headspace Batemans Bay

14/02/2026

10/02/2026

Today is Safer Internet Day, a global day of action that raises awareness about online safety and encourages safer digital experiences for everyone.

Sadistic Online Exploitation (SOE) is a serious form of online abuse where someone deliberately manipulates, humiliates or coerces others for their own gratification or status.

SOE can start with someone pretending to be a friend or love interest, then slowly applying pressure or threats. It can involve sharing explicit content, encouraging self-harm, threats, or humiliation.

If you are concerned that a young person you know is being targeted for SOE it is important to take action.

You can report SOE to the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation or to your local state/territory police: https://www.accce.gov.au/report

You can learn more about how to navigate SOE here: https://headspace.org.au/explore-topics/supporting-a-young-person/sadistic-online-exploitation-supporting-a-young-person/

20/01/2026

Is your young person about to start high school? 🎒

The transition to secondary school is a big milestone. It's exciting, but it can also bring up some nerves and uncertainty, both for the young person and for you.

You might be wondering how to best support them through this change. Whether it's managing social interactions and new friendships, higher academic expectations, or simply adjusting to a different environment, there are practical ways you can help them feel more prepared and confident. 💚

Learn more about supporting your young person's transition to high school 🔗 https://headspace.org.au/explore-topics/supporting-a-young-person/transition-from-primary-to-secondary-school/

14/01/2026

10/01/2026

Coping with the bushfire season can be difficult for you and your young person. Some people might experience disruptions in different areas of their lives.

Remember that there is no ‘right’ response and reactions can change over time. 💚

For tips on maintaining a healthy headspace during the bushfire season, head to our website.

https://headspace.org.au/coping-with-bushfires-for-family-and-friends/

07/01/2026

It’s going to be hot out 🌞🌊

Swipe for some simple tips to look after yourself (and others) in the heat. 💚

07/01/2026

And we are back! 💚

Get in touch with headspace Batemans Bay or headspace Narooma if you need some support with your mental health, physical and sexual health, work and study or alcohol/drug use or if you’re just looking for a chat.

📞 1800 718 383
📧 info@headspacebatemansbay.org.au or info@headspacenarooma.org.au
📍Drop-in to either of our offices during opening hours, more info on our websites.

07/01/2026

FREE EVENT! Let’s kick off 2026 the fun way! We’re teaming up with the legends at Batemans Bay Tennis Club for an afternoon of movement and good vibes!

Try Pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in Australia. No experience needed and paddles are provided. Just bring your drink bottle, towel and a bit of energy.

Not feeling sporty? No worries. Join the relaxed art session with Ruth Halverson, get creative, or simply hang out.

There’ll also be a bar where you can make your own sandwich, plus ice cream to cool down.

If you’re 15–25 years old, this one’s for you. Bring your mates, come solo, try something new. It’s all about fun, connection and starting the year right.

Sunday - 11 January
12pm – 2pm
Batemans Bay Basketball Stadium
1 Hanging Rock Place, Batemans Bay

31/12/2025

2025 recap. 💚

Here’s a snapshot of some of what headspace Batemans Bay and headspace Narooma got up to in 2025!

Thanks to all the incredible young people, organisations, partners and community who were a part of it. 🌻

31/12/2025

Enjoy beautiful art while supporting a great cause. 30% of painting sales go to The Local Gatho. We’d love to see you there.

🎨NEW ART GALLERY EXHIBITION🎨
CATHARSIS: Embers of Resilience
Artists: Josie Smith & John Smith
Number of works: 22
Medium: Acrylic on canvas, oil on canvas, soft pastel on paper, concrete, timber

Gallery Opening:
Date: January 3
Time: 2:00–5:00pm
Bar: Open during the event

Josie Smith
Josie Smith is a Filipino-born visual artist and writer. She began her artistic practice in the Philippines, where she participated in group exhibitions. After relocating to Australia, she continued making art as a hobby, which later became an important part of her recovery following a traumatic event.

Her work was significantly shaped by the 2019–2020 Black Summer Bushfires, during which she lost her husband, John Smith, who died while attempting to save their bush property. Following this event, Josie focused on her art practice, studied psychology, and wrote her memoir.

Her work combines memoir and visual art and reflects experiences of loss, survival and connection. In addition to her creative practice, Josie supports youth mental health initiatives and donates 30% of her painting sales to The Local Gatho, a grassroots organisation supporting young people and addressing isolation in regional communities.

John Smith
John Smith was a sculptor whose work drew from natural materials and human forms. His sculptures were created on his bush property and reflect his engagement with landscape and place.

During the 2019–2020 Black Summer Bushfires, John lost his life while defending his property. His sculptures survived the fires and were later recovered from the site. These works are now displayed in John’s Corner, located in the garden of his wife, Josie Smith.

On the same property, John preserved a timber fence dating back over one hundred years by reinforcing its base with rocks to protect it from fire. The fence was originally constructed during the gold rush era by miners who were early settlers on the land and remains standing today.

John’s sculptural works and preserved structures form part of his artistic legacy.