Community updates
‘School Can’t’ Parents and carers group
This new group has been created by Castlemaine Community House in recognition of the stress and isolation many local families are experiencing with school can't/refusal. These free monthly sessions are facilitated to create a welcoming, judgement free and safe space for parents & carers to connect, share and support each other. Sessions will be gently supported by experienced care providers from Dhelkaya Health. All sessions are confidential, no cost, no judgement and no obligations.
First Wednesday of every month
The next School Can’t Parent & Carer Group is on Wed 6 August 4.30-5.30.
More info: https://events.humanitix.com/copy-of-school-can-t-parent-and-carer-group
4:30pm - 5:30pm
Where: Ray Bradfield Room, Castlemaine
Mount Alexander term three parent talks
The previous talks have been popular and very well received
All things teens and tweens
Thursday 31 July
5.15 to 7pm
Castlemaine Library
Free
Information on topics that most parents can relate to, including tips on communicating, negotiating the world of technology, emotions and sex education with teens and tweens.
Book: https://goldfieldslibraries.com/
Teens and screens
Thursday 21 August
5.15 to 7pm
Castlemaine Library
Free
Learn how to understand teen tech use and foster positive digital experiences
Book: https://goldfieldslibraries.com/
From Sacred Heart College
As part of Sacred Heart's Parent Engagement Partnership, the College is offering a free online event focusing on Navigating the Digital Playground.
This event will be hosted by Cyber Safety Project, Australia’s premier online safety education provider.
When & Where: Tuesday 5 August 2025, 7:00 - 8:00pm, Live Online
How to Book: bit.ly/sacredheartcollege
Wear it Purple Day yarn bombing
Would anyone like to help us with some purple knitting at school? see below
Calling anyone who can knit or crochet - or who's willing to give it a go!
Dhelkaya Health is calling on the community to grab their knitting needles and crochet hooks to help create a powerful display for Wear It Purple Day 2025. Dhelkaya Health is planning to yarn bomb four trees across the region in a bold show of solidarity with the young LGBTIQA+ people in our community on Wear It Purple Day.
A focal tree at Castlemaine Secondary College will be adorned alongside trees at Dhelkaya Health’s Castlemaine and Maldon Campuses and Tarrengower Women’s Prison. Each yarn bomb will shout a clear message: our young LGBTIQA+ community is valued, seen, and supported.
Knitters and crocheters of all abilities are encouraged to contribute squares or shapes of any size, ideally purple-themed, but all rainbow colours are welcome. Completed pieces must be delivered by August 24 to Spencely House at our Castlemaine campus or at Maldon Neighbourhood Centre to ensure the installations are ready for Wear It Purple Day on August 29.
For any enquiries email lgbtiqa+@castlemainehealth.org.au
Crafty Fashion Club
From the Good Opp Shop:
There are two Crafty Fashion Clubs coming up, in the lead up to the young people's upcycled fashion parade on September 21.
They are being run at The Re-usery (upstairs from The Good Op Shop - 4 Lewis Drive Castlemaine) as follows with blurb below:
Thursdays 21 August to 11 September
4:30pm to 6pm
Kids 10 to 14yo
Book online at: www.reusery.com.au
Crafty Fashion Club Join our fun, hands-on workshop series where kids get creative with clothes! From hand-sewing to styling and upcycling old garments into bold new fashion, this club is all about turning scraps into style. Perfect for young makers who love to craft, design, and reimagine. Being run by Laura Jade, local artist and designer.
Dhelkaya Health - new support Group
here is an update with a contact email address - Our email is: LGBTIQA+@castlemainehealth.org.au
Dhelkaya Health are planning a new group for gender diverse, transgender and non-binary children of primary school age with their parents/carers.
The group called ‘Planet GAGA’ will focus on positive mental health with Gender Affirming Games and Activities, creating safe, affirming spaces for TGDNB children and their families. The program also provides peer support, resources and education for parents and carers.
The program will be a collaboration between Dhelkaya Health, Loddon Children’s Health and Wellbeing Locals and Mount Alexander Shire Council.
We are starting with a survey to families to collect interest for the group.
Can you please help us get the survey link below to families at your school.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PlanetGAGA
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from Baobab therapy:
Neurospicy Parenting Circle is a supportive parenting group led by an experienced speech and early intervention therapist. It is a modified program based on principles of ‘DIR Floortime’ and ‘Circle of Security - Parenting’ using evidence-based tools and strategies to guide parents through discussions about their children and how the model relates to their own lives and child's unique profile starting with self and co-regulation as a primary focus.
Whether you're looking to connect with others going through similar stages, have a cuppa and a chat, or simply take a moment to breathe in good company — this is for you.
Our gatherings will be: DATE: Starting Wednesday 30th July 2025 WHEN: Fortnightly for 4 sessions TIME 2pm - 3:15pm LOCATION: Room 48, 1 Halford Street, Castlemaine
If you’re interested or to secure your spot please email sarah.baobabtherapy@gmail.com or call 0403 517 915. Places are limited! Please see attached flyer for more details.
from Castlemaine Circus
