The Salvation Army has a dedicated hub of services at Hamilton to care for vulnerable people in our local Newcastle community. Through a dedicated team, services and programmes, the hub supports thousands of people every year. 

For the last 22 years, Port Waratah has supported the annual Bikers For Kids Newcastle Toy Run, which significantly contributes to The Salvation Army Hunter Christmas Appeal. The riders bring toys and raise much needed funds and spirits to help local families at a time that can be a financial hardship. Port Waratah employees have worked tirelessly over past years to raise more than $350,000 together with Port Waratah corporate support matching donations for the Toy Run and sponsoring fundraising campaigns and events such the Red Shield Appeal. 

Creating a safe and encouraging space for young people in need of support was a high priority for The Salvation Army’s Hamilton-based Oasis Youth Services. Through a partnership with Port Waratah in 2021, the rooms used to deliver group programmes and individual counselling rooms were refurbished to create culturally rich, therapeutic spaces. 

Robyn Bust, is the Programme Manager for Oasis Youth Services across the NSW Central Coast and Hunter Regions. 

“The change in these rooms in remarkable. Purpose-build areas provide enhanced supports and comfort for clients, including the yarning circle and the pamper zone. We are thankful that Port Waratah have shared our vision for this project and partnered with us to make a difference in the lives of young people in Newcastle,” Robyn said. 

“When we’ve got a young person that’s coming for an appointment, we don’t know what their morning has looked like or what the previous night has entailed for them. So having welcoming, engaging rooms helps to breaks down some of those barriers and make a connection. 

“The space is named Kaiyu Corner, after the Awabakal word meaning ‘power’. It provides young people with an engaging and culturally appropriate zone to receive counselling and do group work, specialising in early intervention for alcohol and other drugs.” 

In 2024, Port Waratah has supported the Brave Programme, a targeted approach to help young women aged 12 – 25 years old in the Newcastle region who have been experiencing drug and alcohol use, mental health, domestic violence and social and wellbeing challenges.  

The initiative provides a one-day events with an ongoing 8-week programme for participants.  Two programmes were delivered in 2024 supporting 90 young women in our community.  

Oasis Youth Services provide programmes and social services for young people aged 12-25 supporting them through drug and alcohol issues, building confidence and independence and helping them find their path to a bright future.