OC Connections

25/06/2026

We’re proud to showcase these incredible mosaic artworks created by some of our talented artists in our Masterpiece Mosaics Art Program. Each piece tells a unique story and reflects personal memories, creativity, and dedication.

“Mum and Dad” by Rodney
Rodney brought his vision to life by transforming a special drawing of his parents into a beautiful mosaic. With guidance, he confidently transferred his own artwork onto the mosaic board and has been so proud of his creation, and rightly so.

“Matryoshka Dolls” by Vlada
Inspired by treasured childhood memories and her grandmother, Vlada created this stunning piece featuring traditional Russian nesting dolls. Using imagery from a folklore art book, Vlada worked independently on much of the project and is incredibly proud of her heartfelt dedication

"Black Cat and Flower Vase" by Bethany
Inspired by a vintage poster from our Creative Canvas space, Bethany collaborated with staff to produce this striking mosaic of a black cat and floral vase. A fantastic example of teamwork and artistic flair.

These works are a wonderful reminder of the power of creativity, storytelling, and self-expression. We love seeing each participant shine through their art

23/06/2026

Here’s a glimpse of the energy, fun and community spirit from last year’s OC Connections Charity Golf Day.

From great swings to even greater company, it was a day to remember. As we gear up to celebrate our 30th year, we’d love you to be part of it.

Tickets are selling fast, visit https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1535562 to secure your spot.

18/06/2026

Take your shot at $25,000…

Step up to our Hole in One Competition for your chance to WIN a $25,000 Amaco Travel voucher.

Thanks to the incredible support of Amaco Travel, a single shot could take you anywhere in the world, from a luxury escape to the ultimate bucket-list adventure.

With over 30 years of expertise, Amaco Travel creates seamless, personalised journeys designed entirely around you.

Will you take the shot? Visit https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1535562 to secure your place at the Golf Day and be in it to win it.

09/06/2026

Thank you to our generous prize sponsors.

We’re incredibly grateful to the businesses who have donated amazing prizes for this year’s Charity Golf Day, helping us bring extra excitement through raffles, on-course giveaways and our silent auction!

A big thank you to: Amaco Travel, Bunnings Warehouse Australia, Daikin Australia, Mercon, The Metropolitan Golf Club, Woodlands Golf Club, and Yarra Yarra Golf Club.

Want to contribute a prize or join us on the day for your chance to win? For more information, visit https://occonnections.org/get-involved/golf-day/

05/06/2026

We’re excited to have Australasian Long Drive Champion Steffan Scutti joining us at our 30th Annual Charity Golf Day!

Test your swing speed and distance and get expert tips to improve your long drive game, all for a small donation.

Think you’ve got what it takes to go long? Visit https://occonnections.org/get-involved/golf-day/ to purchase your golf day tickets.

26/05/2026

Today, on National Sorry Day, we remember and acknowledge the Stolen Generations - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were taken from their families, communities and cultures under past government policies.

We recognise the deep and ongoing impact this continues to have, and we honour the strength and resilience of First Nations peoples.

National Sorry Day is an important opportunity for reflection, truth-telling and healing as we continue the journey toward reconciliation together.

We encourage everyone to take a moment today to reflect, learn and deepen their understanding.

For further information and resources, visit: https://healingfoundation.org.au

12/05/2026

Australia is introducing a new emergency warning system called AusAlert.

From October 2026, AusAlert will send urgent, location-based messages directly to compatible mobile phones and devices during emergencies such as bushfires, floods and major public safety incidents.

If an alert is issued, your device may make a loud siren-like sound, vibrate and display important information about what is happening and what you need to do. Some alerts may sound even if your phone is on silent or “Do Not Disturb”.

Before the system launches nationally, community testing will take place across Australia in June, and a national test will take place on Monday 27 July 2026 at 2:00pm AEST.

If you receive a test alert, you do not need to do anything.

We understand some people may have concerns about alerts sounding on hidden or secondary phones used for safety reasons, including in family and domestic violence situations. If needed, devices can be turned off or switched to aeroplane mode before scheduled testing times and left off for at least one hour.

To help ensure your device can receive alerts correctly, make sure your phone or device has the latest software updates installed.

If you are in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000).

You can learn more about AusAlert, including how alerts work, community testing, and options for managing alerts on your device here: https://www.ausalert.gov.au/about-us/about-ausalert

09/05/2026

Take your shot in our Hole in One Competition for your chance to WIN a $25,000 Amaco Travel voucher!

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our major sponsor, Amaco Travel- experts in bespoke, seamless travel experiences backed by over 30 years of expertise - one swing could send you around the world.

Whether it’s a tailored escape for couples, a luxury family adventure, or a once-in-a-lifetime multigenerational trip, Amaco Travel specialises in creating personalised journeys that deliver access, flexibility, and unforgettable moments.

Secure your place at our Charity Golf Day today, with entry to the Hole in One challenge available on the day.

Don’t miss an unforgettable day of golf, prizes, and fun, made even more special with the support of Amaco Travel. We’ll see you on the green. Visit https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1535562 to book your tickets.

08/05/2026

Important conversations like these matter.

As the NDIS reform process continues to unfold, uncertainty remains for many people with disability, families, carers and providers across the sector.

This two-part episode of GET REAL from Ermha brings together sector leaders, lived experience voices and clinical perspectives to unpack what’s changing, what’s still unknown, and how we continue supporting people through uncertainty.

The NDIS will be undergoing significant reform. It has been a long, challenging lead-up to the news of the proposed changes ... and it's still a time of deep uncertainty for people with disabilities, and those who support them. In this 2-parter of GET REAL podcast, Karenza Louis-Smith and Emily Webb speak with special guests on what we know so far about the NDIS changes.

🎧PART 1 National Disability Services CEO Michael Perusco and Karenza unpack what is clear right now, what is still unknown, and how these changes could reshape eligibility and supports outside the scheme. https://www.buzzsprout.com/922639/episodes/19126067

🎧PART 2 focuses on self-care amid this time of uncertainty, starting with a lived experience perspective from Associate Professor and The Disability Trust board member Shane Clifton. You'll also hear from Evelyn Ireland, who is a psychologist, behaviour support practitioner and The Trust's General Manager Clinical Services. https://www.buzzsprout.com/922639/episodes/19133624

24/04/2026

You may have seen the Australian Government’s announcement on Wednesday, 22 April 2026 about changes to the NDIS.

We know updates like this can feel uncertain, and for many people in our community, this news may bring questions or concerns.

As a trusted, registered NDIS provider, we are here with you - you are not alone.

Across all of our services, our focus remains the same: Supporting you to live your life, your way.

Right now:
- Your supports continue as normal
- We are here to listen and support you
- We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.

The changes Government has announced will happen over time. If you would like to learn more, you can read the official information via the link in the comments.

We are here to help you understand what they mean for you, when the time is right.

If you have questions or just want to talk things through, please reach out to your usual contact.

We are here. We are listening. And we will navigate this together.