Working together to build real life skills, our group-based activities provide great opportunities for social interaction and personal development.
Our facilities are located right in the centre of town.
Whether you’re interested in carpentry, mechanics, electrotechnology, gardening, technology, arts, radio or building capacity and independence skills, we offer programs for every skill level.
At DO Noweyung we will help you create a training plan that works for you and your future goals.
Activities may change from season to season and to make the most of local opportunities.
Contact us for up to date information on all our Bairnsdale group support activities.
Phone: (03) 5153 0111
Email: bairnsdale@distinctiveoptions.com.au
Address: 84 Goold Street, Bairnsdale VIC 3875
What activities can I join?
Whether you’re interested in carpentry, mechanics, electrotechnology, gardening, technology, arts, radio or building capacity and independence skills, we offer programs for every skill level.
Art Fusion
Welcome to our Blended Art Program, a vibrant space where art and crafts come together in a fun and supportive environment! This program is designed for you to explore your creativity and try new things.
What you’ll experience:
- Engage in hands-on activities, from painting to a variety of craft projects.
- Work on individual and group creations in a supportive and friendly setting.
- Explore new techniques and express yourself creatively.
- Have fun while discovering the endless possibilities of art and crafts.
Join us and unlock your creative potential in a welcoming, inclusive space.
Bowling & Beyond
This program encourages social connection, skill-building, and enjoying the local area in a safe and supportive environment.
Participants will have the opportunity to:
- Travel to Sale’s new E5 Arcade – explore shops, play bowling, and enjoy lunch out (or bring a picnic)
- Engage in travel training – practice moving around the community with support and confidence
- Enjoy indoor bowling and games at the center – have fun and stay active locally
- Social connection and fun – build friendships while participating in group activities
Come along and strike up some fun, explore the community, and enjoy active and engaging experiences with friends
Camping Club
Get ready for adventure, laughter, and connecting with nature! Our Camping Club is designed for you to explore the outdoors in a safe, supportive, and fun environment.
What you’ll experience:
- Learn to cook delicious meals over a real campfire.
- Master the skills of setting up tents and swags like a pro.
- Take part in fun and creative camp activities.
- Explore some of the most beautiful camping spots across Victoria.
If you love nature, adventure, and making new friends,
Camping Club is the perfect place for you!
Games & Strategy
Welcome to our Games & Strategy Program, where fun, creativity, and teamwork come together! Designed to explore the exciting world of online gaming, graphics, and strategy in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Participants will have the opportunity to:
- Develop Graphic Design Skills – Learn how to create digital art, game visuals, and exciting graphics.
- Enhance Problem-Solving Abilities – Engage in challenges that encourage critical thinking and strategic planning.
- Explore Online Gaming – Play and learn popular games that promote coordination, focus, and enjoyment.
- Build Teamwork and Collaboration – Work together with others to complete challenges and achieve shared goals.
This program is inclusive, supportive, and tailored to the individual’s abilities, ensuring everyone can participate and grow their skills at their own pace
In the Garden
Welcome to our Gardening Club, a program designed for those who want to explore the joys of gardening in a safe and supportive environment!
What you’ll experience:
- Learn the skills to maintain a garden and care for potted plants at home.
- Discover how to grow seedlings and propagate plants.
- Get hands-on experience while having fun and learning new skills.
- Enjoy a friendly and inclusive environment where you can connect with others.
Join Gardening Club and dig into a fun, educational, and rewarding gardening experience!
Healthy Cooking & Life Skills
Cooking is a life skill everyone should have, and our Cooking Club makes it fun, easy, and empowering! This program is designed for you to learn how to cook independently while building confidence and practical skills.
What you’ll experience:
- Learn to plan menus, follow recipes, and budget meals.
- Build essential life skills, including domestic skills, travel training, and literacy and numeracy support.
- Receive guidance and support from our dedicated team every step of the way.
- Gain confidence and independence in the kitchen while having fun.
Join Cooking Club and take the next step toward cooking with confidence and independence
Volunteering and Community Engagement
Our Volunteering Program is designed for you to make a positive impact in their community while gaining rewarding experiences.
What you’ll experience:
- Volunteer with local organizations such as Meals on Wheels, Bairnsdale Hub, Salvation Army, and more.
- Work alongside passionate groups and help others in meaningful ways.
- Build new skills, make connections, and feel proud of the difference you make.
Enjoy a supportive and inclusive environment while giving back.
Join our Volunteering Program and be part of
something meaningful and fulfilling!
My Projects: Woodwork
Join My Projects, a program designed to explore DIY projects in a safe and supportive environment.
What you’ll experience:
- Turn recycled pallets into amazing DIY creations.
- Learn essential safety skills and how to use tools and machinery confidently.
- Work on projects guided by our passionate and experienced team.
- Express your creativity, have fun, and take home something you’re proud of.
- Enjoy a supportive space where beginners and experienced makers alike can learn and create.
Discover the joy of making, upcycling, and creating with My Projects!
The Ladies Lounge
Calling all the ladies! Ladies Lounge is a fun and supportive program designed for you to enjoy activities, connect with others, and focus on wellbeing.
What you’ll experience:
- Pampering and self-care activities.
- Explore women’s health and wellbeing in a safe, supportive space.
- Enjoy outings such as lunches and social experiences.
- Try creative activities like jewellery making.
- Build friendships and connect with other women in a welcoming environment.
Join Ladies Lounge and enjoy fun, friendship,
and self-care tailored just for you!
Multiple Choice
Your Choice, Your Fun is a program designed for those who want to enjoy games and activities in a supportive and inclusive environment.
What you’ll experience:
- Choose from a variety of fun activities and games, individually or with the group.
- Build skills like numeracy, literacy, and social connection while keeping your brain active.
- Solve puzzles, try new activities, and explore your hobbies.
- Make new friends and connect with peers in a welcoming, multiple-choice environment.
Join Your Choice, Your Fun and enjoy learning, playing, and socializing your way!
Colour Gang
Calling all artists! Colour Gang is a long-standing art program designed to explore your creativity in a supportive and skill-building environment.
What you’ll experience:
- Grow your artistic skills through fun and engaging activities.
- Learn the skills to sell your own artwork.
- Showcase your artwork in the community.
- Explore new ideas with both individual and group projects.
- Express yourself and have fun in a friendly, inclusive space.
Join Colour Gang and let your imagination shine.
Creative Crafts
Ready to tap into your creative side? Creative Crafts is designed for you to explore their creativity in a supportive and inclusive environment.
What you’ll experience:
- Try a variety of crafting projects, suitable for beginners and experienced crafters alike.
- Work on both individual and group creations.
- Bring your imagination to life in a fun and encouraging space.
- Build skills, express yourself, and enjoy the creative process.
Join Creative Crafts and let your creativity shine!
Career Compass
Your journey to exciting career opportunities starts here! Career Compass is an interactive and supportive program designed for you to explore career options and develop essential skills.
What you’ll experience:
- Discover a variety of career paths through local visits and industry talks.
- Take part in hands-on activities to gain real-world experience.
- Build essential skills like communication, technology use, problem-solving, confidence, and independence.
- Learn how to succeed in different industries in a safe and encouraging environment.
If you’re ready to explore your future and build the skills for success, Career Compass is the place for you!
Nature and photography
Join Nature & Photography, designed for you to explore photography in a fun and supportive environment.
What you’ll experience:
- Explore local areas and take photos of everything that inspires you.
- Learn how to edit, filter, and transform your photos into creative works of art.
- Work on personal projects to create pieces to take home or showcase in the community.
- Develop your skills with guidance from our supportive team.
- Express your creativity and bring your photographic vision to life.
Join Nature & Photography and capture the world through your lens!
Men's Club
Men’s Club is a relaxed and supportive program for men who want to enjoy social activities, get out in the community, and connect with mates.
What you’ll experience:
- Fun days out in nature and around the community.
- Activities like bushwalking, fishing, BBQ lunches, pub outings, and local exploration.
- Learn about men’s health and personal care in a safe and supportive environment.
- Build friendships, confidence, and enjoy engaging group experiences.
Join Men’s Club and be part of a space where you can relax, learn,
and have a great time with friends.
Dive & Discover
Get moving, have fun, and stay healthy with our inclusive swimming and active lifestyle program! This program encourages physical activity, community engagement, and mental stimulation in a safe and supportive environment.
Participants will enjoy:
- Swimming sessions – build fitness, strength, and confidence in the water
- Community outings – explore walking trails, visit the Bairnsdale Bowls Club, and take trips to Lakes Entrance
- Nature adventures – enjoy wildlife encounters, including a day out with the koalas
- Brain and body activities – engage in games and exercises that keep your mind active while having fun
- Healthy living focus – learn ways to stay fit, active, and balanced every day
This program is a great way to discover more about your health, make friends, and enjoy the outdoors, all while participating in activities that celebrate all abilities.
Pet Care
Pet Care is a fun and enriching program designed for those who want to learn how to care for their pets and strengthen their bond with them.
What you’ll experience:
- Learn essential pet care skills in a safe and supportive environment.
- Explore topics such as diet, grooming, exercise, and veterinary care.
- Gain confidence in taking care of your pets.
- Connect with other animal lovers and share experiences.
Join Pet Care and enjoy learning how to care for your pets
while having fun and building connections!
Mindful Moments
This program provides a supportive and engaging space for you to develop skills in emotional regulation, relaxation, and self-awareness through a variety of calming and interactive activities.
Participants will enjoy experiences designed to promote mindfulness, connection, and wellbeing, including:
- Chair Yoga – gentle movements to stretch, strengthen, and relax the body
- Breathing Exercises – techniques to calm the mind and improve focus
- Gratitude Circles – sharing moments of positivity and reflection
- Meditation – guided relaxation to support inner peace and balance
- Sensory Activities – exploring touch, sound, and movement to enhance self-awareness
This program encourages participants to relax, have fun, and grow together in a safe and welcoming environment that celebrates all abilities.
M.E.G.A. workshop
Join the M.E.G.A Program, designed for those who love hands-on learning and exploring how things work! M.E.G.A combines Mechanical, Electrical, Gadgets, and Automotive skills in a fun and supportive environment.
What you’ll experience:
- Work on fixing machines and exploring mechanical projects.
- Learn about electrical circuits and how gadgets work.
- Learn the skills for Test & Tag
- Build practical skills with guidance from our dedicated staff.
- Explore your interests in a safe, inclusive, and engaging space.
Jump into the M.E.G.A Program and discover the
exciting world of mechanics, gadgets, and automotive fun!
Community Connections
Join a welcoming community where learning, sharing, and friendships flourish! Community Connections is designed for you to get involved, try new activities, and meet new people.
What you’ll experience:
- Be supported to join friendly groups such as Bairnsdale Hub and Bairnsdale Disability Peer Group and connect with other D.O. sites.
- Learn new skills and build confidence in a safe and inclusive environment.
- Make friends and connect with others in your area and beyond.
- Enjoy activities and experiences that are fun, social, and engaging.
Whether you’re learning, connecting, or just having fun, Community Connections has something for everyone!
Drama & Confidence
Step into the spotlight and build your confidence in a fun and supportive drama program! This program is designed for you to explore creativity, communication, and problem-solving skills through music, drama, and performance.
Participants will have the opportunity to:
- Create and perform skits – express yourself and tell stories in small groups
- Engage with the Bairnsdale Drama Club – connect with the local theatre community
- Explore costumes and stage makeup – learn how to bring characters to life
- Build confidence – develop self-esteem through performance and collaboration
- Enjoy karaoke and music activities – have fun while learning performance skills
Through hands-on activities and community connections, this program
encourages participants to express themselves, make friends, and shine on stage in a safe and inclusive environment.
Yackety Yak
Ready to make your voice heard? On Air is a radio program designed for you to explore broadcasting, communication, and creativity in a supportive and fun environment.
What you’ll experience:
- Interview special guests and create dynamic radio shows.
- Learn the skills of recording, producing, and broadcasting.
- Work alongside our supportive staff to boost communication skills.
- Produce your own radio segments and share your unique voice on REG FM.
Enjoy a fun, inclusive group setting where your ideas and creativity shine.
Join On Air and discover the excitement of radio while sharing your voice with the community!
Extended hours activities:
Early Birds morning / Late Afternoons
Mon-Fri 8am - 9am or 4pm - 6pm
Need a little extra support to kickstart your day or at the end of your day?
Extended Hours is the perfect way to prepare and feel ready for whatever comes next! Join us before your program begins for some early morning fun and let our friendly staff help you organise your plans, set your goals, and get you in the zone for a great day.
In the afternoons if you ever need a little extra time after the program, come and unwind with us!
Grab a seat, join in a fun game of UNO, chat with our friendly support workers about your day, and take a breather before heading home.
Extended hours activities:
Movie and pizza night
Wed 4pm - 7pm
Get ready for a night full of flavour and fun! Join us as we roll up our sleeves to make our very own pizzas, choose your toppings, get creative, and enjoy cooking together in a supportive, social setting.
Once the pizzas are baked to perfection, it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy a movie with friends. Whether you love comedy, action, or animation, there’s something for everyone



























