John Gough’s story is one of inspiration and perseverance.  He, pictured here with Matthew Fenton and Victor Patrzala, has been part of the Centacare community for more than five years.   Support worker, Matthew, has been working alongside John for much of that time.

With the support of the Centacare team in Port Macquarie, John has an NDIS plan that encourages him to reach for his personal goals and allows him to participate in a wide variety of events and activities such as Riding for the Disable’ and Sailability.

John receives personal support and assistance with things like shopping, which allows him to build his capacity and independence. He also participates in group-based activities, through which he engages in a  community, connects with others and develops friendships.

“I like spending time with friends and I like meeting people at Centacare,”says John.

In fact, one of the goals John set as part of his NDIS plan was to increase his self-confidence so he is a regular at Bago Magic Performance Group every Friday.

“I really liked performing in the I Am video, my dream is to be a DJ”, John continues.

John never thought he would be able to go on a cruise but thanks to the organisation and support of the Centacare team, he has been on two. The most recent was a four-day cruise to Morton Island, an experience John shared with 11 other Centacare clients.

“I loved the cruise – it was great fun.” John has a strong sense of community spirit and likes to give back to others.

Centacare assists John with his volunteering efforts as he raises funds for Bear Cottage, a hospice for children with life-limiting conditions. Centacare Support Worker, Matthew Fenton, has worked closely with John during his association with Centacare.

“I’ve always known John to go out of his way to help others and make them feel accepted within the groups he’s part of,” says Matthew.

As John strives to live his best life, it is a privilege for Centacare to be with him on that journey helping him work toward his goals and to reach his potential.

“Father Donnelly and I have been firm friends since that time and I am pleased that he now has the opportunity to slow down a bit.

“One of my priorities as I settle in is to get to know the parish community, some are familiar faces but there are also many new ones to get to know.”

St Agnes’ chief executive officer Adam Spencer said no one deserved the blessings of a peaceful retirement more than Fr Donnelly.

“Our parish is fortunate that a man of Father Paul’s calibre has been appointed as Father D’s successor – he will be a great asset to the parish,” he said.

“I look forward to working closely with Father Paul to serve the needs of our parish and the community.” Fr Donnelly has retired close by at The Francis Retreat in Bonny Hills.