Winter 2025
Hear from our CEO A New Era for NWDS
Regardless of the chilly weather in Sydney, we are feeling a warm glow from the exciting projects and changes that are taking place at NWDS. One of the exciting projects is a Rebrand. From June, NWDS will rebrand to adapt to the changing environment and to align with our 2025-2028 strategic priorities. Our brand will reflect a modern, inclusive organisation with participants and carers at the heart of all that we do. The new brand will roll out gradually over the next 6 months. and will extend to our staff t-shirts, buses, building signage and marketing. Our tone of voice will also evolve reflecting a fresh and modern approach to how we deliver services to our participants, their families and the community.
Another exciting project is our Hydro Coop Farming Project located at the Secret Garden. The Hydro Coop Farming Project is designed to foster independence by integrating hydroponic and poultry farming into a hands-on learning environment. The project is set to generate jobs for people with disability across agriculture, hospitality, retail and artisanal micro enterprises. At the heart of this project is a commitment to sustainability. We look forward to sharing updates on this exciting initiative as the project progresses.
Carmen Izurieta CEO of North West Disability Services
Page 2
In May, Lisa Beavan made the decision to resign from the role of Chair of North West Disability Services. Lisa contributed significantly to the leadership of the organisation during a period of change. We wish Lisa well for her future endeavors. Stepping into the role of Chair is our Deputy Chair Clinton Blanks. Clinton has been on the NWDS Board for 2 years. Clinton is a seasoned Senior Executive, Director, Board member, and Adviser with over 20 years of experience in operational and strategic leadership within the banking and financial services sector. Known for his progressive thinking, Clinton embraces changing technologies, industry reforms, and evolving organisational cultures. Clinton is also on the Board of Vivability, a Bathurst based disability service provider. Governance Changes
Flu Season
As winter has arrived, we encourage carers and participants to have up to date influenza vaccine. This is recommended by the NDIS and is strongly encouraged by NSW Health to protect vulnerable individuals. More information can be accessed by visiting the NSW Health at www.health.nsw.gov.au New Team Members FINANCE – Introducing Pooja Arora Pooja commenced as Chief Finance Officer in April. Pooja brings a breadth and depth of experience from previous roles in the Government, ASX and the Not for Profit sector. Pooja is a Certified Accountant and will lead the financial affairs of the organisation. QUALITY & COMPLIANCE - Introducing Karen Dhu We welcome Karen Dhu to the team as Quality & Safeguarding Manager. Karen brings to NWDS over 25 years of experience in disability from previous roles at Ability Options and most recently Karen led the Quality, Safeguarding and Enterprise Risk Management function at Autism Spectrum Australia. Karen will lead the quality and compliance culture and practice to ensure safe, consistent high-quality care to NWDS participants and their carers. SAFETY & WELLBEING - Introducing Graham West Graham has joined NWDS in a newly created role, Safety & Wellbeing Manager. Graham joins us from Southern Cross Care NSW and ACT and previously NorWest and the Hills Private Hospital and Unisson Disability. This new role will create a Safety and Wellbeing system for the organisation to further advance the safety and wellbeing of staff and participants.
Page 3
Carer of the Quarter This edition we feature Asad Khazir carer to
Omar Khazir Tell us about yourself
Sara and I are proud parents and full-time carers for our son, Omar, who lives with significant disabilities. We come from a close-knit, culturally rich family and are passionate about creating a loving, inclusive environment. Supporting our children and others in the community is important to us. We’re especially proud of Omar’s creative talent— he has won several art painting prizes and has successfully auctioned pieces, all with the support of NWDS. What challenges do you face being a full-time Carer?
Balancing medical appointments, therapy needs, and emotional support can be physically and mentally demanding. Navigating complex systems and ensuring Omar receives the right support at the right time adds another layer of responsibility. What is the most rewarding experience you have being a Carer? The most rewarding moments are seeing Omar thrive—whether it’s his smile, achieving a new goal, or expressing himself through art. His artistic achievements, especially the recognition he’s received through awards and auctions, bring us immense pride and joy. Knowing we’ve helped create space for him to shine makes it all worthwhile. How do you find time for Self-Care? We focus on small but meaningful moments—sharing a quiet meal, going for a walk, or simply making time to talk and laugh. These pauses help us recharge and stay grounded as we care for Omar and each other. Caring for Omar has taught us patience, gratitude, and the power of love in its purest form. Every day brings new challenges, but also new joys—and we wouldn’t trade this journey for anything.
Page 4
NWDS Open Day On 22 May, NWDS hosted an Open Day at our Conie Ave Baulkham Hills site. The day began with an opening address by our CEO Carmen Izurieta followed by Angela Martin who shared the histo - ry and journey of NWDS’s very special art program. Dr Michelle Byrne, the Hills Shire Council May- or presided over the official opening of our art gallery space which displays the amazing talent of our participants. The Open Day was also a great opportunity for us to engage with key stakeholders, community supporters and carers, provide a showcase of our day programs, and we had a visit from our star attractions, Thore and Lokie, dwarf goats from the NWDS Secret Garden at Richmond. If you would like to discuss your current program of supports, please call us on 02 9689 4155.
Page 5
Mini Woolworths NWDS in collaboration with Woolworths is exploring the establishment of a mini-Woolworths at our Opal Cottage site. This initiative will enable participants to learn valuable skills in retail including communication with customers, packing, stock fulfillment and financial literacy. The program will be implemented over the next 6 months with a launch date expected to be in late 2025. We will be seeking expressions of Interest from carers closer to the launch date. Program Innovation
FITNESS & MOTIVATION Join a qualified fitness instructor for a fun, 45-minute
July 2025
fitness session open to all abilities. Stay fit, motivated, and socially engaged with NWDS participants. Develop a healthier lifestyle and connect with like-minded individuals.
Express your interest here!
Page 6
North West Disability Services acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past and present. We also accept the invitation in the Uluru Statement from the Heart to walk together with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in a movement of the Australian people for a better future. The Spring Edition of Family Connect will be published in September 2025. If you have any content suggestions please send an email to familyconnect@nwds.org.au
nwds.org.au
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7Made with FlippingBook. PDF to flipbook with ease