WaterMarc and IDV Collaboration

Over the last three years, IDV has continued to partner with WaterMarc, which has provided opportunities for our participants to be connected to their local community.

WaterMarcs continued support in building an inclusive life has allowed IDV to focus on providing a service that it happens in people’s communities.

IDV’s participants have been able to benefit from health and fitness classes to participate in work experience placements. The work placements have provided valuable skills and exposure to work that utlise the richness or resources and opportunities that lie in every community. The team at Watermarc are inclusive, work in collaboration with IDV to enhance the opportunities and outcomes for our participants that are truly individualized and focus on developing natural supports and relationships. Watermarc and IDV are working together to build a good life for our participants, one step at a time. Toli: I like to come to WaterMarc to get to know people and clean the gym equipment to keep it safe for people, it also gives me ideas on what jobs I can do. Jackson: WaterMarc is a good place to learn new things and I like the people and meeting new staff who are really nice. Zara: The pools are calming, I love the music its very enticing. I like that the pools are separate. Ted: I like going to WaterMarc to exercise because the staff are friendly and helpful, there is a lot of space and equipment for me to use. Jenny Bruzzaniti: I have had the privilege of taking the IDV aqua group this year and I have enjoyed every minute! I love that this group of young people come in with no inhibitions and enjoy exercising, dancing – and even singing – in the water. Their progress has been amazing, I’ve noticed their confidence in the class has improved and also their willingness to try new things.

Not only have they improved, but I feel I have personally benefited from having spent time with them. Each class I come out feeling happier and re-energized. It’s amazing how many other visitors comment to me how wonderful the class is – usually saying “that must be the happiest class in the centre”, and how many patrons want to join in as well. The class has been so well received that we are planning to add an all abilities aqua class to the timetable next year. Jayde: I am so proud to be organizing and supporting the partnership between WaterMarc and IDV. For the past 3 years, the program has continued to grow and, in the years, to come will continue to grow further. IDV do a range of activities such as Aqua Aerobics, Gym and work placement. Working with IDV has really benefited myself, as every day I walk away happier after having a chat to the groups. The thing I am most proud about, is that I was able to give 10 participants work placement hours which was the final step in them completing their qualification in work education. The partnership has grown so much, and I have gained their trust, that every Wednesday the cooking group at IDV make me lunch for a small cost of $7.50, which gives back to them. At 12pm every week, I walk over the road, collect my lunch and have a little chat. I really believe it gives every one of the participants a new-found confidence, as now when they are in the centre they will say hello and speak to most staff but some regular members as well. IDV is the best part of my day!