"They’re here for me, and I know they always will be" Nicole's story

From member led activities to community outings, selectability’s support in Moranbah stretches far beyond the walls of its Hub on Appleton St —offering safety, connection and a sense of belonging to locals who need it most. 

For Moranbah resident Nicole, that support came at just the right time.  

Having lived in the region most of her life, Nicole started attending the Clubhouse late last year and said she immediately saw the difference it made. 

True to Nicole’s character, she has since become an integral part of the community created from the wide range of group activities.  

“At the time I just needed the support, and I could see the different kinds of activities the Clubhouse program offered.” she said. 

“My mum was in hospital at the time, which was pretty hard. But I really enjoy coming here—they check how I am every day, and if I need help with something, they are there for me, which is great.” 

“I remember back in March; I was hospitalised for two weeks after having a fall at home. I was in a pretty bad way, and that’s when they told me I had epilepsy,” she said. 

“During that time, selectability supported me with getting my medication in order and getting me back into a safe and clean environment, which has been really good.” 

Kayla Sutton, regional coordinator in Moranbah, said the team supported Nicole throughout her hospital stay and during her transition home.  

“We supported Nicole through her appointments to make sure her concerns were heard, as well as helping her access NDIS funding,” Kayla said. 

“We also helped rally community support to get her house cleaned after her fall. From there, we put together a safety plan so Nicole could return home and continue her transport to and from the clubhouse activities.” 

Nicole says the community response has been a major part of her recovery. 

“The community support has been really amazing,” she said.  

“A lot of people that I know have helped out—I’m pretty well known in the community, friends of all ages, and I’m grateful for that support.” 

These days, Nicole’s calendar is filling up with community barbecues, local outings, and trips to places like Nebo and Mackay with the selectability team. 

“They let us create things, and sometimes we’ll go out to places. So I’m excited to get out there and do things in the community—it’s important to me. It really means a lot,” she said. 

“I definitely feel a lot better. I feel a lot safer when the people at selectability check on me every day. 

“They’re here for me, and I know they always will be. Their personalities are amazing—they even make me laugh! 

“I just want people to know what selectability did for me—and for the community.” 

For more information visit the Moranbah page here.