Odyssey Victoria

12/09/2026

Thought for a Sunday...

11/09/2026

Talk about an unexpected arrival! 🎈

Last week at our Lower Plenty Residential Rehabilitation program, staff and residents were treated to a surprising sight when a hot air balloon made an unscheduled landing in the front paddock near our driveway.

The balloon had drifted off course and missed its intended landing site, creating quite a spectacle for everyone on site, including the balloon's passengers! To make the moment even more memorable, the balloon floated low overhead, passing right above a staff member's car as they arrived for work.

Thankfully, everyone was safe, and what could have been a stressful situation turned into a fascinating and unforgettable experience for all involved. It's not every day that a hot air balloon lands on your doorstep! 😊

04/09/2026

Our Buladu-Ngarrgu (Grow Knowledge) program at our Lower Plenty Resi Rehab brought residents and children together for a meaningful time of connection, reflection, and learning.

The group gathered to check-in, cleanse, and connect with one another, creating a safe and welcoming space for everyone to share and be present. As they sat together, they were treated to a special visit from four Gurrng Gurrng (Woi-wurrung word for Kookaburra), whose laughter echoed through the trees above.

The children watched in awe as the Gurrng Gurrng laughed and cackled while flying between the branches of the nearby habitat tree. The habitat tree is home to a variety of birds and animals, providing a wonderful opportunity for the children to observe and appreciate the wildlife that shares our environment.

Moments like these remind us of the importance of slowing down, connecting with Country, and learning from the world around us. Through Buladu-Ngarrgu, our staff and residents continue to strengthen relationships, grow knowledge, and foster a deeper connection to community, culture, and nature. 🌿🖤💛❤️

03/09/2026

Australia's Annual Overdose Report, released by the Penington Institute, documented 2,596 drug-induced deaths in 2024, with 80.5 per cent being from unintentional overdose.

Since 2008, more Australians have died from drug-induced deaths than road fatalities — with an average of 31 years lost per death.

"The data is quite confronting," Jake Dizard, director of research at the Penington Institute, told SBS News.

One cohort accounted for almost half of these unintentional deaths, according to a new report.

31/08/2026

A Victorian coroner has recommended the state's second supervised injecting centre could be set up in Geelong to address a spike in he**in-related deaths.

He said he**in overdose deaths in Geelong far eclipse any other regional area.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-08-27/geelong-overdose-deaths-rise-prompting-calls-for-a-supervised-in/107084630

A Victorian coroner says an injecting room in Geelong could have provided care for a woman who died of a drug overdose in the city last year.

30/08/2026

Today is International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD). This was first observed in Melbourne in 2001 and is now observed in around 40 countries around the world. It is observed annually on 31st August.
The 2026 theme is "25 Years On. Still Needed". At Odyssey Victoria are believe in the strength of coming together and standing in support of those connected to the tragedy of overdose because while this day is still needed, it doesn’t have to be forever.
Odyssey Victoria remembers those who have been lost to overdose and recognises the loved ones who have been left behind. We continue to work on reducing the stigma of drug-related deaths. Overdose can affect anyone.

28/08/2026

This week is Book Week. The children's Centre at our Lower Plenty Resi' Rehab has been running a "Name the Character" competition for all the residents and staff. The book characters pictured have been photographed with each of the children and are on display for the residents and staff to see and complete their entry. Perhaps our followers would like to play along at home just for fun?! Note we are asking for the name of the character, not the book they are from. We look forward to hearing your answers.

27/08/2026

Today is Wear it Purple Day!

A day to celebrate and support young LGBTIQA+ people by fostering environments that are safe, inclusive, empowering, and full of pride.
Purple represents spirit on the Pride flag and is a powerful symbol of unity- bringing together people from all walks of life to stand up for equality and acceptance.

The statistics are confronting:

75% of LGBTIQA+ young people experience bullying due to their identity
Up to 81% of LGBTIQA+ youth experience high psychological distress
Over 70% of trans and gender diverse young people face mental ill health

These numbers highlight the urgent need for visibility, allyship, and action.

This year’s theme, “Colours of Courage”, celebrates the many different forms of courage shown by LGBTIQA+ young people, allies and communities. Courage can look like speaking up, standing up and creating change. It can also be quieter forms of bravery like living authentically, coming out, asking for support or standing beside someone, or choosing pride and hope in spaces where being yourself does not always feel easy.

When young people feel safe and supported to be themselves, their futures become brighter, healthier, and filled with hope.

Let’s wear purple with pride today—to show that we care, we listen, and we stand together.