The End of the Year is Here!

Going into 2022, we talked about hope in the year ahead, particularly after the challenging year before. For many, this year held its own set of challenges from weather disasters to economic challenges and everything in between. I am however, always in awe of the Australian spirit and the sense of community.


It has been a pleasure to walk alongside our community in supporting community causes, regenerating community activities, and providing much needed services and support. This year we celebrated a second Centenarian in our local community as testament to the importance of connection, belonging, and community in overall wellbeing.


So, as I wish you and yours a wonderful Christmas and New Year break, I would like to leave you with a sentiment to take into the year ahead from the poem, ‘Let Everyday be Christmas’:


“Christmas is forever, not just one day. For loving, sharing, giving, are not to put away like bells and lights and tinsel, in some box upon a shelf. The good you do for others is good you do yourself.”


Sincerely, Cristelle Govender, Centre Manager



The Place Team will be taking a break from Friday the 23rd of December to spend time with our families and friends and we'll return on Wednesday the 4th of January, we look forward to seeing you in 2023!

by Cristelle Govender 7 May 2026
An Afternoon to Remember
by Cristelle Govender 7 May 2026
Book Your Next Business Event at The Place
by Cristelle Govender 7 May 2026
3 Hour in-person session for parents
by Cristelle Govender 7 May 2026
This course introduces conversational French for use in a variety of social settings. For beginners, and those wishing to revise basic skills. You will be helped to speak and understand right from the start. A relaxed, friendly course with opportunities to socialise and participate in cultural knowledge and activities. DAY CLASS: 6 sessions @ 2 hours per session on Wednesdays Start date: Wed 20 May 2026 (No class 24 June) Time: 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm OR  EVENING CLASS: 6 sessions @ 2 hours per session on Mondays Start date: Mon 18 May 2026 (No class Mon 8 June) Time: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm COST: $150 for the 6 week course, payable before commencement. For more information, and to register, call 0490 360 420 (by 11th May.) Limited places available.
by Cristelle Govender 30 April 2026
A Community That Cares
27 April 2026
A Place to Move, Connect and Belong
24 April 2026
Tuesday Club Inclusive Connections: Connection That Lasts a Lifetime
by Cristelle Govender 1 April 2026
You’re invited to celebrate a very special milestone for The Place as we mark 15 years of community, connection and belonging in Lake Macquarie. To honour this journey, we’re hosting a community celebration on Friday the 1st of May from 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm and everyone is welcome! The afternoon will feature our ' 15 Years of Belonging' public photo exhibition, showcasing the people, programs and moments that have shaped The Place over the years. We’ll also host a special community recognition event celebrating our long-standing groups and the incredible individuals who have helped shape The Place and what it is today. Enjoy food, music, entertainment and connection as we come together to celebrate our diverse and vibrant community. Whether you’ve been part of The Place for years or are visiting for the first time, we’d love you to join us. This is a free event open to the whole community, however RSVPs are essential. Please RSVP HERE , call (02) 4032 5500 or email programs@theplacecharlestown.org.au We look forward to celebrating 15 years of impact with you!
by Cristelle Govender 25 March 2026
Learn the basics of Artificial Intelligence and how it can be used in everyday life
by Cristelle Govender 20 March 2026
Supporting Families Beyond the Neonatal Unit
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