WHAT'S Happening
GOING THE EXTRA MILE FOR YOU
At Coast and Country Community Services (CCCS), our What’s Happening page keeps you informed and connected with the latest happenings across our organisation and the communities we serve. From exciting new partnerships and local initiatives to volunteer opportunities, community events, and client adventures, this is where you’ll find all the updates that matter most.
Each month, we share inspiring stories, upcoming activities, and important announcements that reflect our ongoing commitment to care, connection, and community wellbeing. Whether it’s celebrating milestones, launching new programs, or shining a spotlight on our amazing volunteers, What’s Happening is your window into the heart of CCCS. Stay up to date with how we’re growing, giving back, and making a positive difference across southern NSW—one story at a time.
‘Engage 2025’: Shaping the Future of Community Transport
Our Leadership team is attending the ‘Engage 2025’ Community Transport Organisation Conference in Orange, NSW, to connect with industry experts and stay updated on the future of Community Transport. The event will include workshops and keynotes on innovations, regulatory changes, and improving access to transport for disadvantaged communities.
Meet the volunteers who keep our community moving!
Get to know Neil and Mark, two of our dedicated volunteer drivers who bring smiles and support to residents across the region. They love meeting new people, enjoy helping others stay connected, and find real fulfilment in making a positive difference every day.
CCCS Volunteer Assistant Mark
How long have you been with CCCS?
4 months – Community Volunteer approx 4years prior
What does a typical day look like for you at CCCS?
Transporting clients around the Illawarra to medical appointments, to visit family and friends and various other places.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
Meeting lots of different people and hearing their stories.
What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
I am a Days of our Lives fan.
If you could learn a new skill instantly, what would it be?
Be able to play the guitar.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Antarctica.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about Volunteer Driving for CCCS?
Go ahead and volunteer you will get a lot of satisfaction from helping others and to see how much the clients appreciate the service
CCCS Volunteer Driver – Neil
How long have you been with CCCS?
4 months – Community Volunteer Driver 18mths prior
What does a typical day look like for you at CCCS?
Pick up a vehicle from the depot and perform pre-start checks. The rest of the day is pretty much just following the schedule that has been put together by the fantastic Scheduling Team. Most days things run smoothly on occasion there can be delays such as doctors running late, but there is always someone in the office who can help get things back on track.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
Driving and helping people get to and from their appointments.
What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
I played in the inaugural University of Wollongong Rugby League team ("The Books").
If you could learn a new skill instantly, what would it be?
Play piano.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Scandinavian region to see the Northern Lights.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about Volunteer Driving for CCCS?
If you enjoy driving and meeting great people, just do it. Volunteer Driving gives me a lot of satisfaction and it's great to be appreciated by everyone that we transport and by all of the staff at CCCS
WhAT HAPPENED LAST WEEK?
Our social support programs are about more than services—they’re about connection. From Meals on Wheels to tailored group activities, we help people across southern NSW stay active, engaged, and independent.
Expanding Our Reach in Wollongong
We’re excited to announce that, as of 1st July 2025, Coast and Country Community Services (CCCS) has been selected by Transport for NSW (TfNSW) to manage and operate Wollongong Community Transport.
Volunteer Recruitment – Join Our Team!
Our Volunteer Recruitment Campaign officially launched on 1st October, focusing initially on the recruitment of Volunteer Drivers. As CCCS continues to grow, we’re creating more opportunities for volunteers to make a meaningful difference in their communities.
CCCS Pink Breakfast Fundraiser
On Friday, 31st October, CCCS will host its annual Breast Cancer Fundraising Breakfast across all our outlets. This is a cause that’s close to many of our hearts, and we’re inviting our community to join us in raising awareness and funds for breast cancer support.
Batemans Bay Overnight Trip
Our clients recently enjoyed a relaxing overnight escape to Batemans Bay, complete with scenic travel, a comfortable hotel stay, and a beautiful river cruise with lunch and sightseeing. Everyone loved the views, friendly drivers, and chance to explore — and they're already excited for the next trip!
Our recent overnight trip to Batemans Bay on 14th & 15th October was able to connect our community clients from Shoalhaven and Young/Weddin. Our clients were treated to a scenic trip to the Bay in our buses and vehicles. The trip involved an overnight stay at the comfortable, senior-friendly Quay’s Hotel, dinner at the Soldier’s Club, a 3 hr Merinda River cruise that included a delicious lunch whilst sightseeing along the Clyde River and exploring local sites.
What our clients said the highlight of their trip was:
John & Carol - “our driver had great knowledge of Bateman’s Bay and was happy to show us the local sites”
Jan & June - “the river cruise was scenic and the Fish & chips were the best we have ever had”
Glenda - “having time do some shopping and exploring local area”
Pam - “the drive over the Clyde mountain was scenic and we had a good run coming home”
Glenda “our Captain on the River Cruise was very knowledgeable of local sites and history”
All agreed the accommodation was nice and comfortable, they felt safe with our drivers and cannot wait to see where the next overnight tour is going to take them.