A free community celebration is coming to Fitzroy Plaza on Thursday, 25 June, as Centacare marks 25 years of supporting individuals, families and communities across the New England region.
The afternoon event, running from 3pm to 7pm, will bring together community members, partner organisations, local leaders, and current and former staff to reflect on a quarter-century of service. Entry is free and all are welcome.
Tamara O’Reilly, Youth Engagement Officer at Centacare Tamworth, said the milestone fills the team with genuine pride.
“To be able to provide our services and help people is not something we take lightly,” Ms O’Reilly said. “Whilst we started from humble beginnings, we now have over 200 staff across nine offices and provide social services to local communities through 38 different programs. We estimate that we have supported over 47,000 individuals over those 25 years.”
The event’s theme, “25 Years of Walking Together”, speaks to the heart of how Centacare approaches its work.
“Walking together is exactly what we do,” Ms O’Reilly said. “We walk beside people, supporting them and giving them the tools they need to improve their lives.”
Ms O’Reilly joined Centacare in November last year, working across the headspace program and Youth Streams. She said her motivation to join the organisation was rooted in a passion for young people and mental health support in regional areas.
“I think there needs to be more mental health support for our region’s young people,” Ms O’Reilly said. “We know that 50 per cent of people who experience depression have their first episode by the age of 25, so providing early intervention for our youth is critically important.”
As Youth Engagement Officer, her role involves designing programs, identifying needs within the community, and raising awareness of what Centacare offers. Each day looks different, she said, and that variety is part of the appeal.
Centacare’s reach has grown steadily to match the changing needs of the communities it serves.
“Centacare has grown to provide a range of family, youth and community services that respond to the changing needs of local communities,” Ms O’Reilly said. “Whilst we are a Catholic agency, we are proud to provide these services to everyone, regardless of religion, circumstance, ethnicity, economic situation, age, gender or ability.”
In Tamworth, that community spirit extends beyond Centacare’s own doors. Ms O’Reilly said the organisation holds a no wrong door policy, meaning staff actively connect people to other local providers when needed.
“We have a wonderful relationship in Tamworth, not just with the community, but also with other providers,” she said. “It’s great to know who to refer on to if we’re not the best fit and know they will look after the community just as we do.”
The celebration at Fitzroy Plaza promises something for everyone. Activities for children will include face painting and a petting zoo, while the HOPe van will provide free tea and coffee and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service will be running a barbecue. A raffle and Centacare merchandise will also be on offer.
“Our plan is just to have fun with the community, just like we have for the past 25 years,” Ms O’Reilly said.
She said everyone is encouraged to come along, not just those who have used Centacare’s services before.
“Our services are for everybody, and just because you haven’t used them previously doesn’t mean you won’t in the future,” she said.
Looking ahead, Ms O’Reilly said Centacare has plans in the works to reach even more people in the years to come, though the details are still under wraps.
For those who have supported the organisation over the past 25 years, she had a simple message.
“Thank you. From the absolute bottom of our hearts, thank you for helping us assist those who need it most. It’s through the support of our partners, staff, board and supporters that we’re able to provide Dignity, Community, Cooperation and Support to the wider community, something we love to do, are proud to do, and are excited to do into the future,” Ms O’Reilly said.
The 25 Years of Walking Together Community Celebration is free to attend. For more information, visit www.centacarenenw.com.au or call 1800 372 826.
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