Life With Supported Independent Living: Toni-Maree's Story at Mays Manor

What makes a good home?

To us, it’s somewhere you can be yourself.

Somewhere you can grow. Somewhere you feel safe.

Somewhere you’re supported to live your best life.

When Toni-Maree came to us in 2022, she was in need of a home, one where she had 24/7 assistance – from showering and feeding, to medication and every aspect of daily life.

This isn’t something we took lightly.

At Mays Manor, one of our Supported Independent Living (SIL) homes, Toni found the care she needed. And slowly, but surely, she began to thrive.

Two years on, the right environment and consistent, personalised care, have completely shifted Toni’s story. It’s been a journey of quiet determination, daily progress, and huge wins that mean the world.

New here? Let's talk Supported Independent Living (SIL).

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is an NDIS-funded support that helps people with disability live more independently in a shared home, with help from support staff where needed.

At Mays Manor in Bundaberg, Toni receives 24-hour full support, but that doesn’t mean she’s standing still.

In fact, she’s doing the opposite. She’s moving forward every single day.

From fully supported, to small, but powerful steps

When Toni first moved into her new SIL home, she couldn’t sit up at all. She struggled with fluid intake, was unable to communicate her preferences, and needed help with every movement.

But with the ongoing support of our team, Toni is now able to:

• Sit unsupported on her bed for up to 10 minutes at a time (a massive achievement)

• Drink over 2L of fluid per day (up from 800ml when she first arrived)

• Use eye gaze tools to communicate (working closely with staff on expression and choice)

• Relax and open her hands (something that only happens when she’s truly comfortable)

These might sound like small things – but to Toni, and to those who love and care for her, they’re everything.

Footy, the beach, and family visits

Toni isn’t just making progress, she’s enjoying life too.

Because to us, support isn’t just about routines and care tasks. It’s about joy, choice, and helping people live their best life – not just move through the day.

She’s a massive Broncos supporter (go the Broncs!) and loves watching the footy. A trip to the beach is always a good day, and our team makes sure her favourite activities stay a part of her weekly rhythm.

Another highlight? Her brother Athol, who visits her every single day. His presence is a big part of Toni’s world, and her happiness.

Connection, belonging, and having the right people around you is SO important for independence.

What makes a good SIL home?

For Toni, the difference wasn’t just support… it was the right kind of support.

At our SIL homes across the Sunshine Coast, Bundaberg, and Childers, we focus on:

• Consistency and routine

• Matching each person’s needs and preferences

• Supporting health goals, therapy, and mobility

• Celebrating the wins – big and small

• Encouraging community, fun, and confidence\

Every person’s version of independence looks a little different. That’s why our homes aren’t one-size-fits-all. They’re built around you.

Thinking about SIL for yourself or a loved one?

If you’re reading this and thinking, “That’s exactly the kind of support I’ve been looking for,” – you’re not alone. The right SIL home makes all the difference. Especially when you’re ready for more freedom, structure, or connection (or all three).

We currently have availability in our SIL homes across the Sunshine Coast, Bundaberg and Childers.

If you or someone you support is ready to take that next step, let’s chat.

📲 Call us on 1300 4377 669

📍 Or learn more about our SIL homes here