Our Story

Central Coast Arafmi (pronounced ah-raf-me) started as a social space in Kincumber especially for people impacted by mental ill health. Created by families and loved ones, this was the first space on the Central Coast exclusively dedicated to whole families impacted by mental health issues.

In 1994 we launched the Yakkalla pilot program in Bateau Bay.

Today, Yakkalla continues, along with The Trust—Beyond the Stigma in Narara, providing social and recreational activities for people impacted by mental health issues and trauma, along side Arafmi's Family and Carer support program.

In addition to these programs, as part of our University and TAFE partnerships, we also provide the Central Coast community with reciprocal learning environments.

We welcome NDIS and non-NDIS participants to our programs, so that anyone who is impacted by mental ill health can access support.

Lerida House

Lerida House, at 21 Bellbowrie Ave Narara, is a heritage-listed estate, with:

• Central Coast Arafmi offices and meeting rooms
• Community hire spaces
• The Trust—Beyond the Stigma program (café/ creative spaces/ handy person room/ pottery room with kiln)
• Respite accommodation
• Leafy gardens (maintained by our wonderful team of volunteers)

We welcome you to visit us and take a stroll around the gardens or learn more about how we support individuals and families impacted by mental health issues.

Yakkalla Cottage

Yakkalla Cottage at 6 Community Road Bateau Bay, is home to Yakkalla social and recreational program.

Yakkalla Cottage is available as a community meeting space.