Orange Sky has arrived in Mooroopna

At Lighthouse, we are acutely aware of the growing issues facing our community, especially for those regarding financial hardship, and those at risk of, or experiencing homelessness. The ongoing cost-of-living crisis has significantly impacted many community members, making it difficult for them to meet the most basic needs—such as washing clothing and household laundry.

We are delighted to share that the Family Haven is now equipped with an Orange Sky pod which contains two washers and two dryers which community members can access for free. The service is run by volunteers who are more than happy to chat and share a cuppa while participants laundry is being washed.

We encourage schools to share the following link in newsletters and via socials to help us spread the word: https://www.gslp.com.au/orangeskyfaqs/

Location: Family Haven, 15-17 Young St, Mooroopna

Operating hours: Monday: 9.00am - 11.00am. Everyone welcome.

Tuesday-Thursday: 10.00am - 1.00pm. Families welcome.

Lighthouse Grade 6 Scholarships

The Lighthouse Grade 6 Scholarships provide a one-off $100 gift card to support Grade 6 students as they transition to secondary school. The scholarship aims to help students and their families with the cost of school supplies or uniforms, helping to ensure students are ready for the next chapter of their education.

Every primary school in the Greater Shepparton region is eligible to nominate one student for this opportunity and this year Lighthouse is delighted to have awarded 14 scholarships. We are keen to present even more scholarships in 2025 and we encourage new school’s to connect with Lighthouse's Primary Projects Coordinator, Belinda Senini, at bsenini@gslp.com.au for 2025.



Beyond the classroom

Learning through Lunch

The Learning through Lunch program is paving the way for young students in Greater Shepparton, encouraging them to dream big and explore their future opportunities. Delivered in partnership with Lighthouse, ARDOCH, and GoTafe, the program engages Year 5 and 6 students in fun, hands-on activities designed to build career aspirations and prepare them for life beyond school.

Over the past two terms, students from seven local primary schools have taken part in this inspiring initiative. They’ve toured the GoTafe Shepparton campus, decorated terracotta pots, planted seeds, and even tried their hand at cookie decorating. These creative activities are paired with lunches where students share meaningful conversations with volunteer mentors.

The lunches go beyond the meal—they’re a chance for students to connect with positive role models. Volunteers from local organisations such as GMCU, Commonwealth Bank, Goulburn Murray Water, and Victoria Police have generously shared their time, discussing career pathways, education, and future possibilities with the students.

Schools interested in exploring local career and employment aspiration programs and excursions such as the Learning Through Lunch program are encouraged to contact Lighthouse's Primary Projects Coordinator, Belinda Senini, at bsenini@gslp.com.au.

Gowrie Street Primary School and Shepparton Central Rotary Excursions

Grade 6 students from Gowrie Street Primary School, with the support of Shepparton Central Rotary and Lighthouse, have wrapped up an action-packed Careers and Community program. Spanning terms three and four, the program is all about connecting students with the local community, building social skills, and showcasing the incredible opportunities in the region.

This year’s highlights included:

• Touring the Australian Fruit Solutions juice factory
• Visiting the Arcadia Fish Farm
• Exploring the Shepparton Courthouse
• Learning at a working sheep dog farm
• Discovering aviation at Gawne Aviation
• Investigating sustainability at the Cosgrove Waste Education Centre
• Touring Goulburn Valley Water’s Treatment Plant

The program finished on a high with a sailing adventure hosted by Shepparton Sailability and a well-earned pizza lunch.

A big thank you to the Shepparton Central Rotarians for volunteering their time and ensuring students gained valuable insights and experiences throughout the program.

Schools interested in exploring local career and employment aspiration programs and excursions are encouraged to contact Lighthouse's Primary Projects Coordinator, Belinda Senini, at bsenini@gslp.com.au.

10 Years of Lighthouse  

The Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project was established in 2014 to ensure young people in our region have the support they need to reach their full potential and thrive. 

For the past ten years, we’ve been working to remove the barriers young people face. We’ve provided food, school shoes, and uniforms. We’ve helped cover travel expenses for medical appointments. Our Laptops with Love program provides refurbished laptops to students, while our Second Spin program delivers refurbished bikes. We also provide car seats and other essentials to young families. Our OLLY, Family Haven, and Pit Stop programs focus on creating pathways and opportunities for better outcomes. 

With a “whatever it takes” approach, Lighthouse is committed to making a difference into the next 10 years and beyond. Schools and organisations working with young people are encouraged to reach out if you require assistance with breaking down the barriers for young people in our region.

Visit our website www.gslp.com.au or email info@gslp.com.au to connect with a Lighthouse staff member.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from everyone at Lighthouse

Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project hope you have a lovely and safe Christmas break. Our office will be closed from the 18th of December and re-open on the 6th of January, 2025.