ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE
The Alexander Technique is used to relieve and prevent many kinds of back, neck and limb pain, headaches and other musculo-skeletal problems to reduce tension and enhance performance in the pursuit of complex tasks and remove stress and to restore freedom of movement after accident or chronic illness.
AUSTAT Inc
P.O. Box 716, Darlinghurst 2010
Phone: Freecall 1800 339 571
Website: www.alexandertechnique.org.au
Alexander Technique Associates
Phone: 4757 3999 or 6331 6622
Website: www.alexandertechnique.com.au
Access this site to find a teacher in your area.
ATHLETICS
Achilles Running Club
P.O.Box 240, Randwick 2031
P.O. Box 87, Killara 2071
Phone: 9286 8050
Phone: 0500 564 437
Website: www.achilles-sydney.org.au or access through www.coolrunning.com.au
The club is a voluntary, charitable organisation which assists disabled runners to participate in road running with the general public.
AQUA FITNESS
Most local councils have several aquatic centers in their region. These provide LEARN TO SWIM and AQUAROBICS programs.
Lane Cove Aquatic and Leisure centre
2 Little St, Lane Cove
Phone: 9418 3288
Website: www.lanecoveaquatic.org
Hornsby Aquatic centre
Pacific Highway, Hornsby 2077
Phone: (02) 9477 3855
This centre offers aqua classes for seniors, the aged and people with disabilities.
CROQUET
Croquet NSW Inc
P.O. Box 5096
Marrickville 1475
Phone: 9571 1680
Website: www.croquet-australia.com.au
See web site for listings of clubs throughout NSW.The modern game of croquet does not compare with the image of the croquet playing Queen from Alice In Wonderland. The game is played on a level court about the size of two tennis courts between 2 or 4 players using coloured sets of balls.
CYCLING
Both organisations are non-profit community bicycle user groups. They comprise of ordinary people, at various levels of fitness and experience, who ride a variety of bicycles for transport, recreation, exercise and just for fun.
Bicycle NSW Inc
GPO Box 272
Sydney 2001
Phone: 9281 4099
Website: www.bicyclensw.org.au
Bike North
PO Box 719
Gladesville 1675
Phone: 9872 2583 or 9438 1903
GOLF
NSW Department of Sport & Recreation
Phone: 13 13 02
Website: www.dsr.nsw.gov.au
Beginner golf lessons for adults are conducted by qualified staff on courses at Beverly Hills, Dural, Gordon, Homebush, Little Bay, North Ryde, North Turramurra, Parramatta, Warringah and Woolooware.
HORSE RIDING
NSW SPORTS COUNCIL FOR THE DISABLED
Riding for the Disabled Association of NSW
Postal Address: P.O. Box 710 SYDNEY MARKETS NSW 2129
Office Address: Sports House 6A , Figtree Drive, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW 2127
Phone: (02) 8116 9726 Fax: (02) 8732 1616
Website: www.rdansw.org.au
See website for list of Sydney centres and regional centres.
RDA is a voluntary, non profit organisation providing riding instruction and other activities associated with riding and harness driving for people with disabilities. RDA enables people with disabilities and volunteers to experience enjoyment, challenge and a sense of achievement through participation in equestrian activities resulting in development of life skills, improved quality of life and attainment of personal goals.
The NSW Sports Council for the Disabled also supports sports such as tennis, golf, sailing, bowling and swimming all over NSW.
LAWN BOWLS
Royal NSW Bowling Association
Level 5, 309 Pitt Street Sydney.
P.O. Box A2186, Sydney South 1235
Phone: 9283 4555
Website: www.rnswba.org.au
DAVID- "My main hobby and sport since being diagnosed with the 'Big P' is lawn bowling. I commenced playing at Castle Hill Bowling Club and was a member there for 7 yrs and reached No.2 Pennant level for that club.
Since we moved, I now play for West Pennant Hill Sports Club. I have always enjoyed competitive sport and I intend to keep playing lawn bowls for as long as possible - 'PARKIES WILLING'
As I leave home for all bowls days, I tell my wife Maisie, ' See you later Maisie, I am off to roll a few pensioners' ( At 59, I am still one of the babies in the club)."
Bowling clubs can be found in most towns in NSW and are happy to have new members. Lawn bowls is a sport for all ages that can be competitive or just for fun. Visit your local club to get started.
Yes you can play Lawn Bowls! NEW PUBLICATION (Download now)
LawnBowls.PDF (500Kb)
Download the instructional booklet and discover a new leisure activity. The booklet is in PDF format (Adobe Acrobat Reader required). Acrobat can be downloaded free by clicking on the icon.
LINE DANCING
The Leagues' Clubs Association of NSW
Enquire about your local club at this number.
Phone: 9232 2611
Website: www.lcansw.com
Line dancing is easy to learn, a good way to keep fit and you don't need a partner. It is excellent for training your memory and as well as being very popular it's GREAT FUN! Most Senior Citizens clubs, Leagues Clubs and Community Centres have line dancing as one of their activities. See the following:
Gosford Senior Citizens' Centre - Phone: 4324 4749
Waverley Community and Seniors Centre - Phone: 9369 4087
MAKE A START
Physical Activity Directory for Over 50's
Health Promotions Unit
Central Sydney Area Health Service
Phone: 9533 4422
Kiama Council - Active Over 50's program
www.kiama.nsw.gov.au/commercial-activities/leisure-centre/active-over-50s.html
This directory provides information on classes for gentle exercise, gym work, swimming, many types of dancing, including line dancing, walking and Tai Chi.
ORIENTEERING
Orienteering Association of NSW
P.O. Box 2037
Glebe 2067
Phone: 9660 2067
Website: www.nsw.orienteering.asn.au
Orienteering utilizes the natural environment and involves using a specially prepared MAP to NAVIGATE as quickly as possible around a COURSE of several points on the map. The courses are usually completed in 1 or 2 hours. Events are held most weekends in Metropolitan parkland, State Forests, Private land and National Parks.
PILATES
The Pilates Institute of Australia
Administration Office
P.O. Box 1046
North Sydney 2060
Phone: 8920 2622 or 1300 369 348
Website: www.pilatesm.net
Pilates Method Studio
Level 4
46-58 Holt St
Surry Hills 2010
Phone: 9698 4689
Website: www.pilatesm.com.au/pages/sydney.html
Pilates is a method which aims to create a balance in the body. It is designed to cater for the needs of the individual. Many forms of exercise create tightening of certain muscles while overstretching others. The Pilates Institute training works to correct this imbalance. The method is also useful for rehabilitation following injury or for those suffering lower back problems.
Bondi Junction: 93693311
Parramatta: 9806 0179
North Sydney: 9929 9966
TAI CHI
Tai Chi originated from ancient China and in the past was a type of martial art, but nowadays it is practiced throughout the world as an exercise for health rather than for defence purposes.
Tai Chi consists of gentle, rhythmical form of exercise that can be performed and benefit even those with advanced chronic conditions or those confined to a wheelchair. The slow and gentle movements. There are several styles/schools and various levels of intensity in movements. It can be modified to suit individual needs. It is excellent for seniors, those who have been inactive and those with physical disabilities.
When practiced regularly it will increase the It benefits by increasing strength and flexibility of the body, improve theand by improving balance and mental concentration circulation. It also benefits by developing inner strength and serenity.
As well as the organisations listed below, many senior groups, community groups and sport and leisure clubs offer Tai Chi classes.
Tai Chi Association of Australia NSW
Phone: 0417406921
Website: www.taichiaustralia.com
See the web site for lists of instructors all over NSW.
Taoist Tai Chi Society
P.O. Box 774
Bondi Junction 1355
For Sydney enquiries
Phone:9212 7517
Website: www.taoist.org
Tai Chi Academy
P.O. Box 70
Woden ACT
Phone: 02 6296 1357
Web site: www.taichiacademy.com.au
Better Health Tai Chi Chuan Inc.
Phone: 02 9533 6511 or 02 9533 6150
Web site: www.betterhealthcc.com.au
As well as the organisations listed above, many senior groups, community groups and sport and leisure clubs offer Tai Chi classes. Many branches offer special needs classes with instructors trained to help those with particular health problems. Branches are in Sydney, Canberra and the Blue Mountains.
WALKING
NSW Department of Sport & Recreation
Walking for pleasure clubs throughout NSW
Phone: 13 13 02
Newcastle-Phone: (02) 4926 1633
Central Coast - Phone: (02) 4324 7994
THOMAS
Thomas was diagnosed in 2000 and finds that walking and gardening keep him mobile and fit as well as giving him pleasure. He enjoys being creative with colour co-ordination in the garden and when walking he sees the changes in his surroundings. Staying active gives Thomas a sense of well being and helps him live life to the fullest.
The WALKING FOR PLEASURE program is active throughout NSW and has walks that range from very easy to hard. For more information contact the NSW co-ordinator.
YOGA AND MEDITATION
Yoga provides a means for people to find their own way of connecting with their true selves and gain better physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. Yoga can improve strength, flexibility, enhance sleep and reduce stress and anxiety.
Yoga in Daily Life
National & NSW Centre
102 Booth Street, Annandale
Phone: 9518 7788
Website: www.yogaindailylife.org.au
This is a non-profit, volunteer community organisation, affiliated with the international fellowship of Yoga in daily life. It is suitable for all ages and levels of physical ability. It is based on the classical path of yoga and offers an aid to help oneself in attaining and improving health as well as physical, mental and spiritual harmony.
Siddha Yoga Meditation Australia
Sydney Ashram
Phone: 9559 5666
Website: www.siddhayoga.org.au
This is a non-profit organisation that conducts classes, holds retreats and trains teachers. The teachings include meditation and chanting to promote serenity and heightened awareness.
Siddha Yoga Centre
Boolimba Cres
Narrabundah
ACT
Phone: 6239 5811
CRAFTS
The many forms of craft skills are embraced by many people with or without disability. From woodcarving to papercrafts or from needlework to jewelry making craft classes are offered by a variety of organisations such as:
- Adult Community Education of NSW Inc
- Seniors clubs
- Community clubs
- Local Councils
- Creative Skills Centre
- Red Cross arts and crafts - Phone: 9229 4111
- Age Concern Albury-Wodonga Inc
- Classes in art & craft, music & Yoga - Phone: 6041 4439
The Australian Craft Network
This organisation has a very detailed website that lists suppliers and notice of classes all over Australia.
P.O. Box 350, Narellan
Phone: 4647 7047
Website: www.auscraftnet.com.au
Embroiderers' Guild of NSW Inc
P.O. Box 109, Concord West 2138
Phone: 9743 2501
Website: www.embgdnsw.org.au
Regular classes in a wide variety of techniques for both beginners and more advanced students are held throughout the year.
COLLEEN
Colleen was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 1987 and has had many good years to enjoy and perfect her cross stitch. She finds the challenge of counting the stitches helps her to focus on the task at hand and away from her Parkinson's. She also feels that the small stitching movements keeps her hands mobile. The finished product gives her a great deal of satisfaction.
QUILTING
THE Quilters' Guild of NSW Inc
Suite 4 Floor 7
250 Pitt Street, Sydney 2000
Phone: 9283 3737
Website: www.quiltersguildnsw.com
The Quilters' Guild is a Sydney based organisation which aims to promote the art and craft of patchwork and quilting. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in the craft from beginners to professionals. As a member you have the benefits of a regular magazine, notice of meetings and timetable of workshops and shows.
DIANE
Diane was diagnosed with Parkinson's fourteen years ago whilst she lived in Queensland. She was forced to resign her teaching job due to right hand tremor. In 1996 she was one of the first to have the new DBS surgery which eliminated her tremor.
During the Para-Olympics she attended a display of patchwork quilts which so impressed her that she decided to give it a try. After completing about 12 projects she decided she needed to learn more so she joined a local quilting group. They meet every Friday, enjoy a morning tea, share their work and pick up tips that will improve their work.
Diane finds her craft very rewarding and something she can do while resting. She has attempted projects both big and small and now has her creations adorning her bed and lounge. Many of her smaller works such as cushion covers make great gifts for family and friends.
Diane hopes to continue and improve this hobby for years to come and encourages other "crafty parkies" to have a go.
LAPIDARY
Gem and Lapidary Council of NSW
P.O. Box 411, Londonderry 2753
Phone: 0427 993 903
Website: www.ndlapidary.org.au
A large number of clubs and societies exist in Australia that support lapidary, fossil collection, gold prospecting and other similar interests.
This organisation lists all affiliated clubs in NSW. Follow the links on the web site to find a club in your area.
WOODTURNING
The Sydney Woodturners Guild
Phone: 02 4889 4009
Web site: www.sydneywoodturners.com.au
Australian Wood Artisans Promotions
Web site: www.woodart.com.au
Trend Timbers
P.O. Box 212, Windsor 2756
Phone: 4572 5277
Website: www.trendtimbers.com.au
For woodturning supplies and classes.
New England Woodturning Supplies
Ponds Road
Gilgai 2360
Phone: 6723 1350
Website: www.newagemultimedia.com
MODEL AEROPLANES
NSW Free Flight Society Inc
www.nswffs.com.au
Phone: 9602 7419
NSW Scale Aircraft Society Inc
www.nswsas.com.au
P.O. Box 3058 Rosemeadow 2560
Phone: 02 465 45331
MODEL TRAINS
Australian Model Railways Association NSW Branch Inc
48 Barry Ave
PO Box 277
Mortdale 2223
Phone: 9153 5901
Website: www.amransw.asn.au
BILL
Bill, who was diagnosed in1992, has had a lifetime interest in model trains. For Bill this involves planning a real railway in miniature, being creative with modeling scenery, using the computer to help with electronics and signal control. Along with other "Parkies" Bill finds his hobby totally absorbing, stimulating and relaxing.
Membership of this organisation provides a starters manual, a bi-monthly journal, advice, assistance, exhibitions and competitions.
PAINTING AND DRAWING
Royal Art Society of NSW
25-27 Walker St, North Sydney
Phone: 9955 5752
Website: www.royalart.com.au
The Royal Art Society offers a wide variety of courses including drawing, oil and water painting, still life, life drawing, portrait & landscape paintings. It also runs sketch club evenings where everyone is welcome.
Hornsby Art Society Inc
P.O. Box 3130
Asquith 2077
Phone: 9476 8869
Hornsby Art Gallery
Website: www.hornsbyartsociety.com.au
Ryde City Art Society
Willandra Art Centre
770 Victoria Rd, Ryde 2112
Phone: 9808 2254
Willandra Art School offers adult students opportunity to develop individual styles and enjoy painting in oils, water colours, acrylics, pastel drawing of landscape and still life. All classes accommodate beginners to advance students.
JAN CUMMING
Jan was diagnosed with PD in 2001and belongs to the Lower North Shore Support Group. She has always been interested in painting. After attending part time classes at TAFE in the 80's she now has her own backyard studio and finds that this lifelong hobby is distracting and satisfying and brings pleasure to others.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Northside Creative Photography
P.O. Box 192
Gordon 2072
Phone: 9144 5799
9498 3916
Website: www.northsidecreativephotography.org.au
This organisation is affiliated with the Federation of Camera Clubs NSW. It aims to broaden and cultivate the photographic interests of its members by exposing them to as wide a mix of styles and mediums as possible and to provide education, guidance, competition and social interaction. NCP strives to provide a relaxed informal meeting environment free from any traditional constraints or limitations of photographic styles.
Federation of Camera Clubs Inc
6 Yanco Close, Frenchs Forest 2086
Website: www.photographynsw.org.au
Pennant Hills Photographic Club
P.O. Box 72, Pennant Hills
Phone: 9484 4611
Wollongong Camera Club
P.O. Box 193, Figtree 2525
Phone: 4228 4046, 4229 8350
Useful website
www.buy-n-shoot.com/cclubs.asp
This site lists camera clubs all over Australia and can supply all your photographic needs.
WRITING & PUBLISHING
Australian Bush Poets Association
Contact number
Phone: 6652 3716
Website: www.bushpoetry.com.au
This site is for aspiring poets to share their work and benefit from writing tips.
Booranga Writers Centre
Locked bag 588, Wagga Wagga 2678
Phone: 6933 2688
Website: www.csu.edu.au/faculty/arts/humss/booranga/
This writer's centre is attached to Charles Sturt University and provides workshops in prose and poetry and writers can share their work on the website.
NSW Writers Centre
P.O. Box 1056
Rozelle 2039
Phone: 9555 9757
Website: www.nswwriterscentre.org.au
NSW Writers Centre was formed to promote writing based culture and the rights and interests of writers. The centre offers literary resources, professional information for established and aspiring writers and professional development, seminars, courses and workshops.
ACT Writers Centre
Braddon ACT 2612
Phone/fax: 03 6262 9191
Website: www.actwriters.org.au
The centre provides professional advice, information and interests for both beginner and advanced writers. There is a community of writers on the web who share their stories, poetry and ideas.
The Poet's Union
P.O. Box 91
Balmain 2041
Phone: 9818 5366
Fax: 9818 5377
Website: www.poetsunion.com
DON
I have always been interested in writing both prose and verse but never had the time to devote to this activity until my retirement as a Science teacher due to Parkinson's disease. I tried my hand at a few pieces and started reading them out at my support group meeting. The poems were well received because they were humorous, positive and not smutty. Now we start each meeting with a recitation and a chuckle. Since then a volume of my verses have been published by Parkinson's NSW and I also write poems for special occasions. More recently I have joined the POET'S UN ION to write and share non-Parkinson's poetry. I find writing an excellent catharsis for my Parkinson's giving me the chance to explore my ideas and attitudes on various issues. So give it a try! Pick up that pen and paper, take a laxative to cure the writer's block and away you go. Some people might actually enjoy what you churn out!
