Learn how ETC's $25,000 in funding is creating opportunities and support for People with Disability at The Phoenix Depot
Creating inclusive spaces and meaningful work opportunities can transform lives. That's why ETC is proud to support Nambucca Valley Phoenix (NVP) and the important work they do on the Mid North Coast.
Located in beautiful Bowraville, Nambucca Valley Phoenix is a community-owned and operated social enterprise dedicated to empowering people with disability through supported employment skill-building programs, and inclusive community activities. Their services help individuals build confidence, develop new skills, and participate more fully in community life.
Through a $25,000 grant from the ETC Community Support Fund, NVP has brought new energy to The Phoenix Depot – a vibrant community hub that includes a Community Shed, up-cycling centre, plant nursery and permaculture garden.
This investment has expanded opportunities for participants to learn, create, and connect in supportive, inclusive environments. These initiatives strengthen social connection, broaden pathways to skill-building, and provide practical, supported employment opportunities for people with disability.
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Transforming lives through opportunity and inclusivity
For people living with disability, access to meaningful work and social connection can be life-changing. It's about more than employment – it's about independence, purpose, and feeling a genuine sense of belonging.
NVP has long been recognised for its commitment to creating inclusive opportunities. With this new investment from ETC, the organisation can expand its impact even further, providing more spaces where people can learn, grow, and thrive.
The reopening of their Community Shed and the development of a plant nursery form part of NVP's broader Phoenix Depot initiative. This is a community space that also includes an up-cycling centre and permaculture garden.
Together, these areas provide meaningful opportunities for people with disability to learn practical skills, express creativity, and engage in supported work activities. Whether participating in woodworking, sustainable gardening, or creative repurposing projects, individuals can build confidence and independence while contributing to initiatives that benefit the local community.
While the Depot prioritises opportunities for people with disability, it also welcomes job seekers, youth, retirees, and anyone keen to learn new skills or connect with others. It's designed as a shared community resource that encourages collaboration across ages and backgrounds.
How The Phoenix Depot is building skills, confidence and connection
This is a community resource where everyone can come together and collaborate.
The Phoenix Depot supports individuals with disabilities through supported employment programs and hands-on learning. In turn, participants can build confidence, improve mental health and learn skills to independently live within their community.
Community Shed
In the Community Shed, participants take part in hands-on projects that encourage creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving. It's a place to try new things, learn practical skills, and connect with others in a welcoming environment. For many, this space helps uncover strengths and abilities that support personal growth.
Plant Nursery
The Plant Nursery offers a different learning experience, giving participants the chance to work with nature while developing horticultural skills such as plant care and sustainable gardening. Seeing their efforts come to life gives them a sense of purpose and achievement. While also contributing to a project that benefits the wider community.
Wider Phoenix Depot
These opportunities are complemented by activities across the wider Phoenix Depot, including creative up-cycling and permaculture practices. This gives participants even more ways to build skills and express their strengths.
Together, these activities create pathways to future employment by helping participants build transferable skills like communication, responsibility, and teamwork. Just as importantly, they promote social inclusion, strengthen local connections, and ensure people with disability have places where they feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.
Check out photos below of our celebratory event and tour of The Phoenix Depot!
A shared commitment to inclusion
ETC's support for Nambucca Valley Phoenix reflects a shared commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities where everyone have access to meaningful opportunities. By investing in programs that address barriers to participation, ETC aims to create pathways to employment, social connection, and long-term independence.
Since 2012, the ETC Community Support Fund has helped community organisations deliver meaningful, life-changing programs. The fund supports initiatives that promote inclusion, build stronger communities, and open opportunities for people facing disadvantage. To date, ETC has invested more than $3 million into projects that create lasting, positive impact across our service regions. Including $2 million in the past 4 years!
ETC CEO, Damon Munt, said the organisation is proud to support the work of Nambucca Valley Phoenix.
"Nambucca Valley Phoenix plays a vital role in creating opportunities for people with disability – and the wider community – to engage in meaningful work and community activities," Mr Munt said.
"We're thrilled that this support has helped reopen the Community Shed and establish a plant nursery - initiatives that will make a real difference in people's lives."
Learn about ETC's disability employment program locations > Inclusive Employment Australia
Visiting Nambucca Valley Phoenix Gallery and Café
For Nambucca Valley Phoenix, this funding is about more than new infrastructure. It's about creating a future where community members have access to opportunities.
The Phoenix Depot is just one part of NVP's vibrant community ecosystem, which includes the Phoenix Gallery and Phoenix Café. Both welcoming spaces where art, creativity, and community come together.
Visitors can explore local artworks, enjoy a meal or coffee prepared with care, and support an organisation that reinvests directly into their community. Dropping into the Gallery or Café is a simple way for community members to show support and experience the heart of NVP's mission first-hand.
ETC is proud to stand alongside organisations like NVP that are making real, lasting change within their communities.
