and an opportunity to work with the Hawkesbury City Council to develop a purpose built facility for Opal Cottage at Richmond
Access 2 Art 2008 – Sold 5 paintings with a total return of $1,610.00
Approval as a Leisure link, Life Choices, Active Ageing, Teen Time and Flexible Respite Provider
We tendered for Aberdoon House to develop a specialist disability artistic and community service
Introducing the Organic Food Market and engaging with Rouse Hill Town Centre
Funding from DADHC for a new coaster and commuter buses to the value of $66,057.00
Transitioned 3 TTW service users to work. D.A submitted and approved to extend garden areas and build additional activity areas, storage space and decking
4 selected staff attended the Happiness Conference
Increased community partnerships to develop community contribution volunteering with Bidjiwong Community Nursery – Hills Shire, Eco
Garden – Hornsby Shire Council, Easy Care Gardening, Meals on Wheels – Parramatta, Community Radio 2CCR FM, Sydney Water/Streamwatch – Waterwatch program and Bunnings – North Parramatta
7 Medical Student placements from University of Western Sydney
MOW with Parramatta Council received excellent feedback
CEO Judge at Lions Club Youth of the Year Quest 2009. Reduced our attrition rate from 22% in 2005, 21% in 2006, 19% in 2007 and 18% in 2008 to further reduction of 11% in 2009

2008

NWDS Charity Race Day raised $58,733 through Races sold $13,500, ticket sales $3150, Raffle $1717, Action $16,050, Silent Action $2876, Balloons 1440 and a matching contribution from Macquarie Group Foundation of $20,000
Funds purchased another Commuter bus for the service
Partnership with North Richmond Community Bank has provided $200,000 and an opportunity to work with the Hawkesbury City Council to develop a purpose built facility for Opal Cottage at Richmond. Access 2 Art 2007 – Sold 5 paintings with a total return of $1,200 Introduction of Service Area Audits across the full organisation has seen continual improvement in all areas
Approval as an Attendant Care Provider in 2007. Uniting Church partnered to run the Coffee Shop at Aberdoon House Funding from DADHC for a new commuter buses for the Opal Cottage Service Transitioned 3 TTW service users to work United Way and QBE develop sensory garden at Lavender
D.A submitted and approved to extend garden areas and build additional access and decking
Introduced Sandplay at Lavender for exploring feelings and behaviours
4 selected staff attended the Happiness Conference Increased community partnerships to develop community contribution / volunteering MOU with Hawkesbury Council, Peppercorn services, Community Tenancy, NWDS and North Richmond Community Bank to develop a Disability Village project.
CEO Judge at Lions Club “Youth of the Year Quest 2008” 25th Feb 2008 Successful in tender for Leisure Link
Supported establishment of Disability professionals NSW Reduced our attrition rate from 22% in 2005, 21% in 2006, 19% in 2007 and down further to 18% in 2008

2007

Hills Excellence in business Awards:
- Finalist in staff training and development
- Finalist in Overall 10th Anniversary Awards Construction of Gremmo Technology Wing Establishment of Opal Cottage at Richmond

Access 2 Art 2006 - sold 5 paintings with $1,000 donated from BHSC for art development.

Introduction of QA Audits across the full organization Donation of paint and labour to RHCC from Hannibal Shabaz.

Introduction of Team KPIs Introduction of individual KPIs Approval as a Attendant care provider

Gemhill Open Day 2nd Dec 2006

Hero Award for Tom Allanson presented by Wayne Merton at Parliament House Uniting Church Partnered to run coffee shop at Aberdoon House Develop partnership with North Richmond Community Bank (Bendigo Bank)

Two new commuter buses for service Developed a Farmyard Project at Mulgrave Transitioned 8 TTW service users to work United way and QBE develop sensory garden at lavender Cottage Introduced Sandplay at Lavender Cottage

Completed Staff Advocacy Survey Lauren Abel nominated for Young Women’s Leadership Program 4 selected staff attend Happiness Conference Full Succession Planing implemented June 2006 Increased community partnerships to develop community contribution/volunteering

2006

Community Participation tenders success - Excellent tender outcomes and approval to now expand the service by up to 500% over the next three years.

Winner of the Community Contribution award, finalist in Staff Training and Development and overall

Outstanding Business award by Hills Excellence in business

Wonderful support/partnership with Gremmo Homes that has enable the construction of extensions including a Training/Office area, staff room, Store Room, Activity area with a Connecting Hall. Total value would exceed $300,000.

Gremmo Homes has made this possible for a fraction of the cost, estimated contribution value to NWDS over $250,000.

David and Vicki Cass OH& S Audit, again a community support donated to NWDS by David and Vicki

Audit results were considered outstanding by auditors

2005

Completed 20 years of service to people with disabilities and community and celebrated at a wonderful evening at the Castle Hill RSL

Completed the final WorkCover Premium Discount Audit (4) and achieve outstanding result again

Stream Watch Project was awarded an environmental award this year for the quality of the training document developed and for our ongoing dedication to this project

Congratulations to Debbie Richter who received Highly Commended Prime Ministers Award for NSW, for her supervision of the Work for The Dole Project

Our professionalisation of the Disability Industry Initiative has seen 73 certificate course undertaken by staff this year and continues to provide development opportunities for staff at NWDS whilst also being adopted across the state by many organizations

Gemhill Cottage has undergone a complete refurbishment and is now fresh and modern with assistance from Christine Jolie from Jolie Interiors who donated her interior design skills and many items to the cottage

A Best Practice in Transition from School to disability services document was completed and has been presented at a state level

NWDS staff have also contributed to the development of Best Practice initiatives in Behaviour support (Cathy Pillars) and transition to work (Lauren Abel) and presented as a state level on the information

In Lavender Cottage refurbishment has been done with the assistance of Shirley Leech and Bunnings, now the ground looks attractive and more usable.
Matthew Towner from Tranquillity Homes installed the new ramp in Lavender Cottage which greatly assisted our access

2004

Completing Workcover Premium Discount Audit three providing a 5% discount on premiums

Expanded the PSO/ATLAS program by another 20 individuals Finalised the restructure of the HACC Respite program Drafted plans for construction of staff room, office area and access hall for program areas

Opened Lavender Cottage as a therapeutic and training area Leased and Opened Rouse Hill Community Centre Leased and opened Aberdoon House Coffee Shop and Art Gallery

Enrolled 43 staff in Traineeships Maintained our commitment and involvement in Work for the Dole Plans have been drawn up for the construction of extensions to the main NWDS building in Baulkham Hills with a staff room, office area and hallway access

Gemhill Cottage has been maintained throughout this year and is expected to need a repaint and general overall in the next 12 months

A cultural diverse workforce representing 24 separate countries

2003

Completed Workcover Premium discount audit two enabling a 10% discount on premium Expanded ATLAS program service users to a total of 74
Restructured the HACC respite program to out of hour’s service delivery
Completed construction of Training Room and Art Therapy Room
Established the first disability steam watch project in Sydney
Expanded ATLAS training programs to fully encompass work skills training
Develop a range of business enterprises to meet training needs of service users
Met 100% occupancy target at Gemhill Cottage Introduced a range of quality assurance documents and systems
Secured funding for two buses and another car
Outstanding successful fund raising evening enable purchase of another bus
Attained 100% target for all eligible staff to gain LR Licence
Attained 100% target for all staff to have current 1st Aid certificates Attained 98% completion of Core Modules Established a staff Training and Development Program with outstanding results in tertiary studies
Linked with TAFE to develop a range of training opportunities for staff Embraced the traineeship system and enrolled 40 staff in traineeships
Expanded staff numbers to 75 staff
Expanded Work For the Dole to three separate projects
Developed and implemented an excellent range of time saving administrative tasks
Successfully tendered for the Rouse Hill Community Centre and Aberdoon House
Established the Agency Staff Project
Reduced the staff turnover at NWDS by 75%

2002

For SNAG project Castle Hill RSL provide funding of $13,500 for the next three years to continue the extensive compilation of the date base
International day for disability held on the 3rd December 2001 was a resounding success
Conducted of a recreational forum in August 2001
Received funding under the International Year for Volunteers project of $2,025 and held a wonderful volunteer evening in November
Baulkham Hills Lions Club developed a partnership with us this year and assisted with our Youth Week International Day and also our Disco evening funded by Baulkham Hills Shire Council (funding of $1,000), and also received a donation of $2,000 as a contribution to our service from proceeds of their Christmas raffle
Worked with Riverlink to assist to provide Vacation Care in Oct 2001 and also provided assistance with buses volunteer drivers
Worked in conjunction with the police and community health to present a seminar on 16th Nov 2001 in Crime Prevention Week
Castle Hill RSL gave fund of $3,500 for volunteer Training which provided a wonderful opportunity to develop the skills of our many volunteers
Carer safety workshop conducted on the 18th June provided most informative for carers and provided an excellent opportunity for clarification and questioning
On 14th December we conducted a team building day at lane cove National park
Run a series of training workshop on sexuality, funded by Baulkham Hills Bowling club of $3,000
44 student placement hosted from different courses, completed a sum of total 4,188 hours. Volunteers contributed 5,084 hours of work Funding was provided through the ATLAS program of $142,000 to expand facilities and purchase an additional bus and car
Over 50% of the staff currently have LR Licence
NWDS underwent HACC Validation in 2002 and passed with a 20/20 score

2001

Provided quality services in excess of funding Acknowledged to the management committee and service volunteers for their outstanding contribution to the organization

Acknowledged and contributed to the excellent local government support of the community

Supporting staffs by providing training and positive direction for individual skill development Innovation of new services and have introduced many new initiatives to improve service delivery

NWDS recreational program was established this year Major construction at Gemhill has been completed this year with the assistance of Castle Hill Rotary.

Work for the dole project has been Co-ordinated by Debbie Richter who has bought a wealth of experience to the service.

NWDS was approved as an accommodation provider in late 2000. NWDS organised a holiday to Brisbane and central NSW. United Way has provided funds for disadvantaged individuals to attend these trips.
In addition, they provided $1500 in funding for a Carers Holiday in May this year and they went to Canberra for three days while the individuals with a disability enjoyed a break at Gemhill.

Major projects:

• Introduction of enterprise agreement for staff AGM brought forward due to the Olympics Emergency plans prepared for the Olympic period Involvement in Torch Relay for the Olympic Partial close down of the service to enable full participation at the Olympics.
• Release of staff to enable them to work at the Olympic Employment of additional Co-ordinator to assist on a number of projects.
• Purchase of a new commuter for Gemhill Cottage Restructure of PSO Paralympics tickets purchased $2,778.
• Re-assessing of all drivers undertaken by Macquarie Driving School.
• Extensive renovation at Gemhill Establish a PSO Carers Advisory Meeting Attended PSO/ ATLAS State Conference Review of Policy & Procedures Service
• Evaluation Questionnaire and Meetings Commencement of SNAG initiative OH&S inclusions in all Commuter buses in service.
• Application of CIARR Preparation of Minimum Data Set Benchmarking established for PSO/ ATLAS and then circulated state wide.
• CEO representation on the SEE Foundation Management Committee.
• Introduction of Carers days and night out Nomination to work for the Dole Achievement Awards.
• Staff team building day 7th Dec excellent day.
• Review of service Management policies Future Strategic Planning undertaken by Management Committee Program Strategic plans established Met North Training Format Developed and distributed.
• OH&S Committee meetings and service risk assessment undertaken Numerous funding applications submitted.
• Service Christmas Party & Staff Christmas Party
• Request for assistance for building alterations at HADPAC Setting goal posts for Baulkham Hills Shire and adoption into community plan
• Establishing Cumberland Prospect Respite Forum Chair of Met North PSO/ ATLAS forum
• Representative to ACROD PSO/ATLAS Sub-committee
• Re printing of the HADPACKER Involved in Rouse Hill Development Committee
• Involvement in respite cottage for the Hills Area committee
• Attended ACROD CEO Conference in Canberra Facilitated risk management discussion Mayor’s boards acknowledgement evening at Baulkham Hills Shire SNAG survey and acquisition of support and funding from council. Introduction of staff and volunteer satisfaction survey.

2000

PREMISES WERE EXPANDED, PROVIDING A MUSIC ROOM AND 3 GARAGES. This will allow the old garage to be converted to give more activity space.

Vehicles increased to 7, with the purchase of a 4th, 14 seat bus, and the Station wagon was replaced

Expansion of programs and training continued to meet increasing demand and service delivery guidelines

2792 hours of student placement were provided together with 579 hours under the Community Service Program

Paid staff now 23 full-time and 29 part-time, supported by 46 volunteers, 16 program support workers and 12 Work For The Dole participants

To meet changed staff levels and rostering the premise of North West Respite Service (Gemhill) was extended to give overnight staff accommodation

1999

With support from the Work For The Dole Program sessional respite sessions were expanded by 33.3 %.

Post School Options numbers reached 19 with the necessary extra vehicle and staff expansion.

Accommodated respite continued in high demand and emphasised the urgency of providing permanent supported accommodation.

16 group holidays were provided, made possible with the purchase of a luggage trailer, which also allowed more people on each of the holidays.

Expanded training program instituted and made available to other like Community Services.

1998

YEAR OF CONSOLIDATION FOR STAFF AND SERVICES following the move to the new premises.

A new Toyota Coaster bus was purchased and modified to accommodate wheelchair passengers as necessary, a Ford Station wagon for the Manager and Staff use was purchased

Involvement in the Work For The Dole Program commenced

Support for students on placement continued being accessed by Students in the Community Service Field and Police Cadets
This support provided over 1475 hours

10 young people were involved in Community Service Programs over 307 hours

Accommodated respite service continues to achieve near 100% occupancy

Funding support was urgently needed to meet waiting lists in all services

1997

FINALLY WE MOVED INTO OUR NEW PURPOSE BUILT PREMISES.

9 daily sessions provided respite care for people with a range of disabilities.

12 accommodated holidays from 3 to 5 days were provided.

One to one Peer Support continued.

The Post School Options Program expanded to cover 10 clients.

North West Respite Service (Gemhill) achieved 95% to 100% occupancy.

Positive feedback was received from reviews by Dept. of Community Services and also from an independent review on behalf of the Motor Accidents Authority.

The Association also provided 1703 hours placement for students and 335 hours of community service support.

1996

After protracted submissions over several years funds became available to provide a permanent purpose built facility from which services would operate.

This was was occupied in late 1996.

Earlier in the year POST SCHOOL OPTIONS service commenced and provided a link, for a young people leaving school, with the general community and facilities offered to assist them in their living needs.

1995

At the Annual General Meeting of the Association it was decided to change the name to more correctly, indicating the geographic area covered by users of the services and also to provide a more typographical acceptable form.

At the end of 1995 the Consumer Affairs Department approved the NORTH WEST DISABILITY SERVICES INC, as the new name for the Association.

1994

In March of this year an accommodated respite care service for people with an acquired brain injury was set up. Initially funding was from the Motor Accidents Authority with recurrent funding through the Department of Community Services.

This service known as the NORTH WEST RESPITE SERVICE providing up to 4 weeks respite accommodation a year to eligible people and also can provide emergency short term accommodation on demand.

1991

Funding approved for a full time administration officer and also for the establishment of a service for mature aged people with a disability, this service initially on one day a week and now expanded to two days and one evening service.

1990

The Association incorporated under the name the BAULKHAM HILLS SHIRE ASSOCIATION FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES.

1989

A new service providing services for people who have an acquired brain injury was established, initially on Saturdays and since expanded a further day service and an evening service.

1987 

Funding received for the purchase of a modified Toyota Coaster Bus, to assist clients to access community activities not readily available owing to difficulty in using public transport.

1984

Funding was received for a Community Development Worker and two programmes established:

1. For young adults with an intellectual disability on one evening a week and
2. For young adults with a physical Disability on two days a week

These programmes operated out of the old Council Chambers in Old Northern Road, Castle Hill and became the basis of a major project the HILLS AREA DISABLED PERSONS ACCESS COALITION (HADPAC).

1983

A survey was carried out, within the Shire, to identify areas of most need, and it was found that young adults with disabilities were receiving the least assistance.

1981

“The International Year of Disabled” In April of this year the Baulkham Hills Shire Council called a public meeting at which a committee was set up to look in to the needs of people with disabilities in the Shire. Initially this was carried out by volunteers, later council gave assistance through their community Worker/Aged Services – Mrs Jeannette Antrum. This committee was called BAULKHAM HILLS SHIRE COMMITTEE for DISABLED PERSONS.