Southlake Neighbourhood Centre

Southlake Neighbourhood Centre aims to build an inclusive, resilient, self-reliant and creative community. We are a central point for community activity, actively working with individuals and collaborating with service providers to increase community access to local information, resources and activities. We assist individuals to build connections with appropriate services, build supports and informal social networks by coordinating community activities, events and programs.

Primary funded by Department Communities and Justice (formerly Family and Community Services), Southlake Neighbourhood Centre provides community support services, activities and events to local community members. Particular focus is given to disadvantaged and vulnerable groups such as senior community members, community members at risk of homelessness, people with mental illness, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and people on low incomes.

PROGRAMMING AND SERVICES

Information, Referral and Advocacy

Southlake Neighbourhood Centre provides accurate and widespread information regarding local services, programs, activities and referral pathways.

Community members can connect with our team face-to-face, over the phone, via email, and through our newsletter and social media platforms.

The Hub

Every Monday between 10:30am and 12noon, we offer free pantry items, fresh food and frozen items along with opportunities and pathways to connect with other local services and activities for information and referral. To find out more information please call 0428 854 733

HRNILS

Southlake Neighbourhood Centre offers support to community members wishing to apply for the Hunter Region No-Interest Loans Scheme. Our team can assist with filling out the application forms and liaising with HRNILS. To find out more information or to book an appointment, please call 4973 7000

Yunung Community Garden

Adjacent to our centre is the largest Community Garden in the Hunter region. The Yunung garden holds a huge range of seasonal, native produce, growing all year round that is harvested for The Hub program, and open and available to the whole community. We run community programs and activities throughout the year in the garden space, and we have an amazing team of volunteers who maintain the garden and surrounding areas.

Washing Machine and Dryer

We offer a free, self-service washing machine and dryer on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays between 10am and 1pm. To use these appliances, all you need to do is bring your own bag or basket, put your washing on, and remain at our centre during the washing and drying cycles. All washing powder and fabric softener is provided.

Community Programming, Social Groups and Activities

Southlake Neighbourhood Centre facilitates a range of ongoing community programming in consultation with our local community members and partnering organisations.

Boomerang Bags
Coffee Craft and Chat
First Aid and Mental Health First Aid
Papercraft
Playgroup
Multicultural Group
Short courses and training opportunities
Tax Help
Vision Impaired Persons Group

Computer Use
We have two community computers onsite with access to the internet, Microsoft Office, printing and photocopying. By appointment.

Community Projects and Events
Throughout the year, Southlake Neighbourhood Centre hosts and coordinates a number of community activities, events, fundraisers and training opportunities. For more information about our upcoming community projects and events, check out Facebook page and most recent newsletter.