MWP Community Care to continue the 102-year legacy of Creative Leisure and Learning

For more than a century, Creative Leisure and Learning has been at the heart of community life on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. For 102 years, the organisation has created opportunities for people to connect, belong, learn and thrive through a wide range of social and recreational programs.

From the much-loved Lifeball and Cheers groups to Mudlarks, Artability, Heritage Walks and the Sunday Groups for people living with disability, Creative Leisure and Learning has built a remarkable legacy of inclusion, friendship and community spirit. Generations of local residents have found purpose, companionship, and joy through these programs, supported by an extraordinary network of dedicated volunteers.

That legacy grew through the vision and determination of Nan Bosler OAM, whose lifelong commitment to serving her community laid the foundations for an organisation that has positively impacted thousands of lives. Nan believed that no one should feel isolated or excluded and worked tirelessly to create opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to participate in community life. Her vision has endured for more than a century, making Creative Leisure and Learning one of the Northern Beaches’ longest standing and most respected community organisations.

That legacy now enters an exciting new chapter. MWP Community Care is honoured to announce that it will continue the operation of Creative Leisure and Learning’s community groups, ensuring these cherished programs remain available for current and future participants.

With more than 60 years of supporting older people, people living with disability and carers across the Northern Beaches, MWP Community Care shares the same values that have guided Creative Leisure and Learning for over a century. Both organisations have always believed that meaningful social connection has the power to improve wellbeing, build confidence and enrich lives.

“It is a privilege to continue the work that Creative Leisure and Learning has championed for generations,” says MWP Community Care Chief Operating Officer, Chloe Feris.

“Creative Leisure and Learning has built an extraordinary legacy over the past 102 years. These groups are so much more than activities – they are communities where friendships are formed, confidence is built, and people find purpose and belonging.”

“We are incredibly proud that MWP Community Care has been entrusted with continuing this legacy. Our two organisations share a deep commitment to social connection and to enriching the lives of older people and people living with disability. These programs exist because of the passion and generosity of an incredible group of volunteers who give their time to support community members who can too often become invisible or overlooked. Their compassion changes lives every single day, and we are honoured to continue supporting both the volunteers and participants into the future.”

As MWP Community Care welcomes participants, volunteers and supporters into its community, it also pays tribute to the remarkable leadership that has guided Creative Leisure and Learning in recent years.

“We extend our sincere thanks to Rosina Watson and Maureen Rutlidge for their dedication, leadership and unwavering commitment to the organisation and its participants,” says Chloe.

“Their stewardship has ensured Creative Leisure and Learning remained true to its mission while enriching countless lives across the Northern Beaches. Their contribution has left an enduring mark on our community, and we are grateful for the care, passion and commitment they have shown over many years.”