We've had a strong uptake for this Wednesday's newbies Zoom session.
As a reminder, our online events continue to grow in popularity - especially given the current lockdown situation. As such, we’re aware that some attendees to our Zoom offerings may feel overwhelmed, drowned out or overlooked.
To address this we’ve introduced the ‘newbies Zoom session’ - taking place this Wednesday (25/8) at 7.30pm.
This session is specifically for those who may be new to Zoom or who may get overwhelmed by large online gatherings. During these sessions, we’ll ensure everyone has the opportunity to engage, and we’ll be on hand to answer any questions that you may have.
We hope that, over time, attendees will be confident and comfortable to attend all our online games, chats and events.
To sign up for our ‘newbies Zoom sessions’ send a text or call us at 0422 061 990 (Gig Buddies Sydney) or 0402 708 814 (Gig Buddies Central Coast). Alternatively, feel free to get in touch via Facebook Messenger or connect courtesy of email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org or info@gigbuddiescentralcoast.org
Virtual reality
This week we invite buddies to the following online gigs:
Taking place tonight, the Gig Buddies Central Coast team are hosting their first ever group Zoom. Please note, this is for Coasties only: if our Sydneysiders happen to know of someone who resides north of the Hawkesbury and feel that they would benefit knowing more about the project, feel free to pass on our invite.
In addition to Wednesday’s ‘newbies Zoom session’ we’re also hosting a popular culture quiz on Thursday (26/8). Kahoot! apps at the ready, we’ll be posing 40 questions on what’s hot right now.
And, to round off the working week, we’ll be throwing an 80s group karaoke session. While we won’t be taking requests for this one, expect to hear some of the biggest hits from the decade: get ready to sing-a-long to Queen, Bon Jovi, Whitney Houston and Cyndi Lauper.
To find out more about our online gigs (and to sign up), load up the links below:
Monday 23/8
Wednesday 25/8
- Gig Buddies ‘newbies Zoom session’ @ 7.30pm. To sign up get in touch (see contact details below)
Thursday 26/8
Friday 27/8
All online games will take place via Zoom. For information on how to use Zoom, load up the following easy read guide written by Learning Disability Wales. Alternatively, click here to check out our 'how to use Zoom' video.
If you have any questions or would like more information, send us an email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org or info@gigbuddiescentralcoast.org or call/SMS us on 0402 708 814.
Baking with buddies
Thanks to everyone who joined us last Wednesday for our first ever baking social event.
Cookies with Tahli and Tony was a great success - evident by the delicious treats whipped up.
The home straight
Time is running out to enter our LOLympics competition.
If you would like to win a $100 gift voucher, upload a photo or video of yourself taking part in your favourite Olympic event. With over 65 events to choose from (click here to see a complete list), we're encouraging buddies to get creative.
As you can see from the image above and video below, the Gig Buddies team have got in on the act.
Our LOLympics competition closes at midnight, Tuesday 31 August. Buddies can upload their photos or videos by loading up the this link.
The link above includes all the information on how to submit your efforts. The winning entry will be rewarded with a $100 gift voucher, while $50 goes to the runner up and third place will bag $25.
If you have any questions about our LOLympics competition send us an email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org, get in touch on Facebook Messenger or contact us via text or on the phone on 0422 061 990.
Checking in
For those of you who may not have access to or feel uncomfortable using a smartphone to check in to venues using the current QR code system, help may be at hand.
Service NSW have introduced the ‘COVID-19 check-in card’- a hard-copy (printed) card with a unique QR code that contains your registered contact details.
When you enter a COVID Safe business, a staff member scans your card and your visit to the premises is electronically recorded. If the business device is unable to read your QR code, the staff member will enter your details manually into the online webform.
Once you've created your card you can have it posted to you, or download a printable version immediately.
For more information, click here.
A word from the pros
Throughout lockdown we’re going to continue promoting professional services for any of you doing it tough.
Mental Health First Aid Australia have issued the following guidelines on assisting someone distressed by the Covid-19 pandemic, and they’re also providing mental health first aid in the time of ‘social distancing. Additionally, the team from ideas.org.au have shared their ‘look after your mental health in the COVID-19 crisis’ list of ideas.
reachout.com have also released their 10 ways to take care of yourself during coronavirus guide, while for those of you now working from home, Black Dog Institute have put together the following checklist to support your mental health.
We’re here to chat
From our perspective, while we’re not trained professionals, we are available for a chat.
For anyone experiencing increased social isolation, send a text or call us at 0422 061 990 (Gig Buddies Sydney) or 0402 708 814 (Gig Buddies Central Coast).
Alternatively, feel free to get in touch via Facebook Messenger or connect courtesy of email: info@gigbuddiessydney.org or info@gigbuddiescentralcoast.org
Matthew, Carol, Tony, Bec and Chelsea
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.
