The 'vault’ is back. It’s time to shed some light on another of our wonderful volunteers.
This is how our ‘Gig Buddies volunteer vault’ feature works: at the end of each month we invite a current volunteer to talk about their experiences with the project.
Today it’s the turn of Rodrigo, pictured alongside buddy, Stavros (below, L -R).
- How long have you been volunteering with Gig Buddies?
I've been with Gig Buddies for more than two years.
- Is Gig Buddies your first volunteering role?
No. While living in New Zealand I volunteered with SPCA (Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Incorporated), helping with maintaining the centre.
- Why do you volunteer with Gig Buddies?
I moved to Australia a couple of months before joining Gig Buddies. After reading about Gig Buddies online, I thought it'd be an opportunity to make friends.
Looking back now, I can definitely see how much my buddy, Stavros, helped me to meet new people, have new experiences, and explore new parts of the city.
- How would you describe your volunteering experience with Gig Buddies?
Awesome! We have been to soccer games, museums, and Gig Buddies’ events.
It's worth mentioning: Stavros is a rock star! Everywhere we go, people know him!
Nothing compares, however, to the heavy metal concerts we've been to. Stavros is a metalhead! He introduced me to local bands. He knows their members and they are always happy to see us around!
We enjoyed many concerts and we already have plans for many more!
"I started with Gig Buddies looking for friends and ended up having a family!"
- Tell us about some of the highlights from your time volunteering with Gig Buddies
It's true we always have a great time together! And I absolutely love those moments. However, the small conversations and messages are so special to me. Stavros is a kind and lovely person!
I have a six-month-old baby and it has been amazing to see how much Stavros cares about my family and me. The day Stavros and his mum met my little one was so special.
One day, we were at a metal concert and someone asked if we were brothers - we promptly replied "yes"!
- What would you say to someone reading this who is thinking about volunteering with Gig Buddies?
I started with Gig Buddies looking for friends and ended up having a family!
"…. I thought it'd be an opportunity to make friends”
A huge thanks to Rodrigo for sharing his Gig Buddies’ story. We hope his words resonate with our current batch of volunteers, plus those who are thinking about signing up.
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
Out and about
Last week we dropped our social intentions for the month of November.
Our quiz event in Waverley has now sold out, while the three other outings - dinner in the Shire, a night out at Parramatta’s Albion Hotel and the INXS tribute night on the Central Coast, are also on the verge of doing so.
To find out more about our November socials (and to sign up), load up the links below:
If you have any questions about 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.
Fun at the footy
Talking of our socials, thank you to everyone who joined us on Saturday in Marrickville for the AFLW clash between Sydney Swans and Fremantle Dockers.
We were front and centre at Henson Park. Unfortunately for the majority in attendance, the Bloods went down 28 - 42.
To see more snaps from Saturday load up this link.
Each and every week we invite buddies to connect with us for our weekly chat.
Our chats take place via Zoom. To attend get in touch via text: 0422 061 990 or Facebook Messenger.
Drawing against the clock
The last Thursday of the month is approaching - and that means only one thing! Our online social gathering is back.
We invite you to join us this Thursday (27/10) on Zoom for a round of Halloween Pictionary.
Pens and pads at the ready, we’ll be showcasing our artistic talents against the clock. Please note, we’ll be starting at the slightly later time, going from 8.30 - 9.30pm.
To join us online, load up the link below:
Thursday 27/10
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 call/SMS us on 0402 708 814.
Four more!
We’ve been busy since our last update.
We’re delighted to welcome four new matches to the family. Say hello to Hugo and Kayne (top, L - R), Conroy and Nicholas (left, L - R), Amy and Alex (right, L - R) and Noah and Matt (bottom, L - R).
Two up
Likewise, it’s great to share news on another two trained up volunteers.
Thanks to Michelle (above) and Rahul (not pictured) for joining us on Zoom recently.
Are you in the market for Gig Buddies’ merchandise?
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 text: 0422 061 990 or Facebook Messenger.
We've expanded
We’re delighted to welcome two new staff members to the Gig Buddies team.
Firstly, we introduce Michael (below L), our newly appointed Gig Buddies social facilitator.
Michael had this to say:"I’m Michael and thrilled to be a part of the Gig Buddies team.
I currently work with Assisted Community Living (Gig Buddies’ parent company). I commenced working with ACL in September 2019.
I live with an invisible disability and have worked with and supported people throughout my career in the aviation industry and the National Rugby League. Supporting people to reach goals through active listening and empowering them to find their best self, acceptance and brand of happiness is close to my heart.
I enjoy reading, writing, researching and contributing to an aviation museum, all sports plus walking, Spotify and good coffee. I appreciate diversity, promote acceptance and believe that kindness is our most valuable offering.”
And we’re also excited to welcome Mary, Gig Buddies compliance officer (above R).
Upon joining the team, Mary had this to say: "Hi I’m Mary and I am super excited to join the Gig Buddies team.
My background consists of over 19 years’ experience working within the disability sector, both at senior and management level.
I love music and going to gigs, when I get a chance - and I look forward to getting stuck into this new role.”
It’s great having you both on board.
What is bridging buddies?
As a reminder, our bridging buddy concept is aimed at fully signed up, NDIS paying buddies who are still waiting for a volunteer.
To ensure buddies-in-waiting do not miss out on any of the fun, a Gig Buddies' staff member will attend monthly catch-ups with you. Like any traditional pairing, all outings take place at a time and location that works for both.
The idea is to ensure more buddies benefit from being part of the program - and that no one misses out while we take care of the admin side of things.
Hold the press
Following today’s edition, the newsletter will be taking a two week break.
Readers can next get their Gig Buddies news fix on Monday 14 November.
COVID-19 Vaccinations - AN UPDATE
The NSW Chief Health Officer has extended the current exemption that allows workers (and volunteers) who have received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine to continue to work if they have been assessed as being essential to the operation of the service.
All workers (and volunteers) who have not yet received their booster must also take reasonable steps to get the booster as soon as practical. The exemption has been extended to December 4 2022.
If you have already obtained your booster please send your certificate to info@gigbuddiessydney.org or via text/WhatsApp it to 0411 252 228
Similarly, for those who have been granted an exemption from a medical professional, we require a copy of any relevant documentation.
You can access your vaccination certificate through your Medicare or MyGov account. For more information on how to obtain a copy, click here.
Matthew, Carol, Tony, Bec, Chelsea, Xena and Aylin
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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