Doors close, as online rooms open

WHEN Greg Thorpe took the reins from outgoing Queenscliffe Neighbourhood House co-ordinator Carolyn Williams, he never thought the handover would take place during a pandemic.
“Neither of us imagined our week of handover for the role would happen in the middle of a pandemic crisis like corona,” he said.
“It was sad that Carolyn’s send-off had to be cancelled but our committee of management and I look forward to getting Carolyn back, for a proper celebration of her amazing 20-year contribution once this crisis is over.”
Mr Thorpe said despite an unconventional start, he’d been overwhelmed with welcoming messages from Neighbourhood House supporters.
“It is surreal working in the Neighbourhood House office without the house being full of people. Except for the many phone calls and emails, the quiet in the house is a bit eerie at times.
“Though closed to visitors the Neighbourhood House is still here. We are working hard at moving towards online program delivery and urgent community support as needed.
“There is always lots to learn on a new job but with our business going online we all have to master new technology too. I can’t remember how many new passwords I’ve had to create and learn for our new online environment; it’s a new world where learning and adapting is certainly part of it.”
Mr Thorpe said they were about to begin testing new online ‘rooms’, where user groups and classes could “meet” via a computer, smartphone, tablet and even hopefully a landline phone.
“We will be contacting the leaders of all our existing groups to explain this new way of working further. Information for group members will follow once we are clear we have our technology working.
“At this stressful time, it’s important we all stay in contact with our friends, family and close neighbours while keeping that safe 1.5m distance and observing the hygiene and other instructions from government.
“If you find you, or someone you know, need additional support we may be able to help so don’t hesitate to contact us or pass on our contact details.”
The QNH is contactable by phone weekdays from 10am until 2pm and via email for any support or needs that arise, phone: 5258 3367 or email: [email protected].