The Hammy: Live Music Space - July 18, 2014

The Salvos have hosted yet another spectacular event. On Friday July 18, guests and volunteers gathered at The Hammy to enjoy free snacks and great musical performances from talented artists.

The amazing Thando Sikwila!

Mexican Party - June 19, 2014

When Grace and Sonia told everyone they wanted to host a Mexican night, we weren't quite sure what to expect. But, when Thursday 19 June came round, we were all amazed and delighted by just how great the night was; all their hard work and preparation became clear!

Red Shield Appeal Thank You Dinner - June 17, 2014

Over two weekends at the end of May, volunteers from The Couch joined many others in the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal. Later, on June 17 at 6:00pm before The Couch opened, there was a thank you dinner and presentation up in The Temple.

Essendon Vs Melbourne Footy Match - June 15, 2014

"What a boring game," Leah sighed. It was half time, and her beloved Melbourne Demons team was on 21, half the score of the Essendon Bombers on their comfortable 42. "I have a headache," Leah continued, as her head sunk into her hands. Meanwhile, Leah's friend, and avid Essendon support, Hieu, was grinning like the Cheshire Cat. How did we get here?

Onesie Party for Responsible Gambling Awareness Week - June 11, 2014

Responsible Gambling Awareness Week run is May each year, and this year ran from May 26 to June 1. It was decided to hold an event at The Couch to talk about the issues and problems that irresponsible gambling can cause. One of The Couch volunteers, Mohan, had a very personal experience with the dangers of excessive gambling, and agreed to work with Sharon from The Salvation Army to tell his story. Unfortunately, we were unable to organise the presentation during the Responsible Gambling Awareness Week, but it was deemed important that this message still gets delivered, even if a little late.

500 Facebook Likes - June 4, 2014

When we reached 500 likes on Facebook, we knew we had to make a post to thank all our supporters. When I arrived at The Couch that day, several of the students there were playing with some newly donated goodies. I have no idea what these games were called, but they were quite similar to a tapestry. However, instead of threading you have to place little coloured pieces of plastic in the right place on the grid.

The Couch has been nominated for the CISA Most Active International Student Association Excellence Award. If you have Facebook, and want to support The Couch, please like this photo to vote for them! 

Essendon Football Club Visit – May 29, 2014

On 29 May, there was an exciting buzz at The Couch as representatives from the Essendon Football Club, one of the oldest AFL clubs, were coming to visit us. Upon arriving at The Couch, students were greeted with a very different sight compared to usual. On one side of the room all the tables had been moved to the edge, and on the other side were two handball competition boards. Throughout the whole night, students took turns practicing handballs and trying to outscore each other.

The idea behind these activities is to engage international students with all the excitement of the AFL culture – be it the game, the teams, the players or the interesting conversations one can have about the sport. It’s also about connecting people and empowering communities through sport – Gary Lee, AFL Community Ambassador 2014