Our Story
Our Evolution: From Gaming Space to Connection Hub
ESports Collective opened its doors with a simple goal: to provide a much-needed entertainment space in Bairnsdale. When we expanded into D&D we noticed something that would reshape our entire approach.
People who struggled to find their place elsewhere were discovering genuine belonging through our structured group programs. The routine, familiar faces, and shared passion created deeper connections than casual drop-in ever could.
That insight reshaped everything. We couldn't do both effectively, so we chose to focus on what creates real impact: consistent groups where people connect through shared interests, build skills, and belong on their terms.
From that decision, The Social Space was born - bringing together three businesses united by one mission.
Three Business, One Mission
Our Three Connected Businesses
What started as a gaming venue has grown into something bigger. Three distinct businesses now operate within The Social Space, each bringing unique value while sharing a common commitment to interest-led engagement and genuine inclusion.
The Social Space
The heart of our community. Engagement happens here through interest-based programs - gaming, karaoke, D&D, Lego, crafting, and whatever comes next. This is where young people find their reason to show up, build skills, and discover what they're capable of. We also welcome values-aligned businesses to join our mission and expand what's possible.
ESports Collective
The original vision that started it all. Structured gaming programs with Peer Support to give young people consistent opportunities to level up their skills and engage with what they love. Weekly group sessions, drop-in gaming (3-6pm daily), tournaments, birthday parties, and community events. Gaming as the motivation, growth as the outcome.
Gippsland Care Collective
Support that meets people where they are. Daily living assistance and community access to help people participate in programs and build independence through what they actually want to do. Allied health services delivered at The Social Space and throughout the community. Capacity-building through real engagement—participants can transition from supported to independent participation as they're ready.
Our Vision
A Place Where Everyone Belongs
When you walk through our doors, you're entering a space designed for genuine connection - built on three core principles:
Belong Through Interests: We create spaces around gaming, D&D, Lego, karaoke, and crafting. When interests are the entry point, connection happens naturally - no forced icebreakers required.
Belong Without Judgement: We create safe spaces where neurodivergent and neurotypical young people engage together. No masking required, no social scripts—just genuine acceptance of however you show up.
Belong On Your Terms: We design programs where solo engagement and group participation are both valued. You choose how you show up, and we support whatever that looks like.
This is a place where differences are celebrated, where everyone has something valuable to contribute, and where showing up as yourself is not just accepted—it's encouraged.
Connection Through Interests
Why Interest-Based Activities Work
Shared interests bring people together and build confidence. It's why sports clubs work so well. We use the same principle - just for interests like gaming, D&D, and crafting that don't have a club to call home.
When people show up for something they're genuinely interested in, everything else falls into place naturally:
Shared interests create natural entry points for trying new experiences
Passion-led engagement means showing up feels worth it, not forced
Skill development builds confidence and competence over time
When people engage with what they love - gaming, D&D, crafting—they're building confidence and skills. The interest is the motivation, not the outcome.
Creating Spaces Where Young People Thrive
We help young people build skills and confidence through what they actually care about. Through gaming, creativity, and interest-led programs, we provide a place to belong—on your terms.
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