“The support has always been there”

Long-term support can be life changing.  

Not all at once, but over time, through consistency, trust and the right people showing up when it matters most.

For Charters Towers recipient Samantha, that support has spanned nearly 15 years, a journey that closely reflects selectability’s own growth over the past three decades.

Samantha first connected with SOLAS, now selectability, more than a decade ago, during a time when she needed support to reconnect with her community and regain a sense of routine.

“I just needed to get out in the community more, because I wasn’t myself at the time,” said Samantha.

At the beginning, support looked simple. One hour a week. A starting point that would gradually grow into something much more meaningful.

Today, Samantha receives support four days a week and continues to work closely with a small, trusted team.

“They motivate me.  

“Even my house is getting back to how I want it now. It’s all starting to fall into place again.”

Over the years, Samantha has worked alongside her support workers to rebuild confidence, reestablish routines and regain independence in her daily life.  

Tasks that once felt overwhelming have become part of her routine again.

“I wouldn’t even go to the supermarket for a long time. 

 “I didn’t like being around people. But they brought me out of my shell. They’d take me for coffee, take me shopping and just do things with me.”

A key part of Samantha’s journey has been the consistency of care. From the early days of SOLAS to selectability as it operates today, she has seen the organisation grow while maintaining the same focus on support and connection.

“It just felt like it got bigger.  

“The support has always been there.”

Through support coordination, Samantha has also been supported to better manage her NDIS plan, access services and navigate challenges with confidence.

“It gives me peace of mind,” she said.

“I’ve come a long way.   

“I’ve even started managing my own money again, and I’ve saved too.”

Looking ahead, Samantha’s focus is on maintaining her independence and improving her home, while staying connected with the support that has helped her build confidence over time.

“I look forward to them coming each day.”

As selectability celebrates 30 years of supporting communities across regional Queensland, stories like Samantha’s highlight the lasting impact of consistent, person-centred care.

Want to know more about our services in Charters Towers? You can find out more about the range of services we provide here.