Challenge Community Services

17/04/2026

It's thanks to the generosity of our incredible sponsors that we can keep the Gunnedah Swimming Carnival fun, inclusive, and completely free for all in our community. 🫶

Thank you to Whitehaven for returning as our major sponsor. Whitehaven is the leading Australian producer of premium-quality coal, and as the largest operator in the NSW Gunnedah coal basin, they're proudly local.

Thank you also to our gold sponsor, Austbrokers ABS, and our BBQ sponsor, Petries Mitre 10 - Gunnedah for their generous contributions, and to our incredible community sponsors, who have provided in-kind support.

We're so grateful to all who have helped ensure this year's event on Thursday 30 April will be a success. 🩵

If you'd like to support inclusive swimming for all, you can make a donation via the link 🔗 https://tinyurl.com/4ez8w7vv

13/04/2026

Adrian is taking the reins! 🐴

Adrian loves attending his equine therapy sessions at Whitethorn Academy, where he gets to hang out with horses and have fun whilst building his confidence and skills. 🐎

09/04/2026

Check out our new Allied Health office in Brisbane! ☀️

Our wonderful team of psychologists, behaviour support practitioners and social workers are ready to help you reach your wellbeing goals. Get in touch via the link to find out more about our services.

🔗 https://tinyurl.com/427a2pv6

07/04/2026

Thinking about becoming a foster carer but not sure where to start?

Join us for a free online information session to hear from real carers, learn about the application and authorisation process, and get your questions answered by our experienced caseworkers.

Whether you’re ready to take the first step or simply exploring your options, this session is designed to empower and inspire you.

Register now via the link 🔗 https://tinyurl.com/3c8jjsz7

Join us for an inspiring and informative evening to explore the world of foster care.

02/04/2026

When you're part of the Challenge Community Services team, you get to bring your passions and interests to your role. Our team is as diverse as the people we support, made up of individuals whose unique talents shine. 🌟

Want a role where you can have fun and make a difference? Check out our current career opportunities via the link 🔗 https://tinyurl.com/3c2f4zv2

30/03/2026

Foster Care FAQs 💬

Before you’re authorised as a foster carer, you’ll complete a foundational training course called 'Shared Lives', which is designed to prepare you for the realities of fostering. Once authorised, you may be offered additional training tailored to the unique needs of the children and young people in your care.

Our training is practical, informative, and grounded in real-life experiences. We encourage all carers to embrace ongoing learning opportunities, and we’ll be with you every step of the way to support your growth and development.

Register for one of our upcoming info sessions to learn more about the life-changing impact a foster carer can make 🔗 https://tinyurl.com/3c8jjsz7

26/03/2026

There's still time to join in the fun at the Gunnedah Swimming Carnival—but get in quick because registrations close soon! ⏱️

Come join us at Gunnedah Memorial Pool, Thursday 30 April, for an unforgettable day. Whether you're competing in the novelty events or swimming races, or coming along to cheer on your friends, we can't wait to see you there! 👋

Register now before entries close this Sunday 29 March 🔗 https://tinyurl.com/bdtmaeuz

24/03/2026

Challenge Community Services has made a formal submission to the consultation on the proposed new planning framework being developed by the NDIA for the NDIS National Disability Insurance Scheme.

By sharing what we see every day across the communities, we hope to help build a planning framework that remains transparent, responsive and genuinely centred on the people it exists to support.

Read more about our submission on the blog 🔗https://tinyurl.com/327d5cmb

19/03/2026

Finding the right Supported Independent Living (SIL) provider can feel overwhelming. Before making your choice, there are a few key things to look for to ensure the provider you choose is the best fit for your needs.

If you're ready to start your SIL journey but aren't sure where to start, get in touch with our team via the link to see if we can help 🔗 https://tinyurl.com/bdzjtm9d

16/03/2026

Hills that Sam Johns, one of our incredible social workers, would die on as a neuro-affirming practitioner 👇

1. Diagnoses do have value – they can help people form identity, social supports, and connections.
2. Neurodivergent folks do not have "poor social skills" if they communicate in different ways to neurotypical people.
3. Different forms of communication, like sign language, gestures and body language, are just as valid as the use of spoken words.
4. Neurodivergent folks' ability to care for themselves, complete tasks, or pursue goals can be different on any given day – and that is okay!
5. Language matters – respecting the way neurodivergent communities want their experiences to be spoken about is key to providing affirming support.

Read more about how Sam provides compassionate support for neurodivergent folks on the blog via the link 🔗 https://tinyurl.com/579h23df

13/03/2026

Let's get a round of applause for Daniel and Charlie, who recently completed their white card training! 👏

With this accreditation, Daniel and Charlie can now work on construction sites. It's a big step towards gaining employment, and we couldn't be more proud of them. 🌟

11/03/2026

One of the best ways to learn about life as a foster carer is to hear firsthand from those who are already caring.

With a great community of carers and the support of our dedicated team, you can make a life-changing difference for a young person in out-of-home care.

Reach out to our team and start the conversion now via the link 🔗 https://tinyurl.com/4fh7ykwr