Coastlink celebrates new recreation centre at Berkeley Vale

Coastlink has opened a new Berkeley Vale Hub to operate day activities for people living with disability.

Also, in coming months Coastlink will be putting the finishing touches on a new Virtual Reality Hub and Gaming Centre to further boost their recreational activities.

Coastlink’s Chief Executive Officer, John Davis, said the purchase of the Berkeley Vale Hub was a testament to the dedication of the organisation’s Board, staff members and entire organisation, which had long been regarded as the Coast’s premier disability and aged care provider.

“Our community and centre-based programs really are the backbone of what we do here at Coastlink and for many people they’re an absolute lifeline,” he said.

“That’s what makes the permanent acquisition of our Berkley Vale Hub so significant.

“Our programs help people living with disability to gain independence, strengthen their life skills and, most importantly, live life their way every day.

“The people who utilise our programs have big dreams, big ideas and big potential and we’re dedicated to helping them play an active role in their local communities,” Davis said.

Coastlink’s range of day program activities are operated at both the Berkeley Vale Hub and Woy Woy Hall.

They have a strong focus on life skills and offer participants the chance to try their hand at everything from cooking, art and computers, to swimming and outdoor fitness.

However, like so many community-based initiatives, these face-to-face programs were heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and clients, families and staff all felt the impact.

Davis said the Coastlink team was proud to be back and operating as safely as possible, ensuring people living with disability continue to have access to quality support and opportunities to connect.

“In addition to our day programs, our Community Access Program is really focused on getting individuals safely back out into the community, so they can once again enjoy recreational, social and sporting activities across the Central Coast, Newcastle and Sydney,” he said.

“Plus, we’re continuing to offer our after-school, holiday and weekend programs, as well as our permanent and short-term accommodation options.

“And that’s not all the exciting news on the organisation’s horizon.

“In the coming months, we’ll also be putting the finishing touches on our brand-new Virtual Reality Hub and Gaming Centre for people living with disability, and I’d encourage everyone to keep an eye on our website and social media pages to find out more,” Davis said.

Source:
Media release, July 29
Coastlink