News & Events

MEET THE TEAM BEHIND THE SCENES OF OUR SOCIAL OUTINGS

If you’ve ever joined a St George Community social outing, you’ve experienced the careful planning, attention to detail and passion that Brad McGrath and Harvey Tsui bring to their roles. From day trips and drives to lunch clubs and garden tours, this dynamic duo make it all happen.

BRAD MCGRATH – THE EXPLORER AT HEART

For Brad, planning social outings isn’t just part of the job – it’s what he prefers to be doing. A natural explorer, he’s constantly on the lookout for new places to take clients, from little-known local gems to scenic drives off the beaten track.

“Even on weekends, I’ll just jump on a train or take a drive somewhere I haven’t been,” Brad said. “I guess I’m always exploring!”

That love of adventure means our outings are (hopefully) never dull. Brad draws inspiration from local newsletters, client suggestions, word of mouth, and even Google Maps. He has been doing this for more than five years and built a huge internal database of past outings, he rotates crowd favourites and introduces fresh destinations to keep things interesting.

“A good outing usually includes a scenic drive – clients love going somewhere new. Accessibility, easy drop-off points, and smooth transport logistics are key.”

Brad McGrath, Service Delivery Officer – Social Outings

“When I book the venues, I check they’re accessible, and make sure they’re suitable for everyone,” said Brad. “It’s all about variety, safety and the wonderful help of our drivers and carers who make it all work.”

Brad started with St George Community in 2016, originally as a Driver. “My experience on the road has made it much easier to understand what works. I do miss driving sometimes!”

When he’s not organising outings, Brad enjoys spending time with his grandchildren, taking exploratory day trips with his wife and sleeping. “Many of our weekend adventures are inspired by the trips I have planned for our clients,” he said with a smile.

HARVEY TSUI – THE CONNECTOR & CREATIVE

Since joining in 2023, Harvey has brought warmth, organisation, and creative flair to the social outings program. He helps coordinate trips, manages risk assessments, updates our outing listings in the newsletter, and guides new clients through the onboarding process.

I spend a lot of time talking with clients – especially new ones,” Harvey explained. “Many people feel nervous before their first outing. Just knowing there’s a carer onboard and that someone’s there to guide them makes a big difference.”

Away from work, Harvey is an avid tennis player and often hits the court with one of our drivers. “Tennis is my weekend escape,” he said. “It keeps me moving!”

COORDINATED WITH CARE

All outings are supported by trained staff, including a carer on board to assist with group coordination, support, and ensuring everyone feels comfortable and included throughout the day.

Behind the scenes, Brad and Harvey coordinate logistics to ensure each outing is efficient and enjoyable. Routes are carefully planned to minimise travel time, and all venues are assessed for accessibility, parking, and suitability.

In the event of poor weather or unforeseen changes, the team adjusts the itinerary where possible to ensure clients still enjoy a fulfilling experience – for example, substituting a relaxed club lunch in place of an outdoor picnic.

“We aim to keep outings running whenever we can… Even if the destination shifts slightly, clients still get the opportunity to connect, explore and enjoy their day.”

Harvey Tsui, Social Outings Administrator

Long-standing volunteer, Ross Tzaneros is an integral part of the team and has been with St George Community for many years. Ross plays a critical role; as well as updating the social outings on the website, he also transfers all client bookings into our trip scheduling software. This ensures that each outing runs smoothly, with correct passenger lists, pickup times and bus assignments.

Ross’ contribution is so valued that one of our Toyota Commuter 14-seat buses has been affectionately named ‘Rosco’ in his honour – a small tribute to the big role he plays in keeping the social outings program running like clockwork. Thanks to Ross’ attention to detail and ongoing commitment, our clients and staff benefit from a seamless, well-organised experience every time.

POPULAR PICKS & MEMORABLE MOMENTS

From Bowral Tulip Festival and Christmas light tours to relaxing lunches at favourite venues, some outings are always in high demand. Others – like the now-legendary trip to Dangar Island – become memorable for their unexpected challenges!

“We nicknamed it Danger Island,” Harvey laughed. “The ferry ride logistics, the cobblestones, and café was woefully understaffed – but the clients loved it.”

“Our carers and drivers are the icing on the cake,” Brad added. “They handle the many curveballs that can occur on a trip and just make it part of the day. I always say, if they are having fun, then so are our clients.”

COME ALONG FOR THE RIDE

Whether you’re a regular or thinking about coming on your first outing, Brad and Harvey are here to help make it a great experience.

📞 Call 9585 3000 or visit the bookings page on our website to plan your next social outing with us.