Welcoming New Faces to The Place

Introducing Our New Board Members



Over the past few months, we embarked on an exciting journey to find dedicated community members to join The Place as volunteer board members. It was a challenging yet rewarding process, with many exceptional applicants eager to contribute to the growth and success of our community.


After much consideration, we are thrilled to announce the appointment of three new board members: Sheron Steward, Ellyse McCallum, and Emmanuela Luka. Their passion, diverse skills, and commitment to community-building will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping the strategic direction of The Place.


In addition to these appointments, we’re excited to welcome Lake Macquarie City Council representatives: Mayor Adam Shultz, Cr Christine Buckley, and Cr Jack Antcliff. They join our continuing board members: Helen Plummer, Kate Murphy, and our honorary member, Nick Pidcock. Together, this dynamic team is ready to collaborate and drive innovation for the benefit of our community.


We also take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to our outgoing board members for their dedicated service and valuable contributions: Mayor Kay Fraser, Gemma Morgan, Joanne Martin, Dylan Shoesmith, and Jack Schmidt. A special thank you goes to our long-serving Chair, John Ferguson, whose leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping The Place into what it is today.


As we step into this new chapter with Helen Plummer as the Chair, we’re filled with excitement for the future and look forward to the incredible ideas and initiatives this talented team will bring to life. The current executive team is Cr Christine Buckley as Vice Chair, Sheron Steward as Treasurer, and Ellyse McCallum as Secretary.


Stay tuned for updates as we continue to work together to create positive change for our community. Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey—together, we’re building a stronger, more connected community!

by Cristelle Govender 7 May 2025
Two More Animal-Inspired Creative Workshops!
by Cristelle Govender 29 April 2025
Seeking a Passionate Volunteer for The Place Board
by Cristelle Govender 29 April 2025
A Celebration of Realistic Art
by Cristelle Govender 29 April 2025
Communication strategies to support decision-making for people who communicate informally
by Cristelle Govender 29 April 2025
Neighbourhood and Community Centres Week 2025
by Cristelle Govender 29 April 2025
Are you a community service professional interested in exploring arts-based approaches to supporting women with lived experiences of gendered violence? Join a free Creative Networking Event for the Reclaiming My Place Healing & Recovery Project . When: Tuesday, May 13 Where: The Place, Charlestown Time: Drop in anytime between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM Whether you have 15 minutes or a couple of hours, feel free to pop in for a bit or stay for the whole session—whatever works for you! About the Reclaiming My Place Project: Reclaiming My Place (RMP) is an innovative arts-based program developed by the Centre of Excellence for Equity in Higher Education (CEEHE) at the University of Newcastle. The program engages women who have lived experiences of gendered violence and interrupted education journeys, using creative arts to foster mindfulness, healing, relaxation, and pathways to lifelong learning. This event offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow community professionals, discover the transformative impact of creative approaches, and explore ways to support women on their healing journeys. 🔗 Want to know more? Contact: Felicity Cocuzzoli felicity.cocuzzoli@newcastle.edu.au 0419 795 452  This project is proudly supported by the University of Newcastle, Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network, and the Centre of Excellence for Equity in Higher Education.
by Cristelle Govender 28 March 2025
Learn the Language of Inclusion: Introduction to Auslan 1
by Cristelle Govender 28 March 2025
Get Emergency Ready: Free Workshop
by Cristelle Govender 28 March 2025
April Activities - Laughter, Culture & Community
by Cristelle Govender 28 March 2025
“You cannot know the meaning of your life until you are connected to the Power that created you.” – Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi, founder of Sahaja Yoga In the midst of busy schedules and endless distractions, finding a moment of true peace can feel out of reach. That’s where Sahaja Yoga offers something truly special—a chance to slow down, reconnect, and experience the transformative power of meditation. Guided by the teachings of Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi, Sahaja Yoga invites you to explore the art of mental silence —a state of deep calm and clarity where stress melts away and you reconnect with your inner self. Whether you’re new to meditation or looking to deepen your practice, these weekly sessions offer a gentle, welcoming space to find balance, healing, and peace. Sessions held every Monday Time: 7:30pm – 8:30pm All are welcome, no experience necessary Contact: 0419 466 120  Come along and experience the stillness within. This could be the most peaceful hour of your week.
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