ECS Community Innovation & Empowered Living
Program Overview
- Duration: 6–8 hours per activity depending on participant funding or preference
- Frequency: Weekly / Fortnightly / Monthly (based on participant needs)
- Support Ratio: 1:1, 1:2, or 1:3
- Transport: Provided by Empowerment Care Services (pick-up and drop-off available on request; billed to participants)
- Catering: Meals and refreshments included where applicable
- Safety: Risk assessments and care plans reviewed prior to each activity
Program Activities
Berowra Waters River Cruise
Set sail on a relaxing and memorable day along the tranquil waters of Berowra Waters. Participants enjoy a BBQ lunch, soft music, and light games on board. Activities include fishing, sightseeing, and social interaction in a calm, scenic environment.
Benefits: Promotes social connection, sensory engagement, emotional wellbeing, and relaxation through nature.
Calmsley Hill City Farm Experience
A hands-on farm adventure where participants immerse themselves in daily farm life. Activities include:
- Feeding and interacting with cows, sheep, goats, chickens, and alpacas
- Watching live shows such as cow milking, sheep shearing, and working dog demonstrations
- Riding on a tractor for a guided farm tour
- Learning about sustainable farming and animal care
- Enjoying a picnic lunch surrounded by nature
Benefits: Encourages confidence, sensory exploration, responsibility, and connection to animals and the outdoors.
Art, Culture & Discovery Tour
Participants embark on a cultural journey using public transport such as trains or ferries. The day includes visits to museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks, followed by a meal at a local café or restaurant.
Benefits: Builds confidence in navigating public transport, increases cultural awareness, and enhances social and communication skills.
Blue Mountains Adventure
A full day exploring the stunning Blue Mountains, including Echo Point Lookout, the Three Sisters, and the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre. Participants enjoy bushwalks and a scenic picnic lunch.
Benefits: Promotes physical activity, mindfulness, cultural learning, and appreciation of natural landscapes.
2-Night Respite Getaway (Central Coast or City Stay)
- Beach visit and coastal walks
- Pelican feeding at The Entrance
- Group BBQ or movie night
- Shopping and café outings
• Ferry rides on Sydney Harbour
• Dining at local restaurants
• Social and leisure activities
Sydney or Taronga Zoo Visit
A full day exploring the stunning Blue Mountains, including Echo Point Lookout, the Three Sisters, and the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre. Participants enjoy bushwalks and a scenic picnic lunch.
Benefits: Promotes physical activity, mindfulness, cultural learning, and appreciation of natural landscapes.
Manly Beach Day
A relaxing seaside experience with swimming, beach walks, light games, and a picnic lunch by the shore.
Benefits: Encourages relaxation, confidence, socialisation, and connection with nature.
Bobbin Head (Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park)
Participants explore the tranquillity of Bobbin Head through bushwalking, fishing, sightseeing, and a boat ride, followed by a BBQ lunch.
Benefits: Supports fitness, mindfulness, teamwork, and nature-based wellbeing.
Warragamba Dam & Central Garden Nature Reserve
A combined educational and recreational experience exploring Warragamba Dam and the nearby nature reserve. Participants learn about water conservation, enjoy scenic views, and share a group picnic.
Benefits: Encourages curiosity, environmental awareness, and community engagement.
Urban Adventures & Social Dining
Participants enjoy recreational activities at venues such as Timezone, FlipOut, or local play centres, followed by a social meal at clubs or restaurants.
Benefits: Supports coordination, confidence, social engagement, and positive peer interactions.
Collaboration with Families & Stakeholders
At ECS we work closely with families, guardians, and key stakeholders to provide the best possible outcomes for the child and young person in our care. We maintain open communication to ensure that every decision made is made in the best interest of the child or young person, promoting continuity of care and positive long-term outcomes.