News and Events

Lockdown learnings help youth mental health

A youth mental health initiative developed with students during Victoria’s lockdowns, is hoped to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and encourage teens to seek help early.

Supporting healthy outcomes at local kindergartens

Our Health Promotion team is supporting early learning centers through the Achievement Program, an initiative that helps services create a healthier environment for their students, staff and families.

Celebrating Children’s Week - Play activities for the whole family

This Children’s Week, we asked our paediatric team to share some of their favourite activities for kids that embrace the importance of play for a healthy lifestyle.

Vale, Jasper

It is with much sadness that we announce the passing our four-legged volunteer and friend, Jasper, a 12 year-old border collie.

Simple Tips for Beating Stress

Stress can overburden your mind with incessant worries, but learning ways to manage out stress levels can give us a boost in our moods, relationships, work performance, energy levels and general happiness.

Thunderstorm Asthma Season - What do I need to know?

Be aware of the risk of thunderstorm asthma throughout the grass pollen season and be appropriately prepared.

Volunteering: How helping others helps you too

Volunteering is a great way to connect with others in the community and expand your social circle. For Leesa, volunteering at Connect Health & Community has improved her social confidence and made her a bunch of new friends.

6 ways to make friends and stay social as a senior

Making new friends can be challenging as we age, but connecting with others can help you stay physically and mentally healthy. Take the chance to embrace the extra time that retirement affords and expand your social circle.

Women’s Health Week: Put Yourself First

Too often, women put their health on the back burner. September 5-11 is Women's Health Week and this year the initiative is asking women to put themselves first.

Our pups are pawfect

Every year on 26 August we celebrate International Dog Day – a time to thank the furry friends in our lives and acknowledge the invaluable work they do in keeping humans healthy.

Speech Pathology Week 21 – 27 August 2022

August 21-27 is Speech Pathology Week and to commemorate the occasion Connect Health & Community volunteer, Leesa, has written a story about her speech pathology experience.

New research into optimising health, equity and safety for people in social housing

Connect Health & Community is proud to be a partner in an Australian-first research project conducted during the pandemic that provides a blueprint to improve the lives of our most vulnerable community members.

Think F.A.S.T to recognise the signs of stroke

August 8-14 is National Stroke Week, an opportunity to learn more about the signs of a stroke and the 445,087 Australians living with the long-term effects.

Stay well this winter - safety tips

Victoria is experiencing a new COVID wave due to the highly infectious B1.4 and BA.5 variants.

Tips to ‘Keep your smile for life’

Dental Health Week is held annually in the first week of August and this year we celebrate the theme, ‘Keep your smile for life’.

Sporting healthier habits for our kids

Connect Health & Community’s health promotion team has delivered the 'Healthy Appliance Pack Initiative', designed to help local sporting clubs in the Glen Eira and Bayside council areas prepare and serve healthier food options to hungry local kids.

National Pain Week, 25 – 31 July 2022

National Pain Week - a time to reflect on the difficulties faced by 3.6 million Australians living with chronic pain.

Sandringham College students lead the way with mental health awareness

Sandringham College students hold Mental Health Awareness Day for their peers as part of Boss Brain pilot.

It's time to rethink your perception of diabetes

It's National Diabetes Week and the third year of the 'Heads Up on Diabetes' campaign, which calls people to reconsider how they think about diabetes and focus on the emotional health and well-being of people living with diabetes.

Dry July, give it a try

What are the health benefits of saying no to that extra glass of wine or beer? How about giving it up for a whole month?

Occupational Therapy student receives Connect Health & Community Award at Monash MNSH Student Awards

Congratulations to Occupational Therapy student Dana-Quyen Thanh Do on receiving the Connect Health & Community Award at the Monash University MNHS Student Awards.

Better Health Network announces new Chairperson and CEO

Following the voluntary amalgamation of Central Bayside Community Health Services, Connect Health & Community and Star Health, Better Health Network today announced Janice Munt as the organisation’s inaugural Chairperson and Damian Ferrie as its first Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

New organisation name and brand

Connect Health & Community is pleased to announce the name and brand of the new organisation that will be formed from our amalgamation with Star Health and Central Bayside Health Services.

A poem about our volunteers

As we reflect fondly on a wonderful week of celebrating our amazing volunteers, as part of National Volunteers Week, Connect Health & Community's communications volunteer, Leesa, put her thoughts into verse. Please enjoy her poem.

John says his favourite part is hearing peoples’ stories

John feels he is becoming a more caring person by spending time around Connect Health & Community

Joe shares his talents to create community

Volunteers like Joe not only help us help others, but they help create a place where people feel valued and can connect to their healthiest, happiest and most fulfilled lives.

Lyn uses what she’s got to make a difference.  

Lyn loves the many ways she can support our community through her volunteering.

Pam does it to help others, the rest is a bonus

Pam has found volunteering to be a healthy and social past-time.

Colin’s connection to community, health and culture

Colin has made many connections through his volunteering,

Mindful May

Welcome to May, also known as ‘mindful May,’ when we are encouraged to take a little time for ourselves and invest in mindful activities that can help bring positive impacts in our busy lives.

World Hand Hygiene Day, 5 May

Do we fully understand all the fuss about hand hygiene? Connect Health & Community communications volunteer, Leesa, investigated the issue for us.

Improving the dental health of a generation

Connect Health & Community is monitoring the oral health of a group of local children over a four-year period with the expectation it will deliver a leap forward in the oral health outlook for children of this generation.

Term 2 Kinder and Handwriting Groups

Connect Health & Community is pleased to offer our popular new children’s groups again in Term 2 - supporting children’s skills, development and confidence in their education.

A new era in community health service begins

Central Bayside Community Health Services, Connect Health & Community and Star Health today announced that they will voluntarily amalgamate following a successful vote at their respective Annual General Meeting last night.

Community Fundraising - Head Shave for a Cause

Connect Health & Community volunteer, Leesa, is one of those whose family is currently touched by cancer, and on the weekend she rallied with her nephews Michael and Andrew to shave their heads in support of her sister-in-law and to help raise money for cancer research and treatment.

Harmony Week, 21 - 27 March 2022

This Harmony Week we are encouraged to take time to celebrate our multiculturalism.

Coeliac Awareness Week, 13 - 20 March

March 13-20 is Coeliac Awareness Week. With many Australians living with the condition, it is important to understand what it is and what can be done to make life easier for sufferers.

Victorian Healthcare Experience Survey (VHES)

Connect Health & Community has received feedback from the clients about their experiences with us at the end of the last year, as part of the Victorian Healthcare Experience Survey.

Parent survey: share your thoughts

If you are the parent of a child aged 5-11 in Victoria, the Department of Health would like to hear your thoughts.

Voluntary Amalgamation of Community Health Services

Connect Health & Community, Central Bayside Community Health Services and Star Health will propose to combine their services through a voluntarily amalgamation.

Group Services returning soon

Connect Health & Community is pleased to advise that our Group Services will start to return from 28 February.

Giving our kids a great start – enrolments now open

If you are looking to give your child the best start to the year, Connect Health & Community is offering two new programs developed to support your child’s skills, growth and confidence.

Show some Valentine's love

This Valentine's Day, treat yourself to a bit of love, and exercise self-care.

Don't put healthcare on hold

We understand that the pandemic has made it harder for us to do the things that we want and need to do - but don’t put your healthcare on hold.

Still supporting our community

Connect Health & Community is still supporting our community during these challenging times.

COVID-19 Community Information

The following information is provided to help the community make decisions regarding vaccinations and what to do in the event of a positive test result.

COVID testing this Christmas

Leesa’s  Crackers

Without a doubt, one of the best things about Christmas is the jokes in the crackers at meal time.

When financial abuse and gambling meet

Financial abuse is a serious, but less spoken about, form of family violence. It has similarities with gambling harm and can co-occur.

Strong at any age

Being active on a daily basis has many benefits. Try incorporating these exercise in your daily regime.

Hydrotherapy pool closure

Users of Connect Health & Community’s hydrotherapy services are advised that hydrotherapy sessions will be closed from Friday, 17 December to enable pool renovation works.

Wishing health and happiness for 2022

Tips to keep you smiling through Christmas

Christmas is fraught with more dental risks than you might think. Stay safe this silly season.

Connecting through cartoons

Throughout the year we teamed up with Victorian cartoonist, Ditchy, to shed a cutting light on the issues of gambling in our community.

Study shows our teams more confident through COVID

A new study has found that Connect Health & Community staff demonstrated greater confidence, flexibility and teamwork in the face of COVID.

Christmas Cooking: Chocolate Ripple Cake

Connect Health and Community communications volunteer, Leesa, shares another favourite Christmas recipe to help our preparation for the festive season - Chocolate Ripple Cake.

Staff and community partner awards

We were pleased to honour our staff and service partners on Monday when we held our inaugural Connect Health & Community Values and Partnership Recognition Awards.

Stay safe from thunderstorm asthma

Did you know we are in thunderstorm asthma season? Protect yourself and those you care for.

Leesa's Slow Cooker Christmas Pudding

Connect Health & Community's communications volunteer, Leesa, loves every part Christmas. Christmas cooking is no exception. This week, she shares her famed plum pudding recipe. Enjoy.

We love feedback

If you received a service from us let us know by answering the survey.

More Christmas craft fun

With time of the essence as we approach Christmas, Connect Health & Community volunteer, Leesa, is here to help with more crafty ideas to brighten your season.

Gretta's conversations of hope and connection

A big congratulations to Gambler's Help Southern's therapeutic counsellor, Gretta, on the publication of her first book chapter

Another Christmassy crafternoon with Leesa - Christmas Wreath

As November brings us even closer to Christmas it is now easier to get caught up in the pre-festive season excitement.

Connect with more from life

The pokies are re-opening, but there really is more to life.

A Christmassy crafternoon with Leesa

It’s nearly the end of October, so that means it’s time to start getting ready for Christmas!

Getting ready for groups

We look forward to welcoming group activities at Connect Health & Community when government guidelines permit.

Leesa's Lego City update

Communications volunteer, Leesa, provides an update on progress as she builds a Lego city during lockdown.

National Nutrition Week: 10 – 16 October, 2021

Australian Health Survey data has found less than 4 per cent of us eat the recommended daily serves of vegetables each day

How to do 'Mindful Breathing'

Connect Health & Community counsellors encourage mindful breathing as a way to help people deal with their stress and anxiety.

Tips to help avoid harmful stress

Stress can be harmful and have a big impact on our mental health. this Mental Health Month we share some tips to help you work through the various stresses you may encounter in your day.

Two strategies to help cope with lockdown

With the challenges of lockdown, it is important to do what we can to stay positive and look to a freer, happier place on the horizon.

National Carers’ Week: 10 - 16 October

National Carers' Week reminds us of the amazing people in our community who are providing invaluable, unpaid support to friends and family.

Lego Therapy

With more adults enjoying Lego than ever, our volunteer Leesa, reveals she too is a fan and looks forward to sharing her passion with our clients.

Introducing, Brooke

Connect Health & Community Social Support Program Coordinator, Brooke, is someone who always brightens the lives of those she meets.

Holiday Fun Starter Competition

It’s nearly school holidays and to help families in our community find a little extra fun after 6 weeks in lockdown, Connect Health & Community is giving away five Holiday Fun Starter Packs.

Meet the team

Meet Jean, our Program Manager, and find out a little about the passion that drives her work to ensure we provide you the best healthcare service.

Feel better now

During last week’s R U Ok? Day, we were encouraged to stop and ask ourselves and those in our lives, how everyone was travelling. With lockdowns and COVID-19 restrictions, this becomes even more important.

Connect cares for Kids'  

We are proud to announce we will provide an assessment and care service, similar to the one we provide at Sandringham Hospital, for those presenting to the emergency department at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Parkville.

Fees frozen to support community

In light of the struggles facing our community during the COVID-19 pandemic, Connect Health & Community will not increase fees for its services in the coming 12 months.

Women's Health Week, 6 - 10 September 2021

Women’s Health Week is one week in a busy year dedicated to encouraging all women across Australia to make good health a priority.

Ageing Well: 5 Tips to help you live your best life

Getting older is a part of life. But what we do in later life can help us stay at the top of our game.

A poem for International Dog Day

A poem for International Dog Day by our volunteer, Leesa.

Meet some of our furry friends

International Dog Day is a great time to celebrate the pups helping us through this latest lockdown.

Free dental for bright futures

Connect Health & Community is proud to offer free or discounted children’s dental through the Government-funded Child Dental Benefits Scheme.

National Stroke Week: 2 - 8 August

In 2020, 27,428 Australians experienced stroke for the first time in their lives. That’s one stroke every 19 minutes.

Bright new community space

Residents and the Bluff Rd Engagement Group celebrated the launch of a revitalised Scarborough Playground at the Bluff Rd public housing estate last week.

A poem for National Pain Week

To mark National Pain Week, our communications volunteer, Leesa, shares a poem about her journey with pain.

Gambling harm school education program is back

Our Gambling Harm school education program is back, presenting education about gambling harm to local high school students.

Heads up on Diabetes

Diabetes, in addition to the physical effects, can come with an emotional burden - we can help.

Mental health and gambling harm campaign

Gambler’s Help Southern has partnered with The Alfred Mental Health and Gambling Harm Service Victoria, to develop an information campaign aimed at psychologists called, ‘Gambling. What’s the harm?’

Support for homeless youth

Our youth services team can assist with a range of support for young people, including those facing homelessness.

Victorian Youth Week, 26 June – 2 July

This Youth Week we celebrate the talents, achievements and contributions of young people in our community.

Costello encourages speaking up on gambling harm

An invitation to make a difference

After a wonderfully successful National Volunteer Week 2021, Connect Health & Community is inviting those considering volunteering to take the plunge and join the team ... literally.

Celebrating our resilient, connected community

Reflecting on the past 15 months of life during this pandemic, I am proud of the achievements of both the Connect Health & Community team and our resilient, connected community.

Men’s Health Week: 15 – 21 June, 2021 

This Men’s Health Week our exercise physiologist, Nathan, looks at the Gender Health Gap and finds one simple solution that can help make a huge difference.

Local COVID-19 vaccination centre opens

Sandringham Ambulatory Care Centre has opened a COVID-19 vaccination centre.

Stay warm without breaking the bank

Connect Health & Community’s physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, diet and nutrition and exercise groups can help people with chronic pain and those who feel the cold to stay comfortable through the winter chills.

Visited a recent exposure site? Get tested

An invitation to make a difference

After a wonderfully successful National Volunteer Week 2021, Connect Health & Community is inviting those considering volunteering, to take the plunge and join the team. Literally.

Food Allergy Week, 23-29 May 2021

COVID-19 vaccination hubs at Cranbourne and Springvale

Celebrating volunteers' years of service

On Wednesday, 19 May 2021, we presented a number of our amazing volunteers with certificates of appreciation for their three, five, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years of service.

Pandemic volunteering wins award

In a normal year, our 160 volunteers are critical in the delivery of our services. But 2020 was no normal year and today they won an award for their efforts.

Five reasons to donate

Giving to charities has more than monetary benefits. Donating doesn’t just benefit the charity or organisation but can be rewarding for you too. Australians donate millions collectively every year to charities that support causes they believe in.

Eggscellent insights for Easter

To help you make healthy decisions about your egg intake this Easter, we break open the health facts to guide the weekend’s egg consumption.

Knitting Ninjas – stealthily sparking memories and joy

A stealthy gang of formidable locals is meeting weekly at Connect Health & Community to revive slumbering skills from their past and build a bright new outlook for the future.

Our COVID-19 testing response in Sandringham celebrated

Tim Wilson MP took the opportunity to thank the team at Connect Health and the Sandringham Ambulatory Care Centre for their rapid response by conducting recent testing.

Optimism is in the air

The Government's COVID-19 vaccine roll-out strategy outlines the phases of how the vaccine will be made available.

2021 Boss Brain project launched

We are delighted to have launched the 2021 Boss Brain mental health project with two local secondary schools.

Meet the team - Peri

Meet Peri, our Program Manager of Community Connections.

Message from our CEO

The past year at Connect Health & Community has been, like everywhere, most challenging - but surprisingly uplifting, as we worked with our community to meet the challenges of a worldwide pandemic.

Eating well on a budget

Our dietitian, Angela, provides some tips for how we can save money and still eat well.

New alcohol guidelines

As we head into the festive season and turn our minds to saying a big "Farewell!" to 2020, the Federal Government has reviewed the guidelines for what is considered safe levels of drinking to reduce harm.

A very Connect Health Christmas

Enjoy this Connect Health & Community version of an old Christmas carol classic.

Healthier together

We've been part of your community for more than 45 years and understand that this year has been hard.

Schools invited to beat mental health stigma  

Connect Health & Community has invited local high schools to join a ground-breaking mental health initiative in 2021 after its pilot helped many VCE students in the most tumultuous of years.

Message from our CEO

The past year at Connect Health & Community has been, like everywhere, most challenging - but surprisingly uplifting, as we worked with our community to meet the challenges of a worldwide pandemic.

In the swim for 30 years

While Melbourne was moving into its first of two lockdowns earlier this year, the distraction of a global pandemic overshadowed the 30th anniversary of Connect Health & Community’s hydrotherapy pool.

Looking forward to a COVID Safe summer

There’s so much to feel good about this summer because, thanks to the efforts of every Victorian, COVID Safe is our new normal.

Mental health and gambling harm

Gambling harm and mental health concerns often go hand-in-hand. Gambler's Help Southern is working with health specialists to identify the link between mental ill-health and gambling harm.

Support through exams and beyond

Connect Health & Community is committed to supporting our young people. As they undertake the final exams of an unprecedented year, our experts share tips to help them through their exams and beyond.

Support through exams and beyond

Connect Health & Community is committed to supporting our young people. As they undertake the final exams of an unprecedented year, our experts share tips to help them through their exams and beyond.

Supporting and celebrating our youth

This year we celebrate Youth Week from 15 November - 15 December.

Getting back into the swim of things

Our Hydrotherapy pool is welcoming back clients and we are currently contacting existing ones to support their return to therapy. The next phase will be to open up the pool to new clients to join our groups.

Searching for Christmas

We know it is still November, but in a year with no rules, we've decided to bring on the festive merriment a little early. We all deserve it!

Staying connected is an important as ever

During the pandemic, we've had to get a little crafty so we've modified the way we deliver some services including social support.

Happy 100th birthday, Gizella

In a year that has had little to celebrate, Connect Health & Community is delighted to wish long-time client, Gizella, a very happy 100th birthday.

Life in lockdown

As Melbournians cautiously emerge from their second lockdown, communications volunteer, Leesa, investigates what people did to get through one of the toughest, and most successful COVID restrictions in the world.

Reflecting on Mental Health Month

As we come to the end of October, it is fitting to look back with the knowledge that October is Mental Health Month, a great opportunity for reflection and awareness after the challenging year we have endured.

Service update: 19 October, 2020

We are pleased to advise that in line with easing of social restrictions, we will be restoring our full range of face-to-face services, within a covid-safe environment.

Virtual Holiday Finale: Week 15

Well, after 15 weeks of touring Australia and western Europe, we pack our suitcases for the last time before heading home.

World Osteoporosis Day, 20 October

This year World Osteoporosis Day encourages men to be mindful of the importance of bone health too.

Vale Moira Dwyer

Virtual Holiday: Week 14

Wow, it is amazing to think that we have been on our virtual holiday for 14 weeks now! Let's enjoy our second week in Portugal.

Virtual Holiday: Week 13 

Well, after exploring the far corners of France, we say “au revior” to the home of great cheese, bread and cakes and head to Portugal.

Living with cerebral palsy

World Cerebral Palsy Day is on 6 October, 2020 and I thought it would be a good opportunity to tell about my life living with Cerebral Palsy.

Virtual Holiday: Week 12

Week 12 of our virtual holiday and today we wrap up our time in beautiful France.

Students Volunteering for mutual wins

Volunteers are the lifeblood of Connect Health & Community, whether they are valued members of our community sharing their time or skilled students sharing their newfound expertise.

A little fun keeps them rolling up 

We know that laughter is often the best medicine, so paediatric speech pathologist, Lisa, knew exactly what was needed to help keep her young clients wanting more.

Virtual Holiday: Week 11

We're not quite out of our restrictions yet, so let's keep (safely) exploring the wonderful world beyond the seas. This week we visit Toulouse, Bordeaux and Nantes in France.

Breaking the COVID drinking habit

Have you found yourself drinking more during the pandemic? You're not alone.

Taking action with dementia

During Dementia Action Week we celebrate that many people living with dementia can continue to live well for many years after their diagnosis. We provide many services to help our community achieve this.

Putting faces to our name

Members of the community will notice some friendly faces getting around town this week, as the extended Connect family is now proudly featured on our community transport busses.

Virtual Holiday: Week 10

We're (hopefully) nearing an easing of our social restrictions, giving us a bit more time to continue our virtual holiday with communications volunteer, Leesa. Join us as we continue this 'bon voyage.'

Virtual Holiday: Week 9

This week, we continue exploring western Europe’s largest country with visits to Dijon, Lyon and Chambery, and just a few more of my colleague's holiday snaps.

Virtual Holiday: Week 8

Another week and we are still under Stage 4 restrictions, but that doesn’t stop us continuing our virtual holiday to Europe.

Virtual Holiday: Week 7

With a few more weeks of lockdown left in Melbourne, communications volunteer, Leesa, continues our tour of Germany, with a visit to Dortmund, Cologne and Frankfurt.

Beat the COVID call to bet

When distraction from our COVID days comes in the form of gambling, we should take a minute to check whether that is the best decision we can make.

Work off fines with Gambler's Help

Living with financial hardship is never easy, especially if the light at the end of the tunnel never seems to get closer because of the burden of unpaid fines. But Gambler's Help Southern may be able to help.

Golden moments across generations

They say a picture tells a thousand words, but for a number of Connect Health & Community Social Support clients, a thousand words just doesn’t seem enough.

Moments of connection across generations

They say a picture tells a thousand words, but for a number of Connect Health & Community Social Support clients, a thousand words just doesn’t seem enough.

Virtual Holiday: Week 6

While we are still in lockdown, and still in Germany, let's take our virtual holiday to the cities of Hanover, Bremen and Hamburg.

At home COVID-19 test for the vulnerable

The Department of Health and Human (DHHS) will provide in-home testing for vulnerable Victorians in metropolitan Melbourne to help slow the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus).

COVID-19 testing in Sandringham

A walk up COVID-19 screening clinic operated by Sandringham Ambulatory Care Centre provides the local community, the opportunity to get tested.

Virtual Holiday: Week 5

In this week's virtual adventure, we bypass the airport queues and cramped seating and head to Berlin, Germany, from the luxury of our homes.

Virtual Holiday: Week 4

Today we wake up to another day in our new state of lockdown …so what better thing to do than head off to New South Wales up to Queensland for some fun in the sun!

Virtual Holiday: Week 3

So as lockdown continues, we are going to continue our virtual holiday and leave Western Australia to head back east via South Australia and Tasmania.

Supporting our community through COVID-19 (Radio Transcript)

CEO, Amanda Murphy, spoke on local radio program, "Glen Eira Working Together" recently to discuss how we are supporting our community through the coronavirus pandemic, the differences we are seeing between the first and second lockdowns and where people can seek help.

Keeping connected through meal time

With Stage 3 COVID-19 restrictions impacting our ability to provide onsite support at the Bluff Rd Housing Estate, Connect Health & Community is keeping connected with residents through a new weekly meal program.

National Pain Week, 26 July - 1 August

Chronic pain affects about one-in-five Australians, but for people over 65 years, this jumps to one-in-three.

Virtual holiday: Week 2

I hope you enjoyed my virtual tour last week when we visited The Ocean Road then headed to Canberra. This week, we to the Red Centre, and beyond.

Eat well during lockdown

During lockdown it is very important that to eat well and stay physically active, particularly if you have diabetes.

A virtual holiday – with Communications Volunteer, Leesa

Stuck at home with Stage 3 restrictions and a burning desire to hit the great open road, communications volunteer, Leesa, takes us on a virtual holiday around Australia.

Diary of a volunteer home-schooler

Connect Health & Community communications volunteer, Leesa, not only supports us, but generously helps those in her immediate community too. During recent school closures, she helped neighbours by home-schooling their children so they could work.

OAM for Graham Ludecke​ 

We are pleased to advise that our current longest sitting director, Graham Ludecke, has been appointed to the Order of Australia in the 2020 Queen's Birthday Honours List.

Connecting with men's health

As part of Men's Health Week we meet two gentlemen who enjoy the benefits of being a part of the Connect Health community.

Bowel Cancer Awareness Month

June is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month and it brings the positive message, “save lives through early detection” - because bowel cancer is one of the most curable types of cancer if found early.

Service Update:

Welcome back as our services return

Smile, you can visit your dentist again

Thanks to Australia’s good management of the COVID-19 pandemic, Connect Health & Community’s dental services are open and ready to support you with your dental care needs.

How will our pets cope when we return to work?

Those of us with jobs will eventually need to go back to the office, bringing a big change to our pets’ lives. Pet mummy and Connect Health & Community volunteer, Leesa, researched how we can help our fur-babies (and us) prepare for the inevitable.

Easing restrictions boost community connections

After more than two months of social restrictions Victorian are again able to participate in one of our favourite past-times, dining out.

Eyes on the ball

Our kids are very excited about the careful lifting of social restrictions, especially those who can't wait to get back on the team.

Food Allergy Week 24 – 30 May, 2020

​​Food allergies are on the rise in Australia, so Food Allergy Week aims to raise awareness so everyone can better understand and protect those at risk.

Volunteer Service Awards 2020

Connect Health & Community is delighted to recognise the achievements of volunteers who have contributed multiple years of service to our community.

National Volunteer Week 2020 - Volunteers' perspectives

Three volunteers celebrate National Volunteer Week by sharing their experiences of volunteering.

Changing lives, changing communities

National Volunteer Week 2020 celebrates "Changing lives, Changing communities" - recognising the impact volunteers have in our community and the impact that volunteering can have in their lives.

Volunteers - changing lives, changing communities

It's National Volunteer Week and this year’s theme of Changing Lives, Changing Communities is more relevant to our community than it has ever been before.

International Families' Day 2020

Today, 15 May, is International Families' Day, a day to celebrate the importance of families in our community.

Helping families juggle school and COVID stress

As many families in our community struggle with home-based learning and the stresses it can bring, our Family and Youth Services team provides some tips to help your family through the challenges.

Delivering smiles and connection

Locals are finding new ways to connect. As people are self-isolating, individuals have found a sense of normality and happiness through the Mr Whippy truck that provides yummy ice-cream to the locals

SACC joins Connect Health family

Connect Health & Community is pleased to welcome the staff and services of the Sandringham Ambulatory Care Centre (SACC) as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the community health provider.

Gluten free, easy

With an estimated 1 in 70 Australians suffering from coeliac disease, diagnosis of the condition is often fraught with worries about how to stick to a gluten-free diet.

Autism awareness presentation

April is Autism Awareness Month, when we are asked as a community to better understand and support those in our society who are living with the condition.

Gambling harm in isolation

Gambler’s Help Southern says these unprecedented times are putting additional pressure on many in the community who may already be struggling with gambling-related issues.

Things you can do to help de-stress

Taking care of our mental health is vital as we come to terms with the persistent nature of the pandemic. Taking just a few minutes for ourselves each day make the world of difference.

Keeping our community safe

As you know we are all in the midst of an unprecedented pandemic and would like to assure you we are playing our part to keep our community safe.

Seeking community partners

If your organisation has expertise and capacity in gardening and horticulture, wed love to hear about it.

World Salt Awareness Week, 8 – 14 March

Our Accredited Practising Dietitian, Jodie, shares her tips to help you shake salt this World Salt Awareness Week.

Icon seeks to debunk ‘dirty word’

Iconic Australian TV personality, Libbi Gorr, will be exploring the word “feminist” and why it is still a polarizing word when she addresses our International Women’s Day event on 5 March.

Furry fun for the Monday Mob

Our Social Support Group clients were recently treated to a visit from furry friends as part of Museum Victoria's outreach program.

Healthy eating for older adults

Healthy eating is just as important for older adults as it is for everyone else, but sadly many older Australians have poor diets.

Elijah shares the Wonka magic

Charlie and the Chocolate factory star, Elijah Slavinskis, brought a little Wonka magic to a recent Social Support Group at Connect Health & Community.

Smart Eating Week 2020 - Healthy shopping helpers

With Smart Eating Week underway, Connect Health & Community dietitian, Angela, gives us some tips on how to overcome confusion when trying to make healthy choices in the supermarket aisle.

Waste not, want not

Summer and the festive season often go hand-in-hand with entertaining, full fridges and an abundance of food for many of us. But how do we make sure it doesn't also lead to waste?

New approach to new year bubs

One of the most challenging things a woman can do is to become a mother for the first time - so Connect Health & Community has developed a unique new program to help you get ready.

Isolation and escapism - the other side of Christmas

Victoria’s largest gamblers’ support service, Gambler’s Help Southern, warns that for many in our community, the festive season can be lonely and isolating, stirring feelings that can drive many to harmful behaviours like gambling.

Overcoming dentophobia

For some, a crippling fear of going to the dentist (dentophobia) prevents them from getting the necessary help they need to ensure their oral health. Thankfully, our team of specialists may be able to help.

Helping our young people navigate pre-adulthood

Like adults, teenagers can experience stresses every day from all manner of seen and unseen factors. As adults, we can help them navigate this challenging time.

3 tips to reduce your stress this summer

The idea of summer typically conjures images of idyllic days, relaxing do-nothing weeks and endless time to relax and recharge. Sadly, that's rarely the case, but there are a few ways to help reduce stress this summer.

A Christmas 'thank you' for our volunteers

CEO, Amanda Murphy thanked our volunteers for their amazing contribution to our organisation over the past year, during the annual Volunteers' Christmas Party this afternoon.

Young people vulnerable to dark side of Spring Racing

Gambler's Help Southern warns that young people are at increasing risk of gambling harm, with the seeds of harm often sown during the Spring Racing Carnival.

Celebrating independence and Occupational Therapy Week

To celebrate Occupational Therapy Week, our volunteer, Leesa, shares her experiences of occupational therapy as a child.

Tackling the youth mental health crisis

Connect Health & Community is looking to tackle the youth mental health crisis by recruiting high school students to be trained as mental health champions in an effort to stem the worrying statistics.

Vale Juanita Robb

It is with deep sadness we announce the sudden passing of much-loved team member and colleague, Juanita Robb.

Hydrotherapy price increases - effective 1 October

We advise that the continuing impact of rising costs to deliver our hydrotherapy services has resulted in the need for us to increase our fees.

South East Suicide Prevention Network

The South East Suicide Prevention Network is now supporting the community with local suicide prevention services and activities.

Speech Pathology Week, 25 - 31 August 2019

This week we celebrate Speech Pathology Week and the work of our Speech Pathology Team in supporting children and adults across our community who depend on speech pathology to help them communicate with confidence.

Five reasons to give to charity

Giving to charities has more than monetary benefits. Donating doesn’t just benefit the charity or organisation but can be rewarding for you too. Australians donate millions collectively every year to charities that support causes they believe in.

The three main types of diabetes

Diabetes is recognised as the world’s fastest growing chronic condition. In Australia, 280 individuals develop diabetes every day. Having diabetes not only affects the way you live your day-to-day life but can increase your risk for a number of other health conditions, if left untreated.

Beat the winter blues – volunteer

With winter attempting to lure us into our caves the thought of hibernation may be tempting, but the answer to beating the winter blues may just be to get out of the house and try a spot of volunteering.

Help at hand with infant mental health

Raising a child is undoubtedly one of the hardest and most important jobs you can have. From birth the challenges are overwhelming as adult life is fraught with sleepless nights, increased time demands, relationship changes and never-ending stages of baby’s growth to add to the sense of chaos.

Immune boosting

Immune boosting foods to get you through this cold period.

10 tips for winter wellness

Winter has arrived with gusto, but how do we prepare our bodies to make sure we don’t spend the coming three months laid low with sniffles and illness.

Pursuing a hobby can improve your mental health

It’s often difficult to set aside time for ourselves and indulge in activities we enjoy. Whether it be working full time or studying full time, it has become harder and harder to take time off from life and unwind.

Belonging Exhibition Showcase 2019

Artwork from the Belonging Exhibition 2019

Reducing your risks for bowel cancer

June is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month. As a nation, Australia has one of the highest bowel cancer rates in the world, with 1 in 13 Australians being diagnosed with the disease each year.

Congratulations James Arbuckle OAM

We congratulate James (Jim) Arbuckle to the Order of Australia, in this year’s Queen's Birthday Honours List.

Reconciliation Action Plan Launch

Connect Health & Community was proud to launch its ‘Reflect’ Reconciliation Action Plan on Wednesday in the presence of local Boon Wurrong People, local councillors, partners, volunteers and staff.

Community transport service expands into City of Dandenong

Connect Health & Community is expanding its individual, supported transport service into the Dandenong area for local frail, aged or disabled residents who have difficulty accessing public transport.

National Reconciliation Week: 27 May - 3 June

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements. To mark Reconciliation Week, you are invited to join us for the launch of our Reconciliation Action Plan.

Fitness group's 30 year old time capsule

A wonderful window on history came to light recently in the form of a photo album from the East Bentleigh Community Health Centre Fitness Groups from 1985-86.

Dementia course during June

Community members are invited to attend an event aimed at helping those living with dementia and caring for loved ones with the condition.

'Belonging' Inter-Agency Exhibition - Girrawheen Centre, Brighton

The 'Belonging' Inter-Agency Art Exhibition is on at the Girrawheen Centre in Brighton until 28 May, with all invited to enjoy the works of artists from across our community.

Bayside Suicide Prevention Network working to save lives

Our new Suicide Prevention Network, launched at the start of April, is up and running and working to address the pressing local need for suicide awareness and support across all age groups in our communities.

Bayside Suicide Prevention Network working to save lives

Our new Suicide Prevention Network, launched at the start of April, is up and running and working to address the pressing local need for suicide awareness and support across all age groups in our communities.

Heart disease in women

Heart disease in women is often missed because women do not always experience the commonly associated symptoms of chest pain or discomfort, when they have heart disease.

Mental Health Royal Commission Submission

Connect Health & Community has submitted a response to the Victorian Government’s Royal Commission into the Victoria’s Mental Health System. Our input was made possible thanks to invaluable input from our community and staff.

Neighbour Day - a great way to connect with your community

Connect Health & Community is encouraging members of our community to participate in this year’s ‘Neighbour Day’ on 31 March - Australia’s annual celebration of community that encourages us to connect with those who live nearby.

How mealtimes can affect your health

We are all pretty much aware that what we eat is important for our bodies and health, but did you know that how we eat that food can also impact our health as well?

Connecting in a connected world

Social media has its pitfalls, but when used carefully and responsibility, there are benefits to be gained from connecting in a connected world.

New community network to help prevent suicide

Australian of the Year and renowned youth mental health advocate, Professor Patrick McGorry, has lent his support to a new Suicide Prevention Network, created by Connect Health & Community, Wesley LifeForce and HeadSpace. The network will be launched on Wednesday, 3 April.

Kicking off International Women's Day

Held for the fourth year in a row, Connect Health & Community, in partnership with Women’s Health in the South East, Bayside Council, Central Bayside Community Health Services, Highett Neighbourhood House, Moongala Community Centre and Bentleigh Secondary College celebrated ‘Women in Sport’ #BalanceforBetter, discussing the successes and challenges of sport, from leadership to playing.

Celebrate International Women’s Day - Women In Sport evening

Connect Health & Community invites you to participate in a celebration of remarkable women as part of International Women’s Day on 7 March, 2019. This is a free event.

Add your voice to our work

Become a member of our Participation and Engagement Committee to add to part of the ongoing development and evaluation of our work.

Video counselling support now available

Gamblers Help Southern are now offering online video counselling for individuals who want support and help with their gambling.

Mural fun with local representatives

Connect Health & Community hosted a fun afternoon to recognise the achievements of residents in creating a mural that celebrates life on the Bluff Road Housing Estate.

Video help expands support for people affected by gambling

Gambler’s Help Southern is trialing Australia’s first video counselling service in an effort to make assistance for problem gambling accessible to more vulnerable Australians.

Bluff Rd Estate summer garden fun

With a beautiful summer upon us, we've been having fun in the sun with the residents of the Bluff Rd Housing Estate.

A colourful conversation starter at Midsumma

Gambler’s Help Southern was proud to join the huge annual celebration of colour and inclusion that is Midsumma Carnival Day.

Making a lifelong difference

We love hearing that our efforts have made a positive impact on the lives of those we work with.

Ten tips for lunch box love

Connect Health & Community’s dietitians offer ten tips to help put the love back into healthy school and work lunches.

5 tips to a 'new year, new you' (...though you really are great as you are)

Now that the mayhem of New Year’s Eve has faded and the Christmas spirit has waned, how do you seize the momentum of the new year with your new year's resolutions?

Moving forward in the new year – tips to overcome procrastination

Some insights to help you overcome procrastination and move forward this year.

100 Day Challenge to beat gambling

The Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation has launched its 100 Day Challenge to help people change their relationship with gambling.

Gaming gifts’ gateway to gambling harm

With holidays upon us parents are warned that holiday gaming could lead to gambling harm.

Bluff Rd Estate playground donation

Connect Health & Community was delighted to last week receive a cheque for $20,000 from the Women's Committee of the Royal Melbourne Golf Club, to help build a new playground at the Bluff Road Housing Estate.

Volunteers' Christmas Party

Our Volunteers’ Christmas Party was held last week, celebrating the hard work and achievements of our 200 volunteers who provide invaluable support to residents in our community.

International Day of People with Disability - 3 December

A day to raise awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability.

Overcoming gambling stigma and shame

Gamblers Help Southern is working with health providers in our region to help overcoming stigma and shame

Fighting the rise in childhood tooth decay.

Fighting the rise in childhood tooth decay. The Teeth for Life project is one step to positively redress the rise in early childhood decay rates to 47% of 5-6 year old children with tooth decay.

Taking action against violence

November 25 marks the start of '16 Days of Activism' a global campaign to raise awareness of the impact of violence, particularly on women.

Summer care for seniors

Christmas and summer can combine to create a time of joy and fun, but for older people it can highlight the restricted abilities and health challenges that come with age.

Mindful eating for the festive season

The festive season is upon us, bringing celebrations of food and a little indulgence for most of us.

Have you found your 30 today?

Summer is here, time to get moving.

Festive season stress

Despite being celebrated as the season of joy, the festive season is often a source of additional stress for people in our community, especially those already living with depression and anxiety.

More than just 16 Days of Activism

Connect Health & Community is supporting ‘16 Days of Activism,’ a global campaign to raise the awareness of the impact of violence, particularly on women.

National Skin Cancer Action Week November 18–24

November 18 – 24 is National Skin Cancer Action Week, a timely reminder of the need to be sunsmart as we head into our long, hot Australian summer.

AGM appoints new directors, approves Annual Report

The Connect Health & Community Board of Directors held its Annual General Meeting on Thursday, 25 October.

Connect Health welcomes $2 million hydro investment

Connect Health & Community has welcomed an announcement that an elected Liberal Government will contribute $2m towards rebuilding the hydrotherapy pool at our East Bentleigh site.

Occupational Therapy Week, 21 – 27 October: Reach your pOTential

Connect Health & Community encourages residents of all ages and abilities to embrace Occupational Therapy (OT) Week.

Drop the Jargon

Tuesday, 23 October, is Drop the Jargon Day. On this day we are all encouraged use simple language, so more people can better understand the important information they need to.

What is mental health?

Despite being used almost every day, the term ‘mental health’ is frequently misunderstood.

Helping students with exam stress

With the end of the school year fast approaching, parents can help students as they prepare for end of year assessments.

Five tips to help your mental health

Our mental health is vital to our overall health and happiness. Each day we can take steps to help our mental stability and agility.

A good headspace for young people

Connect Health & Community encourages a community where our young people can talk about the pressures in their lives before the build-up becomes too much.

World Mental Health Day – 10 October

World Mental Health Day, 10 October, is a day to help raise public awareness of mental health issues worldwide.

Volunteer Shopping Assistants wanted

Do you enjoy shopping, love helping other people and have some spare time to share? You could be a Volunteer Shopping Assistant.

The magic of smiling

Apart from letting others know you have just eaten poppy seeds, smiling has some amazing health benefits. So, go on, try it today.

Stand with community health

In the lead up to the Victorian election, Connect Health & Community and the Victorian Healthcare Association are calling on the next government to pledge support to community health services.

Stand with community health campaign

Support community health services to meet the needs of our clients and communities. Make your voice heard, stand with community health, speak to your local MP.

Foods to help your child focus

While many individual foods may help increase your child’s ability to focus, it’s best to look at their whole diet to ensure they’re getting what their developing brains and bodies need.

Dental waiting on the rise

The Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch (ADAVB) has recently highlighted data that shows public dental waiting times have increased by 67% over the past three years, with some vulnerable Victorians waiting up to four years for care.

International Youth Day - 12 August, 2018

Sunday 12 August is International Youth Day. Connect Health & Community has some tips to help young people tackle life's challenges.

Victorian gambling losses at record high

The Victorian Government have revealed that Victorians lost nearly $2.7 billion on poker machines in the past 2017-18 financial year — the highest figure in a decade.

Helping your child get ‘speech ready’ for school

These simple speech and communication tips will help you and your child get prepped for prep.

How to talk to your kids about gambling

With 1 in 5 adults with gambling problems starting to gamble before they were 18, an open conversation with your child now could help avoid difficulties down the track.

5 facts about diabetes that could help save your life

The first step to managing diabetes is understanding diabetes. Connect Health & Community's diabetes educator separates fact from fiction.

A quick and easy guide to My Aged Care

We’ve put together a simple guide to understanding and accessing health services through the Australian Government’s My Aged Care system.

Why your feet could be the secret to healthy ageing

Forget the fancy face creams – the key to healthy ageing may be stuffed inside your shoes.

5 tips to keep your brain healthier for longer

As you age, it’s important to be able to identify the difference between normal age-related memory changes and symptoms that may indicate more serious conditions.

How to talk to your teen about drugs and alcohol

If you want to talk to your teenager about drugs and alcohol, here are a few ideas to get the conversation started, and keep it going.

Why water works: 4 hydrotherapy health benefits

People have been using hydrotherapy for the relief and treatment of pain and discomfort for centuries. But what are the specific health and wellbeing benefits of hydrotherapy?

4 ways to improve men’s mental health

These tips will help you improve your overall mental health and emotional wellbeing, and surf the inevitable waves of life when they do roll in.

Volunteering – give a little, change a lot

The 200+ volunteers we are lucky enough to work alongside enable us to provide more services to more people in our community more of the time.

OJFC Youth Mentor Program – the story so far...

Kids and parents are getting behind the program's core aim: to support the wellbeing of young people through their common passion for footy.

Eat your way to more energy

What you choose to eat can have a huge influence on your energy, or lack of it.

Top tips to tackle exhaustion

Energy levels low? Try these simple energy and immunity boosting tips.

Upcoming improvements to your services

As part of our commitment to providing our community with improved services, we are upgrading our facilities at the Bentleigh East site.

Footy powers new youth mentoring and coaching program

Connect Health & Community announces new community partnership with Ormond Junior Football Club – the OJFC Youth Mentor Program.

Nicole Livingstone inspires at International Women’s Day event

On Friday 9 March, we welcomed some remarkable women, including Nicole Livingstone OAM, to celebrate International Women’s Day at the 2018 event in Sandringham.

How exercise can improve your emotional wellbeing

Studies show that a small amount of physical activity each day can improve not only your physical health, but also your emotional wellbeing.

Kids could be facing a lifetime of dental problems

With new evidence showing alarming levels of tooth decay among children, helping your kids develop good oral health habits now could save you a lot of stress, pain and money down the track.

8 daily mindfulness activities that take just minutes

Too busy for mindfulness and self-care? These 8 activities are easy to fit into your daily routine and could help you better respond to life’s challenges.

5 ways positive language can help you harness happiness

Has negative language and self-talk become a bad habit? These 5 simple fixes will help you talk yourself into feeling more positive.

The simple way to take control of your finances

Christmas spending, back-to-school costs, running the air con to beat the summer heat... No matter what led to that high credit card bill, it’s important to resist gambling on a ‘quick fix’.

Be inspired by Evelyn

Evelyn's story is one of eight stories of inspirational local women collected in "Finding a way".

Sweet-tooth Aussies consuming too much sugar

The average Aussie consumes 14 teaspoons of sugar a day (more than double the recommended amount). So where is all this excess sugar coming from?

Volunteers driving success

Connect Health & Community’s program aims to provide more flexible transport assistance for older residents who have difficulty accessing public transport or taxis.

Australia says "Yes"

In a 79.5% national participation rate, which is unprecedented for a voluntary survey, 61.6% voted ‘Yes’. We believe that this is a significant step forward to achieving LGBTIQ equality and one that we have been vocal in supporting.

Protect yourself from thunderstorm asthma

During grass pollen season people may notice an increase in asthma and hay fever.

Business of addiction: How the games industry is learning from casinos

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We support marriage equality

We’re committed to treating all our clients, staff and community with care, dignity and understanding.

New counselling service with no wait list

New free professional counselling is now available

Be part of a connected community

The contribution of volunteers in our organisation is significant and we are always looking for people who are willing to give back to the community in which they live.