Programs and Services that make a difference

Programs and Services

All our programs are meticulously crafted to meet the unique needs of our local community members. At George Town Neighbourhood House, we are dedicated to providing support, resources, and services that contribute to the overall health and wellbeing of every individual in the George Town community.

We warmly invite individuals from diverse backgrounds to visit George Town Neighbourhood House, whether seeking support, information, or referrals, or simply wishing to engage in the wide array of activities and events we offer. Our Neighbourhood House is also a space where you can actively participate in community development initiatives. Our community is brimming with a wealth of knowledge and experience, and by joining forces, we can take meaningful action to address local issues and fulfill unmet needs.

Among the key community issues we are presently focusing on are reducing social isolation and enhancing local access to affordable, nutritious food. These priorities reflect our commitment to building a connected and nourished community.

See below our extensive list of programs and services currently on offer.

Together, we can make a difference by creating a stronger and more vibrant community.

+ Everyday (Monday-Friday)

Continental Breakfast- Start your day off right with our free community continental breakfast, available every day from 8:30am to 10:30am at George Town Neighbourhood House. Join us for a delightful breakfast of cereals,and toast with a variety of spreads. Whether you're seeking a quick bite or a leisurely morning meal, our breakfast is open to all community members. Enjoy a nourishing start to your day while connecting with fellow neighbors in a warm and welcoming environment. Proudly Sponsored By Timberlink

All day tea and coffee available every day- Indulge in a warm cup of community spirit with our complimentary tea and coffee, available daily at George Town Neighbourhood House. Whether you're seeking a boost of energy in the morning or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up, we've got you covered. Come by and enjoy a steaming cup of your favorite brew. Take a moment to relax, connect with others, or simply savor the comforting flavors. Our doors are open, and the kettle is always on. Join us for a warm and welcoming experience, fueled by the comforting aroma of freshly brewed tea and coffee.

Seniors Program- Assitance available for seniors with Centrelink, My aged care, Applications for seniors card, Commonewealth Healthcare card, No interest loans (NILS), Bereavment issues, emergency food relief, grief counselling, weekly check in phone calls, phone assistance, referals and more, by appointment.

**NILS - ** At The Hood, we are proud to administer the No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS), providing a valuable financial support system to individuals in need to purchase essential houehold goods. If you are interested in accessing a NILS loan, we encourage you to reach out to us and register your interest. Our dedicated team will be happy to assist you in scheduling an appointment with one of our trained staff or volunteers who will guide you through the loan process. Rest assured that the entire process is designed to be quick, easy, and hassle-free. We understand the importance of financial support and aim to provide an accessible and reliable solution for those in our community. Give us a call today to take the first step towards securing a No Interest Loan through The Hood.

Centrelink support - By appointment. (This person is not employed by Centrelink just knows a lot about the Centrelink claims) • Form filling in specialising in but not limited to Disability Support Pension,Health Care Card, Newstart, Parenting Payment (Single & Partnered), Medicare card transfer form, Unreasonable to live at Home, Youth Allowance, Income and Assets, Aged Care Pack etc

• Provide Income Statements to customers that don’t have online services

• Register People for online services

• Create MyGov accounts – link to child Support & tax office Tax returns via MyGov

• Confirmation of Payment Suspension

• Advocacy on behalf of Clients directly to Launceston support staff.

If you are seeking advocacy or, want us to make an enquiry on behalf of yourself please fill in the form below and return it back to us in person or via email. Form

LLV - Our dedicated team of legal literacy trained volunteers is ready to assist you with reading and filling out forms, ensuring you have the support you need. Appointments are available on a daily basis for your convenience.

We are committed to providing valuable information on various legislative matters. Our services cover a wide range of topics, including but not limited to: Wills, Power of Attorney, Guardianship & Advanced Care Directive, Neighbourhood Disputes, Restraint Orders, Family Violence Orders and Police Family Violence Orders, Before Death and After Death, Residential Tenancy, Employment Law, Residential Aged Care: Costs, Assets and Income Test, Family Law, Disability Discrimination, General Civil Law, Centrelink the Basics, Welfare Rights, and Scams.

We are trained in basic legal knowledge by experienced lawyers; however, it is important to note that we are not lawyers ourselves. We are dedicated volunteers equipped to provide guidance and support within our scope of expertise. In cases where legal advice is necessary, we will promptly refer you to qualified lawyers who can offer the professional assistance required. Your well-being and legal needs are of utmost importance to us, and we are committed to ensuring that you receive the appropriate guidance throughout your legal journey

L’s Tutoring and testing - To ensure personalized attention and assistance, we offer one-on-one support sessions by appointment to help you better understand the road rules before taking your paper test. While not essential before sitting the paper test, these sessions can provide valuable guidance and clarification.

We understand that some individuals may face challenges when completing the test on a computer. Therefore, we provide the option of paper-based testing for those who may find it more accessible or comfortable.

Please contact us to schedule an appointment or to inquire further about our support sessions and paper-based testing options. We are committed to helping you gain the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate the road safely.

Massage Chair- Indulge in ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation while also nurturing your mental health and well-being in our state-of-the-art massage chair. At George Town Neighbourhood House, you can unwind and let the soothing motions of the massage chair melt away your stress and tension. Treat yourself to a moment of pure bliss and discover the incredible benefits that a therapeutic massage can bring for your mental well-being. The tranquil ambiance and luxurious comfort of our massage chair await you, providing a holistic approach to self-care and promoting a positive state of mind. Come and experience the relaxation and mental rejuvenation that our massage chair can offer.

Newspaper- Stay informed and up-to-date with the latest news by enjoying the complimentary daily newspaper available at George Town Neighbourhood House. We are pleased to offer the Launceston Examiner, a reputable source of local and regional news. Whether you're seeking current affairs, community updates, or engaging articles, this daily newspaper provides a valuable resource to keep you informed and connected to the world around you. Take advantage of this complimentary service and enjoy your daily dose of news.

Community Puzzle- Join the excitement and camaraderie as we piece together our community jigsaw puzzle. This engaging activity invites individuals from all walks of life to come together, connect, and contribute to the completion of a captivating puzzle. As each piece finds its place, a vibrant image of our community emerges, symbolizing the strength and unity we share. Whether you're a puzzle enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and interactive way to engage with others, our community jigsaw puzzle welcomes you. Drop by, grab a puzzle piece, and let's create something remarkable together!

Community Diamond Art- Unleash your creativity and immerse yourself in the beauty of community diamond art. Join us in this captivating craft activity that combines artistic expression with the power of togetherness. Each tiny diamond piece meticulously placed on the canvas creates a dazzling masterpiece that reflects the collective effort and spirit of our community.

Free Books and Clothes- Discover a treasure trove of free books and clothing waiting for you on our racks out the front. We believe in the power of giving and creating a sense of abundance within our community. Our collection of free books invites you to embark on exciting literary adventures, from gripping novels to informative non-fiction.

In addition, our racks also offer a selection of clothing items for individuals of all ages.

Feel free to browse through the racks and explore the literary wonders and fashionable pieces available. Take home a book that captivates your imagination or find a stylish garment that resonates with your personal taste—all without spending a dime. Join us in embracing the spirit of community sharing and find something special for yourself or someone you care about.

Street Library- Welcome to our Street Library —a charming and accessible literary haven available to you day and night! Located conveniently in our driveway, our Street Library welcomes book enthusiasts at any time, extending its services beyond traditional business hours.

Whether you're an early bird seeking a morning read, a night owl in search of literary inspiration, or simply passing by during the day, our Street Library is always open, ready to share its collection of books with the community. Its convenient location outside ensures easy access for all, whenever the reading mood strikes.

Basket ball- We proudly provide a basketball hoop, offering endless opportunities for fun, exercise, and friendly competition. Our basketball hoop is a focal point for active community engagement, inviting individuals of all ages to shoot hoops, practice their skills, and enjoy the thrill of the game.

Lace up your sneakers, and take advantage of our basketball hoop—a place where sportsmanship and community spirit thrive on and off the court. Let's embrace the thrill of basketball together!

Gaming Console- Experience the excitement of virtual gaming with the Wii gaming console, Step into a world of interactive entertainment, where players of all ages can engage in a wide variety of games and experiences.

Our Wii gaming console offers a unique and inclusive gaming experience, combining physical movement with digital gameplay. Whether you're into sports, fitness, adventure, or multiplayer competitions, there's something for everyone. Gather your fellow community members and embark on a thrilling gaming adventure together.

+ Mondays

Frozen Food Program- Every Monday, we open registrations for our frozen food program, providing essential support to families in need. We allocate space for up to 20 families to register and receive a frozen food bag each week. If you find yourself in need of assistance, we encourage you to register and take advantage of this valuable resource.

The registration process is simple. On Monday mornings, families can sign up to receive a bag by calling and putting their name on the list for that week.. We understand that circumstances may change, and families are welcome to register each week if they require ongoing support.

Once registered, families can collect their food bag at 10am on the same Monday. Please note that our food bags are not intended to replace your regular grocery shopping but rather serve as an additional support during challenging times.

Aqua Floaters- Dive into refreshing aquatic activities with our indoor pool access! We offer access to the pool for individuals who book in advance, providing a rejuvenating experience for a nominal fee of $5 per session (paid by the term).

To make a splash and enjoy a serene swim, 9:30am to 10:30am Mondays and Wednesdays, allowing you to start your day with a refreshing aquatic workout or leisurely swim.

For those seeking our guided aqua fitness classes, we recommend reaching out to Sherriff Health and Fitness. They offer instructed aqua fitness classes that are both invigorating and beneficial for your overall well-being.

Aqua Fitness- Immerse yourself in invigorating and dynamic Instructed Aqua Fitness classes led by the talented Kylie from Sherriff Health and Fitness! These classes are designed to provide a comprehensive and engaging workout in the water, combining the benefits of aquatic exercise with expert guidance.

Join Kylie and fellow participants for an energizing session at 6:30pm. The casual rate for each class is $13, offering you the flexibility to attend whenever it suits your schedule. Alternatively, you can take advantage of our convenient prepaid option and secure 10 sessions for a discounted price of $100.

CVGT Employment- CVGT Employment Services has a remarkable legacy as a not-for-profit, for-purpose employment services provider. As an Australia-owned organisation, they take great pride in our commitment to putting people at the center of everything we do and maintaining a strong focus on community.

Their mission is to assist individuals in finding meaningful employment opportunities that align with their skills, aspirations, and personal circumstances. CVGT believes that everyone deserves the chance to thrive in their chosen career path, and we are dedicated to supporting individuals in achieving their employment goals.

Here Mondays from 9am-12noon

LCLC- We are pleased to inform you that the Launceston Community Legal Centre (LCLC) conducts outreach appointments in George Town every fortnight. If you require legal assistance and would like to schedule an appointment with a lawyer, there are two convenient ways to reach out.

You can directly call the Launceston Community Legal Centre at 03 6334 1577 and kindly inform them that you would like to book an appointment for the George Town outreach, and their friendly staff will assist you accordingly.

We understand the importance of accessible legal support, and we are delighted to offer these outreach appointments in George Town. Don't hesitate to reach out to secure your appointment and receive professional legal guidance from the dedicated team at LCLC.

RFDS Youth Mental Health Worker- Joe, the Youth Mental Health worker from the Royal Flying Doctors, visits our location fortnightly to provide invaluable support to young individuals. Joe's primary focus is to enhance youth mental health and assist them in navigating any challenges they may be encountering.

Working closely with young people, Joe offers a compassionate and understanding approach to address their mental health concerns. Through personalized sessions, he helps individuals build resilience, develop coping strategies, and work through any issues they may be facing.

If you or a young person you know could benefit from Joe's expertise and support, referral forms are readily available at our office. We encourage you to come by, pick up a referral form, and take the first step towards improving youth mental health and well-being.

Maxmima - Maxima's mission is to contribute to a better Australia by facilitating meaningful employment opportunities for individuals. Each day, they are dedicated to connecting jobseekers with employers and providing ongoing support throughout the employment journey.

Maxima understands the transformative power of employment and its positive impact on individuals, families, and communities. By fostering connections between jobseekers and employers, they strive to create pathways to sustainable and fulfilling careers.

Lee is at the George Town Neighbourhood House to assit on Mondays 9am-4pm

Streets To Home- We have Bob, an assertive outreach worker from the Salvation Army's Streets to Home (S2H) program, available on Mondays fortnightly from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The S2H program is dedicated to supporting individuals who are experiencing homelessness, including those living on the streets or in cars. Bob provides invaluable assistance to individuals who may be facing various challenges such as past trauma, mental health issues, illness, poverty, long-term unemployment, or transitioning from prison or state care. If you or someone you know is in need of support, guidance, or resources, we encourage you to connect with Bob during his scheduled visits. Together, we can work towards improving the lives of those in our community who are facing these difficult circumstances.

+ Tuesdays

RFDS Adult Mental Health Worker- Kate, the Adult Mental Health worker from the Royal Flying Doctors, is available at our George Town Neighbourhood house from Tuesday to Friday each week. Kate specializes in working with adults to enhance their mental health and support them in navigating any challenges they may be experiencing.

With a compassionate and empathetic approach, Kate provides valuable guidance and assistance to individuals in working through their mental health issues. Whether it's managing stress, addressing anxiety or depression, or dealing with other concerns, Kate is dedicated to helping adults boost their mental well-being and improve their overall quality of life.

If you or someone you know could benefit from Kate's expertise and support, referral forms are readily available at our office. We encourage you to stop by, pick up a referral form, and take the first step towards prioritizing your mental health and finding the support you need.

Together with Kate and the Royal Flying Doctors, we are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for adults, ensuring they receive the care and assistance necessary to thrive. Don't hesitate to reach out and access this vital resource that can make a significant difference in your mental health journey.

Darts and Bowls - Discover the thrill of casual fun as you try your hand at darts or indoor bowls on Tuesday mornings the house. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, join us for a relaxed and enjoyable session filled with friendly competition and laughter. It's the perfect opportunity to socialize, make new connections, and embrace the excitement of these classic games. Come along and give darts or indoor bowls a go – we can't wait to share in the fun with you!

Ross Hart Lawyer- We are delighted to offer the services of Ross Hart, a reputable lawyer who practices out of the house on a fortnightly basis, specifically on Tuesdays. Please note that this service is not provided free of charge. To secure an appointment with Ross Hart and find our about his fees, kindly reach out to his office by calling [6388 9230][6]. We understand the importance of legal assistance, and we strive to provide access to professional expertise for those in need. Don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with Ross Hart to address your legal concerns and receive expert guidance.

Kids Bingo- Join us for an exciting game of kids' bingo every Tuesday after school during school terms from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM, children can enjoy a fun-filled session of bingo and have the chance to win token prizes like chocolates, lollies, or pencils. It's a fantastic opportunity for kids to have a great time, test their luck, and make new friends in a lively and engaging environment. Don't miss out on the excitement of kids' bingo – come and join us for an afternoon of laughter, games, and fantastic prizes.

[6]: tel:0363889230

+ Wednesdays

Anglicare Housing Connect - Wednesdays we have a worker come down from Anglicare Housing Connect to help with your housing needs. for more information or to make an appointment please call us or call Anglicare Housing connect on 1800 800 588

Vegetable Bags- Every Wednesday, we are offer vegetable bags from Loaves and Fishes, a wonderful initiative supporting our community. These vegetable bags contain fresh and nutritious produce to help supplement your household groceries.

We have 20 vegetable bags each week, with one bag per household. If you find yourself in need of a vegetable bag, simply give us a call and we will add your name to the list. It's important to register each week when you require a bag, on Wednesdays, collect your vegetable bag at 12 noon. This convenient timing allows you to incorporate these fresh ingredients into your meals for the week ahead.

Children's University- The Children's University program, is fantastic opportunity for children aged 7 to 14 years to engage in fun learning activities and earn valuable hours towards their "Passport to learn", partnering with The Peter Ynderwood Centre and TAS University.

By participating in a variety of educational activities, children can accumulate a minimum of 30 hours in their passport. Once they reach this milestone, they will have the opportunity to graduate from the Children's University with a special cap and gown ceremony, celebrating their achievements.

To track their progress, children will receive a "Passport to learn" that can be stamped by participating agencies. There are five ways for children to earn stamps and hours in their passport:

Attend a weekly activity at Neighbourhood House, held every Wednesday after school.
Log on to the Children's University portal at home and participate in a variety of engaging online activities.
Explore and visit learning destinations, such as the Launceston Museum, where children can gain valuable knowledge and experiences.
Engage in after-school activities like football, dancing, parkrun, and more.

To register your child and receive their passport, please ask us for the link to the online form or fill out a paper form at Neighbourhood House. Once registered, you will be provided with an online login to the Children's University portal.

Indigineous Centrelink Worker- Kerri, the Indigenous Services Officer from Services Australia Centrelink, will be joining us at The Hood fortnightly. Kerri brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in providing specialized support to the Indigenous community.

As an Indigenous Services Officer, Kerri is dedicated to assisting and empowering Indigenous individuals and families to access the services and support they need from Centrelink.

We encourage all members of the Indigenous community to take advantage of this valuable resource. Kerri's expertise and understanding of the unique challenges faced by Indigenous individuals will help ensure that you receive the support you deserve.

To make an appointment with Kerri or for more information, please contact us or visit The Hood.

To make a splash and enjoy a serene swim, 9:30am to 10:30am Mondays and Wednesdays, allowing you to start your day with a refreshing aquatic workout or leisurely swim.

+ Thursdays.

Anglicare Drug and Alcohol Treatment and Support Services - Are you or someone you know struggling with addiction? You don't have to face it alone. We offer a supportive and non-judgmental space for individuals dealing with addiction to come together and seek help.

We understand that addiction can be a challenging journey, but with the right support, recovery is possible. That's why we have partnered with Anglicare and their dedicated addiction specialist, Ashley, who is here to assist you on your path to recovery.

Ashley brings extensive experience and expertise in addiction counseling, providing guidance and support tailored to your specific needs. Whether you're battling substance abuse, gambling addiction, or any other form of addiction, Ashley is here to help.

In our safe and confidential environment, you can share your struggles, gain valuable insights, and learn effective strategies for managing cravings and overcoming addiction. The support group fosters a sense of community, where individuals can lean on each other for encouragement and strength.

If you or someone you know could benefit from addiction support, we encourage you to reach out to Ashley, our Anglicare addiction specialist who is at the huse Thursdays. You can contact us directly or visit us to schedule a confidential appointment. Don't wait any longer – let us help you take the first step towards a healthier, happier future.

Cooking with Friends - Join us every Thursday at 10:00am for a free and engaging community cooking program. Connect with fellow community members as we come together to prepare a delicious meal and socialise. This program offers a chance to learn new recipes, enjoy the process of cooking, and share a meal together. Come and be a part of this welcoming and inclusive culinary experience. This program is not small children friendly.

+ Fridays

Fridays 9am-4pm

Footy Fest - Get ready to kick off the AFL season with our exciting Footy Fest held every Friday during the season 3pm-4pm! Each week, we have something different planned to celebrate all things footy-related and create a fun and engaging atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.

Join us as we cheer on our favorite teams, engage in footy-themed activities, and immerse ourselves in the spirit of the game. One of the highlights of Footy Fest is the opportunity to vote for our very own Brownlow, Just like the prestigious AFL award, we will recognize and honor the outstanding participants of our footy fest program.

Whether you're a die-hard footy fan or just looking to have a great time, Footy Fest is the place to be. Enjoy the excitement of the game, connect with fellow footy enthusiasts, and soak up the lively atmosphere.

For more information and specific details about each week's Footy Fest event,check our Newsletter schedule. Let's come together as a community and celebrate the AFL season in style!

Social Bingo - Every Friday (with the exception of when the Hood is closed), we invite you to join us for an exciting session of Social Bingo. This lively event takes place at 10:30 am and is exclusively for adults, creating a fun-filled environment for a little friendly competition.

Put your luck to the test and have a chance to win fantastic grocery prizes while enjoying the company of fellow bingo enthusiasts. The prices for participation are as follows: $2 per book ($12 for a full card), 60 cents for tombola tickets, and $1 for a set of three raffle tickets.

Step into the world of anticipation and excitement as the numbers are called and the thrill of winning builds. Social Bingo is the perfect opportunity to take a break, have some fun, and potentially go home with exciting prizes.

Please note that this event is open to adults only, providing a space for grown-ups to engage in some lighthearted entertainment. So gather your friends, bring your lucky charms, and join us for a lively game of Social Bingo. We can't wait to see who will be the next lucky winner!

Social Sheila’s - Join us every Friday afternoon from 12:30 to 2:00 pm for our exclusive Ladies Only program, where women can come together for social interaction and a sense of sisterhood. This program offers a unique opportunity to connect with other women in a supportive and welcoming environment.

Indulge in an array of activities and delightful experiences tailored to your interests. From engaging workshops to creative projects, each week brings something new and exciting for you to enjoy. Leave the stresses of daily life behind and embrace the chance to relax, have fun, and build connections with like-minded women.

Please note that this program is exclusively for ladies, and we kindly request that no men or children attend during this time. We believe in providing a safe space where women can come together, share their stories, and create lasting bonds.

Come and be a part of this empowering community where you can find inspiration, laughter, and support. Our Ladies Only program is a place to celebrate womanhood, uplift one another, and discover new friendships that will enrich your life.

Check our weekly schedule or reach out to us for more information about the exciting activities we have planned. We look forward to welcoming you and creating memorable experiences together!

**Sausage Sizzle - ** Experience the taste of community and camaraderie with our free sausage sizzle lunch every Friday at 12 noon. Join us for a delicious meal, engaging conversations, and the opportunity to connect with friendly faces. It's a time to relax, enjoy good company, and savor the flavors of a classic sausage sizzle. Don't miss out on this wonderful chance to come together, share a meal, and create lasting memories. See you there

Great Giveaway- Join us on the first Friday of every month for an exciting giveaway event at The Hood! It's the perfect opportunity to explore a wide array of items generously donated by our community members throughout the month. Whether you're in need of something specific or simply want to browse and find hidden treasures, this event is for you. Fill a bag with the items you need or want, as everything must go, and the best part is, it's all absolutely free! Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to score some amazing finds while contributing to our spirit of community support. Mark your calendars and join us for our monthly giveaway event at The Hood!