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Pickleball Holiday Program with Barnardos Auburn

Last week, Barnardos Auburn teamed up with Cumberland Council and Sparrows Pickleball (run by Helen Huynh, Internal Communications Manager) to deliver a free school holiday program which introduces one of Australia’s fastest-growing sports, pickleball, to local primary school children at Berala Community Centre.

With almost 40 kids attending, the event featured two fun-filled sessions, giving kids a chance to get active, make new friends, and learn a new sport in a welcoming, inclusive environment.

Run by qualified coaches from Sparrows Pickleball, the sessions were perfect for beginners, with all equipment provided. Kids enjoyed engaging games and drills that develop hand-eye coordination, teamwork, and confidence – all while having fun. Pickleball is easy to learn, fun to play, and accessible for all ages. 

This initiative was part of Sparrows’ mission to connect communities through sport, with support from Cumberland City Council and Barnardos Australia to help make sport more inclusive and accessible for all families.

A massive thank you to Caseworkers Michaela Bestwick and  Stephanie Phung and Program Manager Gethin Cadwaladr at Barnardos Auburn for making this collaboration possible.
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WHAT WE SEE

We see beyond the sleepover in cars and understand the underlying issues.

After escaping family violence, a parent and their child have nowhere safe to stay and are
currently waiting for refuge accommodation.

We see beyond the sleepover in cars
and understand the underlying issues.

After escaping family violence, a
parent and their child have nowhere
safe to stay and are currently waiting
for refuge accommodation.

HOW BARNARDOS HELPS

We understand that families and children who have experienced domestic and family violence need more than just a safe place to stay. At Barnardos, we work closely with children to identify their unique needs and provide tailored support for each family member.   

Safe accommodation

Support with transitional accommodation

Safety Planning

Providing safety planning
so that families can leave violence for good

Counselling icon

Access to counselling services

Children who have survived domestic and family violence often experience long-term impacts into adulthood. Our caseworkers recognise the importance of specialist support to help them recover and thrive. 

HOW BARNARDOS HELPS

We understand that families and
children who have experienced domestic and family violence need more than just a safe place to stay.
At Barnardos, we work closely with children to identify their unique
needs and provide tailored support
for each family member.   


Support with transitional accommodation
♡
Providing safety planning so that families can leave violence for good
♡
Access to counselling services

Children who have survived domestic and family violence often experience long-term impacts into adulthood.
Our caseworkers recognise the importance of specialist support to
help them recover and thrive. 

You can help too! A simple gift today can support a child who has experienced
domestic and family violence to recover and heal.

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