Category Archives: News

ISFAF MONTHLY MEETING 7pm start Tuesday 9th June

VENUE: LEVEL 1, 607 ST KILDA ROAD, MELBOURNE

Join us for a light supper and chat from 7pm.  Meeting starts 7:30pm

For security, we are required to pay a concierge at the door of the building. Latecomers after 8pm may not be able to enter.

GUEST:        Shawn Panjwani – Service Specialist, Permalink Support Services
TOPIC:          Navigating the NDIS and wider support systems

 Shawn will be joining ISFAF on June 9th to speak about navigating the NDIS, understanding available supports, and how families can better access practical assistance for their loved ones. This session will provide an opportunity to ask questions, gain clarity around the NDIS process, and hear practical insights from someone with extensive hands-on experience supporting individuals and families across the sector.

WALK ‘N CHAT – ST KILDA  Tuesday 16th June

ON THE 1ST AND 3RD  TUESDAY OF THE MONTH Walkers generally meet at 1:30pm, for a drink provided by ISFAF.  Family members, including canines are very welcome.

West Beach Pavilion at 330 Beaconsfield Pde, St Kilda West.

Please book on the day prior to walk or by 10am on the day of the walk via WhatsApp group message.  For new members to the group, Ph: Alexis 0423 939 949 for a quick chat and to be added to the group.

  

WALK ‘N CHAT – MIDDLE PARK  Thursday 25th June

LAST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH.  THE SANDBAR – 10:30am 175B Beaconsfield Parade Middle Park

Please book on the day prior to walk or by 9am on the day of the walk. A WhatsApp group message is set up to communicate who can attend on the day and any changes to venue.

For new members to the group, Ph: Penny 0400 979 976  for a quick chat and to be added to the group.

 

THE DINING CLUB:  June Date & Venue To be Announced soon

This will be the final funded Dining Club.  We are very grateful for our grant from Carers Vic that has provided funding for this group and enabled carers to gather and share their stories over a meal.

We thank you for your feedback as ISFAF committee will be reporting back to Carers Vic on the events subsidised by the generous grant received form Carers Vic.

 
 
ISFAF Carers Biking Group– Monday  6th July – Join us for a fun, relaxed group Meeting point:
West Beach Pavilion, 330A Beaconsfield Pde, Middle Park. Easy free parking on the opposite side of the road, or along nearby side streets.
 
Time: Meet at 10:00 am returning 12:00 pm approx., ride usually on the first Monday of every month.

Please Contact Karen 0408 140 3228 or Viv 0449 164 040 for confirmation of date and further information.

Please Diarise the 2nd Tuesday of the Month for ISFAF monthly member meetings. 

Lots of interesting topics are covered, including a Political Forum scheduled in August before the upcoming 2026 State Election.

If you are seeking further information or just need a chat, about ISFAF, the ‘mental health world’ and/or issues you are facing please phone: Leanne, M: 0438 199 204 or Eleni, M: 0412 018 722

THE DINING CLUB:  Wednesday 27th May RSVP due Thu 21/05

6:30pm – The Racecourse Hotel. 895 Dandenong Road, Malvern East Vic 3145 

We are very grateful for our grant from Carers Vic which is providing funding for this event. Ends in June.

Food to the value of $40 will be funded. Drinks and extras can be paid for individually by attendees.

Please send expression of interest to office by Thursday 21st May – isfaf@alfred.org.au

Confirmation of place will be issued by Sat 23/05. https://www.racecoursehotel.com.au

 

WALK ‘N CHAT – MIDDLE PARK  Thursday 28th May

LAST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH.  THE SANDBAR – 10:30am 175B Beaconsfield Parade Middle Park

Please book on the day prior to walk or by 9am on the day of the walk. A WhatsApp group message is set up to communicate who can attend on the day and any changes to venue.

For new members to the group, Ph: Penny 0400 979 976  for a quick chat and to be added to the group

 

WALK ‘N CHAT – ST KILDA  Tuesday 2nd June

ON THE 1ST AND 3RD  TUESDAY OF THE MONTH Walkers generally meet at 1:30pm, for a drink provided by ISFAF.  Family members, including canines are very welcome.

West Beach Pavilion at 330 Beaconsfield Pde, St Kilda West.

Please book on the day prior to walk or by 10am on the day of the walk via WhatsApp group message.  For new members to the group, Ph: Alexis 0423 939 949 for a quick chat and to be added to the group.

 
ISFAF Carers Biking Group– Monday  1st June – Join us for a fun, relaxed group Meeting point:
West Beach Pavilion, 330A Beaconsfield Pde, Middle Park. Easy free parking on the opposite side of the road, or along nearby side streets.
 
Time: Meet at 10:00 am returning 12:00 pm approx., ride usually on the first Monday of every month.

Please Contact Karen 0408 140 3228 or Viv 0449 164 040 for confirmation of date and further information

ISFAF MONTHLY MEETING 7pm start Tuesday 9th June

VENUE: LEVEL 1, 607 ST KILDA ROAD, MELBOURNE

Join us for a light supper and chat from 7pm.  Meeting starts 7:30pm

For security, we are required to pay a concierge at the door of the building. Latecomers after 8pm may not be able to enter.

GUEST:   Shawn Panjwani – Service Specialist, Permalink Support Services

TOPIC:    Navigating the NDIS and wider support systems

Shawn will be joining ISFAF on June 9th to speak about navigating the NDIS, understanding available supports, and how families can better access practical assistance for their loved ones. This session will provide an opportunity to ask questions, gain clarity around the NDIS process, and hear practical insights from someone with extensive hands-on experience supporting individuals and families across the sector.

Please Diarise the 2nd Tuesday of the Month for ISFAF monthly member meetings. 

Lots of interesting topics are covered, including a Political Forum scheduled in August before the upcoming 2026 State Election.

 

If you are seeking further information or just need a chat, about ISFAF, the ‘mental health world’ and/or issues you are facing please phone: Leanne, M: 0438 199 204 or Eleni, M: 0412 018 722

DATES TO DIARISE- MAY 2026

ISFAF MONTHLY MEETING 7pm start Tuesday 12th May

VENUE: LEVEL 1, 607 ST KILDA ROAD, MELBOURNE

Join us for a light supper and chat from 7pm.  Meeting starts 7:30pm

For security, we are required to pay a concierge at the door of the building. Latecomers after 8pm may not be able to enter.

GUESTS: Alice Ryan – Nurse Practitioner &  Elissa Rossimel – Senior Dietitian

Alice and Elissa work with the physical health team at Alfred’s adult mental health outpatient team

TOPIC:    You are what you eat – the metabolic of it

·      The Gap  People with schizophrenia die on average between 11 – 23yrs sooner than general population.  Equally Well Victoria framework addresses this and will be discussed.
·      The Causes This is not only due to metabolic illness, mental health issues but lack of preventative measures such as cancer screening.
·      Ways to help  Discussion of diet, exercise and screening that should be addressed.
 
Upcoming Event – Forest Therapy Sunday 17th May, 2pm start @ Botanical Gardens express your interest by Wed 13th May

We are offering an opportunity to experience a unique 2-hour forest therapy, a preventative health practice originating from Japan which has become  popular in recent times. It’s also simply a lovely way to slow down, unwind, and enjoy time in nature!

What to expect!

During the session you will feel a connection to nature and experience sensory and creative ways to help calm your mind. Regular practice may also be associated with  boosting your immune system, reduced stress levels, and encouraging better sleep.

The session is small and welcoming for carers and a loved one. Limited to 15 people

Sound your thing? 

Please email isfaf@alfred.org.au include your name and phone number,  to express your interest by Wed 13th May, note: request a small donation of $10 per person attending is requested.

We will confirm your place via email  on 14th May and further information will be communicated.

Any queries only call Karen on 0408 140 322.

 https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/melbourne-gardens/whats-on-melbourne/forest-therapy/

THE DINING CLUB:  Wednesday 27th May RSVP due Thu 21/05
6:30pm – The Racecourse Hotel. 895 Dandenong Road, Malvern East Vic 3145
We are very grateful for our grant from Carers Vic which is providing funding for this event. Ends in June.

Food to the value of $40 will be funded. Drinks and extras can be paid for individually by attendees.

Please send expression of interest to office by Thursday 21st May – isfaf@alfred.org.au

Confirmation of place will be issued by Sat 23/05. https://www.racecoursehotel.com.au

 WALK ‘N CHAT – ST KILDA  Tuesday 16th May

ON THE 1ST AND 3RD  TUESDAY OF THE MONTH Walkers generally meet at 1:30pm, for a drink provided by ISFAF.  Family members, including canines are very welcome.

West Beach Pavilion at 330 Beaconsfield Pde, St Kilda West.

Please book on the day prior to walk or by 10am on the day of the walk via WhatsApp group message.  For new members to the group, Ph: Alexis 0423 939 949 for a quick chat and to be added to the group.

WALK ‘N CHAT – MIDDLE PARK  Thursday 28th May

LAST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH.  THE SANDBAR – 10:30am 175B Beaconsfield Parade Middle Park

Please book on the day prior to walk or by 9am on the day of the walk. A WhatsApp group message is set up to communicate who can attend on the day and any changes to venue.

For new members to the group, Ph: Penny 0400 979 976  for a quick chat and to be added to the group

ISFAF Carers Biking Group– Monday  1st June – Join us for a fun, relaxed group 
Meeting point:
West Beach Pavilion, 330A Beaconsfield Pde, Middle Park. Easy free parking on the opposite side of the road, or along nearby side streets.
 
Time: Meet at 10:00 am returning 12:00 pm approx., ride usually on the first Monday of every month.

Please Contact Karen 0408 140 3228 or Viv 0449 164 040 for confirmation of date and further information.

 

Please Diarise the 2nd Tuesday of the Month for ISFAF monthly member meetings. 

Lots of interesting topics are covered, including a Political Forum scheduled in August before the upcoming 2026 State Election.

Start of 2026

We have a busy start to 2026 and look forward to seeing as many as possible at upcoming events.

ISFAF MONTHLY MEETING

6pm for 7pm start TUESDAY 10 February 2026
LEVEL 1, 607 ST KILDA ROAD, MELBOURNE

Please note earlier start time.  Join us for a light dinner and chat available from 6pm. 
For security, we are required to pay a concierge at the door of the building. Latecomers after 8pm may not be able to enter.
 
GUESTS:
Violeta Pearson with Lived Experience Carer Support Staff from Bayside Health (new name following merger, effective 1st Jan 2026)
 
TOPIC:
Understanding the support system available to Carers via Lived Experience Carer Support Staff

Have you ever wondered how to connect for more support for YOU not just your loved one?  All Carers, family and friends of individuals are welcome to attend, as are all members of Staff (‘Team AMAH’).

Since the Royal Commission the inclusion of lived experience in the treatment and care of people with a mental illness has been a game changer. 
 
VENUE: 
1st  Floor, 607 St Kilda Road, Melbourne

Close to the junction, near corner of Raleigh St. with many trams stopping at the door. Parking available on St Kilda Rd, be mindful of clearway signs as we are starting earlier this month.

 
Please come and join us for our first get together, would be great to see old friends, meet new friends with catering to kick the year off
                       
If you seek further information or just need a chat, about ISFAF, the ‘mental health world’ and/or issues you are facing please phone: Leanne, M: 0438 199 204 or Eleni, M:  0412 018 722
 
Please Diarise the 2nd Tuesday of the Month for ISFAF monthly member meetings.  Lots of interesting topics being covered, including Political Forum in August before the upcoming election.
 

DATES TO DIARISE 

ELWOOD BEACH WALK ‘N CHAT  ON THE 1ST, 3RD AND 5th  (WHERE APPLICABLE) TUESDAY OF THE MONTH

Next Tuesday Walk ‘n Chat 3rd February 2026
Please note the HUB where we usually met has closed.  In search of a new location, interim meet up at the Beach Shack 29a Ormond Esplanade Elwood, next Walk ‘N’ Chat 3rd Feb 2026
Walkers generally meet at 1:30pm, for a drink provided by ISFAF. Family members, including canines are very welcome.
Please book on the day prior to walk or by 10am on the day of the walk.
For registered members refer to WhatsApp group message
For new members to the group, Ph: Alexis 0423 939 949 for a quick chat and to be added to the group
 
The Dining Club:  Next Date Thursday 19th Feb.  (to be confirmed)  Keep an eye out on your emails or the ISFAF website for details on this event.
  
First Dining club was successfully held on the 21st January at the Post office Club Hotel where 23 diners had a wonderful time of dining and sharing stories despite Melbourne turning from a lovely summers day into a chilly night. 
Until June 2026 there will be a meal at a local pub/restaurant hosted and largely funded by ISFAF with our grant from Carers Vic and the Victorian State Government.   
 
Please note there will be a cap of around $40 per person, we found this covered the main meal and shared sides. We are trying to select places where it is a bit less noisy so we can all have a chat and a laugh easily.  If you have recommendations of your local, please let the committee know.
 
 
RESPITE – MID WEEK BREAK: 18th to 20th MARCH 2026
Funded by our grant from Carers Vic and the Victorian State Government.   
 
The committee is currently working on the details for the respite period. Please note this event is for Carers only.
 
3 days and 2 nights at the Peninsula.
 
Please register your expression of interest for this event by email by 18th Feb 2026.
 
 
THEATRE NIGHT – Wednesday 1st April 2026 7pm
                              
ISFAF has reserved tickets for Wednesday 1st April 2026 7pm show.
Show Info:    Princess Theatre, 163 Spring St, Melbourne
Running Time: 2 hours 30 minutes, including interval
Please register your interest by return email to secure your seat.  As there are a limited number of tickets, not everyone may be successful in securing a ticket.  A contribution of $10per ticket will be required and details on how to deposit will be sent in due course.

New this year, The Dining Club

Hi all and welcome to 2026 

New this year….The Dining Club:  
  
Every month for the next 6 months there will be a meal at a local pub/restaurant hosted and largely funded by ISFAF with our grant from Carers Vic and the Victorian State Government.  We are trying to select places where it is a bit less noisy so we can all have a chat and a laugh easily. In January our dining will take place at 
  
The Post Office Club Hotel in St Kilda 
On Wednesday 21/1/26 at 6.30 pm 
  
If you would like to reserve a place PLEASE TEXT ALEXIS on 0423939949.  (She needs to have your mobile number so we can confirm a few days prior to the date). 
  
Look forward to dining, talking and laughing with you! 
 

Also coming up…. Our first Member meeting

for the year will be on Tuesday February 10 at Level One, 607 St Kilda Rd. Pop it in your diary. More details to follow.

Connecting Carers Grant October 2025-30 June 2026

Dear Inner South Family and Friends   ( CCC202500072 )

We are delighted to inform you that your project,  : Carer Resilience: Culturally Responsive Mental Health Support Initiative, has been awarded funding through the Victorian Government’s Connecting Carers in their Community Small Grant Program 2025/26.

Project Title:  : Carer Resilience: Culturally Responsive Mental Health Support Initiative 

Grant Amount Awarded:  $24,000.00 

Grant Period: October 2025 to 30 June 2026

For more details email Judi Burstyner at Judi.burstyner@gmail.com

Turning Point

Mapping the ecosystem of addiction report launch.With the Australian Institute of Health Innovation at Macquarie University, we have developed a map of the ecosystem of addiction.

Alcohol and other drug services in Australia are wide-ranging and serve many different needs. They often overlap with other areas like mental health, hospitals, housing, justice, and community support, which can make the system confusing and hard to navigate. Without a clear understanding of how it all fits together, efforts to improve the system may not work well.Based on the concept of health care as a Complex Adaptive System, this seminar presents a graphic that provides a holistic view of AOD services.The graphic provides a detailed map of issues, influences, interdependencies, workarounds, disconnects, and facilitators.

When: Wednesday 3rd December 2025
Time: 12pm to 1pm
Location: online
Cost: Free

 

Alfred Health Carer Services eNews November 2025

Welcome to our November edition of eNews

This month you will find lots of useful information and activities available for carers.

Click on the headings below to jump to a section:

Alfred Health Carer Services News
Our Upcoming Events
Male Carers
Carer Stories
Around Our Region: Services & Programs
Library Spotlight
Carer Support Group Spotlight
Podcasts
Taking Care Of Yourself
Staff Q&A