When Centacare announced the closure of its NDIS disability services after 20 years, the news left many families and participants across south-east Queensland searching for stability.
In Caloundra, a determined group of families came together with one shared goal – to keep their community together. They reached out to Complex Supports Bespoke Solutions (CSBS), known for its person-led approach and strong reputation for reliability, communication, and dedication.
That connection sparked the creation of the new Caloundra Community Hub – a vibrant, inclusive space where participants, families, and support staff could continue to learn, connect, and thrive together.
A Family-Led Transition
The transition began when families, who had long-standing relationships with CSBS Director, Vickie Starr, reached out seeking a provider who would protect the continuity, friendships, and stability their loved ones had built over many years at the Iluka Social and Life Skills Hub in Golden Beach, formerly run by Centacare.
While CSBS’s recent “Stepping Up” campaign confirmed for them that we were actively and confidently supporting people displaced during this period of industry change, it was decades of trust in Vickie’s leadership and person-led integrity that ultimately drove their decision to connect.
At the heart of that former community was Courtney-Jay DuVergier, who had been the Team Leader at the Iluka community centre. During her time there, she helped foster a trusted and inclusive environment where families could stay connected and make shared decisions about their future.
“The families were amazing,” said Courtney-Jaye DuVergier, now Team Leader of the new Caloundra Hub. “They wanted to stay together, to keep the friendships and sense of belonging they’d built over 20 years. Once they chose CSBS, it was all hands-on deck to help make that happen.”
The Team That Made It Happen
Alongside the families and participants were an incredible group of support workers, people who had been part of the Iluka community for years and chose to make the switch to CSBS.
Their dedication and continuity have been instrumental in making the first week of the new Hub a success.
“The team that came across with the participants are next level,” Courtney-Jaye said. “They didn’t hesitate. Their only focus was making sure the people they support were settled, safe, and smiling. I’m just one of them, this success belongs to the whole team.”
“It’s been inspiring to see the families, participants, and support workers come together like this,” said Vickie Starr, Director of CSBS. “It’s a beautiful reminder of what’s possible when people lead with their heart. Everyone worked tirelessly this wasn’t about replacing a service; it was about ensuring a community could continue to thrive.”
Stepping Up with Purpose
Under Vickie’s leadership, CSBS’s Business Development Leads, Jami-Bree Bachmann and Danika Dillon, worked closely with Courtney-Jaye and the families to coordinate the transition and secure a new home for the group. Within weeks, a partnership with Empower Church Caloundra was established, providing a welcoming, accessible space for the Hub’s new beginning.
“The collaboration between families, Courtney-Jaye, and our team was incredible,” said Jami-Bree Bachmann. “We moved fast, but always with care. Every conversation came back to one question – what’s best for the people we support?”
Danika Dillon added: “Everyone showed up with empathy and determination. This was a huge undertaking, but the result speaks for itself – a thriving Hub and a community that stayed together.”
Continuity, Care, and Connection
The Caloundra Community Hub continues the much-loved social and life-skills supports of Iluka, with new activities co-designed by participants and staff.
Opportunities include creative arts, work experience development, wellbeing, community engagement and collaborations all centred on connection and belonging.
“The Hub is already full of laughter, routine, and warmth,” said Vickie Starr. “It’s a place people can call home again.”
Part of a Bigger Commitment: CSBS ‘Stepping Up’
The success of the Caloundra Community Hub is part of CSBS’s broader ‘Stepping Up’ campaign – a commitment to reliability, sustainability, and person-led care as the NDIS sector undergoes major change.
Through Stepping Up, CSBS continues to deliver:
- NDIS-registered, 100% compliant services
- Person-led, not provider-first philosophy
- Responsive intake and clear communication
- No waitlist limbo
- Trusted partnerships with families and support coordinators
- Ongoing training and strong staff support
“The NDIS is changing fast,” Vickie said.
“But our mission stays the same to be alongside the people who choose us, every step of the way.”
A Hub Built by Community
The reopening of the Caloundra Community Hub is proof of what happens when families, staff, and providers unite around shared values. It’s a story of resilience, collaboration, care and a celebration of the people who make community possible.
“This was a team effort through and through,” said Courtney-Jaye. “The families, the support workers, and the people we support – they’re the heart of this Hub.”