across the bay
Optimising the quality of life for people living with disability
We have the technology
On 13th June, a young paraplegic
Brazilian will stand up from a
wheelchair to kick off the 2014
Soccer World Cup. He will wear
an exoskeleton, a robotic suit
controlled using his mind.
This is just one example of the huge
strides being made in technology to
improve peoples’ lives. Many
everyday items such as controls in
the home can benefit all of us but
they are particularly helpful for
people living with disability.
Throughout this newsletter you will
see how Rocky Bay’s Therapy and
Assistive Technology teams are
continuously looking for better ways
to use technology. From a Magic
Carpet interactive sensory tool and
household environmental controls to
equipment refurbishment and the
use of cutting edge equipment for
postural seating customisation.
June 2014
There is so much more potential.
We are researching laser guided
wheelchairs and have employed an
occupational therapist and self
confessed ‘geek’ to find the latest
technology and apply it to improve
our customers lives.
The technology is there, we just
need to find it, fund it and then use
it. Public and corporate support will
help us to expand this programme
and support more people to live
independently with a better quality
of life. If you would like to help,
please go to the back page or visit
www.rockybay.org.au
The robotic exoskeleton suit
In this issue
●●
Child assessment
●●
Independent living
●●
Assistive technologies
●●
Children of courage
●●
Accommodation support
●●
Getabout ball 2014
●●
Top support worker award
●●
AHG raise $1.5 million
●●
Employment Services
expansion
●●
Walk With Me 2014
●●
Wasps are winners
www.rockybay.org.au
From the CEO
As we near the end of another financial year, it is a
good time to reflect on the achievements of the past
twelve months as well as look forward to the
challenges and projects ahead.
With the launch of the NDIS pilot and My Way trials
imminent, and the need to provide all of our
customers with an excellent service they can depend
upon, our aim throughout the year has been to
minimise any individual or family anxieties about
potential changes.
This year has seen a number of internal changes
and restructures with the primary objective of
making Rocky Bay more customer focused,
effective and transparent, whilst ensuring our
long term sustainability.
It was therefore extremely pleasing for me, as Chief
Executive Officer, to receive our recent staff survey
results. 96% of staff believe in our purpose –
optimising the quality of life for people living with
disability; and our values – providing excellent
customer service, working together, looking for
better ways, being professional and accountable.
Unlike many of my peers in the corporate world, I
don’t need to worry about motivating employees
to show up for work each day – staff at all levels,
in every area of Rocky Bay, clearly love what they
do and that results in excellent service for
our customers.
We have now completed development of our child
assessment space and parent lounge at Mosman
Park; our new independent living units are
undergoing final fit-out and we have four new or
totally refurbished guest houses, which makes
Rocky Bay one the largest
providers of respite
accommodation in WA.
In addition, Community
Refurbished Equipment is now
fully operational, offering low
CEO Michael Tait
cost high quality equipment.
Our Employment Services, Getabout, Therapy and
Training programmes are all expanding, and our
Assistive Technology programme is going from
strength to strength.
Many people living in Disability Service Commission
supported housing will be transitioned to other
providers over the next two years and Rocky Bay,
with many decades experience in this area, is well
positioned to offer them the individual support,
security and reassurance they require through the
process. Our breadth of service and support for
people of all ages with disability, mean those
individuals who do choose Rocky Bay could benefit
from the wealth of additional support.
Finally, I must offer my thanks to those of you who
have supported Rocky Bay through the past year,
through donations, services in kind, sponsorship,
volunteering and involvement in our events and
activities. We wouldn’t be able to provide such a
good service to so many thousands of people with
disability, without the ongoing support from the
Western Australian community.
Michael Tait
Chief Executive Officer
Left: Child assessment area Right: Aerial shot of progress at the independent living units
Child assessment centre
Final steps to independent living
Rocky Bay’s Mosman Park facilities have been
redesigned for families and children with the
introduction of a child friendly assessment space
and parent lounge and cafe.
As individuals, we aspire to live in a comfortable,
secure and stable home environment. Rocky Bay’s
new independent living units, opening soon, will
offer sixteen people living with disability a valuable
opportunity to live within the Rocky Bay community
but enjoy a greater level of independence in
state-of-the-art, accessible units in Mosman Park.
The previously open plan dining area has been
transformed into an appropriate therapy area with
state of the art equipment and technology thanks to
the generous support of Variety, Appealathon, Royal
Fremantle golf day 2013 and an NGCS
Commonwealth Grant.
A fantastic sensory learning tool the ‘Magic Carpet’
has been installed. The device projects interactive
games and images onto the floor, allowing users
with limited body movement an opportunity to
interact using minimal arm, leg or eye movement.
The ‘Magic Carpet’ encourages meaningful
interaction for children living with disability while
improving therapy outcomes and quality of life.
A cafe has been built adjacent to the assessment
area to provide a welcoming area for parents and
family members to relax and mingle while their
child receives therapy services.
“The Moon Cafe offers great coffee and a range of
delicious foods.” Director of Strategy and
Infrastructure, Trevis Lawton said “we hope to
encourage Mosman Park residents and community
groups to become regular patrons, thereby building
a more inclusive community here at Rocky Bay.”
Page 2
Several Lucy Creeth Nursing Home residents will
now have their own private living space while
remaining close to their former home and
community, where they have lived for over thirty
years. There are also units available for new tenants
who are looking for independent housing with the
benefit of onsite nursing support when it is needed.
The units have an 8-star energy rating with high
thermal wall insulation for warmer winters and
cooler summers. Rocky Bay is now raising additional
funds to furnish the units. If you would like to
support this project, please complete and return the
form on the back page.
Wheelchair accessible kitchen units
Water-wise native garden
Page
Page 33
therapy and
assistive technology
therapy and
assistive technology
Lions Children of Courage
On Sunday the 13th of April the WA Lions Association celebrated the
annual Children of Courage Awards at the Pan Pacific Hotel, Perth.
The programme was introduced in 1983 by the former District Governor
Joe Mason, AOM, who saw a need to provide an awards programme
through which the Lions Clubs in Western Australia could recognise
young Western Australians who have shown courage.
Four children accessing Rocky Bay therapy services were nominated and
presented with awards, along with approximately eighty other young
people between the ages of five and fifteen. The families were all very
proud of their children’s achievements and it was a pleasure to watch
their faces as their boys received their well-deserved awards.
Does your child’s behaviour concern you?
Rocky Bay Therapy and Professional Services is offering families up to three
personalised behavioural clinics. Parents of children who may exhibit a behaviour
of concern and who are registered with Rocky Bay, can access a behavioural
consultant free of charge. The clinic is designed to ensure caregivers receive
practical guidance.
Participants will be asked to nominate one key issue of concern. Through
discussion, a professional behavioural consultant will identify underlying causes
and offer positive support strategies to assist participants to cope with and potentially prevent the behaviour.
Clinics can be hosted in Mosman Park, Cockburn or Mandurah. For more details or to arrange an
appointment, contact your Rocky Bay representative or call 6399 4111.
Sean
14 Year old Sean received ten weeks of speech pathology during which
he expressed his love of footy. Sean has played for the Lakes Leopards
Senior High School team and was also nominated to attend the South
Fremantle Warrior Junior Development Squad in the hopes of playing in
the AFL one day.
Sean and Rocky Bay therapist, Carolin.
Brayden
Brayden has made huge strides in his learning and development at school,
including language processing, memory and attention, since receiving an
FM hearing device in 2013.
Supun
Supun is a 15 year old with autism who has focused on developing his
social skills. He excelled in leadership, being selected as a member of his
School’s Council, organising his school’s first ever talent contest, learning
the guitar and then performing at the concert. Supun has since performed
at the Swrna Rashmi Show with the Children’s Orchestra and trialled for
his school band.
Proud recipients Brayden and Supun
with their awards
Lewis
11 Year old Lewis is a musical maestro. In just over two years he
has learnt to play the piano from level one to level five, the flute and
beginners guitar. Lewis has been accepted into Seaton College for his
musical ability. He will be auditioning for a music scholarship later in the
year. Lewis lives with autism – despite previously finding it difficult to
cope in social situations, he recently enjoyed performing in front of a large
crowd at the Variety 4WD Challenge. As well as excelling personally and
musically, Lewis has also excelled academically being nominated for the
AMAZE School Science extension programme and the PEPS Primary
school enrichment programme (top 3% of Primary school students).
What a relief – avoiding pressure sores
We all know how uncomfortable it can be to sit in
one seat for a long period of time – just think of
your last long-haul flight. Wheelchair users have to
deal with this day in, day out.
Pressure injuries are of great concern for people
with limited mobility. They occur where prolonged
pressure against the body leads to skin breakdown.
This can develop quickly, is very painful and often
difficult to treat. In some cases it can become life
threatening.
For the past seven years, Rocky Bay’s Assistive
Technology department, under Posture Tech, has
been using pressure mapping technology to identify
if and where areas of high pressure are occurring
when a person is in a seated or lying position.
“A pressure mapping system assists us to provide
tailored, high quality supports for seating or lying. In
addition it provides biofeedback that can assist in
education of our clients in terms of posture and
movement”, said Lisa.
Rocky Bay’s Posture Tech team also has highly
trained engineers, technicians and upholsterers who
are able to manufacture, customise or adjust
postural aids to increase comfort and reduce injuries.
If you or someone in your family is concerned about
pressure sores, posture or the effectiveness of your
mobility equipment, contact the Posture Tech team
on (08) 6399 4191 to organise an assessment.
Or find out more at www.rockybay.org.au
The individual is placed on a mat embedded with
sensors. A computer shows the main pressure
points and can be used to compare the effect of
different cushions and mattresses.
It also shows how pressure changes when the
person moves, this helps to provide information on
how they should be supported and how pressure
can be relieved independently through small shifts
in posture.
Occupational therapist Lisa Cattalini finds the
Pressure Mapping System a valuable consultation
tool that enhances the capacity of therapists to
identify when an individual is at risk of developing
pressure injuries.
Lewis and Rocky Bay therapist Megan
Above - pressure mapping; Below - customised seating
Page 4
Page 5
therapy and
assistive technology
‘Holiday and Stay’ an awesome learning experience
During the April school holiday, children between
10 and 16 years of age enjoyed a three day stay at
Rocky Bay’s guest houses in Beeliar and Rockingham.
Rocky Bay’s ‘Home and Community’ and ‘Therapy
and Professional Services’ teams joined forces to
provide participants the opportunity to practise life
skills, being independent and making friends. It was
also good for the children (and parents) to enjoy a
well earned break.
‘My husband and I didn’t know what to do with
ourselves with all the spare time’
‘I’ve never had my nails painted before! Can’t wait to
show my friends at school!’
‘Great opportunity for my son to learn to be
interactive with others, as well as being independent’
Ten children over the two week holiday break
enjoyed visits to Bounce, Naturaliste Marine
Discovery Centre and the cinema, along with
activities such as making and flying kites, making
photo books, cooking, jelly war, pamper sessions
and an Easter egg hunt.
The kite flying group at Bibra Lake
The school holiday programmes were deemed a
huge success by parents and children, many of
whom swapped ‘SnapChat’ details at the end to
keep in touch!
We look forward to providing more school holiday
opportunities. If you are a parent and would like to
find out more, please speak to your primary contact
person at Rocky Bay.
Mobility equipment needn’t cost the earth
Are you looking for
accommodation support?
Call Gioia Coppard (Manager)
or Jane Edmond (Director) in
our Home and Community
team today on 9383 5111.
One of our friendly team
leaders will visit you to discuss
your needs within 24 hours, or
at a time to suit you.
Leanne enjoys her independence
Leanne has received home support and
accommodation services from Rocky Bay since her
mother, her sole carer, passed away three years ago.
Leanne leads a very independent life and works four
days a week. Her support worker, Kathy helps her
69 Year old Marje lives with the debilitating effects of osteoarthritis and has
had two knee reconstructions as a result. She talks about discovering Rocky
Bay’s Community Refurbished Equipment service and what it has meant for
her quality of life.
“My husband and I settled in Australia over five years ago, leaving behind our
home and livelihood in Malawi. As sponsored migrants to Australia, we exist
on a very tight budget and depend on the support of family.
Trevor, Marje and Ria scouting out a
bargain at CRE in Bibra Lake
It was therefore a great relief to be able to purchase my mobility equipment
from Community Refurbished Equipment at an affordable price. I no longer
drive so having the freedom to nip down to the shops in my gopher or take
my beloved dog, Bobby to our local park, means the world to me”.
Low cost, high quality equipment, wherever you are
Seniors and people with disability who live in
regional areas can also access high quality, low cost
mobility and personal care equipment through
Community Refurbished Equipment from
Rocky Bay. Not only can it be quicker and more
cost effective than buying equipment new, it also
gives new life to equipment which is no longer
needed, so it is good for the planet too. We
refurbish equipment to the highest standards and
all equipment comes with a six month warranty.
Page 6
Our warehouse in Bibra Lake is open to people
who wish to come and try out equipment, but even
if you live further away or do not have transport,
you can see what is available and purchase
equipment online at www.rockybay.org.au/cre
If you would like to make an appointment or
receive further information please contact
Community Refurbished Equipment on 9494 2243
Monday to Friday 9am - 4pm.
Leanne and support worker Kathy share a morning coffee
to get ready for work, provides domestic support
and assists her to access buses in order to get out
and about in the community. Leanne and Kathy
have become good friends and they especially love
going for long walks along the river and shopping.
See Leanne’s video at www.rockybay.org.au
Home support and accommodation services
For more than thirty years Rocky Bay has supported
people living with disability in their own homes or in
shared accommodation. We provide support
tailored to individual needs, whether you need
personal care and domestic support or help
accessing the community, work and leisure activities.
Rocky Bay has fully trained reliable support workers
ready to meet your needs.
Rocky Bay guest house accommodation
Take a break in one of Rocky Bay’s four modern, fully accessible guest
houses for people with support needs. Available for single night stays
up to a holiday of several weeks.
Enjoy your stay, your way!
Simply relax in comfort, security and privacy, or use the house as a
starting point for an activity filled stay. Our guest houses offer:
•• around the clock trained, friendly staff
from
•• individual accommodation
•• accommodation for small groups
$35
per
person
•• recreational outings
per
night
•• fully catered meals
•• short term private lease with or without staff
For more information visit www.rockybay.org.au or call Michele on T: 6399 4137 M: 0415 383 276
Page 7
leisure and
independence
Support worker Lisa wins top award
Congratulations to Rocky Bay support worker Lisa
O’Donnell. She stood out from the crowd at the
recent Disability Support Worker Awards, winning
the Community Support Award.
Lisa was recognised for her work in developing a
sensory programme for two Getabout members
living with disability. The programme required
extensive research and took a year to develop. It
resulted in the recipients demonstrating a greater
level of responsiveness and ability to communicate.
Just a few of the excited guests at the 2014 Getabout Ball
Getabout Ball 2014 is a hit
The third annual Getabout Ball was held in style at
Burswood on Swan for 150 guests including Rocky
Bay residents, customers and Getabout members
with their support workers.
Families were invited to attend cocktail hour and
after they departed, the party really took off!
Smiles and sparkles filled the air, guests dressed in
their best gowns and suits and a massive dance floor
allowed everyone to show off their moves and
compete in dance-offs. DJ Adrian provided the music
with ‘Gangnam style’ being particularly popular, as
was the photo booth. The ball is a great opportunity
for Rocky Bay clients, their support workers and
guests to enjoy a night out, dress up and socialise in
a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Evenings such as
these would not be possible without the support of
the community and donations which enable Rocky
Bay to provide support and services to people living
with disability.
Our wonderful volunteers
We were delighted to have so many volunteers from
Automotive Holdings Group (AHG), Scotch College
and Iona Presentation College. Earlier in the day they
helped decorate with a magical display of lanterns,
fairy lights and table centre pieces. Iona students
were also there for the duration of the night enjoying
the atmosphere and helping where required - thanks
to everyone who volunteered.
Lionel serenades Hannah
Getabout member Hannah and her support worker
Bek were lucky enough to attend Lionel Richie’s
recent concert at the Sandalford Estate in the Swan
Valley, thanks to Rocky Bay’s Wishing Tree. Lionel is
Hannah’s idol and when she heard he was coming to
Perth, she just had to see him live. How could the
Wishing Tree committee refuse such a request?
John Farnham was an inspired warm-up act. Hannah
enjoyed singing along and quickly made friends with
the other concert goers. By the time Lionel Richie
took to the stage she was bursting with excitement.
He opened the concert with “Hello” one of Hannah’s
favourite songs and it wasn’t long before she was up
Page 8
and dancing. “It was absolutely fabulous” Hannah
exclaimed “It was as if he was singing the song just
for me!” She now proudly wears her souvenir T-shirt
and loves to reminisce about the evening.
NDS State Manager, Terry Simpson presented the
award saying “Lisa is a quiet achiever who shows
great initiative and a deep empathy for the people
she supports. She has exceeded expectations and
gone above and beyond to develop this sensory
programme. As a result of her hard work and
dedication, Lisa has had some phenomenal success.”
importance of the valuable role we play as
support workers.”
Lisa epitomises Rocky Bay values of working
together, looking for better ways and providing
excellent customer service in optimising the quality
of life for people living with disability. She is just one
of hundreds of amazing people we are fortunate
enough to employ at Rocky Bay.
Rocky Bay Support Workers Debora Gomides, Lisa
Farrell, Ahmed Selim and Susan Veart also received
award nominations
for the positive and
profound impact they
have made on the
lives of the people
they support at
Rocky Bay.
Lisa was taken aback; she said “Winning the award
came as a complete shock. As much as I
acknowledge my role in making a difference to
peoples’ lives, it’s just what I do. I realise what an
excellent opportunity it is to highlight the
Lisa proudly holding her award
Looking for Post School Options?
Head to Getabout
Getabout is a learning and leisure programme where you can experience and
discover new abilities in the years after school. Choose and design your
personal journey, learn new skills, undertake employment training,
participate in your community and make friends.
It is all about you!
•• Customer focused individualised planning
•• Your choice of options and activities
Our facilities include
••
••
••
••
••
Hannah only had eyes for Lionel
Large kitchen and dining area
Relaxed alfresco garden area
Sensory, music and media centres
RecConnect – a fully equipped arts and craft studio
Member transportation in specially modified vehicles
For more information visit www.rockybay.org.au or
contact Getabout on 9383 5186
Page 9
$1.5 million
This message resonated with guests and the
donations flowed in – funds raised reached an
amazing $150,000 which once again makes this
the biggest golf day in WA and one of the
biggest in Australia.
and so much more
Scorecard
Number of golf days
Total attendees
Supporting organisations
Auction donors
Total raised
People who have benefitted
The 2014 AHG golf team with Pro golfer Dani Montgomery
Recognising 11 years of support
from AHG
Many WA organisations are proud of their
support for the local community, whether it is
through sponsorship, events, philanthropy or
strategic alliances.
Few however, can boast the passion and
commitment demonstrated by Bronte Howson
(Managing Director) and Tony Salerno (GM WA
Auto) at Rocky Bay’s annual fundraiser in March –
the Automotive Holdings Group (AHG) Corporate
Golf Day.
raised for Rocky Bay, with every cent going to
projects supporting people living with disability.
$150,000 raised at this year’s golf day will go
towards an assistive technology and environmental
controls project. Rocky Bay’s Assistive Technology
team custom-design independent living solutions,
integrating the latest technology with accessible
interfaces. This enables people with limited
mobility to control their environment giving them
more independence.
A big thank you
Rocky Bay would like to extend our sincere
gratitude to Bronte Howson, Tony Salerno and
everyone at AHG for their ongoing support. We
would also like to acknowledge all sponsors and
those who came on the day, made donations or
donated auction items, without which we would
not have been able to raise such an amazing sum.
Indeed support from the West Australian business
community has been huge over the years with all
funds going to support people living with disability.
Bronte’s emotional plea
2014 AHG golf day raises $150,000
After this years auction, Bronte made a plea to
guests to make further donations, promising to
match all donations made.
This prestigious event brings together AHG staff,
dealers, suppliers and business contacts to enjoy a
round of golf, prior to big spending at the
fundraising auction. Many have come year in, year
out to show their support for Rocky Bay. In 2003,
Bronte was touched by the work Rocky Bay does
and the concept of hosting a charity golf day was
put forward. Since then over $1.5 million has been
“We’ve all had a case of cramp where you have to
jump out of bed at night…” he said during his
emotional speech. “Well imagine being the parents
of a small child who can’t move – having to get up
to turn them every two hours to ensure they don’t
get a cramp or get bed sores. That was the personal
story I heard at the beginning which has stuck with
me to this day.”
Score
11
1,300 +
150 +
300 +
$1.5 million
Thousands
2014 sponsors
As well as event partner and main sponsor AHG,
there were a number of other sponsors. Thanks
go to JLT, Ansvar, Motor One, AMC Commercial
Cleaning, Sylex Ergonomics, Leeuwin Estate,
Randstad and Carlton & United Breweries.
AHG volunteers at Rocky Bay’s 2013 Melbourne Cup event
Healthy partnership
Bronte and AHG’s support through the years has
gone beyond just the golf day. Through favourable
vehicle fleet pricing, donation of a van and regular
volunteering support, AHG support not only raises
funds but also reduces operating costs for Rocky Bay.
Rocky Bay has recently begun providing training to
AHG staff in manual handling and occupational
health and safety, which provides further income to
support people with disability.
“We are extremely grateful for the ongoing support
of Bronte, Tony, AHG and all those who support
Rocky Bay through the annual golf day,” said Michael
Tait, Rocky Bay Chief Executive Officer.
“We are very fortunate to receive government
funding for provision of basic services which means
that 100% of funds raised at the golf day can be
used for projects which really make a difference to
the quality of life for people living with disability.”
AHG themselves benefit from opportunities for
staff engagement, cost effective training and the
kudos of being associated with a well known,
trusted organisation supporting many thousands of
West Australians living with disability. Indeed AHG’s
recent ‘Easy as 123’ national TV advertising
campaign highlighted their support for Rocky Bay,
strengthening the AHG brand through association.
Insert picture above - Rocky Bay Chairman Graham McHarrie, AHG Managing Director Bronte Howson, AHG GM WA Auto Tony Salerno and Rocky Bay CEO Michael Tait
The difference AHG golf day funds have made
2009 - Upgrade of the therapy rooms and equipment at Mosman Park
2010 - Furnishing and equipment for the Patricia Kailis Centre
2011 - AHG reached their goal of raising $1million, this years funds were used to refurbish Rocky Bay guest houses
2012 - Family Support and Wishing Tree programmes
2013 - Upgrade the Rocky Bay residence, the Wishing Tree and fit out of seven new independent living units
2014 - Will go towards the Assistive Technology Environmental Controls project
2004 - Family respite, giving families a short break from their 24 hour caring role
2005 - Electric beds for Rocky Bay residents
2006 - Built a sensory room in the AHG Recreation Centre at Mosman Park
2007 - Sensory room fit out and hoist for the hydrotherapy pool
2008 - Upgrade and refurbishment of the hydrotherapy pool
Page
10
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10
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
Page
201411
training and
employment
training and
employment
Are you looking for
reliable employees?
Rocky Bay is a Registered Training Organisation offering
a range of practical courses delivered by fully accredited
trainers with industry-based knowledge and skills.
Have people seeking 8, 15 or 30 hours
work per week.
Courses available
•• Apply First Aid
•• Assist with Medication
•• Certificate III in Disability
•• Disability Support Worker
training
•• Diploma of Management
We will match employee skills to your
business needs, so everybody wins!
For more information please contact
Rocky Bay Employment Services on
6399 4171 (South) or 9349 6617 (North)
Visit www.rockybay.org.au or call 9383 6145 for further details
Seeking employment opportunities for people living with disability
Employment Services now even
more accessible
Six new office locations
As part of fulfilling Rocky Bay’s purpose of optimising
the quality of life for people living with disability, we
continually strive to meet the needs of customers and
identify gaps in service delivery. Location and lack of
transport were identified as major barriers in accessing
employment services for people living with disability.
Employment Services customers can now benefit from
the opening of six new offices across north and south
metropolitan areas.
Lotteries House
6 Civic Blvd Rockingham 6168
The new offices are conveniently located and will
mean less travel for appointments. “We are very
excited about the prospect of being more accessible to
customers who find it difficult to attend appointments
at our Cockburn or Stirling offices.” Said Juliet
Rajmohan, Manager Employment Services.
All appointments can be made by contacting either the
north or south employment services offices on
6399 4171 (south) or 9349 6617 (north).
Rockingham
Hilton
PCYC – Hilton Community Centre
2/34 Paget Street Hilton 6163
Fremantle
The Meeting Place
245 South Terrace South Fremantle 6162
Mirrabooka
Mirrabooka Library
21 Sudbury Place Mirrabooka 6061
Midland
Midland Library
45 Helena Street Midland 6056
Joondalup
Lotteries House
70 Davidson Terrace Joondalup 6027
Sign up for e-News on our website
••
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••
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receive news as it happens
set preferences so you receive news relevant to you
video stories and links to other websites of interest
reduce costs of newsletter production and distribution
help us to be more environmentally friendly
To sign up to our e-News and receive electronic newsletters in the future, visit the
Rocky Bay website www.rockybay.org.au and follow the sign
up prompts.
SIGN UP
Page 12
•• Frontline Supervisor Skills
•• Hoist Use
•• Manual Tasks for Health
Care Workers
•• Positive Behaviour Support
Disability Support Worker (DSW) training
DSW contents
Rocky Bay offers a range of practical courses that will
enable you to make a difference. This focused training
will ensure you learn the practical skills required to
provide quality care while supporting people living
with disability to gain greater levels of independence
and community participation.
●● Highly practical Personal Supports Skills
Enrol today
●● Further training to support more specific
roles, including:
▪▪ Catheter care
▪▪ PEG use
▪▪ Suppository insertion
T: 9383 6145 E: [email protected]
Tyler’s hard work and dedication is rewarded
Tyler has been employed at Oilfield Production
Technologies as a Cleaning Specialist since August
2013. Initially employed on a part time basis, he has
shown such progress that he now works five days a
week and has received a high commendation from
his employer. Tyler’s anxiety and learning disorder
has not stopped him from excelling at work. His
Team Leader says that his attitude, work ethic and
willingness to learn have made him an asset to
the company.
placed in him by his employers and is enjoying the
benefit of his increased wages.
If you live with disability and you are looking for
employment, contact our Employment Services team
today on 9349 6617 (North) or 6399 4171 (South).
As well as being responsible for the presentation of
the workshop, Tyler’s other duties include cleaning
specialised laboratory equipment and stock taking.
His responsibilities are expected to grow further
as he is currently doing an Excel computer course
and learning new tasks to assist the technicians.
Tyler has overcome any fears that his disability may
stop him from full time work and is now showing
confidence in himself. He is proud of the trust
Tyler at the controls in the Oilfield Production workshop
Page 13
training and
employment
Joe’s Wishing Tree story
My name is Joseph Davey. I have been working at TADWA for 4 years. I build Attendant Steering Bikes for
children with cerebral palsy. This involves adapting standard bicycles by adding rear steering and braking
systems so that a parent or carer can be in control of the bike while allowing the child to experience the joy
and freedom of riding a bike while exercising their lower limbs.
Without TIG welding skills this second process of adding the rear adaption to the bikes had to be done by
co-workers with TIG welding skills and experience. With these new skills and credentials, I can now complete
this process myself. This will also give me job security and enable me to work independently and complete
the adaption process from start to finish.
Mal, Hilary and Fleur get together to practice Mal’s presentation
Don’t Drink and Drive – Mal’s message
When he was 22, Mal narrowly survived a drink driving accident. He now hopes to prevent others from
making the same mistake; Mal has created an anti–drink driving presentation.
Mal is passionate about sharing his story of the consequences of drinking and driving. Rocky Bay volunteers
Hilary and Fleur have been working with him on presentation and delivery. Hilary has worked closely with
Mal on many projects during the last eight years and Fleur is a graduate speech therapist who recently started
volunteering at Rocky Bay.
Initially Mal intends to present to high schools with the aim of finding opportunities to present to the wider
community. If you would like further details please contact, Brigitte on 9383 5111.
Ambassador leads the
way for other students
Rocky Bay Ambassador
Josephine Weston
Josephine Weston, Year 11 student at
Iona Presentation College has accepted
the role of Rocky Bay Ambassador for
2014. Josephine’s role is to liaise with
Rocky Bay Volunteer Coordinator
Jenny Styles to promote and encourage
other students to become involved
with Rocky Bay.
Further events are planned where students can volunteer
including Walk With Me, to be held in September and
December this year.
Page 14
Thank you Rocky Bay for the financial and moral support you have provided.
It has made a huge difference to my life and my independence.
Joe in the TADWA workshop
Ben’s pathway to a nursing career
Congratulations to Ben Simmons-Toft who was awarded a Rocky Bay
scholarship to study a Diploma of Enrolled Nursing at Central TAFE.
2014
We thank Josephine for taking on this role and look forward
to working with her.
We are also very excited to let you know that former student,
Danielle Maguire who started volunteering at Rocky Bay in
year ten has recently been employed as a Disability Support
Worker in the Getabout team – welcome to Danielle.
Without the Rocky Bay Wishing Tree providing the funding for this course
none of this would have been possible. I am grateful to the Rocky Bay
Wishing Tree committee who granted funding for a TIG course through
Choice Industrial Training. The Management and trainers at Choice have
been very accommodating and have adapted the workshop to accommodate
my disability. They installed ramps for my wheelchair and provided me with a
designated parking bay so that it is easy for me to park my car close to the
entrance. The welding bays have adjustable height benches allowing them to
be adjusted to the right height for me to work at.
Register today for Rocky Bay’s
flagship awareness and fundraising
event at
www.rockybay.org.au/events
Ben says it wasn’t until he was employed at Rocky Bay as a Disability
Support Worker that he decided he wanted to pursue nursing as a full
time career. “The scholarship came at a perfect time and I was
encouraged to apply by Wendy Jones, Clinical Nurse Manager”.
Ben was one of only 120 people chosen for the scholarship out of a total
of 600 applicants. The application process was two-fold, with Ben first
submitting a written application to Michael Tait, Rocky Bay CEO as well
as to Central TAFE.
“I am really excited about the opportunity to develop my career and
appreciate Rocky Bay’s support,” says Ben. In addition to his regular Rocky
Bay shifts, Ben will also complete his practical hours in the Lucy Creeth
residence at Rocky Bay. His pragmatic approach means he is ready to
meet the challenge of juggling work, study and a busy family life, and we
wish him all the best.
Ben and Rocky Bay resident Terry
Page 15
Our heartfelt thanks to the
Royal Fremantle Golf Club
for their on-going support
of this spectacular event,
which has raised over
$700,000 since it began
33 years ago.
Golfer hoping for a hole in one to take home a new car
Walk With Me Perth
Biggest ever Royal Fremantle golf day
Now in its 33rd year, this year’s Royal Fremantle golf
day was a huge success. The course was filled to
capacity with player’s intent on having a good time,
whilst also raising over $30,000 for Rocky Bay at
the evening auction.
Funds raised this year will all go to our Assistive
Technology Environmental Controls project,
supporting more people with disability to live
independently with the help of new technology.
Special thanks go to our main sponsor Kevrek,
suppliers of wheelchair hoists, and to Southside
Mitsubishi VW for supporting the hole-in-one
competition, sadly not won this year but perhaps
next year might be someone’s lucky year!
Our thanks
Without the support of so many generous
individuals and businesses we would not be able to
host such a successful event - our sincere thanks to
everyone who kindly supported this event through
the donation of auction items, food, drinks and
volunteer support.
Rocky Bay rocked at the 2014 Jazz and Shiraz evening
What could be more inviting - a balmy Sunday
evening in March, picnic rugs on the lawn in Rocky
Bay’s garden, a glass of shiraz in hand, live music by
the Cornerhouse Jazz Band, entertainment by the
Swing Zing dancers and acrobatics by Bizircus simply perfect!
PlusLife – previously the Perth Bone and Tissue Bank
– have run the event in conjunction with Rocky Bay
for the past two years. Funds raised were shared
between Rocky Bay and PlusLife, who run
programmes to support people living with bone
cancer, spinal scoliosis and other conditions requiring
bone and tissue transplants.
Our thanks to wine sponsors: Leeuwin Estate, Voyager,
Watershed, Killerby, Happs, Christos Valley Estate, Gilberts,
Oakover, Howling Wolves, Knee Deep and Bonking Frog.
2014
Register today for Rocky Bay’s flagship awareness
and fundraising event. You will be part of a
nationwide event taking place on Sunday 31st
August from 11am.
Our family focused event includes a 2.5km walk and
wheel along the Swan River foreshore in Mosman
Park, followed by children’s entertainment, animals,
music and face painting. Whilst it is only a short
walk for some, it is a real challenge for others.
Most fundraising events nowadays focus on the
challenge of running faster, swimming further or
cycling longer distances. Walk With Me is redefining
challenge, celebrating inclusion and bringing the
community together whilst highlighting the challenge
people with disabilities go through every day.
Family, friends and members of the community will
walk alongside people with disability across Australia
and will be inspired by their positive attitude.
Funds raised will go towards assistive technology and
the Wishing Tree, supporting independent living and
making dreams come true for people living with
disability. Register today www.rockybay.org.au/events
Page 16
This year Rocky Bay is teaming up with The Centre
for Cerebral Palsy to hold a second Walk With
Me event in the centre of Perth on 3rd December,
the International Day for People With Disability.
The aim of this event is to raise awareness in the
business community. People registered for the
Rocky Bay event in August will get to join the Perth
event for free.
CEO challenge
The Perth walk will team CEOs and business
leaders with ambassadors living with disability.
They and their staff will get to know a Rocky Bay
ambassador and will join them on the day for
the walk itself, followed by a Segway and Electric
Wheelchair relay race at Government House.
Call for CEOs and business leaders
If you are a business leader and would like to get
involved with this fundraising event in December,
which promises huge exposure for your business
and a great staff engagement opportunity, please
contact Jamie Parkin on 9383 5197.
Call for ambassadors
If you are a customer of Rocky Bay or The Centre
for Cerebral Palsy and use an electric wheelchair,
we would love you to get involved with this event.
We are looking for 20 volunteers for the CEO
challenge. You will be an ambassador for disability
awareness and will get the chance to tell your story,
be a superstar of the event and have a lot of fun.
Please contact Juliette D’Angelo on 9383 5138 if
you are interested.
Page 17
A worthy cause for your support
This year our focus is on the growth of an Assistive
Technology programme that has the potential to
impact people not just in WA, but to reach further,
developing technologies which could support people
with disability across the nation or even globally.
As if that’s not impressive enough, they also won the
Roger Melnyk Trophy for the best performing state
team in the tournament. The last time a WA team
brought this trophy home was in 2003.
“It is great to see the Rocky Bay gym as such a social
focal point and a positive environment for the many
electric wheelchair sports people who use it, not just
the state team,” said Michael Tait, “It’s an absolute
bonus to see how successful the Wasps have been
at these games. West is evidently best – Well done!”
Olympian Chris gets his wish
16 year old Chris is an
extremely talented athlete.
Diagnoses of cerebral palsy,
intellectual disability and ADHD
have not stopped this young
Chris a talented soccer man from achieving great
star on the rise
success in the sports he loves.
Chris showed great promise at little athletics
prompting his parents to look for suitable sporting
programmes to support his talent. The right
opportunity presented itself when Chris signed up
for Soccer. Since then Chris has become one of WA
Special Olympics’ biggest stars, winning the Special
Olympics Sport Star of the Year Award for 2012,
Perth Metro North.
Page 18
This year, Chris has been selected to compete at the
2014 National Games in Melbourne.
His supportive family and friends have previously
sponsored this dedicated sportsman. This time they
asked organisations to join them to support his efforts.
If Chris does well, he has a chance of being selected
to go to Los Angeles to compete for Australia.
Chris has done all the hard work himself but to help
him on his way, he received $1,500 towards travel
costs from Rocky Bay’s Wishing Tree. We wish him
all the best at the nationals in October.
If you would like to donate to the Wishing Tree,
please complete and return the donation slip on the
next page.
We have big plans for extending this project to more
Rocky Bay customers. In doing so, we will build up a
database of case studies that we can use to show the
potential to other people. We are also looking into
even more cutting edge technology – laser guided
wheelchairs, robotics, sensory aids and the sorts of
things you may have seen on Stephen Hawking or
Todd Sampson TV programmes.
However, despite making such a difference to the
lives of the people we support, the project doesn’t
currently receive Government funding. We are using
funds from public donations, golf days and other
corporate support, where we can find it, to expand
the programme. The more we can raise, the more
people we can support to live independently with a
better quality of life.
How can you help?
If you would like to support Rocky Bay to provide
this valuable service to more people, please make a
donation at www.rockybay.org.au or using this tear
off slip. All donations go directly to projects
supporting people with disability and any donation
over $2 is tax deductible.
Mosman Park WA 6912
The Wasps travelled to Sydney for the National
Electric Wheelchair Sports finals in April. They won
the Balloon Soccer Final 1 - 0 against QLD, the 3rd
place Rugby playoff 16 - 0 against QLD, and played a
really good hockey final, losing a gallant 1 - 0 to NSW.
They returned triumphant to the Wasps Nest –
their clubroom, complete with a wasp graffiti mural,
provided by Rocky Bay. The Wasps Nest sits
alongside the gym where they train each week. The
gym itself has had a recent lift with the addition of an
electronic scoreboard and pumping music system
and Rocky Bay helped the team to travel to Sydney.
PO Box 53
Congratulations to the Western Wasps electric
wheelchair sports team on an awesome result at the
recent national games.
Rocky Bay
Successful return to the Wasps Nest
Please tear off and return this slip in a sealed envelope to:-
Wasp’s team left to right, front row Dylan, Conor, Robert, Aiden, Sarah, Kyle
Back row, State Coach Jeff and Assistant Coach Quintin
In 2013 Rocky Bay ran a pilot environmental controls
project developing technology for ten of our
customers. We told three of their stories in our last
newsletter – Michael and Jeremy now have home
security, computers, TV and other electrical items all
controlled by their smart phones; Jakob is able to do
video editing using his phone; and Dylan is able to
play shoot-em-up computer games with additional
controls we engineered for him. You can see their
stories at www.youtube.com/discoverrockybay.
Alternatively you can make a one off or regular gift to Rocky Bay by phoning (08) 9383 5138
Each year we focus our fundraising efforts on
projects which are significantly underfunded and have
a major impact on peoples’ lives.
If you work in an organisation and would like to
provide support, whether through finance, resources
or expertise, we would be very keen to hear from
you. Please call 9383 5197 and ask for Jamie Parkin.
Page 19
onation
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b
Remem
tible.
is tax deduc
to you.
t
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b
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il
A receipt w
RBNL - 0615
last name
Card Number
� Home phone
Home Phone Number
Post Code
Mobile Phone Number
Card Expiry Date
First Payment Date
Please see reverse side for mailing instructions - Thank you for your generous support
PLEASE NOTE: If you choose monthly, quarterly or annual payments,your details are held in the bank’s secure server, NOT by Rocky Bay. If at any time you want to cancel a regular payment, you can
do so by providing notice to Rocky Bay either via email to [email protected] or phone call to (08)9383 5138.
NEWS JUNE 2014
Postal Address – an end of tax year receipt will be sent to this address
full name as shown on card
� Monthly � Quarterly � Annually � One off Donation
Payment Frequency – Please tick your preferred option
Email Address – an automated receipt will be sent to this address for credit card payments
� Email
I prefer to be contacted via
� Mobile Phone
First Name
........................................................................................................
� Visa
CARDHOLDER’S SIGNATURE
� Mastercard
Type of Card
$........................... Donation Amount
�Mr �Mrs �Ms �Miss
Title
YES! I want to support the
important work of Rocky Bay,
please accept my gift.
WHAT’S ON
Walk With Me - Rocky Bay
Sun 31st August 2014 from 11.00am
Rocky Bay, 60 McCabe Street Mosman Park
Walk With Me - Perth
Wed 3rd December 2014 from 11.30am
Forrest Place off Murray Street Mall, Perth city
Rocky Bay Dance Parties
First Fri of every month 6pm - 9pm
Rocky Bay gymnasium McCabe St
Mosman Park
$10 entry, free entry for carers / support workers
For details contact Getabout 9383 5185
Discover Your Abilities
Activities throughout 2014. For details visit
www.discoveryourabilities.com.au
Entertainment Book 14/15
Order your book and at the same time you will be assisting Rocky Bay
www.rockybay.org.au/go/support-us/entertainment-book
alternatively please call Juliette at Rocky Bay on 9383 5138 to
place your order — Thank you for your support.
Contact the editor: [email protected]
‘Like’ our facebook page
www.facebook.com/discoverRockyBay
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