The Wellington Shire Early Years Parent Directory!

Hardcopy Book Limited amount of copies available. To pick up a copy please visit:  Central Gippsland Health Service  Yarram District Health Service  Wellington Shire Council—Sale and Yarram Office  Maternal Child Health Clinics  Selected Wellington Shire Kindergarten Programs  UnitingCare Gippsland—Sale Office

Download Electronic Book Download a free copy of the Directory at www.ucgipps.org.au and save it on your Computer Desktop, Tablet or Smartphone. Electronic Book has inbuilt links on ‘Contents Page’ and services listed. One click and it will connect you to the service you are looking for.  Computer users will need to have Adobe Reader or similar E-reader Program to access the document.  Smartphone / Tablet users can download and save the Electronic Book in “iBooks” or similar E-Reader Library Apps, that way you can access it without needing to be connected to the internet.  Smartphone / Tablet users can use the ‘search function’ in “iBooks” or similar E-Reader Apps to connect you to the page you are searching for.

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Welcome to the Wellington Shire Early Years Parent Directory!

Wellington Shire Early Years Parent Directory originated from a parent’s suggestion made to Wellington Best Start! From this suggestion, a working group was formed of local community agencies, parents and carers who supported Wellington Best Start make this directory possible.

For many, finding the right support network, program or facility to assist us as we go about our daily lives, is not always easy.

The aim of the directory is to provide an ‘easy to access’ directory of services, support groups and social activities for families living, working, and visiting Wellington Shire. It also has information on local services and tips to assist parents and carers on when and how to access a service. The directory is early years focused, listing services catering for children aged 0 – 12 years. It will also list parent and family support services which support families with children aged 0 – 17 years.

Wellington Best Start welcomes your feedback and ideas. Every effort has been made to ensure the information in this directory is accurate and up to date at the time of printing. To provide feedback, inform us of any changes or to include a service, please contact Wellington Best Start Facilitator:

Wellington Best Start Program UnitingCare Gippsland

Ph: (03) 51 44 7777 Email: [email protected]

For more information on the Wellington Shire Best Start Program please visit: www.ucgipps.org.au

When this project began, children were invited to submit drawings of ‘what they like to do in the town they live in’. We have chosen some of the wonderful artwork to be included in this directory.

A warm thank you goes to the many creative and talented children who helped to bring this directory to life with their artwork. Laura, Age 11 Years

"This is me swimming at the Blue Pools like a mermaid"

CONTENTS

EMERGENCY AND IMPORTANT NUMBERS ...... 6

FOR CHILDREN ...... 7 Pregnancy and Birth ...... 7 Antenatal Pre Admission Service ...... 11 Pregnancy Education and Support at Central Gippsland Health Service ...... 11 Antenatal Clinic ...... 12 General Practitioners (Accredited in Pregnancy and Birth Care) ...... 12 Obstetrician Services ...... 12 Breastfeeding Support ...... 13 Post Natal Depression ...... 14 Grief and Loss ...... 14 Maternal Child Health Service Information ...... 15 Maternal and Child Health Centres Contact Details ...... 16 Immunisations ...... 17 Public Baby and Parent Room ...... 18 Baby Equipment Hire ...... 18 Child Restraints and Fitting Services ...... 19 Library Services in Wellington Shire ...... 20 Children’s Programs at your Local Library ...... 21 Toy Library ...... 21 Mobile Library ...... 22 Online Library ...... 22 Playgroups in Wellington Shire ...... 23 Children’s Activities ...... 27 Childcare Information and Options ...... 29 Long Day Care ...... 32 Family Day Care ...... 33 Occasional Care ...... 33 Before and After School Care...... 35 Holiday Care Program ...... 35 Kindergarten Support Services ...... 37 Kindergarten Programs in Wellington Shire...... 38 Community Kindergarten Programs ...... 38 Childcare Centres that offer funded Kindergarten Programs ...... 40 Children with Additional Needs, Disability and Mental Health Concerns ...... 41 Paediatrician ...... 41 Specialist Service ...... 42 Starting Primary School – Information ...... 45 Primary Schools in Wellington Shire – Contact Details ...... 47 Secondary Schools in Wellington Shire – Contact Details ...... 49 Specialist School – Contact Details ...... 49

FOR PARENTS, CARERS & FAMILIES ...... 50 Family Support Services ...... 51 Parenting Programs and Support ...... 51 Children’s Programs ...... 52 Youth Programs ...... 52 Counselling Services ...... 54 Child Protection ...... 56 Sexual Assault ...... 57 Family Violence ...... 58 Accommodation and Housing ...... 59 Financial Support and Counselling...... 60 Legal Service ...... 61

GENERAL ...... 63 Health Services ...... 64 Hospitals ...... 64 Medical and Community Health Centre ...... 65 Paediatrician ...... 67 Womens Health ...... 68 Dental Clinics ...... 68 Neighborhood and Community Houses ...... 70 Aboriginal Support Services ...... 73 Multicultural Support Services ...... 73 Access to Transport ...... 74 Travel Planning and Support ...... 74 Transport Concessions and Subsidies ...... 75 Bus Service ...... 76 Car Pooling ...... 77 Taxi Service ...... 77 Train Stations ...... 77 Sporting and Recreation Clubs ...... 78 Sporting Facilities ...... 78 Swimming Pools ...... 79 Mobility Maps ...... 80 Acknowledgements ...... 90

EMERGENCY AND IMPORTANT NUMBERS

Ambulance, Fire, Police 000

Breastfeeding Helpline 1800 686 268 24 hours / 7 days a week

Central Gippsland Health Service (03) 5143 8600 Yarram District Health Service (03) 5182 0222

Child Protection 1800 020 202 13 12 78 – Afterhours Kids help line Free – 24 hours / 7 days a week Phone counselling service for Australian children and young people aged 1800 551 800 between 5 and 25 years.

Lifeline Free - 24 hours / 7 days a week 13 11 14 Access to crisis support, suicide prevention and mental health support services.

Maternal and Child Health Help Line 24 hours / 7 days a week 13 22 29

Men’s Referral Service Monday to Friday 9am – 9pm 1800 065 973 Helpline to support men and women experiencing family violence.

Nurse on Call 1300 60 60 24 24 hours / 7 days a week

Parent line 8am to midnight / 7 days a week Statewide telephone counseling service to parents and carers of children 13 22 89 aged from birth to eighteen years

Post natal Depression (PANDA) Monday to Friday; 9am to 7pm 1800 688 382 Callers do not need to have a diagnosis of antenatal or postnatal depression to make contact with PANDA

Sexual Assault Crisis Line 1800 806 292 Free - Mon to Fri 5pm to 9am / Available all day Sat – Sun and public holidays

State Emergency Service (SES) 24 hours / 7 days a week 13 25 00

The Victorian Poisons Information Centre 24 hours / 7 days a week 13 11 26 Wellington Shire Council – Sale Office 1300 366 244 Yarram Office (03) 5182 5100

Women’s Domestic Violence Crisis Service 24 hours a day / 7 days a week. 1800 015 188

FOR CHILDREN

Liam, Age 4 years “I like to go to the park. I go with my mum, dad and Amelia. In the park there’s a slide, a ladder, trees, birds. I am going to find a feather. Birds came with feathers. It felt down to the ground. Mum and dad just found a feather. Mum and dad say “Hooray!!! We found a feather Liam!!” I just take the feather and I take it home with me”.

Pregnancy and Birth

As all women have different needs and preferences for pregnancy and birth care, it is important that women are offered a choice that suits their individual needs. There are many different pregnancy and birth care options (types of care) available in Wellington Shire. Depending on where you live, some or all may be available to you. This section explains the types of care offered, and the contact details of the services.

To help you choose what type of care would suit you best please consider the following:  your address (do you live close or in town or rurally)  your general health and previous pregnancy/childbirth outcomes  your lifestyle, social and cultural circumstances  your feelings and/or previous experiences of pregnancy and birth  costs associated with different types of care  your feelings about particular types of care and care providers.

Booking-in at ANPAS All pregnant women living in Wellington Shire are expected to ‘book-in’ at Central Gippsland Health Service - Antenatal Pre Admission Service (ANPAS) regardless of what type of care you choose to have. It is preferred that women make an appointment with ANPAS from 14 weeks onwards. During this appointment a Midwife will discuss the different types of care and support you in deciding what is most suited for your pregnancy.

Who’s Who? You can receive pregnancy and birth care from a midwife, GP or Obstetrician - or a combination of these. If your pregnancy is going well, with little or no risk of complications - you may have midwife or GP led care.

Midwives: Midwives are health professionals who offer care to women during pregnancy, labour and birth, and during the postpartum period. They also help care for the newborn and assist the mother with feeding their baby. They complete University education to qualify and register as a midwife. Midwives can be male or female.

General Practitioners (GPs): General Practitioners complete further training if they want to give pregnancy and birth care to women. They may hold a Diploma in Obstetrics and Gynaecology or complete other courses. You will need to check with your local GP if they are accredited to assist with your pregnancy care and or birth. This Directory will list GP’s who have additional accreditation in Pregnancy and or Birth.

Obstetricians: An Obstetrician is a doctor who has undergone extensive specialist training. She or he is a specialist in maternity care (Obstetrics) and women's reproductive health (Gynaecology). If you are experiencing a complicated pregnancy, or you have a serious medical condition separate from your pregnancy, it is appropriate to receive care from an Obstetrician during your pregnancy and birth.

Having a Baby at Central Gippsland Health Service? Central Gippsland Health Service has both specialist Obstetricians, accredited G.P’s and a public antenatal clinic. As the Hospital is involved in obstetric training of doctors and midwives, a hospital medical officer, medical student and/or student midwife may also be involved in your care.

Womens and Childrens Unit: Ph (03) 51438 730

Hospital admissions are either Public or Private Public - If you are admitted as a public patient, the hospital will provide a doctor for your care. This may be the doctor who looked after you during your pregnancy or may be a doctor on duty for the hospital on the day of your admission. There is no charge to you for your hospital stay as the cost is covered by Medicare therefore you must have a Medicare card. If you attend a GP or Obstetrician for your antenatal care, you will be required to pay their fees for that service.

Private - If you are admitted as a private patient you nominate the doctor who will care for you, subject to their availability. Your private health fund pays the cost of your hospital stay. Single rooms with a private bathroom are allocated on a needs basis, but private patients will receive priority.

What to bring to hospital

Please Note • Visiting Hours: Partners and siblings between 9.30am to 12.30pm. • Open Visiting is from 2.30pm to 8.30pm. • Rest periods are between 12.30pm to 2.30pm. We request relatives and friends DO NOT visit during this time for mother’s own wellbeing and for consideration of other patients. • It is hospital policy to not smoke on hospital premises. • As a safety precaution, during your hospital stay, babies must not be carried but transported in the cots provided by the hospital.

Length of Stay How long you stay in hospital after the birth of your baby is dependent on individual mother and family’s needs. The average length of stay is 2 nights after a normal birth and 5 nights after a caesarean section. A mother may require a longer stay or an early discharge depending on her needs. For example, new mothers who are experiencing breastfeeding problems may be able to stay longer until these issues are resolved. Midwives and or a lactation consultant will support you in that time. If a mother requests early discharge, she will have the support of a midwife who will provide domiciliary visits at home each day while that care is required.

Womens and Childrens Unit – including Birthing Rooms and Special Care Nursery There are 3 Birth Rooms with ensuites. Beanbags, birthing balls and floor mats are available and we also encourage women to bring in any items that Medical records: may assist with their birth. Separate medical records are kept on all newborn After you have your baby, you move to the postnatal ward. . There are five babies. The baby will be single rooms with ensuites and two twin share rooms. Each bed is electronic admitted under the and TV is provided. mothers surname after the birth. On subsequent Normally your baby stays in the room with you 24 hours which enables you to admissions, the history get to know your baby. This is called ‘rooming in’. If you need to leave the will be changed to reflect hospital for a short time, your baby can be placed in the nursery where they the baby’s registered will be supervised. name.

Meals, breast feeding support and midwifery domiciliary service are provided.

Special Care Nursery – If your baby is admitted to the special care nursery we have 3 paediatricians who provide 24 hour routine and emergency care. Parents are encouraged to visit often and be involved in caring for their baby. Mothers who are discharged postnatal but their babies still require hospital admission are also encouraged to stay as “boarder mums” if they live out of town. This means you will have a bed and meals provided and the Domiciliary midwife will see you on the ward. Electronic Breast Pumps are available to use to help you express milk for your baby in the nursery Being a ‘Boarder mum’ can be dependent on a bed being available and mothers who live further away from Sale will get priority.

Going Home Domiciliary Midwife Service - Every woman is offered Domiciliary Midwifery care on discharge.. This service provides quality postnatal care for mother and baby in the familiar surroundings of their home. The midwife works closely with the Maternal and Child Health Nurses, doctors and other health professionals and is able to refer you to support services as required. The number of visits you will require depends on your individual situation. Some women feel more comfortable in their own environment, mothers and babies can be discharged as soon as they are both stable and the daily midwife visits can undertake all your routine postnatal care. The maternal and child health nurse will visit you in hospital or phone you and make an appointment to see you at home. If you have not heard from them please do not hesitate to ring them on 51 438 800 during office hours to make contact.

Everyone has a 6 weekly post natal check which is conducted by your Obstetrician or GP. Remember to make the appointment after you have been discharged. If you are seeing an Obstetrician, you will need to make an appointment with your GP for the baby’s 6 week check separately.

Car Seats – For your baby’s safety please have your car fitted with an Cloth nappies worn by a approved car seat prior to taking baby home. This is required by law and it’s baby in a car restraint the parent’s responsibility to ensure that this is attended to correctly. must not have a fold in Further information can be obtained from the Vic Roads website: the centre because of www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/childrestraints or calling Tel: 13 11 71. the risk of spinal injury.

Antenatal Pre Admission Service Central Gippsland Health Service – Antenatal Pre Admission Service (ANPAS) Phone (03) 5143 8560 Address Central Gippsland Health Service, CRC Building, 155 Guthridge Parade, Sale VIC 3850

The Antenatal Pre Admission Service (ANPAS) is a service provided by CGHS that involves “booking in” to the hospital. The service aims to improve both the birthing experience and postnatal outcomes for mothers and babies. If you have had a previous baby at CGHS you also have the option of having a phone booking.

The appointment involves history taking, checking details, antenatal education, identifying needs and referring to services to assist you during the pregnancy, birth and postnatally. This may include referral to a ‘Care Co-ordinator’ who can help you address any non-medical issues you are facing in the pregnancy and help you achieve your goals for dealing with these issues. For families who have any Aboriginal or Torres Strait Island descent, an Aboriginal Liaison Officer is available to support you during the pregnancy and birth.

Women are encouraged to book in at ANPAS and see the midwife at 14-16 weeks. This gives women the opportunity to discuss which model of antenatal care is suitable to her situation,, undertake a ward tour and meet some of the midwives. The student midwives who are undertaking their training at Central Gippsland Health Service are required to ‘Follow Through’ a number of women during their pregnancy and birth. This can be a support to families at this time and helps the student midwife learn through a families individual experience. If you would like to have a student midwife support you during your pregnancy and birth experience, you can organise this at this appointment.

Pregnancy Education and Support at Central Gippsland Health Service Bookings for Childbirth Education, Lactation Education and Pre Caesarean appointments can be made at the Central Gippsland Health Service CRC reception on 03 5143 8560.

Child Birth Education Childbirth Education is a service offered for first time parents which is held on the first Saturday of every month at Central Gippsland Health Service. We suggest attending these classes between 32-36 weeks of pregnancy. Cost is $66 or $33 for Health Care Card holders. Morning tea, lunch and educational materials are provided.

Topics covered include: • stages of labour • labour support persons role • pain relief options and self-help methods • maternal and child health • antenatal care and pregnancy • inductions and caesarean • ward tour and baby bath • labour videos, photos • physiotherapy • assisted births • breastfeeding • postnatal stay

Lactation Education Lactation Education is a service provided for women where a midwife or lactation consultant offers breast feeding education and information. Women are encouraged to attend 32-36 weeks of pregnancy and there is no cost. They are held every second Tuesday at the Central Gippsland Health Service.

Caesarean Births Pre Caesarean Appointments are held every Friday in the Women’s and Children’s Unit. This is an opportunity to meet the midwife again and the obstetric doctor the week prior to having your baby. It

involves education, observations, discussing any concerns and pathology. You will be sent a letter from the hospital advising you to phone and make this appointment for the week before your planned caesarean. After your caesarean you will be visited by a ‘care co-ordinator’ who will assess with you any supports you require to ensure you will be able to manage at home.

Antenatal Clinic Central Gippsland Health Service – Antenatal Clinic Phone (03) 5143 8560 Address 155 Guthridge Parade, Sale VIC 3850

The clinic provides midwifery care to low risk pregnant woman and their families, collaborating with Obstetricians and hospital Medical officers. To attend the clinic you will need to get a referral letter to the antenatal clinic from your GP. You will be requested to see an Obstetrician at some stage of your pregnancy to take part in the clinic. Please ask your GP to write your referral to which ever Obstetrician you plan to see and bring it along to your first visit with the midwives. Attendance at the clinic is Free.

General Practitioners (Accredited in Pregnancy and Birth Care) Dr. Christopher O’Kane Phone (03) 5144 4788 Address Clocktower Medical Centre 284 Raymond St 3850 Sale, VIC 3850 Email: [email protected]

Dr. Anthony Wright Phone (03) 5141 1889 Address Johnson Street Clinic 119 Johnson St Maffra, VIC 3860

Obstetrician Services Dr. Refaat Guirguis Phone (03) 5144 7933 Address 33 McAlister St, Sale VIC 3850

Dr. Anuradha Sarkar Phone (03) 5144 4755 Address 37 Palmerston St, Sale VIC 3850

Breastfeeding Support Central Gippsland Breastfeeding Support Service Phone (03) 5143 8487 Address Central Gippsland Health Service, Community Care Service Building, Waratah Wing Corner of Palmerston and Cunningham St Sale, VIC 3850 Email [email protected]

A free and confidential service, provided by a Lactation Consultant, to expectant and new mothers, who are experiencing concerns and difficulties with breastfeeding and would like further guidance and assistance to help resolve those difficulties.

Australian Breastfeeding Association Helpline 1800 686 268 Email [email protected]

The Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) runs the National Breastfeeding Helpline 1800 mum 2 mum (1800 686 268). The Breastfeeding Helpline is available 7 days a week. It is staffed by trained, volunteer counsellors on a roster system who answer calls in their own homes.

ABA Sale-Maffra Group ABA local volunteers run a local support group for mothers and their child/ren. The group meet on a fortnightly basis usually on the 1st Wednesday or Friday @ Venues across the area, and 3rd Thursday @ Maffra Playgroup Rooms (cnr Pearson and Church St). For meeting details phone Angela 5144 7013 or 0412 725 727.

Meetings are led by a breastfeeding counsellor or invited guest with discussions on specific topics. A great way to increase your breastfeeding knowledge.

The Group Library is available to all subscribers and has books on different aspects of parenting that support our breastfeeding policies.

Breast pump hire - Service includes:  A consultation with a trained breastfeeding counsellor  Demonstration of equipment set-up  Suggestions for effective expressing, storage & handling of breastmilk  Information about cleaning & disinfection of equipment  Ongoing information and support

Medela Symphony Pump Lactina Electric Pump Deposit $100 Deposit $50 Hire $50* per week + collection kit Hire $20* per week + collection kit Collection Kit Single – $69 Collection Kit Single – $66.95 Double – $90 Double – $84.95 *50% discount applies to ABA Members Ph Angela 5144 7013 / 0412 725 727

Post Natal Depression Beyond Blue Phone 1300 22 4636 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) Website http://www.beyondblue.org.au/resources/for-me/pregnancy-and-early-parenthood

Confidential one on one phone support and advice with a trained mental health professional. Persons calling have the option of remaining anonymous as well.

Latrobe Regional Hospital - Perinatal Emotional Health Program Phone (03) 5143 8970 Address CGHS, Community Care Service Building, Corner of Palmerston and Cunningham St Sale

The Perinatal Emotional Health Program (PEHP) provides family centred psychological care for women during pregnancy and up to one year post birth. The program provides services for women who are experiencing mild to moderate mental health symptoms, the severity of which would not meet the criteria for ongoing care with the adult or adolescent mental health service.

PANDA Post and Antenatal Depression Association Inc Phone 1300 726 306 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 7pm) Website http://www.panda.org.au

PANDA is a Victorian, not-for-profit, self-help organisation that provides confidential information, support and referral to anyone affected by post and antenatal mood disorders, including partner and extended family members.

Grief and Loss Compassionate Friends Phone 1800 641 091 (24 hours a day grief support) Website www.compassionatefriendsvictoria.org.au

The Compassionate Friends offers support in the grief and trauma which follows the death of a child at any age and from any cause. Visit the website for further information and resources.

SANDS – Still Birth & Neonatal Death Support Inc Phone 1300 072 637 Website http://www.sandsvic.org.au/

SANDS provide immediate and ongoing support to bereaved parents, families and friends.

SIDS & Kids Phone 1800 240 400 (24 hours / 7 days a week) Email melbourne@sidsandkids.org Website www.sidsandkidseastcoast.org

SIDS and Kids Victoria offers services to those affected by the death of a child who dies suddenly and unexpectedly from 20 weeks gestation to six years of age, regardless of the cause of death. The children may have died from SIDS, stillbirth, drowning, motor vehicle accident, fire, sudden onset illness, homicide or in some other way.

Maternal Child Health Service Information

Maternal Child Health Service is a free service offered to all Victorian families with children 0-6 years. Maternal and Child Health Nurses are Registered Nurses and Midwives with a post graduate qualification in Child and Family Health.

Ten Key Age and Stage visits are recommended to review children’s health and any parenting concerns you may have. They are: arrival at home after your baby’s birth; 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 4 months, 8 months, 12 months, 18 months, 2 years and 3 ½ years of age.

Families can attend the centre of their choice by appointment, or by dropping in to an open session. Access to the Service can also be made at other times by telephone for advice. All Maternal and Child Health centres have answering machines. The nurse will return your call at the first available opportunity.

This is not an emergency service so if the matter is urgent you need to see your Doctor or visit the hospital emergency department.

Enhanced Home Visiting Service – A referral Lets Read Program – Lets Read is a program that service for families requiring extra parenting provides tips and age-specific resources to support. The Enhanced Home Visiting Service is support parents and carers reading to their available on a needs basis. For more information children. The resources are developed for please contact your nearest Maternal and Child children aged from 4 months, 12 months, 18 Health Centre. Families linked with the Enhance months and 3 ½ years. Maternal and Child Home Visiting Service are also offered to Health Service and UnitingCare Gippsland deliver participate in the Lets Read program. the Lets Read Program in Wellington Shire.

Services offerered at Wellington Shire Maternal Child Health New Parent Group – This group is a 6 week Young Mums Group for under 20’s Mothers - This program where first time parents are invited to group runs all year round during the school term. attend and receive support in the form of peer First time young mothers are welcome to join the support from other first time parents, and group. Parents within the group offer peer presentation/information sharing from other support, and there are presentation/information childhood/parenting specialists. The program is sharing from other childhood/parenting specialists. facilitated by a Maternal Child Health Nurse. The program is facilitated by a Maternal Child After the 6 weeks, parents in the group take over Health Nurse. Please contact your nearest and manage the group. Every 6 weeks a new Maternal Child Health Clinic for details on this ‘New Parents Group’ is put together made up of group. infant babies of similar age (often born days or weeks apart). Please contact your nearest Maternal Child Health Clinic for details about the next New Parents Group.

Maternal and Child Health Centres Contact Details

Drop in Town Address / Phone Number Appointments Sessions

65 Temple St 9am to 11am Heyfield 11.30am to 4pm Thursday Ph: (03) 5143 800 for appointment Thursday

Monday, Thursday and Lochsport Community Health Centre, Friday only Lochsport National Park Road (Please phone to arrange a Ph: (03) 5146 0349 for appointments time) 9am to 4pm Monday and Friday Maffra Maffra Hospital, 51 Kent St 9am to 11am Ph: (03) 5143 800 for appointments 9am to 12pm Tuesday Thursday 11.30am to 4pm Thursday CLOSED Wednesday Rosedale Community Centre, Cansick St Rosedale 9am to 4pm Tuesday Ph: (03) 5199 2333

Central Gippsland Health Service, 9am to 11am 9am to 4pm Monday to Sale Waratah Wing, Palmerston St; Wednesday to Friday Ph: (03) 5143 8800 for appointments Friday

Community Building, Monument Park, 1.30pm to 4pm Tuesday 11am to 12.30 Stratford Tyer St and Wednesday pm Wednesday Ph: (03) 5143 8800 for appointments

Yarram and District Health Service, Yarram 85-91 Commercial Road Yarram 9am to 4pm Tuesday Ph: 5182 0258

Wellington Maternal Child Health is also on Facebook. Search for Wellington Maternal Child Health on Facebook and like their page. This page is for information sharing. If you would like to speak with a Maternal Child Health nurse please contact your nearest Maternal Child Health Clinic.

Maternal and Child Health Line – Phone support service for parents and carers when the local Maternal and Child Health Nurse is unavailable. Interpreters are available. There is also a range of resources and tip sheets, which are available to support families and are available in translated languages.

Phone: 13 22 29 (24 hours, 7 Days a week)

Immunisations

Immunisation protects children and adults against harmful infections before they come into contact with them in the community. Immunisation uses the body’s natural defence mechanism to build resistance to specific infection.

To get your child immunised, you can make an appointment at your nearest Medical Centre or attend one of the Wellington Shire Immunisation Service listed below. Immunisation for diseases on the Childhood Immunisation Register is free, and if you chose to do so at a medical clinic you will be bulk billed through Medicare.

The Wellington Shire provides a comprehensive immunisation service for infants, children, adolescents and adults. Free public sessions are held each month. For more information please contact the Wellington Shire Immunisation Team on 1300 366 244.

Immunisation Schedule 2013

SALE MAFFRA HEYFIELD YARRAM 10.30 - 11.30am 2.00 - 2.45pm CGHS Conference Geoff Webster Hall, Room Maffra Anglican 11.00 - 11.45am 11.00 - 11.30am Church Heyfield Library Council Building, Corner Palmerston & Thomson St, Maffra Pelican Room Cunninghame Sts, Sale 40 MacFarlane St, Opposite Maternal Child Opposite Maffra Heyfield 156 Grant St, Yarram Health Centre Primary 2nd Tue of the month 1st Wed of the month 2nd & 4th Wed of the School month 2nd Tue of the month 6 February 12 February 12 February 13 & 27 February 6 March 12 March 12 March 13 & 27 March 3 April 9 April 9 April 10 & 24 April 1 May 14 May 14 May 8 & 22 May 5 June 11 June 11 June 12 & 26 June 3 July 9 July 9 July 10 & 24 July 7 August 13 August 13 August 14 & 28 August 4 September 10 September 10 September 11 & 25 September 2 October 8 October 8 October 9 & 23 October 6 November 12 November 12 November 13 & 27 November 4 December 10 December 10 December 11 December

Public Baby and Parent Room

Gippsland Centre Sale Phone (03) 5144 7133 Address 37-39 Cunningham St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.gippslandcentre.com.au

Parents Room is located in the corridor adjacent to Optus. Parent room has private sitting areas to breastfeed.

The Cobb & Co Stables Market Phone (03) 5143 0370 Address 199 Raymond St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.cobbandcomarket.com.au

Public toilets including Parents Room facilities available.

UnitingCare Gippsland Phone (03) 5144 7777 Address 126 Raymond St, Sale VIC 3850 Website www.ucgipps.org.au

Queen Street Kindergarten and Occasional Care Phone (03) 5147 1266 Address 21 Queen St, Maffra VIC 3860

Members of the community are welcome to feed in the private Breastfeeding Room. Change table facilities are also available.

Baby Equipment Hire

Hire for Baby Phone (03) 5122 3730 Mobile 0457 823 730 (SMS after hours) Email [email protected] Website http://www.hireforbaby.com Servicing Drouin, Warragul, Moe, Morwell, Traralgon Sale, Trafalgar, Yarragon, Churchill, Thorpdale, Boolarra, Yinnar, Newborough, Yallourn North, Glengarry Heyfield, Maffra, Yarram, Tyers, Gormandale, Rosedale, and surrounding areas.

Yarram District Health Service – Baby Equipment Hire at Maternal Child Health Service Phone (03) 5182 0222 Address 85 Commercial Road Yarram

Breast pumps and baby capsules available to hire. Deposit and Fees apply.

Child Restraints and Fitting Services

Belinda Bree Baby World Phone (03) 5144 2588 Address 335 Raymond St, Sale VIC 3850

Cedric Smith (RACV approved child restraint fitter)– Gippsland Gas and Automotive Phone (03) 5144 3043 Address Gippsland Gas and Automotive 335 Raymond St, Sale VIC 3850

Indie, Age 10 years "I like the Knob Reserve because the track just fades into the sun or when I can run my dogs around for as long as I like."

Library Wellington Shire Council provides a range of library services for everyone in the municipality. Membership to the public library is free to local residents; however Children under 18 must be signed up by a parent or guardian.

The Library Service provides access to a wide selection of materials for young children including picture books, board books, stories and information books, DVDs, music CDs and books on CD and cassette.

Wellington Shire Libraries offer the following services / programs:  Children Programs  Mobile Library  Toy Library  Online Library

For more information about the Library Services in Wellington Shire please contact:

Phone: (03) 5142 3368 Email: [email protected]

Library Services in Wellington Shire

Sale Library Maffra Library Monday to Friday 8:30am to 6pm Monday, Wednesday to Friday 10am to 6pm Saturday 10am to 4pm Tuesday - CLOSED Sunday CLOSED Saturday 10am to 12pm Sunday CLOSED 75 Macalister St, Sale VIC 3850 Tel: (03) 5144 2258 150 Johnson St, Maffra VIC 3860 Tel: (03) 5147 1052

Heyfield Library Rosedale Library Monday, Wednesday, Friday Tuesday 10am - 12noon & 1pm - 6pm 10am to 12noon / 2pm to 6pm Thursday 1pm - 6pm Saturday 10am to 12pm Friday 10am - 12noon & 1pm - 6pm Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday CLOSED Saturday 10am - 12noon Monday, Wednesday Sunday CLOSED The Heyfield Hub 42 MacFarlane St, Heyfield 3858 2-8 Cansick St, Rosedale VIC 3847 Tel: (03) 5148 2644 Tel: (03) 5199 2547

Stratford Library Yarram Library Monday, Wednesday, Friday Monday, Thursday, Friday 10am - 1.30pm & 3pm-6pm 10am – 6pm Saturday Tuesday, Wednesday 10am - 12noon 2pm – 6pm Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday Saturday CLOSED 10am - 12noon Sunday 70 Tyers St, Stratford VIC 3862 CLOSED Tel: (03) 5145 6403 156 Grant St, Yarram VIC 3971 Tel: (03) 5182 5135

Children’s Programs at your Local Library Children’s story time and school holiday programs are available at all branches throughout the year and many are scheduled to run on a weekly basis during school terms.

Rocky Rhythm & Rhyme Sessions Pre-School Storytime Recommended Age: Recommended Age: Babies 0-2 years Toddlers 3-5 years

Where it is held: Where it is held: - Heyfield Library Monday 10.30am - Stratford Library Wednesday 9.30am - Maffra Library Monday 9.30am - Sale Library Wednesday & Thursday 10.30am - Sale Library Friday 10.30am - Maffra Library Wednesday & Thursday 11am - Yarram Library Friday 9.30am - Yarram Library Thursday 11am - Rosedale Library Friday 9.30am - Heyfield Library Friday 10.30am

Abbey, Age 6 years "Reading books at the Sale Library."

Toy Library Toy Libraries promotes the importance and value of play. They provide an opportunity for children aged 0-8 to play with a variety of equipment without the expense of purchasing.

Wellington Shire Toy Library Phone (03) 5144 6728 or 0438 446 728 Veterans Affairs building, 82-88 Macalister St, Sale, VIC 3850 Address (next to the Memorial Hall main entrance) Website http://www.wellington.vic.gov.au (search toy library) Open Tuesday 10:00am-1:00pm Friday 2:30-4:30pm

For a small membership fee, families and organisations can borrow toys and resources on a fortnightly basis. All members are asked to volunteer two hours a year and help during the annual stocktake. Children are welcome to attend during this time and it is a great way to meet other families.

Yarram Toy Library Phone (03) 51 820 270 / (AH) (03) 5182 0276 Address Edgar House 20 Nicol St Yarram, VIC 3971 Open Fridays 10.00am – 11.30am

A volunteer community program supported by and located within the Yarram and District Health Service. Open to parents and carers of children up to six years of age.

Noah’s Ark Resource & Equipment Library Phone (03) 5152 8014 Address 306 Main St Bairnsdale, 3875 Website http://www.noahsarkinc.org.au/

A state wide, Early Childhood Intervention and Inclusion Support Program for children and young adults with disabilities. It aims to promote the wellbeing and health of children with additional needs and maintains an extensive resource and equipment library.

Mobile Library

Mobile Library provides a service to outlying communities in Wellington Shire.

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Gormandale Hall Loch Sport Cowwarr Hall Loch Sport Golden Beach Hall 10am - 12noon (Lake St) 9.30am - (Lake St) 10am - 12noon 11.30am Coongulla Hall 10.30am - 1pm & Briagolong Hall 10.30am - 1pm Seaspray (Lyons St) 2.30pm - 4.30pm 2pm - 4.30pm 1.45pm - 5pm & 2pm - 4.30pm 2pm - 4.30pm

Online Library WebPac is an online service which allows you to search the entire library collection of the Wellington Shire Library online. This database provides library members with access to books and resources, and can instantly tell you where an item can be found, allow you to place a hold on it, and have the item sent to your local library branch for collection.

Below link to access WebPAC: http://catalogue.wellington.vic.gov.au/ipac20/ipac.jsp?profile=web&menu=search#focus

LibraryLink is an online service linking all the resource catalogues of public libraries in Victoria so that a member of any library can check the holdings of other libraries and reserve titles online. There is a small fee for this inter-library-loan service.

Below link to access LibraryLink: https://llv.net.au/zportal/zengine?VDXaction=ZSearchSimple

Playgroups in Wellington Shire

A playgroup is made up of a group of parents and children who meet regularly to play and socialise. The content and structure of playgroups varies according to the parents and children’s needs. There are a number of playgroups within the Wellington Shire.

Because coordinators and venues of some playgroups are subject to change please ring the playgroup prior to attending.

Briagolong Briagolong Playgroup Phone (03) 5145 5425 Briagolong Community House Address 9-11 Avon St, Briagolong VIC 3860

Runs weekly during the school term. Tuesday 10am - 11.30am, $3 per session per family, bring a piece of fruit.

Heyfield Heyfield Community Resource Centre Playgroup Phone (03) 5148 2100 Address George St, Heyfield VIC 3858

Runs weekly during the school term. Wednesday 11am start end time varies. Free to attend, food provided.

Mainly Music Playgroup Phone (03) 5148 2780 Church Hall (opposite the Primary School), Temple Street, Heyfield 3858 VIC Address

Runs weekly during the school term. Wednesday 9.30 am to 10.30 am; $2 per family per week, Food Provided.

Loch Sport Storytime Playgroup Phone PH: (03) 5146 0457 Address Loch Sport Primary School, Seacombe Road, Loch Sport, VIC 3851

Runs weekly during the school term. Wednesday 9am to 1am. $5 fee per week. Please bring healthy snack and drink for child.

Longford Longford Playgroup Phone (03) 5149 7678 Address Longford Cricket Club aka Longford Community Care Centre Cnr South Gippsland Hwy & Golden Beach Road, Longford VIC 3850

Runs weekly during school term on Tuesday 9.30 am to 11.30 am. Cost - $3 for one child, $1 per child after that; Cost to attend does not exceed $5. Please bring healthy snack and drink for children; tea and coffee provided.

Maffra Maffra Community Playgroup Inc Phone 0409 178 749 Address Cnr Church & Pearson St, Maffra VIC 3860

Runs weekly during the school term. Friday 9.30 am to11.30 am. $5 session ($30 for term) Please brings a healthy snack and drink.

Play Connect Playgroup Phone (03) 5147 1487 Address Uniting Church Hall, Cnr Church and Pearson Street, Maffra 3860

Runs weekly during the school term. Tuesdays 10am to 12pm. A weekly facilitated playgroup for children aged 0-6 years with Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD - like symptoms and their families. Children to not need a diagnosis to attend. Connect with other families, find information on ASD resources and enjoy play activities suited to children with ASD.

Mainly Music Playgroup Phone Ph: (03) 5147 2810 Address Jeff Webster Centre, Thompson Street, Maffra VIC 3860

Runs weekly during the school term. Thursday 10am to 12pm; $3 per family per week, bring piece of fruit and drink.

Meerlieu Meerlieu Playgroup Phone (03) 5157 8256 Address Meerlieu Primary School, Bengworden Road, Meerlieu VIC 3862

Runs weekly during the school term. Days change based on the groups needs. Free to attend, please bring a fruit and drink.

Newry Newry Playgroup Phone (03) 5145 1461 Address Newry Hall, Main St, Newry VIC 3859

Runs weekly during the school term. Wednesday 10 am to 12pm. $15 per term / annual $65 includes Playgroup Victoria membership; Please bring a piece of fruit.

Rosedale Rosedale Playgroup Phone (03) 5199 2595 Address Rosedale Neighbourhood House Cnr Hood St & Cansick St, Rosedale, VIC 3847

Runs weekly during the school term. Monday 10 am to 12pm; $2 per child per session, please bring a piece of fruit.

Sale East Sale RAAF Base Playgroup Phone (03) 51466171 Email [email protected] Address RAAF Base Sale, VIC 3850 East Sale Community Centre (next door to canteen ‘Traceys’)

Participants will need a Defence Pass to attend the Playgroup. Monday 9.30am to 12pm. $10 a term. Please bring a healthy snack and drink for your child/ren.

Gunai / Kurnai Playgroup Phone (03) 5143 1644 Address Delbridge Hall, Cunninghame St

Runs fortnightly during the school term. Monday 10.30am to 12.30pm; Free to attend, meal provided after session.

Mainly Music Playgroup Phone Ph: 0430304448 Address Delbridge Hall, Cunninghame St

Runs weekly during the school term. Thursday 10am to 12pm; $3 per family per week, bring piece of fruit and drink.

Sale Baptist Church Playgroup Phone (03) 51432727 Address Baptist Church Hall Lot 2, Princes Highway Sale, 3850

Runs weekly during the school term. Tuesday and Thursday 9.30am to 11.30am; $4 per child per session; please bring hat, sunscreen and a nut free snack.

Tadpoles Playgroup Phone (03) 5144 2020 (office) or (03) 5143 2566 Address Delbridge Hall, Cunninghame St Sale, VIC 3850

Runs weekly during the school term. Tuesday 10am to 12pm. $2 coin donations per family. Please bring a piece of fruit per child.

Seaspray Seaspray Community Playgroup Phone (03) 5146 4393 Address Seaspray Primary School

Runs weekly during the school term. Wednesday 9.30am to11am; Free to attend, bring a piece of fruit.

Stratford Stratford Playgroup Phone (Jessica) (03) 5167 7101 / (Michelle) (03) 5145 6252 Address St Patrick Primary School – however this may change, please call prior to attending to confirm venue. Stratford VIC 3862

During School term on Monday and Friday 9.30am to 11.30am; First session is free, $3 after that. Please bring piece of fruit to share; Playgroup Victoria Membership fee is $25 annual or $15 concession.

Woodside Woodside Playgroup Phone (03) 5187 1187 Address Woodside Public Hall, Beach Road, Woodside VIC 3874

Runs weekly during the school term. Friday 10am to1pm. Fees Apply, Please bring fruit to share.

Wurruk Wurruk Community Playgroup Phone (03) 5144 2975 Address Wurruk Primary 13-19 Fisk St, Wurruk, VIC, 3850

Runs weekly during the school term. Tuesday 10.30am to 12.30pm. Free to attend.

Yarram YDHS Playgroup Phone (03) 5182 0222 Address Multipurpose Centre 85 Commercial Rd, YARRAM

Runs weekly during the school term. Tuesday 10.30am to 12.30pm, Free to attend. Noahs Ark mobile toy library visits the YDHS mothers group on the first Tuesday of each month during school terms from 11am to12 noon.

Sarah Ross, Age 7 "I like playing with Amity."

Children’s Activities

Wellington Shire Council offers a variety of children’s activities ranging from day activities to term classes. These activities are either free or there is a small fee. They are run at the local art gallery, library, park or a family friendly venue. Please contact your local shire office for more information. Sale Office – Ph 1300 366 24403 Yarram Office – Ph 5182 5100

Also see ‘Library – Children’s Program’ Section of this directory for information about Children’s Program at your nearest Library.

Local Business – Children’s Activities

Aqua Energy - Children’s Swimming Classes Phone (03) 5142 3700 Address Brayakoloong Close SALE 3850 Website http://www.wellington.vic.gov.au/page/page.asp?Page_Id=955&h=0 Email [email protected]

Infant 5 months to 3yrs - Little Kippers & Seahorses & Tadpoles Water Familiarisation Classes are offered on Monday and Tuesday mornings (subject to the number of enrolments). This program aims to develop confidence and enjoyment while starting basic survival skills for infants and preschool aged children.

Children 4 yrs and up Learn to Swim & Water Safety Lessons - Tadpoles, Starfish, Octopus, Dolphins, Seals After School Hours Monday - Thursday This program is structured to teach children how to swim, essential water safety / survival skills and stroke technique. Once they have achieved all levels, they then have the opportunity to continue with Squad. Our Swim Instructors are AUSTSWIM accredited. Our Infant preschool instructors are specialists with an AUSTSWIM infant qualification.

GymbaROO Phone 0410 493 121 Address VRI Hall (opposite Sale train station) Pettit Drive, Sale, Victoria 3850 Website http://www.gymbaroo.com.au Email [email protected]

GymbaROO provides active and appropriate movement opportunities that enable your baby, toddler, and pre-school aged child to explore, develop, practice and refine skills essential for healthy neurological development.

Classes are developmentally age appropriate and loads of fun! Bring your child along to crawl, creep, jump, hop, swing, roll, tumble, hang, climb, sing and dance their way to healthy physical, social, emotional and intellectual development.

Kemp Aquatics Phone (03) 5141 1127 / Tim's Mobile: 0418 560122 Address 69 McLean St, Maffra Vic 3860 Website http://www.kempaquatics.com.au Email http://www.kempaquatics.com.au/index.php?page=contact-us

Kemp Aquatics offers programs for all ages from 6 months to mature adults. We specialise in Infant and Pre School aquatic education followed by a well-defined After School Program including stroke development leading to efficient strokes, water safety awareness and understanding and survival skills. Infant and preschool aquatic education aims at; independence, social interaction, parent involvement.

Careful class structure and grouping according to ability and needs. Our program for school age swimmers aims to give water safety understanding, survival skills and stroke development.

Kindergym Phone (03) 5141 1211 Address Cameron Sporting Complex, Morison St, Maffra 3860 Website www.maffragymnastics.org.au Email [email protected]

Kindergym is the introduction to gymnastics for 18 month - 5 years. The Kindergym program is produced under the “Kindergym” Australia guidelines and uses specially accredited coaches. The Maffra Kindergym coaches introduce movement experiences for our youngest members that are fun and safe. Parents are able to assist their child in the activities but not participate in Gross Motor Skill activities.

Ready Steady Go Kids Phone 1300 766 892 Address Sale Location – Sale Memorial Hall, 82 Macalister St Sale Website http://www.readysteadygokids.com.au/home Email [email protected]

Ready Steady Go Kids is preschool sport and exercise program and run classes for toddlers and kids (aged 2.5-6 years). They are located in more than 100 locations nationally (one of those locations is Sale).

Our physio-designed multi-sport activities teach preschoolers the fundamentals of 10 different sports and develop and enhance gross and fine motor skills in a fun, social, non-competitive and supportive environment. Ready Steady Go Kids seeks to promote a healthy lifestyle, develop a lifelong passion for physical activity and sport, decrease childhood obesity, increase confidence and prepare children for participation in school and the broader community.

Childcare Information and Options

When choosing a child care for your child or children, it can be confusing to know which child care service is right for you. There are different options for child care;

Long Day Care - primarily caters for children from birth to school age. They are open at least eight hours a day, five days a week and 48 weeks a year. Long day care abides by State licensing, National Standards and National Child Care Accreditation system. Families accessing Long Day Care are eligible for Child Care Benefits and Rebate.

Family Day Care - Educators care for children aged from six weeks up to 12 years of age in the Educators home. A maximum of four pre-school age children can be cared for at one time. Family Day Care abides by State licensing, National Standards and the Family Day Care Quality Assurance system (the national child care accreditation system). Families accessing Family Day Care are eligible for Child Care Benefits and Rebate. Occasional Care - caters for children from birth to school age, providing short-term care on a regular or irregular basis. Hours of operation vary, so please contact individual services for more information. Families accessing Occasional Care are eligible for Child Care Benefits and Rebate. Before and after school care - offers children a range of activities including sports, art and craft, cooking, games and free play. A program is inclusive and caters for children’s individual skills and abilities and includes breakfast and/or afternoon tea.

Holiday Care Program - During school holidays, recreational care programs are run for 5 - 12 year olds. Holiday Care is a fun and educational way for children to spend their holidays.

Choosing a Child Care Centre - Some Questions to Ask: 1. Am I welcome to visit my child at any time? 2. How is my child made to feel welcome? 3. Do carers speak with children in a warm and friendly way? 4. How will my child be supervised? 5. Are family members encouraged to participate in activities? 6. Is information shared between the staff, carers and families? 7. What feedback will be given about my child’s day and how will this information be communicated? 8. What happens if my child is on medication becomes sick or has an accident while at the centre? 9. What happens if my child is still having a bottle or being breast fed? 10. How will my child be assisted with toilet training? 11. What are the sleeping arrangements for my child and what happens if my child doesn’t want to sleep? 12. Is information readily available about the service’s policies? 13. Are families informed about proposed changes to policies? 14. Is there a planned program of day to day activities for my child? 15. Am I encouraged to talk to staff and carers about the programs? 16. Do the activities interest my child? 17. How will my child’s individual needs be met? 18. Are the children encouraged to explore and take on new challenges? 19. Are the equipment and play spaces safe for children? 20. Are there clear procedures for raising concerns I may have?

What is Child Care Benefit and Child Care Rebate? To help with child care costs, the Australian Government offers two types of financial assistance:  Child Care Benefit  Child Care Rebate

What is the Child Care Benefit?

Child Care Benefit (CCB) is a payment made by the Australian Approved And Government, which goes directly to your chosen child care (if it is an Registered Child approved and registered child care service); to help reduce the cost you Care Service: would have to pay. CCB is income tested, and families on higher income Can be Long Day Care, Family Day may not be eligible for the payment. Care, Outside Schools Hours Care, You can get CCB if you are a parent, relationship parent, foster parent or Occasional Care grandparent registered with Centrelink, with a child in your care who is and In Home Care. attending an approved and registered child care service with the Australian Government.

What is the Child Care Rebate? The Child Care Rebate pays up to 50 per cent of your out-of-pocket expenses for child care up to an annual cap. For some it may be the remaining amount after the Child Care Benefit has deducted from your child care fee.

You may choose to receive the Child Care Rebate on a weekly or fortnightly basis, paid either to your child care service as a fee reduction or directly to your bank account. Or you can also choose to receive the Child Care Rebate payments quarterly or annually as a lump sum directly to your bank account.

Important to Note: Child Care Rebate is not income tested. You may be eligible to receive this rebate even though your family income is high to receive the Child Care Benefit.

Phillipa, Age 7 years "I like dressing my chooks up at home."

Who can receive Child Care Benefits and Child Care Rebate Child Care Benefits Child Care Rebate Must be an Australian Citizen or a Permanent resident living in Australia

Your child’s immunisation will need to be up to date (proof will need to be provided) unless your child has an exemption.

Must be the one responsible for paying your child care costs. If your employer contributes to your child care through salary sacrificing or packaging, you should discuss with them who is responsible for the child care costs. If another agency or individual pays your child care on your behalf you should discuss with them who is responsible for the child care costs

Other Income testing – if You and your partner (if your income is too applicable) must have high you will not be work, training or study eligible related commitments at some time during the week or have an exemption. (No minimum number of hours is required.)

How to claim for Child Care Benefits and Child Care Rebate To register to claim for Child Care Benefit and Child Care Rebate please contact Department of Human Services either:

Online Services at: www.humanservices.gov.au/onlineservices Phone Call: 13 61 50 between 8 am and 8 pm (local time) Monday to Friday Or in person: By visiting a Service Centre (located at your local Medicare Offices and Centrelink Service Centres)

Please note: The Child Care Rebate and Child Care Benefit requirements and payments are subject to change without notice. Please contact the Department of Human Services for current details.

For more information on Child Care, Rebates and benefits please also visit: http://www.mychild.gov.au/pages/CCFactSheets.aspx

Long Day Care Maffra Duke Street Children's Centre Phone (03) 5147 2771 Address 1 Duke St, Maffra VIC 3860 Website http://www.nurtureone.com.au/ Email: [email protected]

Nurture One Childcare Centre is an approved and registered child care service. There opening hours are 6.30am to 6.30pm, Monday to Friday. They provide care for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years.

Rosedale Neighbourhood Kids Early Learning Centre (NKELC) Phone (03) 5199 2595 Address 2 - 8 Cansick St, Rosedale VIC 3847 Website http://www.rosedalenh.org.au/NKELC.aspx Email [email protected]

NKELC is an approved long day care service and provides care for children aged 6 weeks to 12 years. Open 7.30am to 6pm Monday to Friday.

Sale East Sale Child Care Centre Phone (03) 5146 6717 Address Heart Ave Sale VIC 3853 Website http://www.maearlylearning.com.au/vic/east-sale Email [email protected]

This site is on Dept. of Defence property East Sale Child Care Centre is a Mission Australia Early Learning Services and is a non-for-profit long day care services provider. Opening hours are 7.15am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday. East Sale Child Care is an approved and registered child care service and offers care to children aged 6 weeks to 5 years old. If you are not defence personnel, there will be additional arrangements required in regards to base security to place your child at this service. A pass can be issued to parents only for ease of access.

Gumnuts Early Learning Centre (ELC) Phone (03) 5144 6952 Address 305 Raglan St, Sale VIC 3850 Website www.gumnutselc.com.au

Gumnuts ELC is an approved and registered child care service and provides care for children from 0 - 6 years as well as an before and After School Care Program, which caters for children who are enrolled in a Primary School. Opening hours are 6.30am to 6pm Monday to Friday.

Kath Foley Children's Centre & Kindergarten Phone (03) 5144 7188 Address 203 Dawson St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.kathfoleycentre.com.au

Kath Foley is a community based, non-profit, centre offering day care and funded 4 year old kindergarten. Kath Foley is an approved and registered child care service. Opening hours are 7am to 6 pm.

McCole Street Children's Centre Phone (03) 5144 7424 Address 18 McCole St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.nurtureone.com.au/

Nurture One Childcare Centre is an approved and registered child care service. The provide care for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years and are open 6.30am to 6.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Reeve Street Children's Centre Phone (03) 5144 2666 Address 15 Reeve St, Sale Website http://www.nurtureone.com.au Email: [email protected]

Nurture One Childcare Centre is an approved and registered child care service. The provide care for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years and are open 6.30am to 6.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Family Day Care Wellington Family Day Care – UnitingCare Gippsland Phone (03) 5144 7777 Address 126 Raymond St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.ucgipps.org.au/

Family Day Care is an is an approved and registered child care service that provides quality care for children up to 12 years of age, in a home environment, through approved Educators. Educators are able to care for four preschool aged children and three school age children before and after school and during school holidays. Gippsland Family Day Care is operated by UnitingCare Gippsland.

Occasional Care Briagolong Briagolong Kindergarten and Occasional Care Phone (03) 5145 5420 Address 28 Cahill St, Briagolong Website www.ucgipps.org.au

Briagolong Occasional Care is an approved and registered child care services, which provides occasional care to children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. Child care is available Friday 8.45am to 3.45pm.

Gormandale Possum World Child Care – Gormandale Community House Phone (03) 5197 7264 Address 32 - 34 Main Rd, Gormandale VIC 3873 Email [email protected] Website http://www.gch.org.au

Possum World Childcare is an approved and registered child care services, which provides occasional care to children aged birth to 6 years. Child care is available Mondays and Thursdays 9.30am to 2.30pm.

Heyfield Kids House – Heyfield Community Resource Centre Phone 5148 2100 Address 5 George St, Heyfield 3850 Email [email protected] Website http://www.heyfield.net/pages/resource/resource.htm

Kids House is an approved and registered child care service, which provides occasional care to children aged 12 months to 4 years. Child care is available: Tuesday and Thursday 9am to 2pm (children aged 12 months to 4 years). Monday and Friday 9am to 2pm (children aged 3 to 4 years).

Maffra Queen Street Kindergarten and Occasional Care Phone (03) 5147 1266 Address 21 Queen St Maffra, VIC 3860 Website www.ucgipps.org.au

Queen Street occasional care is an approved and registered child care services, which provides occasional care to children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. Child care is available Monday 8.45am to 3.45pm.

Sale Sale Neighbourhood House Phone (03) 5144 5747 Address 19-23 Leslie St, Sale VIC 3850 Website www.snh.net.au

Sale Neighbourhood House is an approved and registered child care services, which provides occasional care to children aged 2 years to 5 years. Child care is available on: Wednesday 9am to 12 pm Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9am – 1pm

Yarram St Andrews Kindergarten – Occasional Care Phone (03) 5182 6244 Address 13 Grant St, Yarram VIC 3971 Website www.ucgipps.org.au Email [email protected]

Currently on Hold - please call 1800 183 103 for more information.

Before and After School Care Active Afterschool programs - The Australian Government's Active After-school Communities (AASC) program is a national initiative that provides primary school children with access to free sport and other structured physical activity programs in the after-school time slot of 3.00pm to 5.30pm.

For more information about which school has an active after school program please see: Primary School Section of this Directory

Gumnuts Early Learning Centre (ELC) Phone (03) 5144 6952 Address 305 Raglan St, Sale VIC 3850 Website www.gumnutselc.com.au Gumnuts ELC has a before and after school care program, which caters for children who are enrolled in a Primary School.

Neighbourhood Kids Early Learning Centre (NKELC) Phone (03) 5199 2595 Address 2 - 8 Cansick St, Rosedale VIC 3847 Website http://www.rosedalenh.org.au/NKELC.aspx Email: [email protected] Neighbourhood House provides a before and after School Care program, which caters for children who are enrolled at Rosedale Primary School.

Holiday Care Program Wellington Shire Council will often run school holiday programs; however the activities and details change from term to term. Please contact your local shire office for more information.

Sale Office Ph 1300 366 24403 Yarram Office Ph (03) 5182 5100

Kindergarten Information

A Kindergarten program offers your child opportunities to make friends, be creative, become more confident and independent, learn new things, improve skills and gain new ones. You also benefit from meeting other parents in the community.

Kindergarten programs in Wellington Shire operate in different settings where children’s services are offered, including child care centres, kindergarten centres and some schools.

Your child must be four years old by 30 April to attend a kindergarten program that year.

Enrolling into Kindergarten You can enrol your child in a funded kindergarten program in a variety of settings, including children’s centres, long day care centres, community kindergartens, independent schools and a small number of government schools.

If your child is turning three or four years old, this year, it’s a good idea to think about which kindergarten you would like to enrol them into.

Check your local paper Complete or contact application form You will be your local Collect an and hand it in by A letter of invited to an application the due date. offer will be Kindergarten form at (aplications received information for sent to you. night in Term Kindergarten Open Day. after the due date risk 4. Open Day being put on a waiting dates. list.)

Choosing a Kindergarten – Some Questions to Ask  Are places available for the day/s and hour/s I need?  How will my child travel to and from Kindergarten? If transport is an issue, please talk to the kindergarten teacher about alternative ways to travel to and from the Kindergarten. Some Kindergartens run car-pooling services, are close to walking and cycle paths, or Public Bus routes stop at or near certain Kindergartens.  Does the kindergarten operate throughout the year or only during specific times like school terms?  Does the service offer a funded kindergarten?  What are the fees, and are there any other costs over and above the fees?  Is there a fee to be placed on the waiting list?  Does the service offer extended care?  How does the service support children with additional needs?  What is the process if my child is unwell, upset, or unsettled?  How are food and drink provided for the children?  What is the process for administering medication?

Kindergarten Support Services

Any family with a child enrolled in a funded kindergarten program or a teacher working in a funded kindergarten program is able to access support from the following:

Preschool Field Officer The Preschool Field Officer Program is an early intervention service Wellington Shire Preschool that supports children with additional needs to access and participate Field Officer: in state funded preschool services. Children with additional needs can Kylie Dingwall include children with a disability, children with developmental delays UnitingCare Gippsland or children with behavioural problems. Preschool Field Officer also Ph: (03) 5144 7777 offer support to parents who are unsure if their child requires a second year of Kindergarten prior to commencing Primary School.

Koorie Engagement Support Officers Koorie Engagement Support Officers (KESOs) support Aboriginal Wellington Shire Koorie families in accessing services and supports in their local community. Engagement Support KESOs support families with children from birth through to the time they Officer: complete school. They provide advice and practical support to services Kim McLauglin that provide funded kindergarten programs and primary education. Araluen Primary School Ph: 0467 775 232

Koorie Preschool Assistant Program Koorie Preschool Assistants work with funded kindergarten programs Wellington Shire Koorie and assist in the development of kindergarten programs that embrace Preschool Assistant: Aboriginal culture. KPSA offer support to Aboriginal families and Lowana Ruhling assist in kindergarten attendance of Aboriginal children. UnitingCare Gippsland (03) 5144 7777

Lachlan, Age 8 Years “I like to go to the Macalister Park and play on the playground, walk around the tracks and kick my footy.”

Kindergarten Programs in Wellington Shire

Community Kindergarten Programs Briagolong Briagolong Kindergarten Phone (03) 5145 5420 Address 28 Cahill St, Briagolong VIC 3860 Website www.ucgipps.org.au Email [email protected]

Gormandale Gormandale Kindergarten Phone (03) 5197 7480 Address 38 Main St, Gormandale VIC 3873 Website www.ucgipps.org.au Email [email protected]

Heyfield Heyfield Kindergarten Phone (03) 5148 2633 Address Gordon St, Heyfield VIC 3858 Website www.ucgipps.org.au Email [email protected]

Longford Longford Kindergarten Phone (03) 5149 7469 Address 6-8 High St, Longford VIC 3850 Website www.ucgipps.org.au Email [email protected]

Maffra Glassford Kindergarten Phone (03) 5147 2394 Address 1 Glassford St, Maffra VIC 3860 Website www.ucgipps.org.au Email [email protected]

Maffra Queen Street Kindergarten & Occasional Care Phone (03) 5147 1266 Address 21 Queen St, Maffra VIC 3860 Website www.ucgipps.org.au Email [email protected]

Sale East Sale Kindergarten Gippsland Grammar Early Learning Centres Phone (03) 5146 6723 Phone (03) 5143 7123 Heart Road, RAAF Base, Sale VIC Address Address 59 York St Sale VIC 3850 3850 Website www.ucgipps.org.au Website www.gippslandgs.vic.edu.au Email Email [email protected] [email protected]

Gwenfa Hampton Kindergarten Hyland Community Kindergarten Phone (03) 5144 3089 Phone (03) 5144 2282 Address 127 Fitzroy St, Sale VIC 3850 Address 114 Market St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.salekinders.org.au/ Website http://www.salekinders.org.au/ Email Email [email protected] [email protected]

Sale North Kindergarten St Columbas Community Kindergarten Phone (03) 5144 1749 Phone (03) 5144 1876 Address Marilyn Way, Sale VIC 3850 Address 131 Raymond St Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.salekinders.org.au/ Website www.ucgipps.org.au st.columbas.community.kin@kindergar Email Email [email protected] ten.vic.gov.au

Stratford Stratford Kindergarten Phone (03) 5145 6446 Address 15 Dixon Street Stratford VIC 3862 Website www.ucgipps.org.au Email [email protected]

Yarram St Andrews Kindergarten Phone (03) 5182 5472 Address 1 Gipps St, Yarram VIC 3971 Website www.ucgipps.org.au Email [email protected]

Childcare Centres that offer funded Kindergarten Programs Maffra Duke Street Children's Centre Phone (03) 5147 2771 Address 1 Duke St, Maffra Website http://www.nurtureone.com.au/ [email protected]

Rosedale Neighbourhood Kids Early Learning Centre (NKELC) Phone (03) 5199 2595 Address 2 - 8 Cansick St, Rosedale 3847 Website http://www.rosedalenh.org.au/NKELC.aspx Email: [email protected]

Sale Kath Foley Children's Centre & Kindergarten Phone (03) 5144 7188 Address 203 Dawson St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.kathfoleycentre.com.au/

McCole Street Children's Centre Phone (03) 5144 7424 Address 18 McCole St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.nurtureone.com.au/

Reeve St Children's Centre Phone (03) 5144 2666 Address 15 Reeve St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.nurtureone.com.au/ Email: [email protected]

Tahlia, Age 8 Years

"I have drawn a picture of me and dad walking my dog Myla because we like going out to play with Myla"

Children with Additional Needs, Disability and Mental Health Concerns

Paediatrician A Paediatrician is a doctor who provides specialist medical care to infants, children and adolescents. To become a paediatrician, doctors must do an extra six years of training after they finish their medical degree.

Generally a child does not need to see a Paediatrician unless a Parent or Carer has serious concerns regarding their child’s health and development. Families with children with additional needs and physical, intellectual and mental health issues will be linked with a Paediatrician to provide specialist care for their child needs.

Many common childhood illnesses can be managed well by your local doctor, however, if you think your child needs to see a paediatrician, visit your local doctor and discuss your concerns with them first. They will assess your child and make a referral for you to see a Paediatrician.

Central Gippsland Health Service – Consulting Room Phone (03) 5143 8944 Address 155 Guthridge Parade, Sale VIC 3850

Paediatricians Available:  Dr Austin Erasmus  Dr Melanie Pillay Dr Sylvia Welgemoed

Gippsland Paediatrics Phone (03) 5144 5877 Address Crn Guthridge Pde & Stead Street, Sale VIC 3850

Other Services offered at Gippsland Paediatrics include: Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Psychologist. Paediatricians Available:  Dr Peter Goss  Dr Joann McCubbin

Pearl, Age 8 years

"I have drawn a picture of us at the port of sale because we love to go there after church with some chips".

Specialist Service Central Gippsland Health Service – Early Intervention Services Phone (03) 5143 8560 Address 155 Guthridge Parade, Sale VIC 3850 Website www.cghs.com.au/

A comprehensive range of Early Intervention services are offered at Central Gippsland Health Service. These include individual and group treatments for children with special needs.

Specialist therapy playgroups are also offered, which incorporate a speech pathologist, occupational therapist and physiotherapist. The Early Intervention services are coordinated and individually tailored to meet the special requirements of each child. Referral to these services is generally through a Paediatrician.

Department of Human Services – Disability Services Phone (03) 5144 9100 / Intake Number: 1800 783 783 Address 150 York St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.dhs.vic.gov.au/for-individuals/disability

The Department of Human Services provides and funds services for people with intellectual, physical, sensory, cognitive and neurological disabilities.

The department also funds a range of specialist disability supports that are available to people with a disability and their families, to help the person with a disability to participate actively in the community and reach their full potential.

Disability Services have a central point of entry. You will need to contact Central Intake on 1800 783 783.

Department of Education & Early Childhood Development – Early Childhood Intervention Services Phone (03) 51 44 91 00 Address 150 York St Sale VIC 3850

Early Childhood Intervention Services (ECIS) support families with a child/ren with a disability or developmental delay from birth to school entry. ECIS provide special education, therapy, counselling, service planning and coordination, assistance and support to access services such as kindergarten and child care.

Early Childhood Intervention Services (ECIS) have a central point of entry. You will need to contact ECIS Central Intake on 1800 366 010 or 5127 0400.

Latrobe Community Health Service - Disability Services Phone 1800 242696 Address 52 McArthur St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.lchs.com.au/

Offer the following support to individuals with a disability and their families:  Information & Referral - Provide information on services that are available in the local area and provide you with the information and support you need to access these services.  Planning Services - Assists people with a disability and others who are important in their life, to develop a plan with goals and strategies.  Case Management - Support an individual's choice to remain at home, assisted by a range of

integrated and flexible services.  Disability Support Packages - Provides a range of personal care and respite services tailored to the person with a disability that ensure that they remain as independent as possible at home and remain active in their community.

UnitingCare Gippsland - DisAbility Service Phone (03) 5144 7777 Address 126 Raymond St, Sale VIC 3850 Website www.ucgipps.org.au

Offer the following support to individuals with a disability and their families:  Assistance with planning for life goals and facilitating review of individual support plans.  Flexible Support packages for people with a disability to purchase respite and support.  Respite options for people caring for a person with a disability.  Camps, Recreation programs and day respite for people (aged 6 years +) with a disability.  Community Aged Care Packages for clients 65+ years of age, ATSI clients 47yrs + years of age. Packages support clients to remain living independently in their homes.

SCOPE - Autism Gippsland Autism Case Consultant Phone Stacey Richardson - (03) 5623 1033 Address Address: PO Box 450, Warragul, VIC, 3820 Email [email protected] Website https://sites.google.com/site/autismgippsland

Visit website for additional information about:  The ASD Case Consultant Practitioner project (ASD CCP)  What funding is available  Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)  Where and how you can find respite  Diagnosis of ASD - how and where  Useful links to other web sites  Services in Gippsland that support children  Upcoming training and information sessions and adults with ASD  Useful resources and references  Information about support groups for staff and carers

Deaf access VICTORIA (daV) Phone (03) 5143 1537 Address 52-54 McArthur St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.vicdeaf.com.au/

Deaf access VICTORIA (daV) is a free service that supports rural and regional communities to develop strategies that enable deaf and hard of hearing people to become more included in their local community. daV covers all areas including; access and advocacy, information and interpreting, communication, education and training, sport recreation and the arts, community awareness, accommodation, housing transport.

Vision Australia Phone 1300 84 74 66 Website www.visionaustralia.org.au

Vision Australia is committed to providing services, resources and information which enable people who are

blind or vision impaired to maximise their independence and quality of life. Services include: • Early Childhood Education • Employment • Visiting Teacher Service • Training and Advice • Occupational Therapy • Adaptive Technology Support • Orientation and Mobility • Low Vision Equipment • Counselling • Braille Training • Library Service • Volunteer Support

Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) provides individual and some family therapy and case management to people under 18 years old who experience: • anxiety • attention deficit hyperactivity • autism • children and young people experiencing suicidal thoughts/behaviour • depression • eating disorders • obsessive behaviours • other symptoms related to significant emotional/psychological problems • post-traumatic stress reactions • relationship difficulties

Referrals can be made by any concerned person, but must have appropriate consent (parents if the young person is 15 or under). The young person can consent for themselves if they are 16 or older. CAMHS also provides specialist advice through education, consultancy and collaboration with other service providers.

Sale Community Mental Health Service Yarram Community Mental Health Service Corner Palmerston and Cunningham St 20 Nicol St, Yarram Victoria 3971 Sale Victoria 3850 Telephone (03) 5182 0245 Telephone (03) 5143 1212 Facsimile (03) 5182 6578 Facsimile (03) 5143 0182

Charlotte, Age 8 Years

"I have drawn a picture of the Movies because I like going there".

Starting Primary School – Information

Starting primary school is a major milestone for you and your child, marking the start of a new phase of life for you both. Here you’ll find information on how to make the move from kindergarten and other early childhood services to primary school as smooth as possible for your child.

To start primary school your child must turn five years of age, or older, by 30 April of the year that they start school.

Transitioning from Preschool to Primary School Child care centres and kindergartens will often arrange visits to local primary schools so that your child can get to know their new environment. Most schools also run a starting school program for children entering Prep and some schools set up buddy systems with older children so that your child will feel welcome.

Transition Learning and Development Statement To help share information about your child’s development, a Transition Learning and Development Statement will be given to you and your child’s new school by your child’s kindergarten teacher. The transition statement will be developed by your child’s early childhood teacher and will summarise your child’s learning and development before they start school, as well as his or her strengths and interests.

Things to consider when choosing a Primary School When choosing a primary school for your child, you will need to think about:

 How far do you want to travel and is the school reasonably close to home and/or work?  What are the fees? Are there any additional costs?  Will the school be able to cater for your child’s needs and interests?  How does the school support children with additional needs?  What facilities do they offer and are you comfortable with the ‘feel’ of the school?  Will the teachers and the school curriculum support all aspects of your child’s development, including social, emotional, physical and cognitive needs?  Does the school’s policy on homework and discipline reflect your own values and expectations?  Does the school work in partnership with families?  What is the process if my child is unwell, upset, or unsettled?

You should visit your local primary school and any others that you are considering before you enroll your child. Principals or other school staff can provide tours, classroom visits and information about their school. Most schools welcome enquiries and will organise a time for you and your child to visit.

Enrolling into Primary School Unlike Kindergarten enrollments, you can enroll your child in a Victorian government primary school at any time during the year. This is particularly helpful if you are moving to a new area, interstate or from overseas.

How to Enroll To enroll your child in a Victorian government school you will need to fill out an enrolment form at that school and provide the school with important information about your child. They include:  evidence of your child’s date of birth – copy of the Child Birth Certificate  your contact, phone and address details, and that of any other parent, guardian and/or carer  names and contact details of emergency contacts  doctor’s and dentist’s names and phone numbers  Immunisation Status Certificate  health and welfare information  information about the language/s your child speaks and hears at home

If you need an interpreter to help fill out the enrolment form, the school staff can help organise this for you.

Many primary schools conduct an orientation day so prospective students can see their new environment, meet the teachers and see the classrooms prior to the first day of school. Parents, Carers and their children are encouraged to attend these orientation days with your child so that you also can familiarise yourself with the school and its environment.

Please contact your local primary school for more information about upcoming open and orientation days.

Amber, Age 12 Years

“I like horse riding at the Knob in Stratford. This is me and my Palomino Quarter Horse."

Primary Schools in Wellington Shire – Contact Details Government Primary Schools

Sale and Surrounding Areas Araluen Primary School Guthridge Primary School Phone: (03) 5144 2111 Phone: (03) 5144 3633 Address: Patten St, Sale VIC 3850 Address: Dawson St, Sale VIC 3850 Website: www.araluenps.vic.edu.au Website: www.guthridgeps.vic.edu.au

Sale Primary School Airly Primary School Phone: (03) 5144 5545 Phone: (03) 5149 8251 Address: Macalister St, Sale VIC 3850 Address: 226 Airly Estate Road, Airly VIC 3851 Website: www.saleps.vic.edu.au Website http://www.airlyps.vic.edu.au/

Bundalaguah Primary School Cobains Primary School Phone: (03) 5147 1110 Phone: (03) 5149 8274 Address: 627 Maffra-Sale Road, Bundalaguah Address: 3 Crofts Road, Cobains VIC 3851 VIC 3851 Website http://www.cobains.vic.edu.au/ Website http://www.bundyps.vic.edu.au/

Wurruk Primary School Rosedale Primary School Phone: (03) 5144 2975 Phone: 5199 2473 Address: 17-19 Fisk St, Wurruk, VIC, 3851 Address: Cricket St, Rosedale VIC 3847 Website: www.wurrukps.vic.edu.au Website: www.rosedaleps.vic.edu.au

Maffra, Heyfield, Stratford and Surrounding Areas Maffra Primary School Boisdale Consolidated School Phone: (03) 5147 1236 Phone: 5145 4391 Address: Church St, Maffra VIC 3860 Address: 69 Boisdale Newry Road, Boisdale VIC Website http://www.maffraps.vic.edu.au/ 3860 Website: http://www.boisdalecs.vic.edu.au/

Heyfield Primary School Stratford Primary School Phone: (03) 5148 2666 Phone: (03) 5145 6554 Address: 22 Temple St Heyfield VIC 3858 Address: Cnr Wellsford & Hobson St, Stratford Website http://www.heyfieldps.vic.edu.au/ VIC 3862 Website: www.stratps.vic.edu.au

Briagolong Primary School Meerlieu Primary School Phone: (03) 5145 5260 Phone: (03) 5157 8256 Address: 2 Church St, Briagolong VIC 3860 Address: Bengworden Road, Meerlieu via Website: N/A Stratford, VIC 3862 Website: www.meerlieups.vic.edu.au

Cowwarr Primary School Nambrok/Denison Primary School Phone: (03) 5148 9271 Phone: (03) 5149 2410 Address: Church St Cowwarr VIC 3857 Address: 947 Sale-Cowwarr Road Nambrok VIC Website: http://www.cowwarrps.vic.edu.au/ 3847 Website: N/A

Longford, Lochsport, Yarram and Surrounding Areas Alberton Primary School Devon North Primary School Phone: (03) 5183 2412 Phone: (03) 5182 5214 Address: Thomson St, Alberton VIC 3971 Address: 3 Devon North Connection Road, Devon Website: http://www.albertonps.sa.edu.au/home North VIC 3971 Website: http://www.devonnthps.vic.edu.au/

Longford Primary School Loch Sport Primary School Phone: (03) 5149 7210 Phone: (03) 5146 0457 Address: 6380 South Gippsland Highway, Address: Charlies St, Loch Sport VIC 3851 Longford VIC 3851 Website http://www. lochsportps.vic.edu.au/ Website: http://www.longford-ps.vic.edu.au/

Seaspray Primary School Woodside Primary School Phone: (03) 5146 4393 Phone: (03) 5187 1272 Address: 15 Prospect Road, Seaspray VIC 3851 Address: 41 Beach Road, Woodside VIC 3874 Website: http://www.seasprayps.vic.edu.au/ Website: http://www.woodsideps.vic.edu.au/

Yarram Primary School Phone: (03) 5182 5688 Address: Wesley St, Yarram VIC 3971 Website: http://www.yarram-ps.vic.edu.au/

Non-Government Primary Schools

Sale Area Gippsland Grammar – Junior Campus St Mary’s Primary School Phone: (03) 5143 7155 Phone: (03) 5144 1780 Address: 52 Raymond St, Sale VIC 3850 Address: 11 Pearson St, Sale VIC 3850 Website: www.gippslandgs.vic.edu.au Website: http://www3.stmarysale.catholic.edu.au

St Thomas Primary School Phone: (03) 5144 1332 Address: Guthridge Parade, Sale VIC 3850 Website: http://www.stthomassale.com.au

Maffra, Stratford, Heyfield and Yarram Area St Mary Primary School St Patricks Primary School Phone: (03) 5147 1334 Phone: (03) 51 456 463 Address: 4 - 12 Duke St, Maffra VIC 3860 Address: 2 Merrick St, Stratford VIC 3862 Website: http://www.stmmaffra.catholic.edu.au/ Website: http://www.stpstratford.catholic.edu.au/

St Michael Primary School St Mary Primary School Phone: (03) 5148 2514 Phone: (03) 5182 5659 Address: Davis St, Heyfield VIC 3858 Address: 5 Buckley St, Yarram, VIC 3971 Website: http://www.stmheyfield.catholic.edu.au/ Website: http://www.stmyarram.catholic.edu.au/

Secondary Schools in Wellington Shire – Contact Details Sale College Gippsland Grammar Phone: (03) 5144 1711 Phone: (03) 51436388 Address: Macalister St, Sale VIC 3850 Address: Princes Hwy, Sale VIC 3850 Website: www.salecollege.vic.edu.au Website: www.gippslandgs.vic.edu.au/index.php

Catholic College Sale Phone: (03) 5143 9600 Address: 51-53 Desailly St, Sale VIC 3850 Website: www.ccsale.catholic.edu.au

Maffra Secondary College Yarram Secondary College Phone: (03) 5147 1790 Phone: (03) 5182 5522 Address: Bill Cane Court, Maffra VIC 3860 Address: 86 James St, Yarram VIC 3971 Website: http://www.maffrasc.vic.edu.au Website: http://www.yarramsc.vic.edu.au

Specialist School – Contact Details Sale Specialist School Phone: (03) 5144 5644 Address: 53 Raymond St, Sale VIC 3850 Website: www.salesds.vic.edu.au

FOR PARENTS, CARERS & FAMILIES For Parents and Families

Jenna, Age 11 “I like watching the wild brumbies run! And the clatter of hooves. That’s how I know I am home.”

Family Support Services

Parenting Programs and Support See also ‘Playgroup Section’ See also ‘Maternal Child Health – New Parent Group’ See also ‘Maternal Child Health – Young Mums Group’

Latrobe Community Health Service - Early Parenting Day Stay Program Phone 1800 242 696 Address 81-87 Buckley Street, Morwell VIC 3840

A centre-based short term support and practical advice program is available to families living in Gippsland experiencing difficulties or crisis in caring for their infants and children 0 to 3 years old. Areas of concern may include feeding, settling & sleep, challenging toddler behaviour, family stress & conflict and mild to moderate postnatal depression.

This is a fee for service – $15.00 per day, Low income; $25.00 per day, Medium income; $100.00 per day, High income.

Building Blocks Parenting Group Phone (03) 5144 7777 Address Uniting Care Gippsland, 126 Raymond St, Sale VIC 3850

This is a supported Play Group and is facilitated by Early Years Educator and support from the Perinatal Emotional Health program. The target group for this parenting playgroup is for expecting and new parents for children 0-14 months.

(Please Note – This group is run based on number of attendees. Date and times will change based on group members availability. Please call to confirm if group is running that term).

UnitingCare Gippsland – First Steps Program Phone (03) 5144 7777 Address UnitingCare Gippsland, 126 Raymond St Sale, VIC 3850

First steps are a pre-birth parenting program running throughout the year. Six weekly sessions provide expectant parents, parents and other carers with the opportunity to develop and enhance their parenting skills, share the joys and challenges of parenting and explore ways of building on their relationship with their child.

(Please Note – This group is run based on number of attendees. Date and times will change based on group members availability. Please call to confirm if group is running that term).

Uniting Care Gippsland – Tuning Into Kids (Emotionally Intelligent Parenting) Phone (03) 51 44 7777 Address UnitingCare Gippsland, 126 Raymond St Sale, VIC 3850

Tuning into Kids is a free parenting program that teaches parents skills to help their young children begin to understand and regulate their emotions. Parents who complete the program find improvements in their

children’s emotional competence, social skills and behaviour. This program is for parents and carers only. Unfortunately no child care is available.

St Pauls Wonderers (Adult social group) Phone (03) 5143 2566 (Jan) Address Venue varies depending on activity planned. Please call to confirm venue location.

Adult social group; Meet fortnightly on a Friday. There is an annual fee of $10 per year.

Parentline Phone 13 22 89 - 8am to midnight 7 days a week Website www.parentline.vic.gov.au

Parentline is a state wide telephone counselling, information and referral service for parents and carers with children from birth to eighteen years. It is a confidential and anonymous service.

Children’s Programs

UnitingCare Gippsland - AWESOME Program Phone (03) 5144 7777 Address UnitingCare Gippsland, 126 Raymond St Sale, VIC 3850

AWESOME is a program focused on fitness, fun and friendship for primary school aged children.

Sale Baptist Church – iKids and K-1 Kids (Children Christian Education Program) Phone (03) 5143 2727 Address 1 Princes Hwy, Sale VIC 3850

K-1 KIDS is for children in Kinder, Prep and Grade One and runs during the morning service at 10am. iKIDS is for school aged children in Grades Two to Year 7. iKIDS runs during the Sunday morning Church service at 10am. Parents and Carers are welcome to attend the service.

Youth Programs Wellington Shire – Youth Council Phone (03) 5142 3380 Address 70 Foster St, Sale Victoria 3850 Email [email protected]

The Wellington Shire Youth Council is made up of 18 youths between the ages of 12-25, who eagerly represent young people within the Wellington Shire.

Youth Council actively participates in community programs, fundraising and charity work, as well as developing and implementing their own action plan with goals and ambitions they have set out to achieve throughout the year.

Youth Insearch Phone (Sharon Schofield) 0414 324 121 Email [email protected] Website www.youthinsearch.org.au

Youth Insearch is a community organisation that coordinates weekend programs focused on resolving adolescent issues at a peer level for young people aged between 12-17 years.

Youth Insearch aims to achieve the following objectives;  To enhance the young people's self-esteem, enabling them to take control of their lives and build a positive future for themselves  To increase school retention  To reduce drug and alcohol abuse, and youth suicide  To break the cycle of family breakdown by giving young people skills to establish loving and caring families  To reduce violence, crime and abuse in young people

UnitingCare Gippsland – Tuning into Teens Phone (03) 5144 7777 Address UnitingCare Gippsland, 126 Raymond St Sale, VIC 3850

Tuning in to Teens is a six-week parenting program run one day a week for two hours. The program will help you to manage your own and your adolescent’s emotional responses in ways that helps you to remain close and keep communicating. You will discover opportunities to reduce conflict within your family, and improve opportunities for your teen to talk to you about the challenging issues they face.

UnitingCare Gippsland – So Wot Phone (03) 5144 7777 Address UnitingCare Gippsland, 126 Raymond St, Sale VIC 3850

‘So Wot’ is a sexual diversity youth group that embraces families and friends of the community. ‘So Wot’ is about promoting sexual diversity awareness around rural youth issues while being able to offer support, empowerment, education, respect, acceptance, engagement through promoting a positive understanding of these issues within the community and Wellington Shire.

Sale Baptist Church – IGNITE youth Phone (03) 5143 2727 Address 1 Princes Hwy Sale VIC 3850

IGNITEyouth is the youth group of Sale Baptist Church. Young people aged 12 years to 18 are welcome; Family does not need to be a member of the Baptist Church. IGNITEyouth is Christian youth group and run Friday 6pm to 8pm.

Kids Helpline Phone 1800 55 1800 (24 hours a day, 7 days) Website http://www.kidshelpline.com.au/

Kids Helpline is a counselling service for Australian children and young people aged between 5 and 25 years.

Youth Beyond Blue Phone 1300 22 4636 Website youthbeyondblue.com/ www.beyondblue.org.au

If you need to talk to someone, find more information or find out where you can go to see someone, contact Youth Beyond Blue. All calls and chats are one-on-one with a trained mental health professional, and completely confidential. Although we may ask for your first name and some general details, you can let us know if you’d like to remain anonymous.

Counselling Services

Centacare Gippsland (aka Catholic Care) Phone (03) 5144 4868 Address 230 York St Sale, VIC 3850 Website http://www.centacaregippsland.org.au/

Offers Counselling Service and ACCESS (Employee Assistance Program)

Healthscape Phone (03) 5147 3167 Address 132 - 134 Johnson St, Maffra VIC 3860

Offering services in Counselling, individual, relationship, and family.

Intrepidy Centre For Counselling & Therapeutic Services Phone (03) 5144 1044 Address 30A Cunninghame St, Sale VIC 3850

Offering services in Counselling, individual, relationship, and family.

Wellington Psychological Consultancy Services Phone (03) 5144 2855 Address Suite 1/ 265 Raymond St, Sale VIC 3850 Email [email protected]

Offers counselling service for the individual, family and workplace.

Psychologist - Private Practice Sale Jeanette Gibson - Psychologist Phone (03) 5144 2121 Address 118 Macalister St, Sale VIC 3850

Offers counselling service for children, adults and family.

Sharee Johnson – Psychologist Phone (03) 5144 5588 Address Todd Chiropractic, 70 Reeve St, Sale VIC 3850

Offering services in counselling, individual and relationship, life coaching, health and organisational psychology.

Jay Reynaldson - Counsellor Phone 5144 5877 Address Gippsland Paediatrics, Guthridge Pde, Sale VIC 3850

Specialises in counselling service for children and young people.

Yarram Colleen Murphy – Psychologist Phone 0418 845 388 Address Roger St, Yarram VIC 3971

Graeme Brewer – Psychologist Phone (03) 5182 6781 / 0428 501118 Address 220 Commercial Rd, Yarram VIC 3971

Olivia, Age 4 years

"Me (Olivia) going down the slide, Montana (sister) on the swing, Mummy and Daddy playing tennis, Daddy is a Pirate!"

Child Protection

Department of Human Service – Child Protection Service Phone (03) 5144 9100 To Make a Report 1800 020 202 After Hours 131 278 Address 150 York St Sale VIC 3850 Website www.dhs.vic.gov.au

Child Protection Services are responsible for the investigation and management of children and young people (birth–17 years) who are at risk of significant harm as a result of abuse and/or neglect. In the event of abuse, DHS has a legal mandate to assess, investigate and, if necessary, intervene. Plans are made in collaboration with families and community agencies to ensure the immediate and ongoing safety of children and young people.

Victoria Police – Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team (SOCI) Phone (SOCI Team) (03) 5144 2244 (Sale Station) (03) 51 435000 Address 58-60 York St, Sale VIC 3850 (Manned 24 hours)

Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Teams (SOCITs) are teams of specialist detectives who are trained to investigate the complex crimes of sexual assault and child abuse. SOCITs deal with a case from the time of disclosure, through the investigation process and then on to court. This model means that victims will be able to establish an ongoing relationship and trust with one or two police members and won't have to continually retell their personal experiences.

UnitingCare Gippsland – ChildFIRST Phone (03) 51 44 7777 Address UnitingCare Gippsland, 126 Raymond St Sale VIC 3850

Child FIRST provides a central intake and referral point for families where the wellbeing of a child is at risk (note; where the safety of a child is at risk, Child Protection is the appropriate service to contact).

UnitingCare Gippsland – Integrated Family Services Phone (03) 5144 7777 Address UnitingCare Gippsland, 126 Raymond St Sale VIC 3850

Integrated Family Services provides a range of Integrated Family Services aims to: services including:  Strengthen parenting capacity;  Case Management;  Support family connections to the community;  Referrals to other appropriate services;  Give parents the skills to maintain positive  Support and Advocacy; relationships;  Network closely with other community  Provide a responsive and flexible service tailored services also linked with the family; to meet family’s needs;

Yarram District Health Service – ChildFIRST at “Bakers” Program Phone (03) 5182 0270 Address 121 Commercial Road Yarram, VIC 3971

Bakers Program work in partnership with UnitingCare Gippsland Child FIRST and both services accept Child FIRST referral for Yarram area.

Yarram District Health Service – Family Services at Bakers Program Phone (03) 5182 0270 Address 121 Commercial Road Yarram, VIC 3971

Bakers program provides a range of services Integrated Family Services aims to: including:  Art Therapy  Strengthen parenting capacity;  Case Management;  Support family connections to the community;  Referrals to other appropriate services;  Give parents the skills to maintain positive  Support and Advocacy; relationships;  Network closely with other community  Provide a responsive and flexible service tailored services also linked with the family; to meet family’s needs;

Sexual Assault Gippsland Centre Against Sexual Assault (GCASA) Phone (03) 5134 3922 (After hours) 1800 806 292 Address PO Box 1124, Morwell, 3850 Offices in Morwell outreach to the whole of the Gippsland region. Website http://www.gcasa.org.au

The Gippsland Centre Against Sexual Assault provides services within the Gippsland Region of Victoria to children and adults, both female and male, who have been sexually assaulted. The Centre also works with non-offending family members, partners, caregivers and support workers.

Victoria Police – Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team (SOCI) Phone (SOCI Team) (03) 5144 2244 (Sale Station) (03) 51 435000 Address 58-60 York St, SALE, 3850 (Manned 24 hours)

Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Teams (SOCITs) are teams of specialist detectives who are trained to investigate the complex crimes of sexual assault and child abuse. In association with other agencies, the SOCITs deal with a case from the time of disclosure, through the investigation process and then on to court. This model means that victims will be able to establish an ongoing relationship and trust with one or two police members and won't have to continually retell their personal experiences.

Family Violence Quantum Support Services – Family Violence Service Phone 1800 243 455 Address 227 Princes Drive, Morwell VIC 3840 Email [email protected] Website www.quantum.org.au

The program offers a central intake service from the Morwell office, and delivers outreach services from Warragul, Morwell and Sale offices. Support includes crisis assistance, identifying safety issues, developing safety plans, legal needs, short and long term accommodation options and accessing a range of support services including medical centres, counselling, emergency relief and education facilities.

UnitingCare Gippsland – Family Violence Phone (03) 51 44 7777 Address 126 Raymond St Sale, VIC 3850

Offers one day a week family violence counselling, and short term case management.

Gippsland Womens Health Service Phone (03) 5143 1600 Address 56B Cunninghame St, Sale, Victoria, 3850, Australia

Gippsland Women's Health Service is NOT a crisis centre. Gippsland Womens Health Service offers support in the form of information sharing of services offered in family violence service in Gippsland region.

Men's Referral Service (MRS) Phone 1800 065 973 Website www.mrs.org.au

MRS is mens telephone counselling, information, and referral services. MRS is a community-based organisation assisting men to take action to stop their violent and controlling behaviour towards their family members. MRS volunteers provide an anonymous and confidential service for men throughout Victoria. The Service aims to both challenge and support men to take responsibility for their use of violence and to end their abusive behaviour towards family members. Men’s Referral Service currently operates from 9am to 9pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays).

Accommodation and Housing UnitingCare Gippsland – Housing Program Phone (03) 5144 7777 Address 126 Raymond St, Sale VIC 3850 Website www.ucgipps.org.au

UnitingCare Gippsland and Community Housing Limited provides a ‘Housing Intake Service’ and roster on certain days. These days may change, so please contact the service prior to attending.

Provides housing support to youth (16 years to 25 years), singles and families aged 25 and over who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in the Wellington Shire. Our role is to provide:  Intake and assessment  Housing information and options and referral to appropriate services  Case management  Nomination to Transitional Housing stock  Advocacy  Assistance with public housing applications

Community Housing Limited Phone Sale Office (03) 5143 1885 / Morwell Office 5120 4800 Address Situated in Mission Australia, Sale Office 111 Raymond St Sale, VIC 3850 Website www.missionaustralia.com.au

UnitingCare Gippsland and Community Housing Limited provides a ‘Housing Intake Service’ and roster on certain days. These days may change, so please contact the service prior to attending.

Yarram District Health Service – Housing Support (HASS) Phone (03) 5182 0222 Address 121 Commercial Road, Yarram VIC 3971

Provides housing support to youth, singles and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in the Yarram and surrounding area. Our role is to provide:  Intake and assessment  Housing information and options and referral to appropriate services  Case management  Nomination to Transitional Housing stock  Advocacy  Assistance with public housing applications

Financial Support and Counselling UnitingCare Gippsland – Financial Counselling Phone (03) 5144 7777 Address 126 Raymond St, Sale Vic 3850

Offer free confidential financial counselling support to assist with; paying debts, support with creditors or debt collectors, facing legal action regarding your debts, dealing with car repossession, worried about being evicted from your home, having budgeting problems, Support with applying for Bankruptcy.

UnitingCare Gippsland – No Interest Loans Scheme (NILS) Phone (03) 5144 7777 Address UnitingCare Gippsland, 126 Raymond St, Sale Vic 3850

No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS®) offers small, no interest loans for people on low incomes for the purchase of essential household goods. Loans are safe, and affordable – in the region of $800 to $1,200 – and are completely free of interest and fees. In addition, the NILS® loan process also helps borrowers improve their savings and budgeting skills.

Berry Street – Savers Plus Phone (03) 5144 3255 Address 126 Raymond St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.bsl.org.au/forms.aspx?id=62

Saver Plus assists families on low incomes to develop a savings habit, build assets and improve financial capability. Participants set a savings goal and receive support to help them achieve it. When they reach their goal, ANZ matches their savings, dollar for dollar, up to $500.

Central Gippsland Health Service - Community Aid Volunteer Association (CAVA) Phone (03) 51 438889 Address 155 Guthridge Parade, Sale VIC 3850

Assisting community members who are in financial crisis. Assistance is provided in the form of food vouchers, paying utility bills and other help as deemed appropriate. Clients can be referred from any agency but will require a copy of their Center Link income statement.

Rural Financial Counselling Service Victoria Phone (03) 5147 0855 Address DPI Offices, 1 Stratford Road, Maffra VIC 3860 Website http://www.ruralfinancialcounselling.org.au/

The Rural Financial Counselling Service Victoria – Gippsland is based in Gippsland and services surrounding areas. The service provides independent, free and confidential rural financial counselling to primary producers, fisheries and small rural businesses located in the Gippsland area. The Rural Financial Counsellor for the Maffra area is Ross Neilson.

Salvation Army – Emergency Relief Phone (03) 5144 6374 Address 139 Cunningham St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.salvationarmy.org.au/sale

Support is offered in the form of donation of food, assistance with paying bills and budgeting support available.

St Vinnies – Emergency Relief Phone (Sale) (03) 5144 5150 / (Maffra) 0407 472 904 / (Heyfield) 5148 2358 Address 192-194 York St, Sale Vic 3850 / 47 Temple St, Heyfield Vic 3858

Provide emergency relief in the form of food vouchers.

Legal Service Gippsland Community Legal Service Phone (03) 5133 0411 / 1800 004 402 (free call) Address 162 Commercial Road, Morwell Vic 3840 Email [email protected] Website http://www.communitylaw.org.au/clc_gippsland/cb_pages/about_us.php

Gippsland Community Legal Service (GCLS) is an independent non-profit service, managed by Anglicare Gippsland. Whilst we are funded by the Federal Government, GCLS is not a government agency or a part of Victorian Legal Aid.

GCLS provides free community legal services to people who live, work or study in the Gippsland region.

We provide:  legal information and referral on all areas of law  legal advice, subject to a conflict check, on all areas of law except for adoption, child protection, immigration, conveyance and personal injury (including TAC and Workcover).  community legal education  law reform and policy work; and  legal casework in very limited circumstances

Victorian Legal Aid Phone Melbourne: (03) 9269 0120 Rural Area: 1800 677 402 (toll free) Website http://www.legalaid.vic.gov.au/

Services offered include:  Free legal advice - We have lawyers who can talk to you about how the law applies to your legal problem.  Lawyers at court - We have lawyers on duty at many courts and tribunals across Victoria.  Funding cases - If you can’t afford a lawyer, you can apply for a grant of legal assistance to help

you pay for a lawyer to run your case.  Resolving family disputes - Roundtable Dispute Management is our service that helps parents who are going through a separation or divorce to resolve their family disputes.  Publications - We have free booklets, brochures and fact sheets on a range of legal topics. We also have publications and information about our services in many community languages.

Mitch, Age 10 Years

"I like Motor-bikes"

GENERAL

Alice, Age 3

"Me and my friends at the swimming pool"

Health Services

Hospitals Central Gippsland Health Service Phone (03) 5143 8600 Address Guthridge Pde, Sale VIC 3850 Website www.cghs.com.au

The Sale Campus is the largest campus in the network. It has a total of 62 acute beds, Accident and Emergency Department, Theatre facilities, Critical Care Unit and Level Two Neo-Natal Nursery and Maternity facilities. The Division of Community Care administration offices are located here, as is the Wilson Lodge Nursing Home and the Central Gippsland Health Service Community Rehabilitation Centre.

Central Gippsland Health Service - Maffra Hospital Phone (03) 5147 0100 Address 48 Kent St, Maffra VIC 3860 Website www.cghs.com.au

Maffra Campus provides a variety of services to the Maffra and district community. The facility includes 9 acute/sub-acute care beds and 30 high care residential aged care places. Services offered are inpatient medical care including palliative care and short stay treatments. Midwifery patients can receive post natal care in Maffra. Community health offers programs such as Stage 3 Cardiac rehabilitation, walking and exercise groups and carers group. Outpatient services are Maternal & Child Health, Dietician, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Podiatry and Drug and Alcohol counselling. Diabetes and Asthma education are also available.

Central Gippsland Health Service - Heyfield Hospital Phone (03) 5139 7979 Address 14 Licola Rd, Heyfield VIC 3858 Website www.cghs.com.au

The Heyfield Hospital includes nine acute and sub-acute beds, as well as the 51 bed aged care facility Laurina Lodge.

Yarram & District Health Service Phone (03) 5182 0222 Address Commercial Rd, Yarram VIC 3971 Website http://www.gha.net.au/ydhs

Yarram District Health Service offers acute care services including a 24 accidents and emergency facility. General medical and post-surgical care, rehabilitation, respite, dialysis and palliative care are all available at YDHS. St Elmo’s Nursing home is located on the grounds of the main campus and provides recreational activities, outings, volunteer companionship and a wide range of other services to its 30 residents.

Medical and Community Health Centre Maffra Maffra Medical Group Phone (03) 5147 1011 Address 160 Johnson St Maffra Vic 3860 Website www.maffra.net.au/mafframedical Open Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm Saturday 8.30am to12pm

Johnson St Medical Clinic Phone (03) 5141 1889 Address Shop 2, 119 Johnson St, Maffra VIC 3860 Email [email protected] Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Saturday 9am to 12pm

Heyfield Heyfield Medical Practice Phone (03) 5148 2201 Address 19 Tyson Rd, Heyfield VIC 3858 Email [email protected] Open Monday to Friday 9am to 12pm / 1.30pm to 5pm Saturday 9am to10am

Loch Sport Loch Sport Community Health Centre Phone (03) 5146 0349 Address National Park Road, Loch Sport VIC 3851 Open Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm

This small centre offers a range of services on site, but can also link clients in with many other services. The Community Health Nurse provides community based nursing both centre based and in the home through referrals.

Rosedale Rosedale Community Health Centre Phone 5199 2333 Address 2 - 8 Cansick St, Rosedale VIC 3847 Open Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 4.30pm

Services include a Community Health Nurse, a visiting General Practitioner, home nursing, maternal and child health, podiatry, alcohol and drug counselling and social worker.

Sale Clocktower Medical Centre Phone (03) 5144 4788 Address 284 Raymond St, Sale VIC 3850 Email [email protected] Website http://www.clockmed.com.au Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Saturday 9am to12pm

Fitzpatrick House Phone (03) 5144 4555 Address 134 Guthridge Pde, Sale VIC 3850 Email [email protected] Website http://www.fitzpatrickhouse.com.au/ Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm

Gippsland Paediatrics Phone (03) 5144 5877 Address Corner Guthridge Parade and Stead St, Sale VIC 3850 Email [email protected] Open Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Before making an appointment with Gippsland Paediatrics (to visit the Paediatrician, or to receive a Medicare rebate for other services) you will need a referral form from your local GP. Services including paediatric medicine, psychology, speech pathology, occupational therapy, diabetes education, counselling & physiotherapy.

Inglis Medical Centre Phone (03) 5143 7900 / Afterhours (03) 5143 7900 Address 12 Inglis St, Sale VIC 3850 Email [email protected] Website www.inglismedical.com.au Opening Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm Hours Saturday 8.30am to 12pm

Ramahyuck Gippsland Family Practice Phone (03) 5144 6511 Address 117 Foster St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.ramahyuck.org/ Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Sale Medical Centre Phone (03) 5144 5766 Address 49 Desailly St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.salemedical.com.au/sale/home.html Open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm Saturday 9am to 12pm

Yarram Yarram Medical Centre Phone (03) 5182 0333 Address 91 Commercial Road Website http://www.gha.net.au/ydhs/viewinfopage.asp?id=382 Open Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm Saturday: 9am to12noon

A Doctor is rostered on duty to provide 24 hours on call service for urgent medical treatment outside the clinic hours. Contact Yarram and District Health Service – 5182 0222. Please note that an afterhours consultation fee will be charged.

King Street Medical Centre Phone (03) 5182 5533 Address 6 King St, Yarram VIC 3971 Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Saturday 9am to 12noon

Central Gippsland Health Service – Consulting Room Phone (03) 51 43 8944 Address 155 Guthridge Parade, Sale VIC 3850

Paediatricians Available:  Dr Austin Erasmus  Dr Melanie Pillay  Dr Sylvia Welgemoed

Gippsland Paediatrics Phone (03) 5144 5877 Address Crn Guthridge Pde & Stead Street, Sale VIC 3850

Other Services offered at Gippsland Paediatrics include: Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Psychologist. Paediatricians Available:  Dr Peter Goss Dr Joann McCubbin

Womens Health Gippsland Women’s Health Service Phone (03) 5143 1600 Address 56B Cunninghame St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.gwhealth.asn.au

Gippsland Women's Health Service works with women, communities, service providers and government to promote and enhance the health and wellbeing of women across Gippsland. Gippsland Women's Health Service offers a range of information services for all women and health professionals throughout the Gippsland region. These services are free and confidential. We are committed to assisting women of all ages to optimise their health and wellbeing.

Our programs are divided into three areas:

Health Promotion Health information and Support Services  Prevention of violence against education  McGrath Foundation Breast women  Family Violence Reform Care Nurse  Sexual & reproductive health  Victorian Family Violence  Wig Bank  Promoting mental health and Reform Strategy wellbeing

Dental Clinics Maffra Maffra Dental Clinic Phone (03) 5147 1300 Address 113 Johnson St, Maffra VIC 3860 Open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 8.30am to 5.30pm Wednesday 12.30pm to 8.30pm Friday 8.30am to 5pm

Heyfield Dental Care for You – Heyfield Phone (03) 5148 3450 Address 51 - 53 Temple St, Heyfield VIC 3858 Email [email protected] Open Sunday 9am to 5pm Monday 9am to 3pm

Sale Central Gippsland Health Service – Dental Department Phone (03) 5143 8130 Address 155 Guthridge Pde, Sale VIC 3850 Open Monday to Friday 8am to 4.30pm

Dr Beverley J Hookey – Orthodontist Phone (03) 5144 6649 Address 46 Macalister St Sale, VIC, 3850 Open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm

Pacific Smiles Dental Clinic Phone (03) 5143 1090 Address 56 Cunninghame St, Sale VIC 3850 Website www.pacificsmilesdental.com.au Open Monday Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm Thursday 8.30am to 8.30pm

Ramahyuck Gippsland Dental Clinic Phone (03) 5144 4869 Address 111 Foster St, Sale VIC 3850 Email [email protected] Open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm

Rochi Dental Surgery Phone (03) 5144 4077 Address 51 McArthur St, Sale VIC 3850 Open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm

Sale Dental Group Phone (03) 5143 2822 Address 380 York St, Sale VIC 3850 Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Sale Family Dentist Phone (03) 5143 0100 Address 297 Raglan St, Sale VIC 3850 Open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm

Yarram Dr A. Abraham Phone (03) 5182 5539 Address 55 Commercial Rd Yarram VIC 3971

Neighborhood and Community Houses

Neighbourhood or Community Houses are local community facilities, providing a broad range of low cost social, education and recreational programs. People of all abilities, backgrounds and ages can come to: • Meet, talk and make friends • Develop new skills • Engage in lifelong learning and further study • Volunteer • Be involved in community events • Find out about other local services or activities Hours of operation for each Neighbourhood and Community House vary. Please contact your local Neighbourhood and Community House for up to date information. Please note they are closed during School Holidays.

Gormandale Community House Phone (03) 5197 7264 Address 32 - 34 Main Rd, Gormandale, VIC 3873 Email [email protected] Website www.gch.org.au

Gormandale Community House provides social, educational and recreational activities for the community in a welcoming supportive environment. Childcare is also offered. Booking is Essential.

Hours of Operation Monday-Thursday 9.00am to 3.00pm Friday 9.00 am to 12.30pm

Heyfield Community Resource Centre Phone (03) 5148 2100 Address 5 George St, Heyfield VIC 3858 Email [email protected] Website http://www.heyfield.net/pages/resource/resource.htm

Heyfield Resource Centre provides social, educational and recreational activities for the community in a welcoming supportive environment. Childcare and Playgroup is also offered. Booking is Essential.

Hours of Operation Monday to Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm

Loch Sport Community House Phone (03) 5146 0145 Address Loch Sport Public Hall National Park Road, halfway between entrance of Loch Sport and National Park Email [email protected] Website http://www.lochsport.org.au

Loch sport Community House provides social, educational and recreational activities for the community in a welcoming supportive environment.

Hours of Operation Monday, Tuesday and Friday 9.30am to 3.00pm

Maffra Community House Phone (03) 5147 1487 Address 48 Kent St, Maffra VIC 3860 Email [email protected] Website https://sites.google.com/site/maffrach

Maffra Community House is part of Maffra Hospital Complex. Maffra Community House provides social, educational and recreational activities for the community in a welcoming supportive environment. During office hours enter through the garden gate on Kent Street, opposite the park. For all activities outside office hours please enter through the main doors of the hospital.

Hours of Operation Open Tuesday to Thursday 9:30am to 1:30pm

Rosedale Neighbourhood House Phone (03) 5199 2595 Address 2 - 8 Cansick St, Rosedale 3847 Email [email protected] Website http://www.rosedalenh.org.au

Rosedale Neighbourhood House provides social, educational and recreational activities for the community in a welcoming supportive environment. Kindergarten, Childcare and After school care program is also offered.

Hours of Operation Open Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm

Sale Neighbourhood House Phone (03) 5144 5747 Address 19 - 23 Leslie St, Sale VIC 3850 Email [email protected] Website http://www.snh.net.au

Sale Neighbourhood House provides social, educational and recreational activities for the community in a welcoming supportive environment. Childcare and School Holiday program is also offered.

Hours of Operation Open Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm

Wurruk Community House Phone (03) 5143 2292 Address 6 White Crt, Wurruk VIC 3850

Wurruk Community House provides social, educational and recreational activities for the community in a welcoming supportive environment. Childcare (Family Day Care) is also offered on Wednesday and Thursday 9am to 3pm, however places are limited.

Hours of Operation Opening hours varies.

Yarram Community Learning Centre Phone (03) 518 26294 Address Old Union Bank Building, 292 Commercial Rd, Yarram 3971 Website http://www.yclc.com.au

Yarram Community Learning Centre provides social, educational and recreational activities for the community in a welcoming supportive environment. The Centre is closed on the first Wednesday morning of each month for Committee Meetings, and will re-open at approx. 12.30pm.

Hours of Operation Tuesday to Friday 10am to 3pm

Charlotte, Age 9 "Swimming at the Sale Pool"

Aboriginal Support Services

Ramahyuck District Aboriginal Corporation Phone (03) 5143 1644 Address 117 Foster St, Sale VIC 3850 Website http://www.ramahyuck.org/

Ramahyuck District Aboriginal Corporation delivers a range of health and community development services to the Indigenous and wider community population across east Gippsland.

Health Care Services include:  Nindedana Quaranook Central Gippsland GP Clinic  Outreach Clinics  Aboriginal Health Promotion  Child and Family Support Program  Gippsland Regional Hearing Program  Oral Health

Social and Emotional Wellbeing Family Support Program - aim to improve support provided to families experiencing issues relating to violence, substance abuse, and financial difficulties, legal and parenting issues.

Community Enterprise and Engagement Central to community sustainability is employment and economic development. Skills development and employment programs include tree propagation and joinery, lawn mowing and garden maintenance business, wood cutting and supply, and a school bus service for Koori children.

Central Gippsland Health Service – Koori Hospital Liaison Phone (03) 5143 8600 Address Central Gippsland Health Service, Guthridge Parade, Sale VIC 3850 Website www.cghs.com.au

Koori Hospital Liaison offers service to our Koori community at Central Gippsland Health Service.

Multicultural Support Services

Gippsland Multicultural Services Phone (03) 5133 7072 Address 100-102 Buckley St, Morwell VIC 3840 Email [email protected] Website http://www.gms4you.com

Gippsland Multicultural Service is the only ethno-specific service provider in Gippsland (GMS). GMS provide a range of settlement and support services for migrants, refugees and humanitarian entrants, as well as aged services, employment services, service system resourcing assistance, community development programs, multicultural respite care and cross cultural training.

Access to Transport

Travel Planning and Support Public Transport Victoria (PTV) Phone 1800 800 007 6am - midnight daily Website http://ptv.vic.gov.au/

Provides public transport information and services for regional Victoria on fares, services and timetables.

Travellers Aid Australia Phone (03) 9654 2600 Email [email protected] Website www.travellersaid.org.au

Travel Aid Australia has two service centres in Melbourne CBD that offer information for passengers, particularly those with special needs. There are two main centres in the Melbourne CBD.

Southern Cross Station Flinders Street Station Travellers Aid at Southern Cross Station offers modern Travellers Aid at Flinders Street Station is located rest facilities and personal guidance ensuring that all within the ticketed barrier area of Flinders Street visitors through the station enjoy a comfortable and safe Station between Platforms 9 and 10. passage. Services include: Services include:  Comfortable lounge, internet facilities, accessible  Internet access, emergency relief services for travellers toilets, personal care support, hire of mobility in crisis and emergencies, hire of mobility equipment, equipment, short term luggage storage and accessible toilet and showers (with towel hire). practical assistance to the travelling public,  Wheelchair and motorised buggy transfers for through a number of services. travellers who are frail or travellers with special needs are free of charge. Phone (03) 9610 2030 Sunday to Thursday 8am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday 8am to 10pm. Phone (03) 9670 2072, 7am to 10pm seven days a week. Bookings are essential and luggage limits and restrictions apply.

Victorian Patient Transport Assistance Scheme (VPTAS) Phone Department of Health (03) 5177 2500 Website www.health.vic.gov.au/ruralhealth/vptas/

The Victorian Patient Transport Assistance Scheme (VPTAS) is a partial reimbursement scheme that assists rural and remote Victorians with travel and accommodation costs incurred when travelling more than 100kms for treatment.

To be eligible you must:  Reside in a Victorian rural area  Have a current referral from an approved medical practitioner  Travel 100km or more (one way) from your home to the place of the nearest specialist. Application forms must be signed by a GP and are available from doctors’ surgeries, health services, hospitals, or online http://www.health.vic.gov.au/ruralhealth/vptas/.

Travelling for Health Care – Resource Kit Website www.health.vic.gov.au/consumer/rural_consumers.htm

An online resource kit has been developed to specifically assist rural people and their families needing to travel for health care.

Medical Companion Service Phone Free call: 1300 700 399 Email [email protected]

Travellers Aid Australia offers trained volunteer Medical Companions to meet you at your train, bus, tram or taxi and guide you to and from your medical appointments. Your companion is FREE – you just have to cover your own fares. Bookings are essential, 48 hours notice required.

Angel Flight Website www.angelflight.org.au/

Angel Flight is a charity that co-ordinates non-emergency flights to help country people trying to deal with the triple trouble of bad health, poor finances and daunting distance. All flights are free and may involve patients travelling to medical facilities anywhere in Australia.

Transport Concessions and Subsidies Health Care Cards Holders of current Health Care Cards (HCC) issued in Victoria are entitled to concession fares upon presentation of their Health Care Card. Any dependant named on the HCC, is NOT eligible for transport concession

Vision Impaired Travel Pass Phone (03) 9619 1159

Free travel is available on all metropolitan transport services and V/Line ticketed services. The Travel Pass is only available to people classified as legally blind. For further information or to obtain a pass, contact the Central Pass Office on 03 9619 1159.

Companion Card Phone Department of Human Services 5150 4500 Website www.companioncard.org.au

The Companion Card is available to eligible people with a permanent disability who require the assistance of a companion to access community activities and venues. Card holders can have their companions travel at no cost, on all metropolitan trains, tram and bus services, country trains, bus and town bus services.

Student Concession Card Website http://ptv.vic.gov.au/fares-tickets/concessions/

Student Concession cards may be issued to full-time students pursuing a normal course of study at a primary or secondary school up to Year 12 in Victoria. Tertiary students are also entitled to concession fares, if they are eligible for a Victorian Public Transport Concession Card.

Multi Purpose Taxis Subsidy Program Phone 1800 638 802 Website www.taxi.vic.gov.au/passengers/mptp 75

The State Government’s Multi Purpose Taxi Program provides half price taxi fares up to a maximum discount of $60 per trip.

To be eligible you must:  Live in Victoria permanently;  Have a severe and permanent disability that stops you from being able to use public transport by yourself.

To be able to obtain a Multipurpose Taxi Card your doctor will need to authorise and sign the application form. Forms are available from your doctor’s surgery, the Victorian Taxi Directorate on 1800 638 802 or by downloading an application form www.taxi.vic.gov.au/passengers/mptp.

Local Medical Transport Assistance Medical transport assistance is available to residence in Wellington Shire who have no other viable transport alternatives. To find out whether you are eligible contact your nearest provider below:

Briagolong Mini Care (volunteers) (03) 5145 5425 Central Gippsland Health Service (03) 5143 8488 - Community Services Latrobe Community Health Service (03) 5143 9888 Latrobe Regional Hospital (03) 5173 8496 Maffra Mini Care (volunteers) (03) 5147 1459 Ramahyuck Aboriginal Cooperative (03) 5143 1644 Red Cross Gippsland Office (03) 5143 2639 Yarram and District Health Service (03) 5182 0222

Bus Service Wellington Transit Services Website http://www.metlinkmelbourne.com.au/location/view/122

Wellington Transit Bus services operate within Sale, including Wurruk and also provide intertown services to Loch Sport, Golden Beach, Paradise Beach, Stratford and Seaspray.

To view current timetable please visit website and click on Bus Service link. Or if viewing this electronically, please click on the route you are after and it will connect you to the webpage:

 Bairnsdale - Melbourne via Sale & Traralgon  Sale - Melbourne via Maffra & Traralgon  Yarram - Melbourne via Koo Wee Rup & Dandenong  Bairnsdale - Lakes Entrance - Marlo (Route 10)  Maffra town service  Sale - Loch Sport via Longford  Sale - Sale Station via Reeve Street (Route 4)  Sale - Seaspray via Longford  Sale - Stratford  Sale - Wurruk via Riverview Road, Princes Highway (Route 3)  Sale-North via Guthridge Parade, MacArthur Street (Route 2)  Sale-South via MacArthur Street, Aquatic Centre, Sale Hospital (Route 1)  Yarram - Traralgon via Gormandale

Car Pooling Gippy Ride Share Website www.gippyrideshare.com.au

GippyRideShare is public car pool/rideshare program open to everyone in Gippsland. Simply register your travel details as a driver, rider (or even both) on the GippyRideShare website.

Taxi Service Sale Maffra Taxis Phone (03) 5144 3278 Address Sale VIC 3850

Yarram Taxi Service Phone (03) 5182 5986 Address Yarram VIC 3971

Train Stations V/Line Timetable information, 1800 800 007 (6 am to midnight, 7 days a week) reservations & sales Website http://www.vline.com.au/home/

V/Line is Australia’s largest regional public transport operator. All V/line tickets to and from Melbourne include FREE access (Zones 1&2) to Melbourne’s metropolitan trams, trains and buses. Periodical and Day Return tickets give free access all day. Single tickets give free access for one hour only.

Following link provides current Train Timetables:  Traralgon to Melbourne / Melbourne to Traralgon  Bairnsdale to Melbourne / Melbourne to Bairnsdale http://www.vline.com.au/maps-stations-stops/lineinfo/travelupdates/gippsland.html

Rosedale Station Sale Station Stratford Station Address: Hood St / Cansick St Phone: (03) 5144 2042 Address: Hobson St / McFarlane Rosedale, 3847 Address: Pettit Dr Sale, 3850 Cres Stratford, 3862

Sports and Physical Activity Groups The Shire is home to a variety of sporting clubs, recreation facilities, reserves and leisure venues which provide opportunities to be involved in many sports, fitness or leisure activities.

The Shire has:  More than 400 parks and reserves  570 different sporting and recreation clubs  8 indoor leisure venues  Over 50 playgrounds, community centres and neighbourhood houses

Sporting and Recreation Clubs

Gippsport Address Gippsland Regional Sports Complex Cobains Road, Sale VIC 3850 Phone (03) 5142 3483 Email [email protected] Website http://www.gippsport.com.au/

Wellington Shire has over 570 different sporting and recreation clubs. Gippsport has collated all the sporting and recreational Clubs on an online Directory. Please visit website for more information.

Sporting Facilities

Gippsland Regional Sports Complex Phone (03) 5142 3678 Address Cobains Road, Sale VIC 3850

Gippsland Regional Sports Complex features four indoor courts with a state of the art flooring system, twelve outdoor courts, meeting rooms, conference facilities and a modern cafe.

The GRSC caters for: Basketball Tennis (Practice/training) Netball Badminton Indoor Soccer Floorball Table Tennis Pre-Season fitness training Volleyball Conference/Meetings

Swimming Pools

Aqua Energy Phone (03) 5142 3700 Address Brayakoloong Close, Sale

25 metre lap pool program and hydrotherapy pool, leisure and learn to swim pool, modern gym with multipurpose rooms for group fitness classes, café with indoor and outdoor seating areas crèche sauna, 50 metre Olympic outdoor pool, diving pool and learn to swim pool, electric BBQ, and a large grass areas with plenty of shade.

Heyfield Memorial Pool Phone 5148 2330 Address Mary St, Heyfield

34 metre main pool, 12 metre childrens play pool, A large shade structure suitable for carnivals and plenty of room for family picnics, Kiosk with snacks and drinks , The Heyfield Pool is within walking distance to the Heyfield Resource Centre, Wetlands Walk and local shops.

Maffra Memorial Pool Phone 5147 1191 Address Duke St, Maffra

50 metre heated pool, 12.5 metre learn to swim pool, Wet decking for easy access and visibility, Large shade structure suitable for carnivals and events, Maffra Pool is located next door to the Maffra Lawn Tennis and within walking distance to the scenic Macalister River and Wetlands Walk.

Rosedale Swimming Pool Phone 5199 2366 Address Hood St, Rosedale

19 metre main pool, 6.5 metre toddler pool, Small kiosk with drinks and snacks, Shaded areas, The pool is located within walking distance to the community centre, library, children playground and shops.

Stratford Swimming Pool Phone 5145 6494 Address McMillian St, Stratford

25 metre main pool, 15 metre learn to swim pool, 6 metre toddler pool, Kiosk with snacks and refreshments, Large shade structure and grass areas for carnival seating or family picnics.

Yarram Swimming Pool Phone 5182 5521 Address Grant St, Yarram

34 metre main pool, 16 metre half circle toddler pool, shade structure, kiosk with refreshments and snacks, The pool is located next to a children's playground, tennis courts and the library.

Mobility Maps

The Wellington Mobility Maps are designed to facilitate safe and increased participation in the community by people with a mobility impairment or disability, parents with prams and people who are elderly. The mobility maps also provide relevant information for people with limited mobility to enable effective travel planning when visiting Wellington Shire.

The maps include the CBD and, where appropriate, tourist attractions, for six of the Shire's major towns; Sale, Heyfield, Maffra, Yarram, Stratford, and Rosedale. Also available is a Mobility Map of Lakes Guthridge and Guyatt in Sale (below).

Notes:

Acknowledgements

This project is part of the Family Support Program funded by the Australian Government.

Wellington Best Start would like to thank the member agencies of Wellington Primary Care Partnership for their support towards the development of this Directory. A special thank you goes to the following agencies that had assisted in the planning, development and implementation of the Wellington Shire Early Years Parent Directory:

 Wellington Primary Care Partnership  Sale Combined Kindergartens  Wellington Early Years Network Incorporated  Wellington Shire Council  Gippsland Women’s Health Service  UnitingCare Gippsland  Central Gippsland Health Service  Ramahyuck District Aboriginal  Yarram District Health Service Corporation  Australian Breastfeeding Association

Wellington Shire Children Drawing Competition

As part of the development of the Wellington Shire Early Years Parent Directory, Wellington Best Start launched a drawing competition asking for children aged 3 to 12 years to send in a drawing of ‘what they like to do in the town they live in’. Chosen artwork received was used throughout this Directory. Wellington Best Start would like to thank the following businesses who donated prizes to go towards the Drawing Competition. Your contributions made this competition even more worthwhile for the children to participate in.

Thank you...

Wellington Shire Early Years Parent Directory grew from a suggestion made by a Parent. This idea, rippled into a conversation, which rippled to a discussion, then to planning, and finally to the development of the Wellington Shire Early Years Parent Directory.

Wellington Best Start would like to thank this parent, and all the parents, carers and children who have offered support in the development of the Directory. This directory is for you and we welcome further feedback and suggestions on how we can make it work better for you, your family and community.