Luminous points 2014 STAR Tasmania's Annual Magazine
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2014 luminous points STAR Tasmania’s Annual Magazine
major partners
LIONS INTERNATIONAL
CLEMENGER TASMANIA
quiz supporters
ACCRU KNIGHT FRANK ROSE’S CUPBOARD
ANT MANTON AND THE RAY MACHINE CAFÉ– RYDGES HOBART
WHITE HOBART TEAM JOSH, JYE, JAKE & NAOMI
SAM SIGGINS
ART MOB MAGGY AGREY
SAMUEL BOSWORTH
BLUNDSTONE LION
SHORELINE HOTEL
CADBURY MARTIN VALETICH
STATE CINEMA
CAMPBELL STREET FRAMING MARY GAYS
SUBARU PERFORMANCE
CI SIMON METRO AUTOMOBILES
CLEMENGER TASMANIA MOO BREW TASMANIAN HOSPITALITY
ASSOCIATION
CLEVER FITNESS MOWER CITY HOBART
THE FEDERAL GROUP
COOPER AUTOMOTIVE NATHAN GREY
THE FRIENDS SCHOOL
CUSTOM CABINETS NICK DUIGAN
THE GRAND OLD DUKE
ESSENDON FOOTBALL CLUB OAKLEY TEXTILES
THE MILL ON MORRISON
FAULL’S SHOES OFFICE NATIONAL
THE OLD WOOLSTORE
FROGMORE CREEK PERFORMANCE
AUTOMOBILES–SERVICE TIME TARGET
GARY ALLEN STUDIOS
PETRUSMA AND PARTNERS TIMELESS WAY
GEELONG FOOTBALL CLUB
PIPERS BROOK TRACEY DOEDENS
HAMPER HAUS
RACT WESTPAC
HAWKES COMMUNITY TEAM
RACT INSURANCE WOOLWORTHS HUONVILLE
HOBART IMAGING
RED ISLAND GROUP WORMALD AUSTRALIA
JAKE VALETICH
REHABILITATION OUTCOME XEROX BUSINESS CENTRE
JANELLE MCMILLAN MANAGEMENT
ZONE FIRE SYSTEMS
JO JONES RICHMOND FOOTBALL CLUB
STAR would also like to thank...
TASMANIAN COMMUNITY FUND COMMUNITY SUPPORT LEVY ADRIAN HILLY
COMMONWEALTH BANK ELISE ROBERTS HANNAH MURRAY
ELAINE JACKETT LUKE BURGESS NICOLA LOVELL-MERRETT
contents
From our CEO 4
Workplace health and wellbeing 6
Human resources 7
Corporate quiz night 8
Lions clubs are helping to achieve client dreams 10
Leo’s give a helping hand 11
NDIS – one year on 12
Beyond the school gate 13
A note from Ron 13
Making a star shine brighter 14
Supported Tenancy 15
Accommodation 18
Respite 20
Wear a Star for a Day 22
Wear a Star at Sacred Heart College 24
Wear a Star at Bowen Road Primary School 26
6 focus areas for 2014 28
SUPPORTED TENANCY ACCOMMODATION
AND RESPITE (STAR) TASMANIA
STAR Tasmania provides accommodation, respite and individualised
contract support for people with disabilities in Southern Tasmania.
Suites 2 & 3 / 31 Tower Road, New Town TAS 7008
PO Box 317 Moonah TAS 7009
Tel 03 6244 9444
Fax 03 6278 3550
Email admin@startas.org
Facebook /StarTasmania
Web www.startas.org
luminous points 3
from our ceo
Welcome to our second edition of the annual magazine. Once again, last
year was a very busy year with lots of things happening to provide the
best possible support for people with disabilities.
We are all very proud and humbled to be able to provide
input into so many clients’ lives and their families. We are
also very keen to continue to expand our services so
that we can support even more people into the future.
Thanks to all the STAR staff, clients, families, partners,
sponsors, supporters and friends for yet another
fantastic year!
Ralph Doedens
STAR Facilities
During the year we officially opened our Lenah Valley want to provide that service. This is a big change from the state
Community Access centre and celebrated the day with the funded model which involves service providers receiving block
clients and staff. You will be able to see some of the pictures funding upfront for clients referred to them.
of this event in this edition. It is also fantastic that we could Under the new model, service providers now need to charge
have the hours of operation extended to cater for more the NDIA (or the client – if managing their own funds) for
flexible support times. It is great to see that we have been services provided using the systems designed by NDIA for that
able to support several National Disability Insurance Agency purpose.As you can imagine, all of these changes had their
(NDIA) clients at this site and the numbers continue to grow. ‘teething problems’ and it took a long time to get the systems
Centacare, through their ‘Affordable Housing’ project, have operating effectively.
been working with STAR to build two wheelchair accessible However, most of the system related issues have now been
two bedroom units for STAR to lease and use for additional resolved and all parties are committed to making the scheme
group home clients. I hope to be able to share with you next work for people with disabilities. It has been very exciting for all
year more on this project along with photos and stories. parties to see how many more people have now been able to
In the meantime, it is really exciting that there are access support through the scheme already.
organisations out there that are willing to help meet the It is fair to say that, as NDIA funding expands, service
need for suitable buildings to support people on the providers need to ensure that they are ready for the changed
group home waiting list. Through NDIA funding, these environment and will need to ensure that they are providing
opportunities will continue to increase and we should then first class services that are promoted to potential clients and
start to see that list start to diminish. their families. It will also involve significant financial changes
and there is a need to build up sufficient cash reserves to
NDIA update manage the change from receiving payment in advance to
billing in arrears.
The NDIA has been in pilot or trial mode since July 2013 and STAR is preparing for all of these challenges and are keen to
is supporting the 15 to 24 year old age group in Tasmania. be there supporting as many people as we can with first class
This has been a massive change to everyone involved services.
with disabilities including clients, their families and service
providers. The changed focus means that clients receive
the funding and then can choose any service provider they
4 STAR Tasmania live a brighter life
Branding and Marketing
As part of getting ready for the NDIA world, STAR launched its
new branding and image which includes the tag line ‘live a
brighter life’. The new brand conveys the energy and passion
and personable style that STAR has for its clients and the desire
to see them living life to the full.
STAR’s website has also been totally revamped with the new
branding and now provides an interactive site that receives
and shares stories about what is happening from the client’s
perspective.
Recently, STAR held its annual corporate quiz night which
proved to be a great success in raising $13,000 to be used for a
number of client activities and facilities that STAR is not funded
to provide. It was also a great success in spreading the word
about STAR’s work to the corporate community. Thank you to
all the STAR staff, family and friends who gave up their Saturday
night to work as volunteers on the evening. I would like to
especially thank Megan Cunningham who worked tirelessly Ralph Doedens catches up with host Nick Duigan
and the Auctioneer for the evening Ant Manton
planning and co-ordinating the whole evening. Look out for our
at the Annual Quiz night
‘Wear a Star for a day’ in September for another great event to
raise awareness and raise much needed funding.
STAR Staff Partners, Sponsors
I have to say that we really do have star staff don’t we! It and Supporters
continues to be a great privilege to be able lead such a
STAR receives its core support funding from the state
dedicated team of staff at all levels. I am very proud of the
government and increasingly from the NDIA. However, STAR
willingness of each staff member to ‘go the extra mile’ for the
could not continue if it did not also receive strong support from
clients that they support. Examples of this dedication are
partners and other sponsors and supporters.
evident in all that they do for the clients and the way they
reflect STAR values of ‘listen with heart’, ‘achieve dreams’ and The Lions International have continued to support STAR and
‘celebrate life’. This attitude is not restricted to the Support are busy assisting improvements at the Respite centres and at
Workers and includes all levels of management and office staff various other group home and Community Access sites.
who all look forward to the many client visits to the office.
Clemenger Tasmania has also become a major partner during
the year in terms of providing their expertise in developing the
Other Projects marketing plan and in developing the new brand and website.
Other sponsors include:
There continues to be a number of projects currently underway,
• Tasmanian Community Fund who provided over $16,000 in
including the development of a staff intranet and revamped
funding to enable STAR to buy the remaining high support
policies and procedures as well as identifying a suitable
need beds for the Respite Centre.
Customer Relationship Management system. There is also
going to be increased monitoring of service levels provided and • Commonwealth Bank who provided $6,474 in funding to
improvements needed through a six monthly client and client buy a number of iPads for some of the younger clients to
family survey. access specifically designed applications to stimulate and
educate.
All of the projects underway are helping STAR to keep costs
down and spend more time focussing on client services. • Community Support Levy who donated $1,300 for
upgrading the TV and cabinet at Respite in Lutana.
We have extended our vehicle fleet during the year with
another wheelchair van as well as a seven seater van for • There are also many other supporters of STAR who give of
transporting clients. This has been dedicated to clients their time and money throughout the year and we have
attending Community Access sites in particular. The wheelchair recognised their contribution in this magazine.
van is proving to be particularly popular as it is one of two that
STAR owns that has the ability for wheelchairs to sit in the front
next to the driver.
luminous points 5
workplace health
and wellbeing
What a busy time we have had in WHS (Workplace Health and Safety).
The following items are a recap of some of the topics we have
covered throughout the year.
Denice Cashion, WHS Coordinator
Election of Health and Safety City
Representatives (HSR’s) To
We held elections for Health and Safety Representatives across the Casino
organisation. The result was the successful election of seven HSR’s –
four for Accommodation, one for Respite, one for Supported Tenancy Fun Run
and one for the Office. The HSR’s are the employee representatives Congratulations to all of the staff , families and clients
within the Organisation and are available for employees to talk to. who completed the City to Casino Fun Run/Walk on
A text message to check their availability is a great way to make Sunday. The STAR team had entrants in the walk and
contact. Alternatively I am available during office hours. run. Ralph broke his personal best coming in under
Health and Safety is everyone’s responsibility so if you have a good 38 minutes for the run.
idea, questions, concerns or would like more information or training Everyone crossed the finish line in just over an hour.
on any work health and safety issue please don’t keep it to yourself – Well done to Jacky, Margie, Ralph, Magda, Anita and
share your ideas. the talented O’Brien family, Michelle, Rosie, Tracey,
Lena, Jessica. A great achievement for Phillip, Melissa
First Aid Kits Upgrade Nathan and the staff that supported them. It was great
At the end of last year we replaced all the first aid kits across the to see everyone so excited. A few missed the photo at
organisation with soft bags. These are much lighter and easier to the start as they were lined up for the very busy ladies
use and they are all packed the same. This is to ensure that in an room.!!!
emergency situation staff should be able to find the equipment they Well done to David O’Brien who came 7th in the 11km
require in the same place within the kit, regardless of what site they run. Hope to see you there next year.
are working in. The kits are audited monthly to ensure that they are
always up to date and fully re-stocked on a regular basis. Random Drug and
Home Care, Community Care Alcohol Screening
and Outreach Staff Safety We have conducted random drug and alcohol
screening throughout the year including the office.
Survey 2013 Why Drug and Alcohol Screen?
Many thanks, to those staff who took the time to complete the
Consumption of drugs or alcohol can impair alertness,
recent Safety Survey . We had 44 responses which enabled us to
reflexes and response time. If you are working with a
obtain a report specifically for STAR. From those results we will
person under the influence of drugs or alcohol, that
develop strategies to address safety concerns identified.
person may expose you, themselves and others to the
We had some positive results from the survey which mentioned risk of serious injury or even death.
us against the national average. The focus areas will continue to be
Random drug and alcohol screening is aimed at
developed over the next 6 months. Thank you again for your feedback
providing a safe workplace for all employees.
which will help us make STAR a safer workplace for all.
6 STAR Tasmania live a brighter life
human resources
It’s been a great year in Human Resources as the organisation has seen many changes.
As I have been within the Human Resource Manager role for to the continued development of each new employee within
approximately six months, I have enjoyed the transition into the the organisation.
disability services industry.
The development of Management Training is nearing
Within the past twelve months, the implementation of Time completion and I look forward to reporting on the success of
Target has been successful in reducing paper and creating the module that is aiming to refine and develop those skills
a smoother payroll process for both Support Workers and that we value within our Management team. In addition to
management. With all houses now connected to the internet, the development of new training, I am currently reviewing
the messaging function on Time Target has also allowed easier the performance development templates to combine them
communication between sites. and create an easier, user friendly template that is suitable
organisation wide.
With communication being made easier through the internet,
we look forward to the implementation of the intranet into the With the introduction of the National Disability Insurance
organisation. This will assist all levels within the organisation Scheme (NDIS), we have seen many challenges within the
to easier access policies, procedures and forms needed to area of recruitment. We are working towards resolutions so
complete their jobs as they will be held in the one convenient that we can continue to offer employees a secure and stable
location. environment.
Training in the past twelve months has seen many of our I am preparing to send out the staff satisfaction survey in
employee’s successfully complete their Certificate 3 and 4 in coming weeks. This will be via Survey Monkey and I hope that
Disabilities, as well as the Diploma in Disabilities with many each person within the organisation will complete their survey
more continuing on with further study. so that we are able to gain a better understanding of your
vision for and views of the organisation.
STAR continues to offer staff numerous development
opportunities which have been cost free or heavily subsidised. STAR currently offers a valued Employee Assistance Program
This success is attributed to STAR’s dedication to training and to all employees. WHS Coordinator, Denice and I are currently
development in addition to the securing of funding for three reviewing the program to ascertain where we can make
years running now from Skills Tasmania, and our relationship improvements for the benefit of employees.
with State Enterprise Training as a service provider.
In the coming months, I am looking forward to the challenges
In July we successfully ran our third Competency Pathway and adventures that are ahead for the organisation. I know that
Program in partnership with State Enterprise Training and the as an organisation, we are more than prepared to meet these
O-Group. This program has resulted in the recruitment and challenges and continue our vision to ‘live a brighter life’.
retention of several new employees that have completed
Chiara Livingston
a number of Certificate 3 in Disabilities units, medication
administration and first aid.
STAR has seen this
program as a valued
addition to our
recruitment
practices and
look forward
luminous points 7
corporate quiz night
STAR held its annual Corporate Quiz night on We were also very lucky to
have Ant Manton from
Saturday 9th August 2014 in the Farrell Centre
Ray White to run the
at Friends School. main auction and
be the ‘mobile
Apart from offering a great night out and developing our phone’ policeman
relationship with our many partners and sponsors, we were for the night. Ant
looking to raise funds that could be applied to a number of also produced an
items including: entertaining YouTube
• Providing sensory gardens at our the Lenah Valley video which we are
Community Access Centre costing around $8,000; using to launch the
“Wear a Star’ program in
• Further expanding individual nutrition plans for group
September.
home clients - $10,000;
There were some great prizes and top quality food (prepared by
• Enhancing the quality of activities for clients being
Tracey Doedens again this year). Feedback provided to date is
supported at our Community Access sites through the
that everyone had a fantastic night and appreciated being part
purchase of specialised equipment – including play
of such a special occasion.
equipment and gym equipment (suitable for people with
disabilities)- ~ $10,000; and A number of STAR staff enthusiastically volunteered their time
serving food and drinks, setting up and decorating the venue,
• Purchasing two mobile change tables for use at our Respite
keeping score, collecting money and cleaning up afterwards.
sites – total $5,600.
This year, STAR had 140 people attend (last year there were
The night began with a moving testimony from Julie , a
110) and we are very please to say that we raised over $13,000
family member of one of the group home supported clients.
net for the evening. Of this amount, $8,000 will go towards the
Julie spoke about the challenges faced seeking out and then
Lenah Valley sensory gardens and $5,000 towards expanding
continuing to ensure that loved ones are receiving high quality
individual nutrition plans to 3 Group Home Units at the
support. This was a great reminder to the Board and staff
Claremont site.
around the important work that STAR does and the need to
ensure that the client focussed values of ‘Listen with Heart’, A big thankyou to all the sponsors and supporters for donating
Achieve Dreams’ and ‘Celebrate Life’ remains at the forefront of money, prizes and auction items and to the many volunteers
all that we do. that made the night happen. A special thankyou must go to
Megan Cunningham who was our organising commander in
The night proceeded with the host for the evening Nick Duigan
chief. The night was a screaming success.
(from ‘Hook Line and Sinker’) keeping all of us very entertained
throughout the evening. This included some impromptu See inside the front cover where we have listed all of the
singing and joke telling with prizes. sponsors and partners for the night.
8 STAR Tasmania live a brighter life
luminous points 9
Lions Clubs
are helping to
achieve client dreams
STAR is very lucky to have the support of the Past District Lions Governor David Daniels believes this is one of
Lions Clubs around Tasmania and Nationally the most exciting projects and partnerships that Lions have had
the pleasure of being involved with and look forward to a long
again in 2014 as provided in 2013 when
and lasting relationship with STAR.
Lions donated $20,000 towards the Respite
The Kingborough and Clarence Lions clubs are also supporting
Beds at Lutana.
some specific projects at STAR group homes in Kingston and
Rokeby. Both of these are looking at offering enhanced outdoor
In 2013 the Lions contribution together with the 2013
facilities for group home clients.
Corporate Quiz night and a further $16,000 provided through
a grant from Tasmanian Community Fund, enabled STAR to Lions are also working with STAR on the ‘Wear a Star Day’ which
purchase the 13 replacement beds needed for the centre. will be launched in September to increase awareness of people
with disabilities and to raise money for a major art activity
In 2014, Lions are again getting involved and are looking at
project.
funding a new deck, ramp and sensory gardens at the Respite
Centre. This project is very exciting in terms of what it will provide STAR wants to especially thank Lions for their continued
for people with disabilities, enabling them to go outside and support. They do a great job in the community and, in this
enjoy a tour through the garden. It is still early days, but funding case, helping STAR clients to achieve their dreams.
is being organised through the Lions Club of Glenorchy and
Tasmanian and Australian Lions Foundations and plans have
already been drawn up. By next year, we are hoping to be able to
show you the outcome of this project which we expect will be
valued at more than $30,000, all funded through the Lions clubs
and their volunteers.
10 STAR Tasmania live a brighter lifeLIONS IMAGES?
Leo’s give
a helping
hand
Leo clubs are a sponsored affiliation of Lions
Clubs International that encourages young
men and women to serve others in their
community and around the world.
Leo clubs are sponsored by local lions clubs and may be either
school-affiliated or community based.
Leo club activities include regular meetings, service projects
and social functions.
The Leo motto – Leadership, Experience, Opportunity –
is fulfilled as members work together in response to the needs
of others.
Rhys Hardman and Emily Grainger are excited about leading
their Leo club in supporting STAR with projects associated with
the Adults and Children’s respite. They have invited Ralph and
Megan to one of their up coming meetings.
Thank you Emily and Rhys.
luminous points 11NDIS
one year on…
Over the past 12 months, STAR has fully embraced the National Disability Insurance Scheme
(NDIS) and have been on a steep learning curve along with clients, families and other service
providers. We have been navigating the system and ensuring that our focus has been on current
and new clients and families receiving as much information as possible about the changes.
STAR has found that families in particular have wanted support funding levels are sufficient to cover reasonable Service Provider
with “what questions to ask the planner” and assistance with costs and we will continue to work with the NDIA to ensure that
clarifying what needs to be identified in their plan, as they the system works best in providing appropriate good quality
have told STAR that “they are just used to having access to the services to clients in the long run.
regular services they receive and not having to “think outside
Full implementation of the scheme is still planned to roll out
the square”.
between the 1st July 2016 and 30th June 2019.
STAR encourages feedback about what this change means for
Some of the STAR clients and families have reflected back on
clients and their families and continues to work with all involved
the journey and have this to say:
to achieve the best outcome for the individual client.
• “STAR supporting us has been great. If I didn’t have the support
We have definitely learnt a lot over the past year and look
in place I would never leave the house. It enables me to have
forward to learning more.
social interaction and attend appointments”
Ralph Doedens’ take on the NDIS to date: K Graham
NDIS is fantastic concept which will we all believe will deliver • “I am happy living with STAR and the NDIS has helped me look
revolutionary changes for people with disabilities and their into the future. Langford supports me in the weekdays with
families/carers. Even in these early stages with a limited age independent living skills and I am hoping that one day I will get
group involved, it is really exciting to see people that were my learners licence” S Geard
unable to access support in the past (due to limited funding)
In summary, the introduction of the NDIS is set to dramatically
start to gain access to Community Access, Respite and Group
alter the market for and delivery of disability services. There is a
Accommodation.
clear shift of control to people with disability, their families and
As with all revolutionary systems, there have been some carers, who will have a greater say in selecting a Service Provider
teething problems over the past year, especially with National to deliver much needed support. This will also create greater
Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) IT systems and processes. competition between disability service providers and will lead
It was fortunate (from the Service Providers perspective) to the introduction of more ‘for profit’ providers over time. In
that the first year was limited to a trial age group (15-24) as it order to compete and remain viable, ‘Not For Profit’ providers
allowed us to cope with lack of access to plans, long delays in like STAR will need to develop sufficient size, scale and breadth
payments and some problems with insufficient funding. It also of services to attract clients, reduce overhead costs and make
enabled STAR to develop internal systems to better track and better use of available resources (especially support staff ). It is
monitor all aspects of contract performance including service fair to say that this presents some challenges to the STAR’s Board
outcomes, resourcing and billing information. There are still in terms of ensuring service viability while retaining quality
many challenges ahead, such as the need to ensure that NDIA services to clients.
12 STAR Tasmania live a brighter lifeA note
from Ron
Years ago, a friend asked me what I wanted out of
life. I said, “inner peace” which made him laugh.
In the years since, I have enjoyed many new
experiences and lasting friendships and I’ve always
remembered that conversation with my friend.
Today, if asked, my answer would be no different.
However, the experience of life has shown me that inner
peace is not something to aspire to. Rather, it’s the beautiful
Beyond the simplicity that in all things, at any given moment lay the opportunity to
find true meaning and purpose.
School Gate “It’s the little things in life that make the biggest difference”. Or at least,
that’s what we are told. How easy it is then, that we often forget the little
things as we cope with the demands of day-to-day of living and pressure
STAR participated in a great initiative to always focus on the future.
coordinated by Mission Australia called I have struggled with the thought that to be happy I had to focus on
Beyond the School Gate. The sessions the future, a better house, a better car and a successful career. It’s still a
provided families, students with disabilities mystery to me why we wish others “all the best for the future” as if the
present doesn’t actually exist? Yet, the things that always seem to make
and school support staff from public and
me happiest are the simplest experiences, in the present. A moment
independent schools, with an opportunity to with a loved one, interacting with family and friends, silence away from
hear directly from STAR on what our service distractions, these matter most, to me.
offers and how to access it. Nowhere, are the small, simple moments more powerful than in the
people who dedicate themselves to caring for those who are less
The sessions were held at: fortunate. As the Father of a daughter with severe disabilities, I have
Claremont College developed a heightened appreciation for people who help others,
Tuesday 24th June unconditionally.
Kingston High School I have been lucky to work with some amazing people and organisations
Wednesday 25th June that dedicate themselves to helping others. These are the ones who help
Rosny College others to celebrate the present moment and provide opportunities to
Tuesday 1st July live life to the full.
TasTafe Campbell Street Campus So, when I was approached to consider joining STAR Tasmania as a Board
Tuesday 12th August member, it was important for me to discover if this was an organisation
with strong values that believes deeply in the people it supports.
After all the presentations, families and clients had a
chance to chat with STAR representatives to discuss I was quickly impressed with STAR Tasmania and was encouraged by
and ask individual questions and to gather further their values of ‘listen with heart’, ‘achieve dreams’ and ‘celebrate life’.
information. It was also encouraging to discover that these values pointed toward
a vision of ‘people with disabilities living life to the full’.
Leaving school can be a difficult and confusing time
and with the introduction of the National Disability In a world driven by economic realities, STAR Tasmania has been able to
Insurance Scheme (NDIS), it is even more important for ensure that its focus remains on those who need care and support. STAR
school leavers to be well informed about the options Tasmania clients come first and decisions are made to ensure the best
available. possible outcome for them. This is a strong theme and is always present
in Board discussions and decision-making.
A big thank you to Luke Sutcliffe who was the most
positive STAR advocate at the Claremont College I am happy to be a part of STAR Tasmania and am grateful to be
session. Without any prior set up Luke sat in the front associated with the STAR family who believe it is possible to make
row to listen to the STAR representative talk about every moment count, no matter how small.
the services available and every time the person said All the best for ever-present
“STAR”, Luke cheered. “We are forever grateful Luke for Ron Franks
your positivity and support.”
luminous points 13Making a star
shine brighter
Clemenger Tasmania was engaged to review and
relaunch the STAR brand. This is the story behind
the brand journey we’ve undertaken together.
A brand is the sum of many parts – the way it looks, what it
promises and how it interacts with customers and the public
at large. Brand perception is as much a reality for people as
well as the impression formed through the physical interaction
with the organisation itself. Your identity and image can be
maximised through good planning and execution to the
benefit of both the business, staff and clients.
Knowing this, the strategy put forward was to focus on the core
values of the organisation in a way that contextualised and
Clemenger Tasmania design team: Kim Maisch and
amplified them. Values that would resinate in a meaningful way
Sunny Drury
with current and potential clients and their families.
This ‘positive values’ vision led the entire project and
development of our new logo, web site and collateral. We
Kim Maisch, Designer and web developer explains the
do things differently at STAR, in a unique way, a caring and
fundamental approach to the site’s design and content.
motivating way. We believe we can improve people’s lives, and
we do it…not just talk about it. “Our client was able to tell many, many stories regarding
their client’s positive outcomes having been part of the STAR
“The first thing we do is audit our client’s brands on all levels.
‘family’ and the programs they offer. It was quite obvious
This uncovers whether we need to undertake a evolution
that the untold story was in fact their client’s unique stories.
or revolution. And in the case of STAR it was clear that staff
So we proposed a site that put their clients first, up front
believed strongly in their current values and their operating
and celebrated their journey…their life story. This led us to
culture was built on applying and delivering on those strong
develop an interactive matrix of client portraits that literally
values”. Sunny Drury, Design Director of Clemenger Tasmania.
took up the majority of the home page. Each is a virtual
explains.
window into their lives and tells the broader story of how
“Therefore the opportunity was to amplify those values through STAR helps them to live a brighter life.”
a new look identity that projected the energy, vibrancy and
“The site projects a highly professional, committed, dedicated
passion that sets STAR apart from similar businesses. The great
yet relaxed appeal. This matches with their values, and draws
thing was that from senior management to staff, the desire for
visitors ‘inside’ to engage with content that relates to their
a fresh approach, to develop and to ‘own’ a unique place in the
situation and needs” adds Kim.
market was a united one. Along with a productive, objective
and collaborate client attitude, it gave us the confidence to The site now showcases over 30 clients and we’re updating
offer a level of innovative, creative thinking that would deliver all the time, so current and potential clients and their families
long-term, strategic change to ensure the ongoing success of can visit the site regularly and discover new and inspiring
the business.” stories of real people making real improvements to their
wellbeing and personal development. So if you know a great
All marketing elements, visual and operational, now reflect
story make sure we capture and celebrate it with the world.
an organisation that is a category leader and is committed to
helping people ‘live a brighter life’. This new positioning line “We are very proud of the work, and believe it will attract and
now defines all that we think, do and plan. Our logo bursts encourage future clients to trust STAR with one of the most
with energy, in colour and movement, and its human form important decisions of their lives. I’d like to thank everyone at
represents an unwavering focus on our clients. No where is STAR for inviting us on this journey, one we look forward to
this more obvious than our new web site, also developed by sharing with you as you continue to grow and prosper. You
Clemenger Tasmania. and your clients are simply inspirational.” – Sunny Drury.
14 STAR Tasmania live a brighter lifesupported tenancy
Supported Tenancy has continued to grow over the last twelve months in response
to the many requests for new program areas. The opening of Daly Road as a
Community Access Program base, Lenah Valley overnight, the school holiday
programs, individual community access programs, and In Home Support
have all grown and we feel proud of the many experiences we have been
able to offer to clients of STAR. I would like to thank all of the Support
staff, the team of Supported Tenancy CSM’s and Georgina as our Project
Officer who have all worked tirelessly to make the last 12 months so
successful and who strive to enact STAR’s core values on a daily basis.
Ally Valetich
Official Opening
of Daly Road
A very successful day was held on Wednesday 30th April for STAR.
The official opening of Daly Road was launched by Federal Employment Minister, Senator Eric Abetz, and Tasmanian
Minister for Human Services, Jacquie Petrusma. The day was welcomed with shining sun, high attendance, happy
clients and a very sharp looking venue.
The Daly Road Community Access program is able to provide a small group setting for clients in order to better focus
on activities that they themselves have chosen. Some of the activities currently being undertaken include swimming,
community street soccer, music, crafts, cooking, life skills, painting and sensory experiences.
The Hobart City Council has approved extended operating hours for the centre
so that carers and family members are not restricted to 9-3 enabling them to
complete a full day’s work for example before picking up as late as 6.30pm.
A big thank you to the Supported Tenancy Team and Clients and to all
who were able to attend the opening which was wonderful.
luminous points 15the year 2014 in supported
tenancy also saw….
Alex turns
18 and
hosts a
party at
School Holiday Zone3!!
Program activities
that included
Camping,
Swimming and
craft making.
Daly Road
makes
Terrariums
16 STAR Tasmania live a brighter lifesupported tenancy
Supported
Tenancy client
Jesse Evans
features in
The Mercury
Article Extract
The family was spending many thousands of dollars a year
Jesse Evans, a 23-year-old cerebral palsy
on special necessities and transport for Jesse. The NDIS had
sufferer has little movement and has relied on
covered many costs and provided in-home support.
his family for constant care.
STAR Tasmania Chief Executive Officer Ralph Doedens said the
But the opening of a new centre in Hobart and funding from
NDIS had been life-changing for the young Tasmanians able to
the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) have opened
access it.
a new world for Jesse and his family.
The first stage of the scheme was targeted at people with a
“We now have a life,” his father, Jim Evans, said yesterday at
disability aged 15 to 23, of whom there were about 1000 in
the official opening of the Lenah Valley STAR community
Tasmania.
access centre.
However, Mr Doedens said about 10,000 Tasmanians needed
“Jesse was the first client at the centre and attends every
disability help but only 6000 were receiving support – fewer
weekday to enjoy music therapy, swimming and excursions.
than 1000 of whom were ¬able to access the NDIS.
Before this he was just sitting at home with nothing to do,” Mr
Evans said. Mr Doedens said the NDIS had some “teething problems”,
including a troubled IT system and difficulty accessing funds.
“But he’s not bored any more.”
It had created a lot of extra administrative work but was good
Mr Evans said the relief for the family had also been huge
for people accessing the service.
because they could never leave Jesse alone before the centre
opened. Sometimes his sisters stayed home from school to STAR stands for supported tenancy accommodation and
help care for their brother. respite. It provides supported accommodation, community
access, individual support and in-home and centre-based
Mr Evans said the NDIS funding, which started in January,
respite services.
also helped enormously.
Senator Eric Abetz, who opened the facility, said he was aware
of NDIS teething problems but the Federal Government was
working through them.
A Proud But Senator Abetz said the NDIS was an initiative “we fully back
Moment as a government as it will provide more support to more people
living with disability”.
A proud moment for STAR
“We also recognise that 83 per cent of Tasmanians living with a
occurred at the Hobart Aquatic
disability are on waiting lists for support and don’t qualify for the
Centre on Sunday 3rd August
first stage,” he said.
2014. Luke achieved a personal
best of swimming The Government had committed an extra $2 million over four
50 metres – what an years to deliver additional support until the full rollout”
outstanding effort
“This means 4000 people are going completely without, as well
for Luke!
as the others who have never come forward,” he said.
luminous points 17accommodation
The Accommodation program has once again experienced a great year and feels
very privileged to be sharing the dreams, goals and aspirations of STAR residents
and their families. We have had many new faces join us this year and we are
excited to see what else we can achieve.
We have been very busy working on a number of projects and celebrating the
stories of individuals and I am very pleased to be able to share just a few with you.
Thank you to the dedicated staff teams and for the strong family support that
helps us continue to provide high quality and innovative services to all residents.
Lena Mitchell
Living Vision and Values
The Claremont staff and the Disability assessment and Advisory Team
(DAAT) jointly designed and implemented a successful project to
improve the quality of support at the site.
By participating in the training provided by the DAAT team we were able
to develop the residents skills to a much higher level, this included hand
over hand, shoulder to shoulder and becoming a mentor and trainer in
skill development by using the active support model.
There were five common approaches highlighted through out the
training such as: communication with style, initiating and engaging,
social role modelling, activity planning and supporting skill development.
During the process the organisations values were also applied, which
are Listen with heart, Achieve dreams and Celebrate life.
No one would know how well this project would go or if we would
succeed but with the determination and commitment from the staff
and clients at Claremont we were able to break new grounds in our
service delivery.
The skills our residents have and are still developing are both small Our Budding Artists
and large.
STAR continues to experience the most amazing
Each individual skill developed with each resident opened up unique
pieces of art from clients across the service.
challenges according to the situation, and some times the simplest task
We were all surprised when we realised Kym
could be the most challenging and rewarding.
McDuff enjoyed using a paint brush!
The outcomes of the project are happier people with more skills,
Kym has recently found her passion for art and is
engaged in a greater range of activities, enjoying each other’s company,
often in the STAR office taking orders for original
satisfied family members, confident engaged staff who love being at
canvas art work. After negotiating a price, Kym
work, and reduced incident.
works hard at creating a master piece; many are
We would like to thank the DAAT Team for Training and the input they displayed in our rooms at the New Town office.
provided, STAR management for the support they provided and the Kym created a “Beauty” for the auction for our
funding to allow this to get off the ground. Annual Quiz night on the 9th August. The highest
From the Team at Claremont bidder won the prize and Kym is busy with more
orders on the way.
18 STAR Tasmania live a brighter lifeThe Great Adventure Come Fly
STAR clients recently participated in a Club STAR event known with Sam
by all as ‘The Great Adventure’. Based largely on previous
STAR continues to celebrate Sam’s
successful mystery tour events, the day began with clients
achievements and we were very proud when Sam’s work
and staff converging on the Derwent Entertainment Centre
was on display at the Corpoarte Quiz night for all to see
car park to receive the first clue in a race around the realm.
and bid for. Sam is exploring different art mediums and
After solving a series of mind boggling clues some teams
has recently completed a magnificent “fly” from wire and
found their way to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary for a much
recycled objects. The wire work is a new direction for
deserved pit stop.
Sam. He has been having weekly individual tutoring with
All of the clients participating in the Great Adventure Zefi Famelis.
generously donated a gold coin; all donations received
were donated to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary towards the
building of an animal hospital at the sanctuary to care for
injured and orphaned Tasmanian native animals. Due to the
generosity of all participants, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary Family Forums
kindly allowed clients and staff to enter the sanctuary and
meet a baby wombat up close. Many of the clients enjoyed STAR holds family forums approximately every three
the opportunity to get up close with such an amazing native months so parents, carers and siblings can get together
Tasmanian animal. to discuss service issues that may impact on the lives of
their family members.
The day concluded with the final leg of the race finishing at
the Claremont RSL club for Lunch, drinks and socialising. We have a lot of support from Accommodation family
members and will be working hard in 2015 to expand the
A big thankyou to all the clients who attended and the staff family network to include Respite and Supported Tenancy
who made the event possible. An even bigger thankyou to families. Thank you to all of the families who attend our
both the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and the Claremont RSL Saturday sessions, your feedback is greatly appreciated.
who donated their time and venues for this event.
The Fun Run
Jenny Howard participated in the Budget Fun Run,
3rd August 2014. Jenny completed the 2.5 km walk and
was thrilled with her effort. Jenny received a medal that
she wears proudly. Well done Jenny.
luminous points 19respite
We have all had an amazing time at STAR Respite this year.
Both clients and staff have genuinely engaged in all
that STAR has to offer as an organisation. Below are
some of our wonderful stories.
Darryleen Wiggins
Thank You
Commonwealth Bank
and STAR
On Thursday the 17th July, STAR was presented
with the cheque associated with the grant from the
Commonwealth Bank to support the STAR mobile
learning program. This program will benefit Respite,
Supported Tenancy and Young people in
the Accommodation services to be able Story Sharing
to increase their skills and abilities in
Information Technology, access to Adults Unit
various social media platforms and
enable clients to participate more Rod Barwick (above) is a regular face at Adult’s
fully in the research and design of Respite. He is a car and motorbike enthusiast, especially
an upcoming art project. Les Allie cars with a little colour and age. While at Respite, Rod loves
from the Moonah Branch of the to share his passion for fast cars and enjoys connecting
Commonwealth Bank delivered the big with other people over his car magazines. One of Rod’s
cheque and morning tea. (We also got visits to Respite coincided with a big event that was right
the real one that we cashed to pay for 12 up his alley: the ‘Street Rod Nationals’ at the Royal Hobart
iPads). Showgrounds. The showcasing of hundreds of vintage
and customised hot rods was an event not to be missed!
On Saturday morning Rod and staff headed off to the
The beds finally arrived!
showgrounds to check out the hot rods. Many cars
After a long wait and a lot of excitement the new beds at captured Rod’s interest and the more colourful the better.
Respite finally arrived! Special thanks to the Lions Club for Rod enjoyed a bite to eat and caught up with some friends
their generous donation of $20,000 and to the Tasmanian and fellow hot rod enthusiasts along the way.
Community Fund for a grant of $16,400. STAR also raised
Judy Towart loves art! She creates it, sells it, and this year
the remaining funding we needed at the first annual quiz
she even... sings it! Judy has always had a love of visual art.
event which meant that we were able to replace all the
Scrap booking and creating 3D cards has been a long-time
beds at Respite. Clients and staff have been giving us
passion. Beni-Abbes and Mission Australia have taken a
fantastic feedback ever since the new beds arrived.
liking to Judy’s 3D cards, selling them at their premises.
New TV and TV cabinet for the Support Worker Helen from Beni- Abbes knew that Judy
was on the lookout for more activities and community
Children’s Unit
involvement so Helen thought Judy might like to join her
Respite was also lucky enough to receive a grant from the at the Choir of High Hopes. Their motto is: ‘Everyone is
Community Support Levy to purchase a new smart TV and welcome’. If you can breathe, you can SING! It all started with
TV cabinet for the children’s unit. When the items were just one rehearsal and Judy was hooked. She and the Choir
replaced we also took the time to paint the wall behind the of High Hopes have been performing all over Hobart with
TV to make a feature wall in the lounge room. their distinctive red attire.
20 STAR Tasmania live a brighter lifeChildren’s Unit Celebrations
Alexander has been attending Respite since June 2011
originally for one night a month. Alexander has specific Respite and Support
meal management needs and because of this he would not Tenancy Client
accept staff assisting him. Alison and Greg would have to Christmas Get
come to the Respite unit at dinner time and help Alexander Together at Tolosa
with his meal and pick him up early the next day so that
he could go home and have his next meal. This was a big
Park
drain on the family but one they happily did for Alexander’s On the 29th November,
benefit. Gradually as staff and Alexander got to know each Respite and Supported
other Alexander started to trust staff more and more. Tenancy clients, families
and staff came together to
One day Alison thought that maybe it was time for the staff
celebrate the year that was
to assist Alexander with his meals. In January 2013, Darryleen
2013 at a BBQ at Tolosa Park.
Wiggins, Respite Program Manager rang the Gateway and
Although the weather was not
made a referral on behalf of Alison and Greg to receive
kind to us, those that came along
funding for a complex care plan in order for staff to be
for the fun, food and friendship had
trained in Alexander’s specific meal management needs. In
a great time. We brought along “life be
July 2013, Alison and Greg were notified that funding had
in it” to help us generate some entertainment
been secured and Alexander’s complex care plan could be
and we got some great photos by photographer Brianna
developed for Respite. The staff were finally trained on the
Vernon which we also made into a fabulous photo book for
31st October and on this weekend Alison and Greg had their
Respite.
first weekend of respite without having to visit the unit to
assist Alexander. This was a momentous occasion for both We are getting together again this year and we are hoping to
the family and for Respite staff who had all hoped that this have a lot more people join us. We have gone with an indoor
day would arrive. Alexander now has weekend respite and venue this time!
Alison and Greg have time to enjoy together.
Raphael is a very popular visitor to Respite and he always
has great things to say about the staff and our service. We
thought it would be a good idea to interview Raphael on
Sharing
how he felt about coming to Respite. Amy Siggins, former
Support Worker at Respite did the all important interview Association for Children with Disability (ACD)
with Raphael. and STAR
Amy: “What is the best thing about staying at Respite?” STAR Respite was asked to participate in MyTime sessions on the
Raph: “Watching TV and resting on the couch – it’s the most 23rd June and 25th July 2014. Darryleen Wiggins was contacted
comfortable couch I have ever sat on” (We are glad you like by Rachael Shotter from Association for Children with Disability
it) (Tas.) Inc. Rachael runs these sessions for parents of Children
with Disability or Chronic Medical Conditions. There are 4
Amy: “What are your favourite things to do at Respite?” MyTime Sessions in Southern Tasmania. After the first My Time
Raph: “Playing with building blocks, playing with the doctors session held at Respite in June, this is what Rachael Shotter from
set, train and car tracks and the Wii”. Association for Children with Disability (Tas.) Inc. had to say:
(I might add that Raph specifically asked the Program “It was wonderful meeting you and your wonderful Staff
the other day!
Manager to get most of these toys for Respite)
Thank you again for your openness and honesty and
Amy: “Who are your friends at Respite?”
showing us what a wonderful facility you have.
Raph: “Thomas, Maria, Sarah, Rod, Emily and Leanne
I think it made all the difference to those who did attend,
Amy: “Is there anything you would change about Respite?” to get a real feel for your service and the people that
would be supporting our children and would like to open
Raph: “More clocks and I would like a slide in the backyard” up that session to the two groups in order to ensure
(More clocks we can do but the slide may take us a bit those specific parents who would (most down the track a
longer to achieve) little) benefit from what you have to offer. I think if they
have a first hand experience on your service they would
The final word from Raph: “I would like to stay on Wednesday
be more open to it as this was the main point of feedback
nights instead on Monday nights because I am missing
on the session we had.”
Thomas. Thomas plays awesome games with me!”
For more information go to www.mytime.net.au
luminous points 21STAR held a Wear a STAR campaign on
Wednesday 17th September 2014.
The main aim of the day was to:
• create awareness of what we do and our programs; and
• form partnerships with the community in order to build and grow opportunities
and networks for people with disabilities.
STAR has a passion for engagement and education in community, so the needs of people with disability and their
families can be understood and supported. STAR launched and managed an event on the 17th September 2014
(with the working title ‘Wear a Star for a Day’) directed at its Key Partners as well as the general community.
What did we want supporters to do?
Buy a Star badge, wear a star sticker or buy an e-badge and build awareness in the community
about people with disabilities and the work that STAR does.
The money raised will be used for?
All of the money raised will go towards funding the arts project ‘Connectedness’.
The participants with disabilities will engage in various methods of artistic
exploration, learning a variety of mediums in colour, texture, textiles and structural
design. All money raised will go towards the funding of the art tutor and to acquire
supplies.
Phase 1 – ‘Connectedness’ – 7 clients with disabilities will be given the
opportunity to participate in the project which will involve training culminating in
building the foundation of the ‘UR Connected’ art installation.
Phase 2 – The Connectedness group will join with the community to create an
installation. This project titled ‘UR Connected’ – Copyright Maggy Agrey – Art Tutor
who will bring together 2015 pieces of art together for the year 2015.
We are hoping to raise $6,000 so we can assist the project to move to the second phase
and give an opportunity tomore people with a disability and the local community to come
together and ‘connect’ with a common theme.
22 STAR Tasmania live a brighter lifeSHARO E IT’S AS EASY AS 123!
H Y UR
WIT NDS! 1 2 3
FRIE MAKE A
BUY A GOLD COIN BUY AN
BADGE DONATION
AND WEAR A
E-BADGE
$25 OR $50 MINIMUM $5
OR $100 STICKER BADGE DONATION
WEDNESDAY 17 SEPTEMBER 2014
Why is art important? What happened on the day?
Art assists people with disability and the wider community to • The day started with a corporate breakfast on 17th
be able to express themselves creatively and develop individual September
skills in an environment that does not discriminate between
• Key businesses were invited to the breakfast run by STAR
people, whether they have a disability or not.
and supported by Lions International
Art strengthens focus, reduces anxiety and opens up a world of
• The Wear a Star support team made up of STAR volunteers
possibilities while developing hand eye coordination.
visited schools to share stories and complete an art activity
Art builds self esteem, increases motivation and, when working around the STAR values Listen with heart, Celebrate Life and
in a group environment, nurtures team work. Achieve Dreams.
Art helps build communities and thereby allows everyone to
become more connected. What other activities can be arranged to
keep this issue in front of people?
Art supports the bigger picture of storytelling and the
importance of having a voice. We will remind people again on the 3rd of December
International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) to Wear a
How might this campaign support or change Star and share stories.
the life of one person with a disability? Celebrating this day creates an opportunity to think, talk about
and acknowledge people with disability positively.
With just one person in mind...
It is a collaborative effort between schools, organisations,
This art project will offer them an opportunity to feel free, to be
community groups, businesses and individuals
themselves, to express their thoughts feelings and desires, to
to break down disability barriers and
learn and grow and to deal with their anxiety and self esteem
celebrate abilities. STAR hopes to
challenges that may often be a barrier to enjoying day to day
capture these ideas and share them
activities. It will assist the person to communicate and interact
via our website and a book that
with the wider community in a purposeful way. It can change
will hopefully inspire others
someone’s life in a very positive way...
to engage with their local
community.
Target audience?
• Schools Thank you to Ant
• Friends and families of STAR Manton and the Ray
• Local businesses – STAR Supporters
White Hobart team for
• Sponsors - Lions international
their ongoing support and
• Wear a Star advocates – Nick and Andrew – Hook line and
interest in this great initiative.
Sinker compares and Ant Manton – Ray White Hobart
luminous points 23You can also read
