At BANC we believe a successful community is one that supports the social, cultural and creative life of its people. Join the fun by taking part! Scroll down to see current and future activities, and regular support and social groups. Or click the button above to view photos and community feedback from recent events
BANC has been chosen as a recipient of the Reducing Social Isolation for Seniors Grant from the New South Wales Department of Communities and Justice. The NSW Government’s vision is that all people in NSW experience the benefits of living longer and enjoy opportunities to participate in, contribute to and be included in their communities. Our BANC Seniors Hub will contribute to this vision by providing a variety of free workshops, events, and activities for older people in our community.
FONE_FIX IT
When: Every Tuesday morning 9:30 to 12:30
Alternate Tuesday afternoons 1:30-3:30pm
Problems with your phone?
We’re now hosting a weekly drop-in service to do quick fixes on smartphones. We aim to fix your problem in 30 minutes.
No appointment required, just drop in & say hello. If we’re busy grab a cuppa & we’ll be with you shortly.
Where: Neighbourhood Centre, 41 Gardiner Crescent
More complex issues & for those with a desire to learn more please call 4787 7770 book in for classes with Simon at CYBR_SHED
CYBER_SHED
Regular programs during term time
In addition to our regular programs, we’ll soon be announcing dates for tutorials such as how to download your COVID-19 vax certificate and (for those who like a large-key device), how to drive an Easy-Tel phone. Watch this space.
Fridays at 125
FREE
Join your community for a relaxed and enjoyable evening of music, games, and free wood-fired pizza. A great way to make new friends and wind down from the week. All ages and all abilities are welcome. Come solo or bring the family. Thanks to Vinnies for the financial support allowing us to hold this event.
5pm-7pm First Friday of the month
125 Wentworth St
Blackheath
NO BOOKINGS NECESSARY – JUST TURN UP!
Blackheath Playgroup – every Monday during school terms
9:30 to 11am
ALL WELCOME !
Just turn up and meet other children, parents and carers in a friendly and informal setting
Bring a gold coin donation and a piece of fruit to share at morning tea
NO COST Physiotherapy assessment, advocacy and referral service in Blackheath for people on low incomes. FRIDAY Mornings.
This free service is provided by a registered physiotherapist and is aimed at providing individuals with a quick assessment, advice and if necessary, referral to other heath providers.
Friday mornings, 10am to 12:30 at 37 Gardiner Crescent, Blackheath (adjacent to the Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre)
Appointments essential by contacting Marg at BANC on 4787 7770 or email:
Life, The Universe and Stories
EVERY THURSDAY – 10am to 12pm, Presbyterian Church Hall
125 Wentworth Street, Blackheath
A different kind of social group.
‘Life, the Universe and Stories’ is a relaxed social group that centres around the reading, reflection and discussion of great short stories.
Our facilitated story groups are an enjoyable way to relax, connect with others and do something good for your mental health. Everyone is welcome, no matter what your level of interest in reading. Just come along, feel free to read and chat or just sit back and listen.
Who knows . . . you might even discover the meaning of life!
Joining is FREE, morning tea provided. For more info call Chris 0468 346 834 or email: chris@sharedreading nsw.com
Yoga for Seniors – 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th November and 1st December
FREE – Fridays – 9:30am
Venue – ‘The Hub’ 125 Wentworth Street, Blackheath NSW
Wanting to bring more movement, relaxation and connection into your life?
Let’s do yoga together !
Our upcoming yoga for Seniors series includes gentle movement and postures – with options and modifications to suit your body – plus mindful breathing and other yoga inspired relaxation techniques.
Classes are guided by Emma, an experience yoga teacher who is passionate about sharing the joys of yoga with people of all ages and backgrounds.
BYO Yoga Mats
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL – please contact Marg or Bryce at BANC on 4787 7770 or email:
Dance Well for Seniors – 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th November and 1st December
FREE – Fridays 11:30am to 12:45pm
Venue: ‘The Hub’ 125 Wentworth Street, Blackheath NSW
Beginners and experienced dancers are all welcome as well as those with mobility issues. We can accommodate all.
Dance is known to improve the body and mind. Taking part in dance also improves the mental health including reaction times and cognitive performance. Meet others, enjoy the music, movement and feel energised!!
If you are 50 years + and would like to participate, please contact Marg or Bryce at BANC on 4787 7770 or email:
WEAVING WORKSHOP – Friday 17th November – 9:30am to 12:30pm
PLEASE NOTE THERE HAS BEEN A TIME NOW 9am to 12pm as facilitator needs to leave earlier.
NOW FULLY BOOKED
PHILLIPS Hall, Blackheath
Due to popular demand, a third basket weaving workshop is now available. I anticipate this will fill quickly so if you would like to come and are free that day, please contact BANC as soon as you can on the details below.
Here’s an opportunity to learn how to make a a basket with weaving tuition and materials all supplied – FREE !!
Please contact Marg or Bryce at BANC on 4787 7770 or email to secure your place at this workplace.
Cliff View Community Farm – Workshop – Sunday 26th November – 10:30am – FREE
Learn how to make great compost, create and maintain a worm farm
The workshop is outdoors, so bring a hat and sunscreen.
Tea, coffee and light refreshments available in the apple orchard after the workshop.
Parking – on site (follow the signs), Toilet is available at Hargraves Lookout (10 minute drive)
Bookings are essential and can be done so by contacting Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre on 4787 7770 or email; . You can also register on Cliff View Community Farm Facebook Page.
Cliff View Community Farm – TOUR – Sunday 26th November 2023 – 2pm – FREE
169 Shipley Road, Blackheath NSW 2785
Community farm tour and presentation on our heritage fruit tree rejuvenation project, including pruning and propagation methods being used.
The tour is outdoors so bring a hat and sunscreen.
Tea, coffee and light refreshments will be available in the apple orchard after the tour.
Parking (on site – follow the signs)
Toilet – available at Hargraves Lookout (10 minute drive)
Bookings are essential, please contact Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre on 4787 7770 or email: . You can also book through the Cliff View Community Farm Facebook page.
Are you living between Medlow Bath and Mt Victoria and going to be alone this Christmas day?
Book in to our free Christmas day lunch!
Spaces are limited so book in early by calling Marg or Bryce on 4787 7770.
We will ask a series of questions for catering purposes and so that we can source an appropriate gift for you on the day, such as, What are your hobbies or interests? Dietary restrictions? Needs or wants? Favourite colours and designs? If you have a pet? so be prepared. You can answer or decline to answer any or all if you wish, however, the dietary / food preferences we will need to know.
Come and join us for this merry event.
Shared Reading Group
Weekly on Thursdays, 10am – Noon
Blackheath Hub, 125 Wentworth Steet, Blackheath
Sharing stories is one of humanity’s oldest and most profound traditions.
Out Shared Reading Group provides the opportunity to experience stories and the meaningful conversations that can arise from them. Why not join us? You can choose to read, join the discussion or just listen and enjoy.
Building Resilience Through Creativity
for people living with depression and anxiety
From Monday 17th July running for 10 weeks
Monday’s 1:30pm to 3:30pm
Come and connect with others through creativity.
Creativity can assist with managing depression, anxiety and other related issues.
No artistic skills required.
Location: The “Hub”, 125 Wentworth Street, Blackheath
NOTE: this is NOT a drop-in group – bookings are essential.
‘Go with the Flow’ Art Therapy
FREE
Come and connect with others through creativity. Creativity can assist with managing depression, anxiety, and other related issues. No artistic skills required. Note that this is not a drop-in group and bookings are essential
Group 1 – Go With the Flow
Location: 125 Wentworth St, Blackheath
Day: Every Monday (during school term times)
Time: 10.30am-12.30pm
The Blackheath Hub
Presbyterian Hall, 125 Wentworth St, Blackheath.
Bookings essential. Waiting list currently in operation
Group 2- Go With the Flow for people living with depression and anxiety
Day: Every Monday (during school term times) returning 16th Jan 2023
Time: 1.30pm-3.30 pm
The Blackheath Hub
Presbyterian Hall, 125 Wentworth St, Blackheath.
Bookings essential. Waiting list currently in operation
Contact Sue Wildman 0438 830 390
DURING OFFICE HOURS ONLY (M-F: 9-5)
Triple P Online Parenting Program for kids under 12
Stronger relationships to help kids now and in the future. Proven, positive strategies to help every family – now FREE in Australia.
Why Triple P Online Makes all the difference: You want to support your child’s development, grow closer and solve problems – positively. Now you can do the parenting program developed here in Australia, now used around the world. It’s backed by research, proven by parents. and it’s free!
Free Support for your positive parenting journey. Your complete positive parenting toolkit, now yours at no cost. Choose what works for you, to help give your kids key life skills and help the whole family stay calm and positive. Partners and other family members can do the program free too, so everyone’s on the same page and there’s less conflict.
Interactive, easy to use online program, including videos and activities and a downloadable workbook. Each module only takes about an hour or less and you can do just a few minutes at a time. Available anytime, at you place, at your pace!
Start your FREE Program today triple-parenting.net.au
Fear-less Triple P Online for families
Help kids cope with challenges, and break free from anxiety. Some children become extra-worried, and amicus feelings can start to affect everyday life. They may often be upset and fearful, become withdrawn, or feel ‘sick with worry’. But you can positively support you child to develop their own toolkit of coping skills. It’ll bring you closer and help them manage anxiety and deal with difficult emotions in healthy ways – now, and in the future.
Fear-less Triple P Online offers Proven, positive strategies to help every family. Practical steps you can take to help your child or teenager to feel calmer and more capable. When you know how, you can help them be more emotionally resilient, and teach them new skills. Watch them gain confidence as they learn to tackle fears and situations they’ve been avoiding.
Start your FREE program today triple-parenting.net.au
Regular events and social groups
Heathens Choir
Wednesdays, 2-4pm during school terms
Location: Phillips Hall
Cost: $75 per 10-week term
Blackheath’s celebrated community choir welcomes novices, experienced singers and even people who think they can’t sing! If you like music join in the fun. We perform at concerts, festivals and community events
More info: Christine Wheeler,
0408 276 436
Past Events
Dear music-loving friends,
An uplifting way to renew your spirits after Black Saturday!
Members of The Heathens Choir are beyond excited to announce our forthcoming concert with the great Judy Small, making her first visit to Blackheath. Recently retired from judicial work, Judy is making a modest return to her highly successful career as a folk singer of songs with feminist, social and environmental themes.
Judy says of herself:
“For almost 16 years I travelled the world as a full-time old-fashioned stand-up-with-a-guitar-and-sing-songs-of-social-significance folksinger/songwriter. My songs are sung all over the English-speaking world in folk clubs, concert halls, festivals, around campfires and on street corners.”
The Heathens Choir will do a 20-minute bracket and join our guest artist for one of her most enduring songs. The rest of the afternoon is Judy’s. The concert is a fundraiser for Blue Mountains Refugee Support Group.
Hope you can join us! Please help us spread the word
Sunday 22 October, 2-4pm
Blackheath Community Centre (Phillips Hall)
Gardiner Crescent, Blackheath
Tickets $35 adults / $15 school aged kids
Tickets https://events.humanitix.com/judy-small-and-the-heathens
Facebook event https://www.facebook.com/events/693682872272400
MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AIDER – to support older people aged 65 +
23rd & 24th October 2023, 9am to 3pm each day
FREE
- Learn practical first aid skills
- recognise common mental health problems in older people
- provide initial help using a practical, evidence-based Action Plan
- seek appropriate professional help, and
- respond in a crisis situation
Enquiries and bookings : Jane Armstrong 0422 363 912 or email
PAINT SOME ROCKS – FREE – Friday 20th October, 1:30 to 3:30pm
Make one for yourself and paint one (or more) for the community for this year’s Rhododendron festival.
No need to book – just drop in at any time between 1:30 and 3:30pm
All community are welcome
at 125 Wentworth Street, Blackheath ‘The Hub’
The Mt Victoria Story – Walking Tour – Friday 20th October, 10am
Walk through the colonial history of Mt Victoria, explore the establishment of this Victorian and Edwardian holiday village.
Our two-hour walking tour is at an easy pace, starting at Mt Victoria Railway station.
Bookings are essential – so please call Marg on 4787 7770 or email:
BECOME A MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AIDER to support young people aged 12 to 18, 9th and 10th October
9:30am to 4:30pm each day
FREE
- Recognise common mental health problems in young people
- Provide initial help using a practical, evidence-based Action Plan
- Seek appropriate professional help, and
- Respond in a crisis
Enquiries and bookings, contact Jane Armstrong on 0422 363 912 or email:
Treasures Art Workshop Saturday 7th October, 2 – 4pm
Come and create a colourful and fun Pop Art poster of our iconic male satin Bowerbird ! with Bundjalung woman Janelle Randall-Court
The second session will be:
16+ years – Saturday 7th October, 2pm – 4:30pm
Venue: Bates Hall, Blackheath.
The workshops are free. To book please call Marg on 4787 7770 or email , places are limited.
DRUMMING WORKSHOP – Saturday 7th October
Funded by the reducing social isolation for Seniors Grant, we are offering this stimulating and energizing activity of drumming.
Experience the uplifting feeling of group drumming. There are many emotional and physical benefits of drumming and what a great way to spend a Saturday morning.
Saturday 7th October 10:30am to 11:30am, Bates Hall, Blackheath
SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS
Monday 25th September 9:30 – 11:30am – make a faery house with natural materials with Tonica.
Wednesday 27th September 1:30 – 3:30pm – Lego construction with Bryce
(if you would like to keep your lego creation then you will need to bring your own lego. Otherwise you can create using lego supplied, photograph and leave the lego at the workshop).
Friday 29th September 1pm – 3pm – Mindful mobiles with Cathie
Wednesday 4th October 10am – 12pm – Painting kindness rocks with Karen.
You will paint a rock to keep and paint a rock for the Rhodo festival, for community discovery.
Please contact Marg on 4787 7770 or email: to reserve your place. Parents/carers must accompany children for the duration of the workshops.
Heart Circle for the Voice
Sunday 24th September 2023, 10am to 12pm
The Hub, 125 Wentworth Street, Blackheath
Facilitators: Lure Wishes and Jo Davies
Are you feeling confused, heart-weary or numb at all the information about the upcoming Referendum and Voice to Parliament?
Join us for a heart circle, a gathering to share, inspire and explore.
Light refreshments available.
We offer this heart circle from a position of support for Consititutional Recognition of Indigenous people and an Indigenous Voice to Parliament. We ask that everyone present respect the intention of the circle and all present.
Please contact Marg on 4787 7770 or email: to reserve your place.
Walk on Country with Uncle David King – 22nd September – NOW FULLY BOOKED with a waitlist being taken
Join Uncle David King for a walk on the Fairfax Track.
The Fairfax track is graded as easy, family and wheelchair friendly.
A brilliant opportunity to join Uncle David King gaining knowledge, educational talk combined with a heritage walking track offering wildflowers, scenic lookouts with waterfall views over Grose Valley, in Blue Mountains National Park.
Please contact Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre to register your interest, on 4787 7770 or email . If you could also advise on any dietary requirements as there will be light refreshments.
August Events Calendar
FREE
Every month we update this handy calendar of all BANC’s upcoming events, workshops and activities. It’s an easy way to peruse all the exciting options. When you’ve decided, just come back, look up the listings below that you are interested in and book. Download a copy for reference or request to go on our circulation list here
Download the latest one HERE
Bright Ideas to save on household energy bills.
Take action toward climate change, save money and transition to a lower-emission lifestyle.
Climate risk expert Winton Evers from the Sunshine Project has completed more than 300 home energy audits. Join him to learn simple, easy ways to keep your electricity and gas bills down.
Seniors Rights Service – Local Aged Care Advocate will be at BANC on 25th August 2023.
Come along to find out about the Seniors Rights Service, who they are and what they do. How seniors can access aged care services and how to resolve concerns with in-home and residential aged care services.
Where: Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre, 41 Gardiner Cresent, Blackheath
When: Friday 25th August 2023
Time: 9:30am to 12:30pm
Seniors Rights Service is a community organisation dedicated to protecting and advancing the rights of older people.
Free, independent and confidential.
Art Play on Wednesday
FREE
You’re invited to join Lindena Robb for a series of fun, creative and social art workshops. Have fun, connect and explore your creativity! No experience is needed and all materials are provided.
Art Play with Lindena happens every Wednesday during school term times, and runs from 10am – 12 noon at Blackheath Hub, 125 Wentworth Street Blackheath (in the Presbyterian Church Hall).
* Places are limited and bookings essential.
Bookings essential: Contact Lindena Robb for more information and to register on 0410 310 205
The Blue Mountains is one of the world’s most fire-prone areas. ARE YOU READY?
Free Community engagement seminars for all Upper Mountains residents. What you need to know – getting yourself and your home ready for the bushfire season.
Choice of dates:
Tuesday 1st August 10am to 12 noon OR
Saturday 2nd September 10am to 12 noon (now fully booked – waitlist being taken)
At the HUB – 125 Wentworth Street, BLACKHEATH
Please contact Marg on 4787 7770 or email: to register your attendance
NAIDOC Week – For Our Week
Saturday 8th July, 10am
FREE EVENT
The beginning of July will see us celebrate NAIDOC week.
Come and join us for a cultural talk and damper with Bundjalung woman, Janelle Randall-Court.
The Hub, 125 Wentworth Street, Blackheath
Accidental Counsellor
Tue 4th July, 10am-3pm
We’re offer a valuable opportunity to train as a Lifeline Accidental Counsellor.
This Lifeline course equips participants with the essential skills and structure to recognise when a person is in crisis, respond appropriately and organise suitable support for them.
The workshop, running on 4th July, is open to Blue Mountains residents aged 16+.
Bates Hall, 265 Great Western Highway, Blackheath
Bookings are necessary, please visit: https://lifelinecentralwest.org.au/event/57_BMT19AC_O/
Learn How To Support Someone Who Is Feeling Suicidal
Mental Health First Aid Training will teach you practical skills to support someone who is feeling suicidal. Make a real difference to people in your community.
Saturday 17th June 2023, 9:30am to 1:30pm
Cost: $40 waged and $25 unwaged
Venue: The Hall, 125 Wentworth Street, Blackheath NSW 2785
For all enquiries or to book your place, please contact: Jane Armstrong, Principal Master MHFA instructor on 0422 363 912 or email:
Leonard the Lyrebird Day
Join award-winning children’s author, Jodie McLeod, to learn all about the lives of these amazing native birds.
Listen to a reading of Leonard the Lyrebird, enjoy face painting, craft, lyrebird mimic competition and more.
Sunday 4th June – 10.30am-12.30pm or 1.30-3.30pm
Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mt Tomah
$18 per child (5-12 years). Parents free.
Booking essential: bluemountainsbotanicgarden.com.au/what-s-on
The Bluegums: ‘Somewhere to Live’ launch
You’re invited to The Blue Gums’ video launch of their social justice song, ‘Somewhere to Live’
The song has been created and developed by locals who came together to voice their concerns about the housing crisis. Come along and watch the video about the making of the song, hear guest speakers and enjoy light refreshments.
Friday 2nd June at 6pm
Phillips Hall, 265 Great Western Highway, Blackheath
Blue Mountains Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Training Workshops
April – May 2023 across multiple venues *At BANC on April 17 & 18
Bookings now open for Blue Mountains Mental First Aid (MHFA) Training Workshops at the Neighbourhood Centres of Blackheath, Springwood and Winmalee this April and May.
Our BANC sessions will be held on Monday 17th and Tues 18th April from 9am – 4:30pm and will cover MHFA for the older person.
The cost is $95 waged or $40 unwaged.
For all enquiries and bookings, please contact Jane Armstrong, Principal Master MHFA instructor on 0422 363 912 or e:
BANC’s Community Art Exhibition
13th May 2023
Blackheath Hub, 125 Wentworth St, Blackheath
Entries now open!
We are looking for stories, photos, pictures, sculptures and paintings of your favourite ‘local hero’, family member or landscape with an accompanying story of why they are important to you!
Deadline for entries Thursday 11th May, Artworks to be delivered to Blackheath Neighbourhood Centre. Preferred sizes: A1, A4 or A5.
BANC’s Community Art Exhibition is sponsored by BANC and curated by our Community Projects team.
For more information please contact Marg at BANC on 4787 7770
Neighbourhood Centre Week 8-14th May
Wednesday 10th May: Morning Tea 9.30-10.30am
41 Gardiner Crescent, Blackheath
Please come and join us for tea, coffee and cake and learn about the Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre – what we do, the services and events we provide.
Festival Colombiana
Saturday 6th May
Philip’s Hall, Cnr Great Western Highway and Gardiner Crescent
1-4pm
FREE
Join us for Festival Colombiana!
Colombian Food
Music & Culture
Live Performances
NO BOOKINGS NECESSARY – JUST TURN UP!
Fridays at 125 – Caring for Country and Cultural Talk
Friday 5th May
FREE
Janelle Randall-Court is kindly doing a Caring for Country and Cultural Talk called ‘Treasures’ and will be making damper.
All ages and all abilities are welcome. Come solo or bring the family.
Thanks to Vinnies for the financial support allowing us to hold this event.
5pm-7pm First Friday of the month
125 Wentworth St
Blackheath
NO BOOKINGS NECESSARY – JUST TURN UP!
Creative Dementia Workshops
Katoomba RSL, 86 Lurline St, Katoomba 2780
First Tuesday of the month, commencing Tuesday 4th April, 2023
Support for people in regional areas living with dementia and their carers, focussing on art, music, mindfulness and movement. The workshops provide a safe, inclusive and creative space that generates a sense of calm, memory, stimulation, confidence and ongoing connection with others in the community. Light refreshments will be provided.
Free. Bookings essential as places are limited, please contact Lucian Keegan on 0415 232 901 or Liz Romalis e:
The Inklings Writing Group.
Fridays from the 17th Feb for 10 weeks
12:30 – 2pm
Blackheath Creative Hub, 125 Wentworth Street, Blackheath
Build a bridge to the world in words – join poet, James Gering and dedicated local writers in the art and craft of creative writing. Develop your skills to express yourself boldly on the page in memoir, poetry, story, creative non-fiction….
$15 per session (also concessions as req). Enquiries to James: