We all know that as communities, we are better together.
So what does that look like in practice?
Inside the Better Together South Shoalhaven podcast, we examine what creates a connected community, and how people are achieving this in in the South Shoalhaven region. Join us as we talk to people who have been there, learning and doing in community. From volunteering, to the behind the scenes work of community groups, share in the wins and challenges of creating connected communities.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We all know that as communities, we are better together.
So what does that look like in practice?
Inside the Better Together South Shoalhaven podcast, we examine what creates a connected community, and how people are achieving this in in the South Shoalhaven region. Join us as we talk to people who have been there, learning and doing in community. From volunteering, to the behind the scenes work of community groups, share in the wins and challenges of creating connected communities.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What happens when young people are given a genuine seat at the table?
In this special episode of Better Together South Shoalhaven, we hand the microphones to six inspiring youth leaders from across the Milton–Ulladulla region. From kindness campaigns and mentoring initiatives, to creating inclusive hangout spaces and designing local events, these young changemakers share the projects they’re leading and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.
You’ll hear their reflections on what young people bring to community life, the challenges they face, and their advice for groups that want to engage youth but don’t know how. Their message is clear: when youth are listened to, respected, and given real roles, they bring energy, creativity, and solutions that benefit everyone.
🎧 Tune in to Episode 9 and be inspired by the voices shaping the future of our region.
This is our last episode of the season, so if you've been connecting with the podcast and finding value in the voices of our region, please share. You'll be hearing from us again in season 3.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What does it take for community groups to not just welcome young people, but to work alongside them as equal contributors? In this episode of Better Together, we hear from passionate youth and community members about breaking down barriers, making room for fresh ideas, and creating spaces where young people’s voices genuinely shape the future. From rethinking meeting times and communication styles to offering real leadership opportunities, these stories highlight what happens when communities choose to work with youth, not just for them.
Listen in and be inspired to make your group a place where the next generation can truly thrive.
Our featured interview for this week was with Treading Lightly. You can find treading Lightly online at
https://tlinc.org.au/
And to find out more about any of the groups featured, head to
https://communityconnectss.com.au/
🎧 Listen now to discover practical steps and heartfelt insights into building youth-inclusive spaces.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, we step into the exciting world of youth-led innovation in the South Shoalhaven. You’ll hear from passionate young changemakers as they pitch bold, creative ideas for a stronger, more inclusive community. From safer public transport to rehearsal spaces for young musicians, these students aren’t just dreaming—they’re designing real-world solutions.
We’re also joined by Sophie Linehan and students from the Country Universities Centre, who share how regional students can access study spaces, mentoring, and career pathways without leaving town. Her insights reveal how places like CUC can act as critical support systems for young people looking to stay local and thrive.
🎧 Listen as we explore what happens when young people are invited to the table—and adults pull up a chair beside them.
Featured Projects
· 🚍 Get the Wheel Rolling – A push for better public transport in and around Ulladulla
· 🎶 Youth Music Hub – Affordable rehearsal spaces and a collaborative network for young musicians
· 🧠 NeuroStation – A safe, welcoming hangout space for neurodivergent and disabled teens
· 💙 Muck Up – A youth-led kindness campaign tackling bullying with creativity and care – in its 3rd year!
· 🎪 Milton Show Teen Program – Youth voices shaping a show that includes and excites them
· 🌙 Youth Night Market – A social enterprise-style market focused on affordability, connection, and purpose
· 🔦 Pathways to Purpose – A mentorship movement matching students with real-world mentors
· 🎓 Plus: Country Universities Centre Southern Shoalhaven – Supporting young people to study, connect, and succeed locally
🎧 Listen to “It Starts With an Idea” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or communityconnectss.com.au
📣 Share this episode and help support youth-led change in the South Shoalhaven.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Local events are the heartbeat of the South Shoalhaven—but what goes into creating something truly memorable?
In this energising and practical episode, host Gemma Hart is joined by Kate, Leoni, and Matt from Community Connect South Shoalhaven for a deep dive into how local events come to life. From school newsletters to digital signage and AAA feedback sessions, they unpack what it takes to host events that engage, connect, and reflect the spirit of our region.
You’ll learn:
· Why collaboration makes events more impactful
· The best ways to promote events (without spending a cent)
· How to recruit volunteers and build lasting community energy
· Tips to avoid burnout and boost your event’s success
Featuring real-world stories—from the Community Expo and Spirit of Christmas Festival to youth-led MuckUp events—this episode is a guide to making events shine, no matter the size.
“When people come together around a shared passion, it doesn’t feel like work—it feels like purpose.”
We’ve got you covered. Whether you're planning something new or looking to improve an annual favourite, explore our free resources, connect with other groups, and learn how to promote your event without the stress.
💛 Visit communityconnectss.com.au to get started.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What does it take to pull off a great community event? In this episode, we go behind the scenes with the organisers, creatives, and quiet legends working tirelessly to bring joy to the Milton Ulladulla region.
From sewing costumes and running youth-led kindness campaigns, to directing plays and painting murals—this episode highlights the people powering our festivals and shows.
Hear real stories from Milton Follies, Milton Show Society, South Coast Arts and MuckUp, and discover what local events need now—and how you can get involved.
Whether you love building, baking, organising, creating, or just showing up—there’s a place for you. Community events are better with more hands, and they’re a great way to meet people and make a difference.
💛 Find out how at communityconnectss.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
From showgrounds to stage lights, local events do more than entertain—they help shape who we are. In this episode, we explore how festivals, performances, and grassroots gatherings in the Milton Ulladulla region foster confidence, creativity, and connection.
You’ll hear from the Milton Show Society, Milton Follies, South Coast Arts, and youth-led group MuckUp as they share why events matter—and how they help bring generations together. Whether it’s a woodchop or a MasterChef cook-off, it’s clear that when we gather, we grow.
From helping out behind the scenes to sharing your talents on stage, there are so many ways to be part of the magic. Explore opportunities, connect with local groups, or start something of your own.
💛 Head to communityconnectss.com.au to find out how.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Volunteers are the quiet force behind almost everything good that happens in our community. But where do you start if you want to give back—or if you're looking for help?
In this special resource-style episode, Gemma is joined by Kate, Leonie and Matt from Community Connect South Shoalhaven to explore the real impact of volunteering in the South Shoalhaven. From reducing loneliness and boosting wellbeing to helping events, groups, and services to thrive—volunteering matters more than ever.
We also dive into practical tips for finding the right role, how organisations can attract and support volunteers, and why connection is just as important as contribution.
Whether you’re looking to lend a hand or lead a team, this episode is packed with ideas, encouragement, and some very handy local resources.
🎧 Visit communityconnectss.com.au to get started.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Better Together South Shoalhaven, we go deeper into the world of volunteering—this time pulling back the curtain on what’s really going on behind the scenes. From volunteer burnout and dwindling numbers to distance, turnover, and changing community needs, we take an honest look at the challenges facing our local groups.
But this isn’t just about struggle. It’s about what happens when community digs deep, gets creative, and backs each other up.
🎙 You’ll hear from:
· The Rural Fire Service on recruiting through storytelling
· Meals on Wheels and their genius idea to spark connection
· The RSPCA and Sea Scouts on the power of persistence
· Milton Ulladulla Entertainers and Millhouse Art Society on burnout, renewal, and creative joy
· Surf lifesaving and Sea Scouts on raising the next generation of volunteers
This episode is packed with innovation, heart, and practical solutions. If you’ve ever felt stretched thin—or wondered where your spark has gone—you’re not alone. This is the real side of volunteering, and it’s full of hope.
🧡 As one guest says, “It’s amazing what an hour can do for somebody.”
Visit communityconnectss.com.au to find a group that fits your spark. Whether you’ve got 30 minutes or 30 years, someone in your town needs exactly what you bring.
Better Together is brought to you by Community Connect South Shoalhaven and supported by Business Milton Ulladulla
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What makes someone give up their weekend to paint the local hall, care for a stranger, or run a woodchop competition in the pouring rain? In this moving and powerful first episode of Season 2, we explore the heartbeat of our communities—volunteers.
Volunteering isn’t just about ticking a box. It’s about belonging, healing, purpose, and connection. In this narrative-style episode, we dive into the real stories of people who roll up their sleeves for the love of their community. You’ll meet the people behind meals on wheels, and community centres, youth advocates, and quiet listeners who sit with people in their final days.
From the passionate voices behind St Vincent De Paul and the Bendigo bank with its volunteer board to heartfelt advocates of Compassionate Communities, this episode paints a rich picture of what volunteering really gives—to the community, and to the volunteer.
As one guest says:
"Sometimes, just talking—and really listening—is the greatest gift we can offer."
This isn’t just a celebration of volunteering. It’s a call to action. There’s a role for everyone—whether you're 15 or 85.
Ready to find your place in the story? Visit communityconnectss.com.au to explore local groups, discover events, and see where your hands and heart might be needed next.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Better Together South Shoalhaven, we talk to Helen, an instigator for the group Living Connected. Living Connected is an organisation that helps senior members of the community to better understand and use technology. This could be support with using phones, the internet, and using everyday services online. The organisation started because of the increasing struggles older Australians were having with our complex and changing technology. Living Connected relies on volunteers throughout the South Coast to help older Australians.
To find out more about how to get involved in Living Connected, you can find them in the community directory at communityconnectss.com.au or search for Living Connected on Facebook, or go to the website livingconnected.org.au.
And to discover more opportunities in the South Shoalhaven for further education or volunteering opportunities, local events and more, head to communityconnectss.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Better Together South Shoalhaven, we talk to Daniel, a long time member and actor of the local community theatre group, Milton Follies. Daniel talks about the range of shows Follies has covered, the community atmosphere it provides, and the ample opportunities and experiences Follies gives to its volunteers, from production work like lighting, to props and front of house.
To find out more about how to get involved in Milton Follies, you can find them in the community directory at communityconnectss.com.au or find Milton Follies on Facebook, or their website Miltonfollies.org.
And to discover more opportunities in the South Shoalhaven for further education or volunteering opportunities, local events and more, head to communityconnectss.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Better Together South Shoalhaven, we talk to Katy who is the President of the Ulladulla High School P&C. The P&C is a forum where parents and citizens of the local area can voice their concerns or ideas to the school body, and also work with the school body to ensure that the students are able to reach their full potential within the school. Katy discusses what this has looked like with UHS P & C, especially in terms of fundraising to help the school.
To find out more about how to get involved in UHS P & C, you can find them in the community directory at communityconnectss.com.au or go to the UHS website at ulladulla-h.schools.nsw.gov.au and download the school newsletter.
And to discover more opportunities in the South Shoalhaven for further education or volunteering opportunities, local events and more, head to communityconnectss.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Better Together South Shoalhaven, we talk to Margaret who is a custodian with the Milton Ulladulla Historical Society. The group is concerned with the preservation of information and objects relating to the history of the Milton Ulladulla District. These include artefacts, photographs, films, audio files and documents. Margaret tells us what it is like to be involved in an organisation like the Historical Society, different options volunteers have, and how to get involved.
To find out more about how to get involved in Milton Ulladulla Historical Society, you can find them in the community directory at communityconnectss.com.au or head to muhsinc.org.au
And to discover more opportunities in the South Shoalhaven for further education or volunteering opportunities, local events and more, head to communityconnectss.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Better Together South Shoalhaven, we talk to Miriam Miller, the founder of Narrawilly Proggy Ruggers. Miriam tells us some wonderful stories about how the Ruggers got started with such a rare style of craft, what adventures the Rugging has led to and what to expect if you were to get involved in creating with the group.
To find out more about how to get involved in you can email narrawillyfarm@shoal.net.au
And to discover more opportunities in the South Shoalhaven for further education or volunteering opportunities, local events and more, head to communityconnectss.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Better Together South Shoalhaven, we talk to Jocelyn who is a volunteer with the Milton Ulladulla Red Cross Emergency Services. The group has more than 25 members who support communities before, during and after an emergency, both in the local area and around the country. Joycelyn tells us what it is like to support an organisation like the Red Cross, the different options volunteers have, and how to get involved.
To find out more about how to get involved in Milton Ulladulla Red Cross Emergency Services, you can find them in the community directory at communityconnectss.com.au or head to redcross.org.au/emergencies/
And to discover more opportunities in the South Shoalhaven for further education or volunteering opportunities, local events and more, head to communityconnectss.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Better Together South Shoalhaven, we talk to Heidi who is a volunteer with the Bearded Fisherman Blokes Group. The group helps support men who may be suffering from mental health issues or find they are struggling a bit with day to day life. The group offers support around a variety of things from simple mateship to helping with finances and fines. Heidi tells us how the group came about and why it was needed, what the group does on a weekly basis and how to get involved.
To find out more about how to get involved in the Bearded Fisherman Blokes group, you can search for the Bearded Fisherman charity page on Facebook or in the community directory at communityconnectss.com.au
And to discover more opportunities in the South Shoalhaven for further education or volunteering opportunities, local events and more, head to communityconnectss.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Better Together South Shoalhaven, we talk to Adam and Sharon from MuckUp (Milton Ulladulla Community Kindness). Adam and Sharon tell us what instigated the idea for a group formed around kindness, the remarkable achievements the group has pulled off so far, the broad community support they have received and some exciting things to come.
To find out more about how to get involved in Milton Ulladulla Community Kindness, you can search for Muck Up on Facebook or in the community directory at communityconnectss.com.au
And to discover more opportunities in the South Shoalhaven for further education or volunteering opportunities, local events and more, head to communityconnectss.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Better Together South Shoalhaven, we talk to Brian, who is the vice president of the Ulladulla Men’s Shed. Brian tells us what its like to be in a local Men’s shed group, what activities are on each day, and what it has done for his life over the years.
To find out more about how to get involved in the Ulladulla Men’s Shed, you can search for Ulladulla Men’s shed on Facebook or in the community directory at communityconnectss.com.au
And to discover more opportunities in the South Shoalhaven for further education or volunteering opportunities, local events and more, head to communityconnectss.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Better Together South Shoalhaven, we talk to Maddie and Esther, who are volunteer peer tutors at Ulladulla High School. Maddie and Esther share what peer tutoring is and how it is set up, what young people get out of being tutored by their peers and how it has influenced their own perspectives on what volunteering can do for others.
To discover more opportunities in the South Shoalhaven for further education or volunteering opportunities, local events and more, head to communityconnectss.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Better Together South Shoalhaven, we talk to Glen (better known as Ponno), who is a volunteer with the Milton Ulladulla Football Club. The club has been around for decades in the Milton Ulladulla area, and hundreds of local children have grown up playing soccer as a Panther. The club always welcomes volunteers and has a great atmosphere for families.
To find out more about how to get involved in supporting the club, you can find their website at mufc.net.au, or search for mufc on facebook.
And to discover more opportunities in the South Shoalhaven for further education or volunteering opportunities, local events and more, head to communityconnectss.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.