Join Torquay Community House for a free delicious and nutritious two course lunch each month, connecting members of our community to share a meal together.   April's lunch is generously sponsored by Richard Riordan, MP, Member for Polwarth. Supported by Feed Me Surf Coast, Surf Coast Shire and Rotary Club of Torquay, and Ashbury Community Fund, with volunteers from the community. As this is a limited menu, not all dietary requirements may be catered for. Bookings: online, or email administration@torquaycommunityhouse.org.au or call us on 03 5261 2583. Please advise any dietary requirements, and our team will contact you to discuss

Need a hand lodging your tax return? Free help is now available in your community at Torquay Community House. ATO accredited volunteers help people to lodge their tax return online.  Volunteers can also help you to: create a myGov account lodge an amendment to your tax return claim a refund of franking credits tell us if you don't need to lodge a tax return. Appointments available between 22 July and 30 October (no August appointments)  Are you eligible for tax help program? You are eligible for Tax Help if your income is around $70,000 or less, have simple tax affairs for the income year and you didn't: work as a contractor – for example, a contract cleaner, taxi or uber driver run a business, including as a sole trader have partnership or trust matters sell shares or an investment property own a rental property have capital gains tax (CGT) receive royalties receive distributions from a trust, other than a managed fund receive foreign income, that is not a foreign pension or annuity. You will need to bring 2 forms of ID to your appointment. To make an appointment please call us on 5261 2583, or speak to Reception.  When: Tuesdays and Thursdays Time: 9:30am - 2:30pm Cost: Free 

Commencing 23 July (8 weeks) In conjunction with Surf Coast Shire, we are delighted to offer this opportunity for connection in Terms 2 & 3.  Our Intergenerational Playgroup is open to people of all ages, this FREE facilitated program brings community members together to enjoy engaging activities in a welcoming space.  Share the magic of intergenerational connection as we bridge the gap between young and old through the joy of play. NOTE:   Parents/carers - please register a ticket for each of the children that you will be bringing Seniors attending without a little person - please register a ticket online for yourself, or call 5261 2583. When: Wednesday 9:30am - 10:15am Cost: FREE Terms & Conditions Enrolments will be accepted in the order of receipt until classes fill Classes may be cancelled if insufficient numbers of participants enrol Full refund of fees will be payable if classes are cancelled by Torquay Community  House Refund of fees will not be paid unless notification of withdrawal is received in writing 2 working days prior to commencement of the course

Commencing 21 July (9 weeks) An expansion of the previously successful "Painting with Parkinson's" program, this inclusive all-abilities art group will explore a range of techniques and styles in a supportive, friendly environment.  No previous artistic experience necessary, established artists are welcome to bring their own work to complete whilst sharing friendship, knowledge and art.  Limited supplies are available to get participants started. Carers are invited to share a cuppa and connect whilst the class is in progress, and assist where needed. When: Mondays 12:45pm - 2.45pm (9 weeks) Cost: $15 per term. Need financial assistance? We have a number of subsidised places for our programs available to community members who require financial assistance. Please email co-ordinator@torquaycommunityhouse.org.au to arrange your subsidised place - all enquiries will remain confidential. Terms & Conditions Enrolments will be accepted in the order of receipt until classes fill Classes may be cancelled if insufficient numbers of participants enrol Full refund of fees will be payable if classes are cancelled by Torquay Community  House Refund of fees will not be paid unless notification of withdrawal is received in writing 2 working days prior to commencement of the course

Attention adventurers! Embark on a thrilling journey in our Youth Dungeons & Dragons Adventurers League school holiday program!  Join Game Masters Chris and Kathryn along with other teen players for an epic one off adventure. Unleash your creativity and embark on a thrilling quest. If you have never played before or are an experienced player, you're welcome at this special afternoon event. We'll run 2 tables, and have space for an extra table if you already have an established group and just want a place to meet and play (select BYO Group/Game ticket type)! This program is aimed at students from Year 7 onwards (12y+) Materials provided, but you can bring your own dice if you like.   INFORMATION FOR PARENTS/CARERS As part of TCH's Child Safe Policy, ALL under 18 unaccompanied participants must be signed in and out of attendance at programs by an authorised contact. Please use the emergency contact fields in the registration to designate additional contacts.  We understand older students may make arrangements to arrive for the program under their own steam, and any planned absences must be communicated in advance. This authority must be given at registration.  ALL participants must be signed out in person by an authorised contact.  Please contact TCH to discuss alternatives. When: Tuesday 15th July 1pm - 4pm Where: Torquay Community House, 14 Price Street Cost: FREE  Terms & Conditions Enrolments will be accepted in the order of receipt until classes fill Classes may be cancelled if insufficient numbers of participants enrol Full refund of fees will be payable if classes are cancelled by Torquay Community  House Refund of fees will not be paid unless notification of withdrawal is received in writing 2 working days prior to commencement of the course

Join renowned horticulturalist Craig Castree for an indepth look at what is going on beneath your feet! Craig is passionate about soil microbiology and sharing this knoweldge to help you get the most out of your garden. Come and see why people love Craig's visual and engaging education sessions with lots of opportunities for questions & answers! Gain an understanding of the foundations of soil microbiology Learn about the microbes and critters that make the magic happen Do's and don'ts of soil management  Practical tips and advice for soil management Discover how to unleash your soil's true potential and how restore it to vibrant health See why people love Craig's visual and engaging education sessions with lots of opportunities for questions & answers! Craig Castree is an award-winning Horticulturist of 45 years’ experience at growing his own food organically and creating edible gardens. He is a Published author 5 books all pointed toward being self sufficient on an urban block. You will have no doubt seen him on channel 7TWO on Vasilis Garden as one of the regular presenters, or heard him speaking on 3AW, and on 88.3 Southern FM. Now see him speak live talking about  “Edible Gardening” and how easy it is to turn your existing garden into an edible oasis using organic methods that stop chemical inputs in garden and increase the health of your soil, plants, and your own health at the same time! Craig will have copies of his books available for purchase.  https://craigcastree.com.au/ We encourage participants to bring along seeds and produce to share and swap! When:  Saturday 21 June 10:30am - 13:30pm (including short breaks) Where: Torquay Community House, 14 Price Street Cost: $40 full / $30 concession Need financial assistance? We have a number of subsidised places for our programs available to community members who require financial assistance. Please email co-ordinator@torquaycommunityhouse.org.au to arrange your subsidised place - all enquiries will remain confidential. Terms & Conditions Enrolments will be accepted in the order of receipt until classes fill Classes may be cancelled if insufficient numbers of participants enrol Full refund of fees will be payable if classes are cancelled by Torquay Community  House Refund of fees will not be paid unless notification of withdrawal is received in writing (to administration@torquaycommunityhouse.org.au) 7 working days prior to commencement of the course.  A partial refund may be considered inside 7 days in exceptional circumstances.

Commencing 14 May (8 weeks) In conjunction with Surf Coast Shire, we are delighted to offer this opportunity for connection in Terms 2 & 3.  Our Intergenerational Playgroup is open to people of all ages, this FREE facilitated program brings community members together to enjoy engaging activities in a welcoming space.  Share the magic of intergenerational connection as we bridge the gap between young and old through the joy of play. NOTE:   Parents/carers - please register a ticket for each of the children that you will be bringing Seniors attending without a little person - please register a ticket online for yourself, or call 5261 2583. When: Wednesday 9:30am - 10:15am Cost: FREE Terms & Conditions Enrolments will be accepted in the order of receipt until classes fill Classes may be cancelled if insufficient numbers of participants enrol Full refund of fees will be payable if classes are cancelled by Torquay Community  House Refund of fees will not be paid unless notification of withdrawal is received in writing 2 working days prior to commencement of the course

Commencing 7 May (8 weeks)  This class is now full.  To go on the waitlist/express your interest in this class please complete your details here https://forms.office.com/r/G0bkkGGtR6 This class will be suitable for both beginners and people wanting to expand their experience in painting in watercolour. Fundamentals of Composition, Tone, Colour, and Shape will be explored and techniques to control the brush for the making of glowing washes and appropriate mark making will be demonstrated. Lessons will be conducted in a friendly and supportive environment.  This will involve a demonstration of a technique or small painting, some discussion of other artists and their techniques, and lots of hands-on time for exploration and development with individual  guidance by the instructor. About the Facilitator - Colin Peel My Professional life for 40 years was in Science and Business with my hobby being painting.  Since retirement I have been able to more fully participate in the art world as a Practising Artist, in Art Societies, and as a volunteer Teacher of Water Colour painting within the Melbourne U3A.  I have enjoyed four annual month-long art residencies and exhibiting in Japan.  Currently I am active in art groups in Melbourne such as the Victorian Art Society and the Water Colour Society of Victoria.  Having recently relocated to Jan Juc I now enjoy participating in the Geelong Art Society, life drawing at the Torquay Community House and exhibiting in local Art Shows.  Having had workshops and instruction from many of the leading water colour artists in Australia over the last 20 years supplemented with independent study I am keen to continue to assist others to be introduced to the joy of water colour painting, or to continue to enrich their artistic journey with new ideas and techniques.   Here on the Surf Coast we have the luxury of wonderful scenery and many days which are suitable for outdoor painting of the land and sea.   My paintings can be seen at;  https://www.instagram.com/colinpeelart/  Periodically co-facilitating with Colin will be Glenn Zimmer.  Glenn has enjoyed developing her artistic skills over the past 14 years, studying under local artists such as Jan Dick, and currently co-ordinates TCH's Friday Art Group.    Materials List  If you have had some experience in water colour painting bring your normal supplies and the water colour paper you are familiar with.  Also check this list to judge if you have approximate equivalents in your paint tubes, brushes and paper.  If new to water colour I suggest you buy as much of the following as convenient for you.  Paint  The Cotman range is student grade but will give good results.  My preference is tubes.  The following 6 colours will be all you need to learn colour mixing and get an excellent range of colours.  Permanent Rose  Lemon yellow  Ultramarine Blue  Cobalt Blue  Burnt Sienna  Raw Sienna  These are 8 ml tubes and approximately $11.00 each.  Brushes  #12 Round Roy Mac Brush    $11.50  Roymac Achiever Flat size 12 (1 inch/30mm)     $18.50  Water Colour Paper   Saunders Cold Press or Rough - One Full Sheet   $16.15  Good quality paper is essential and can be cut to size. You can also paint on both sides for the exercises we do. A full sheet will last several weeks.  Mixing Palette  Micador Louis Palette (has a lid)    $5.75  Many other options – just make sure it has at least 6 wells for mixing paint.  Other  A water container  Masking tape  Pencil  Sketch pad  I will bring sufficient materials on week 1 so if anyone prefers to not outlay money in the first week they can still get started to decide if they wish to continue.  No-one need to be put off because of initial costs which this list comes to approximately $100.  Water colour materials seem expensive – particularly artist quality, but they go a long way and last a long time.  Cavalier Art Supplies in Geelong have this list and will assist you on any of your needs.  Please avoid cheap Newsagent type art supplies as you will get disappointing results.  When: Wednesdays 7pm-9pm Cost: $120 per term Concession: $80 per term (concession cards required to be sighted prior to commencement) Need financial assistance? We have a number of subsidised places for our programs available to community members who require financial assistance. Please email co-ordinator@torquaycommunityhouse.org.au to arrange your subsidised place - all enquiries will remain confidential. Terms & Conditions Enrolments will be accepted in the order of receipt until classes fill Classes may be cancelled if insufficient numbers of participants enrol Full refund of fees will be payable if classes are cancelled by Torquay Community  House Refund of fees will not be paid unless notification of withdrawal is received in writing 2 working days prior to commencement of the course

Commencing 1 May Whatever your handmade crafting passion, join this creative group and carve out time in your week to enjoy conversation and creativity. Bring your own projects and maybe some of those UFO - unfinished objects!  This group aims to provide a supportive environment where members provide peer support to each other with craft techniques.  Whether your are a beginner or seasoned crafter, we hope this group will give you the space to explore your creativity, and maybe pick up a new skill. Students in non-traditional schooling welcome, and must be accompanied by a parent/carer at all times. When: Thurdays, 1:00pm-3:00pm during school terms. Cost:  $15 per term. Need financial assistance? We have a number of subsidised places for our programs available to community members who require financial assistance. Please email co-ordinator@torquaycommunityhouse.org.au to arrange your subsidised place - all enquiries will remain confidential. Terms & Conditions Enrolments will be accepted in the order of receipt until classes fill Classes may be cancelled if insufficient numbers of participants enrol Full refund of fees will be payable if classes are cancelled by Torquay Community  House Refund of fees will not be paid unless notification of withdrawal is received in writing 2 working days prior to commencement of the course  

Commencing 30 April (8 weeks) ** Note no classes May 7th, June 25th ** Come and stretch with Sue!  These gentle mat pilates classes are designed to give you a full body work out - for everyone - beginners or people who have done yoga/Pilates before - all levels of experience are welcome!  Warm up, work out, cool down Mat classes Arm reaches, twists, gentle stretches Participants will be required to sign a health disclaimer form before their first class. When: Wednesdays, 1:30pm - 2:15pm.  Cost: $55 per term, $40 concession.  Can't make every week? Buy a casual pass for 5 classes for $35, valid for 2025. Need financial assistance? We have a number of subsidised places for our programs available to community members who require financial assistance. Please email co-ordinator@torquaycommunityhouse.org.au to arrange your subsidised place - all enquiries will remain confidential. Terms & Conditions Enrolments will be accepted in the order of receipt until classes fill Classes may be cancelled if insufficient numbers of participants enrol Full refund of fees will be payable if classes are cancelled by Torquay Community  House Refund of fees will not be paid unless notification of withdrawal is received in writing 2 working days prior to commencement of the course

Commencing 28 April (9 weeks) An expansion of the previously successful "Painting with Parkinson's" program, this inclusive all-abilities art group will explore a range of techniques and styles in a supportive, friendly environment.  No previous artistic experience necessary, established artists are welcome to bring their own work to complete whilst sharing friendship, knowledge and art.  Limited supplies are available to get participants started. Carers are invited to share a cuppa and connect whilst the class is in progress, and assist where needed. When: Mondays 1:00pm - 3.00pm (9 weeks) Cost: $15 per term. Need financial assistance? We have a number of subsidised places for our programs available to community members who require financial assistance. Please email co-ordinator@torquaycommunityhouse.org.au to arrange your subsidised place - all enquiries will remain confidential. Terms & Conditions Enrolments will be accepted in the order of receipt until classes fill Classes may be cancelled if insufficient numbers of participants enrol Full refund of fees will be payable if classes are cancelled by Torquay Community  House Refund of fees will not be paid unless notification of withdrawal is received in writing 2 working days prior to commencement of the course

Commencing from 28 April Note: No session Monday 9 June public holiday. We are delighted to offer 3 early years programs in 2025.  Join in the fun!   Little Da Vincis  These sessions involve lots of fun craft activities including painting, drawing, cutting and pasting for your little one to enjoy and it's a great opportunity to catch up with other parents and carers. Most suitable for 3-to-5-year-olds.  When: Mondays 9.30-10am Cost: $20 per family / term Messy Playgroup  A sensory exploration for your little people. Leave the mess to us!  Suitable for all ages. When: Tuesdays 9:30-10:00am Cost: $30 per family / term Intergenerational Playgroup (Starts 14 May, 8 weeks) Please see our separate event to book. When: Wednesday 9:30am - 10:15am Cost: FREE Need financial assistance? We have a number of subsidised places for our programs available to community members who require financial assistance. Please email co-ordinator@torquaycommunityhouse.org.au to arrange your subsidised place - all enquiries will remain confidential. Terms & Conditions Enrolments will be accepted in the order of receipt until classes fill Classes may be cancelled if insufficient numbers of participants enrol Full refund of fees will be payable if classes are cancelled by Torquay Community  House Refund of fees will not be paid unless notification of withdrawal is received in writing 2 working days prior to commencement of the course