Welcome to our August edition of our bi-monthly newsletter! Stay informed with community centre highlights, inspiring stories and upcoming events.

Over the past seven years, VLCRC has blossomed into a vibrant and inclusive space that truly embodies the spirit of community. We’ve grown from just a few programs to a place for everyone, whether you're seeking assistance or simply looking for a welcoming environment. Our coffee cart has become a favourite spot to gather and chat, and our different events throughout the year bring people together in celebration and connection.

But we’re much more than that. VLCRC is proud to offer social inclusion programs that help foster a sense of belonging, and our hall and space hire provides the perfect venue for various events and activities. For those facing barriers, we’re here with the support you need, from navigating complex forms to finding the right referrals. Our food diversion program Nourishing Our Neighbourhood ensures that surplus food is redirected to those who need it, reducing waste and supporting our community. Additionally, we’re committed to community education, offering valuable resources and programs around preparedness to ensure everyone is ready for whatever life throws their way.

We invite everyone to come and experience the warmth and vibrancy of VLCRC. Whether you’re stopping by for a coffee, browsing our community library, or joining one of our yoga classes, there’s something for everyone. We look forward to welcoming you into our ever-growing community. Come see what we’re all about—you might just find your new favourite spot!

CEO - Elli Gardner

Introducing a VLCRC Team Member Star!

Roslyn Duchateau - Administration Officer and Secretary

By Jade B-W - University Placement Student

I would like you all to meet Ros, the centres admin officer, secretary and play-group leader. These are Ros’s official titles, however, if you have ever met or been in the presence of Ros on a day-to-day basis you will know that Ros undertakes more than those roles.

Ros’s life is a vibrant tapestry woven with her deep connection to the Gold Coast, where she has spent the past 39 years. This coastal haven has shaped her into a person who thrives on community, creativity, and compassion.

Before joining the Varsity Lakes Community Resource Centre, Ros had a notable 13-year career at a casino, where she juggled various roles from scheduling and data entry to serving and front-of-house duties. It was during this time that she met Elli our CEO in 2001, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her life.

Ros’s journey to her current role was influenced by her love for volunteering, especially during the school holiday workshops when she reconnected with Elli. Initially seeking a casual opportunity while caring for her baby, Ros was drawn to a part-time role that aligned perfectly with her passion for community service. Her commitment to the organization is evident in her dedication to fostering a supportive environment for all members and individuals who spend time within the centre to ensure they feel included and valued.

The company’s mission of community, compassion, and connection resonates deeply with Ros. She takes pride in the centre's growth and cherishes the tight-knit, respectful team she’s part of. For Ros, the most fulfilling moments are those where she sees the positive impact of her work on the community, brightening people’s days and helping them feel seen.

Ros’s story is one of dedication, creativity, and a zest for life. Her journey through various roles and her active participation in the community illustrates her unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those around her.

Feel Good Mini Fest:

Sunshine and Smiles on a Warm Saturday in August

The Feel Good Mini Fest, held on Saturday, August 10, at the VLCRC, was a day brimming with positivity, connection, and wellness. The event began with a moving smoking ceremony led by Uncle Steve Cora, setting the tone for a vibrant celebration of community health and wellbeing.

Thanks to the generous support of Employee Wellness Australia and the Primary Health Network Gold Coast, the festival offered a diverse range of activities and presentations, including discussions on suicide prevention, mental health awareness, resilience, and mindfulness. Attendees enjoyed complimentary sausages, popcorn, and refreshing water, while barista Juliano and his team of volunteers served freshly brewed coffee. Other highlights included yoga sessions, ice baths, and breathwork exercises.

A variety of stalls provided valuable health and fitness information, and a community art project encouraged creativity and collaboration. Children had a blast with free face painting, balloon twisting, and entertainment from a creative arts therapist.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us at the Feel Good Mini Fest. Your presence and support were greatly appreciated. We look forward to future collaborations with Stephen and the incredible team from Employee Wellness Australia. Events like these remind us of the importance of nurturing our health and wellbeing.

A big shoutout to Mariana and Shirley, our Coffee Pack Raffle winners! Your $5 coffee purchase from our Bean Waiting For You coffee cart has won you a delightful selection of goodies.

Enjoy, and thank you for being such great supporters of our community centre and events!

From Brazil to Australia

Juliano’s Journey from Coffee Lover to Barista

By Bree C - University Placement Student

Juliano soon ventured off to the USA, where he worked in a restaurant, and when an opportunity arose, he eagerly volunteered to start a barista journey. Determined to learn, he immersed himself in books, watched countless YouTube tutorials, and sought advice from experienced baristas. His dedication paid off, and he honed his skills to a professional level.

In January 2024, Juliano made a new leap, relocating to Australia. By March, he had spotted an advertisement for a barista position at VLCRC and had decided to apply. His vibrant personality and skill set quickly made him a cherished member of the team.

At VLCRC, what Juliano loves most is the sense of community. He cherishes the interactions with consistent customers, building meaningful relationships, and hearing their stories. One of his favourite memories was working on election day. It was his first experience handling a high volume of customers, and he was both excited and nervous. The day turned out to be a highlight, giving him a deeper understanding of the local election system and connecting with a diverse group of people.

Juliano finds immense satisfaction in being part of the positive impact coffee can have on people’s day. Whether customers come in energized or tired, he delights in how coffee can lift their mood and add a touch of happiness to their routine. His goal is to make every coffee experience a bit brighter and more enjoyable.

Looking to the future, Juliano dreams of living in Australia and owning his own business. His vision includes travelling to beautiful beaches in a caravan coffee cart and catering to surfers and locals of the community. Juliano believes coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a part of daily life that brings joy and connection. He values the conversations and good vibes that come with every cup.

Outside work, Juliano has embraced the surfing lifestyle, hitting the waves numerous times a week. He’s particularly fond of Snapper, D Bar, Burleigh, and Currumbin. For those seeking a weekend coffee fix, Juliano highly recommends Paddock Bakery in Burleigh.

Students in Action:

How University Placements Shape Careers and Communities

Each semester, we have the privilege of hosting university students and supporting their continued learning. At VLCRC, we deeply value the contributions of our placement students. We are committed to enhancing their educational journey, bridging theory with practical experience, and fostering peer-to-peer learning. Our goal is to continually update and enrich their understanding of the sector, ensuring they gain the most from their placements with us at VLCRC.

A special thank you to our semester 1 placement students, Raf and Jodi, for their hard work and dedication. Congratulations to Raf on graduating with a Bachelor of Social Work from Southern Cross University. She will continue to be involved with the community centre, working with our Community Recovery Team. We wish Jodi all the best as she advances in her studies towards completing her Bachelor of Social Work from Griffith University. You'll also continue to see Jodi around the centre, volunteering her time in our playground area.

Discover more about our current students below.

Our placement at VLCRC offers us the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of individuals and groups, helping to promote health, wellbeing, and independence through meaningful activities. The Varsity Lakes community has a unique set of needs, particularly in areas such as youth engagement, mental health, and access to services for marginalized populations. Our role during this placement is to collaborate with community members and local organisations to develop and implement tailored interventions that enhance participation in daily activities. The need for Occupational Therapy in this community is growing, and we are excited to contribute to this emerging practice, helping to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all residents.

We would appreciate your feedback and comments about the Varsity Lakes youth demographic and the community as a whole. Please take a moment to complete this quick survey below. Your input is greatly appreciated - thank you!