"It’s been a hoot…"
- Gig Buddies Sydney
- Jun 29
- 6 min read
We’re handing over the newsletter to one our volunteers.
To mark the final Monday of the month we’ve reopened our vault, and today we hear from Andrew (below left), who tells us more about his match with Aaron.
- How long have you been volunteering with Gig Buddies?
Since when I first met Aaron. We were buddied up in February 2019.
- Is Gig Buddies your first volunteering role?
It is my second. My first was in the surf lifesaving community but I was looking for a change, and a chance to work more closely with people.
- Why do you volunteer with Gig Buddies?
To give back to my (wider) community, something my mother instilled in me from a young age, which I am grateful for.
I was really impressed by the program when I first learned of it, and figured this would be a good opportunity to work closer with people regularly, and help create some fun experiences and memories for both them and myself.
- How would you describe your volunteering experience with Gig Buddies?
It’s been a hoot, I can't recall any bad experiences we have had together (and I hope Aaron thinks the same.…)
I’ve learnt so much from Aaron and others in the organisation. I now have a better understanding of neurodivergence and its ongoing evolution and understanding in society, and how I can contribute to sharing positive narratives and destigmatising things I hear or see in my life.
- Tell us about some of the highlights from your time volunteering with Gig Buddies?
I have never been much of a dancer but have had many a boogie at parties over the years which still surprises me.
We’ve seen some fun gigs, and been to the both the football (above) and cricket together - which has helped me get out and about more than I often do.
- What would you say to someone reading this who is thinking about volunteering with Gig Buddies?
To get involved, or at the least hear more. There is a lot to learn and be enjoyed, and that the fulfilment from giving/ helping more than taking in life is cliche for good reason.
"….which has helped me get out and about more…."
Six years together is a remarkable achievement, congratulations to Andrew and Aaron!
They’re a great example of what we’re all about: two mates catching up and having a good time together. They’ve stood the test of time and continue to thrive.
We’re always on the lookout for more people like Andrew. If you would like to volunteer with us, look no further: to sign up with our Sydney project click here, and jump on this link to get involved on the Central Coast.
And to find out more about our current openings, click on the 'volunteers wanted' images below.
Are you looking to volunteer?
We need volunteers! Click on the image above for current Sydney roles and the graphic below for opportunities on the Central Coast.
If you have any questions or would like more information, contact us via Facebook or email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org
Kicking goals
July is almost upon us - a month where we’ll be facilitating a total of TEN catch ups.
Next month we’re staging socials in Parramatta, Sylvania, Bondi, Balmain, Manly, Chatswood, Eastern Creek, Sydney Olympic Park and Gosford.
Please note, the putt putt offering is sold out, while our dragway, rugby union, AFL and Christmas in July gatherings are on the verge of booking out.
To find out more about each event (and to sign up), load up links below.
Ten out of ten
And as for August, we’ll be bidding farewell to winter with TEN outings.
We’re bringing trips to the market, a visit to the Archibald Prize, pool and dinner, and a live show. Our 35+ catch ups return, and we’ll also be meeting up for line dancing, burgers and movies, pub trivia, and live music.
Parklea, the CBD, Pittwater, Bondi, Epping, Crows Nest, Erina, Eastwood, Guildford and Banksia: in August we’ll be connecting with buddies all throughout Sydney and the Central Coast.
To join us jump on the links below:
And if you have questions about any of our forthcoming events, get in touch: we can be reached via Facebook Messenger, email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org or via text or phone call on 0411 252 228.
The month that was….
And if you would like to know what goes on at a Gig Buddies’ social, take a look at our gallery below.
In June we facilitated nine offerings, connecting with buddies over darts, dinners, pub trivia, karaoke, a Vivid boat cruise, live music, pub trivia, drag bingo and Supernova.
We want to say thanks to everyone who joined us in Darlinghurst, Enfield, Manly, the CBD, Lane Cove, Erskineville, Pennant Hills, Sydney Olympic Park and Hurstville
To see more snaps from our June outings, click here.
Are you in the market for Gig Buddies’ merchandise? Our new and exclusive range of swag has landed!
Click on the image above to get your fill on Gig Buddies goodies. If we haven’t got the size you’re after, get in touch via Facebook Messenger.
"When you first join Gig Buddies….."
Every month we share the thoughts of those who make up our user-led team, Soul Fly Buddies.
We’ve handed Jack the mic for June.
"When you first join Gig Buddies, you expect a great friendship but you don’t expect to be meeting up together in a different country.
Well that’s exactly what happened! Earlier this month my partner (front right, below) and myself (back right, below) were on holiday in Queenstown in New Zealand and ended up meeting my buddy Brendan (front left) and his wife (back left) for dinner one night.
Drinks were had, along with some Irish dancing and many a laugh. If this doesn’t show how amazing Gig Buddies can be then you got me."
- Jack, Soul Fly Buddies
Two up
We’ve another pair of pairings to tell the world about.
It’s wonderful to welcome Rod and Sharon (left, L - R) and Justine and John (right, L - R) to the family. We look forward to hearing more about their forthcoming catch ups.
Ready to go
And within the past week we also readied another two volunteers.
We want to say thanks to Meg (left) and Tania (right) for joining us on Zoom for training.
Add some triumph to your tax return
And finally…… today is your last chance to making a tax deductible donation to Gig Buddies.
With tomorrow marking the end of the financial year, why not consider making a tax deductible donation to Gig Buddies?
Gig Buddies is a ‘deductible gift recipient’ (DGR) organisation, allowing us to receive tax deductible gifts or donations. By making a donation you can help reduce your taxable income while playing a part in tackling social isolation for adults with mild to moderate learning disabilities and/or autism.
Every donation of $2 or more is tax-deductible. A receipt will be issued upon donation; please keep a record for your own tax purposes.
Make a donation by 30 June to claim a deduction on your tax return.
To support Gig Buddies in our ongoing work, click here.
Matthew: Central Coast coordinator (0402 708 814)
Carol: CEO (02 9419 6951)
Chelsea: NDIS coordinator (0412 145 819)
Tony: Funding and sponsorship coordinator (02 9419 6951)
Bec: Project officer, Sydney (0411 252 228)
Aylin: Western Sydney coordinator (0466 389 961)
Lara: Greater Western Sydney coordinator (0478 045 121) Charlotte: Northern Beaches coordinator (0403 184 404)
Would you like more information about Gig BuddiesSydney? You’re only a click away. Connect with us via the links below.
Fancy revelling in legendary status? If so, please support us in our cause to get more people out to live events in Sydney.
Donations over $2 are tax deductible and all are gratefully received.
The Gig Buddies Sydney project is an initiative of ACL Disability Services.
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