News
Congratulations Fiona
Fiona Thompson is being celebrated for reaching 20 years of working with Warrina Services. Her dedication to improving the lives of people with a disability has been pivotal in the making Warrina the successful organisation that it is today. Fiona shares her time and talents with all and is respected and loved by clients, their families, our staff and the wider community sector. Thank you Fiona for your commitment and leadership.
Warrina Services reaches 30 years
This week we held a number of events to celebrate Warrina Services' 30 year as a disability service provider on the Darling Downs. On Thursday 1 December 2016 our supporters, past and present, gathered to share memories. There was a display of memorabilia that traced the life of the service, our clients, staff and Board members over the years.
On 2 December 2016, we held an event called "Tasting Success". Our guest speaker Laura Scurr delivered a passionate message about her vision for a more inclusive society that facilitates improved employment opportunities for people with a disability. Laura acknowledged that there was only 30 days until the launch of the National Disability Insurance Scheme in Toowoomba and that equitable access to supports and services under the new scheme would change the lives of many people. After the formalities, the Warrina Services' Board members served a barbeque lunch and the winners of our Biennial Art Competition were announced. An exhibition of works from clients and staff was displayed on site and was enjoyed by all. Thank you everyone who contributed to an enjoyable week.
Artist in Residence
Local Toowoomba artist Bronte Naylor aka "Noke" will be holding a series of creative workshops for our clients during October 2016. Bronte is well know for her street art and large murals. The workshops will provide time for participants to plan and paint a canvas with Bronte's assistance. Our clients and staff are holding their biennial Art Exhibition on commencing on 30 November 2016 and the office space at 172 Bridge Street, Toowoomba will be transformed into a gallery with the exhibition open for viewing over three days. Grace Dewar, Director of Kontraband Studios, First Coat Festivals and No Comply Gallery will be one of our judges. Presentation of awards to the winning artists will be held at 12:45pm on Friday 2 December 2016.
Brad reaches 15 years of Service
In June 2016 Bradley Rankin joined a group of eleven staff who have worked for Warrina Services for 15 years or longer. Brad is currently acting in a Coordinator position, taking on additional duties to facilitate training, complete Workplace, Health and Safety inspections and support co-workers with the implementation of our new Client Information Management software. Brad came to work at Warrina whilst studying for a Bachelor of Nursing. He loves to study and had since completed Certificate IV in Disability and Mental Health, a Diploma of Mental Health and Disability Work, is working towards completing a Bachelor of Social Science and Welfare and he recently commenced a Certificate IV in Assessment and Training. Brad has brightened our days and he has organised some great social events for clients, families and staff. He is the supplier of good chocolate and practical jokes and we enjoy having him in our team. Congratulations Brad.
Congratulations Linda
This month we are celebrating Linda Harrison’s 15th year of service with our organisation. Warrina Services acknowledges Linda’s long term commitment and her dedication to enhancing the lives of people with a disability. We are very fortunate to have Linda in our Management Team.
Linda, an Operations Manager, came to work with Warrina in 2001 from Townsville, where she studied at James Cook University completing a Bachelor of Arts. Linda commenced working in the disability sector with a Townsville Disability Support Service in 1997; attaining the position of Senior Lifestyle Support Worker before moving to Toowoomba. Linda has worked across a number of positions in her 15 years with Warrina Services: Support Worker, Assistant Coordinator, Coordinator and now in her senior management role. During this time Linda has completed complementary studies and training to further her knowledge and skills. Linda has a Certificate IV in Disability and a Graduate Certificate in Disability Studies both attained while working, offering her time in a voluntary capacity to support local community activities’ and raising two young children.