Volunteer Voice

A Cancer Council Publication

INSIDE

ACHIEVEMENTS of our dedicated volunteers

VOLUNTEERS using their skills and expertise

OPPORTUNITIES for volunteer involvement

UPDATE

from the Nutrition Unit

Volunteer Voice A newsletter for volunteers

www.cancercouncil.com.au

Prestigious award for teen volunteer Photo courtesy of The Centre for Volunteering.

with cancer in 2003. “My aunty has sadly passed away. Her twin sister had breast cancer and she is now a survivor,” he said.

Award winner Hayden Zammit (left) with the Hon. Graham West mp (right).

His first effort was to host an Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea on his family’s front lawn in May 2004. The cordial and jam-and-butter-on-bread event raised $550.

Since then, Hayden has also embraced Daffodil Day and Pink Ribbon Day. In 2006, he raised $1,000 in donations from residents viewing his family’s Christmas light display.

Cancer Council NSW volunteer Hayden Zammit is not only an outstanding teen with a heart of gold. He is also the 2009 NSW Youth Volunteer of the Year.

As one of the founding committee members of the Broken Hill Relay For Life, he also plays an important part in this event, which has raised $160,000 in its two years of operation.

The 15-year-old received this prestigious award at Parliament House on 4 December 2009 from the then NSW Minister for Volunteering, Graham West.

It was one of several titles conferred by The Centre for Volunteering in recognition of the invaluable work done by the 1.7 million volunteers in NSW.

Hayden has been fundraising for cancer charities since his aunty was diagnosed with cancer in 2003.

Hayden had already been named as 2009 Orana/Far West Volunteer of the Year for his fundraising efforts in his home town of Broken Hill.

Hayden has been fundraising for cancer charities since his aunty was diagnosed

“I’d just like to thank the people who have supported me, especially the generous and caring people in the Broken Hill community, who made my efforts worthwhile,” said Hayden, upon receiving the award.

Autumn 2010

Speaking your language Cancer is an experience that can affect everyone, not just people who speak English.

Several multilingual Cancer Council NSW volunteers came together last November to critically analyse the current Community Speakers Program (in which volunteers present educational sessions about prevention and early detection of cancer) and assess its application to Culturally And Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities in Australia.

Community Development Manager, Cory Steinhauer, said that the Multilingual Community Speakers Program, which has been in development for the past year, aims to foster “understanding and trust” with Australian Continued on page 2

Editor: Deirdre Mowat Contributing volunteers: David Blight, Patrick Cranney and Ric Purcell.

Please send feedback, contributions and requests for email delivery of the newsletter to: volunteer voicesubmissions@ cancercouncil.com.au by 9 April 2010.

Volunteer Voice | Autumn 2010

Update

from the Volunteer Program Manager, Donna Purcell

Welcome to volunteering at Cancer Council NSW for 2010!

It is always exciting at the beginning of a new year, with fresh projects and plans plus a renewed level of energy and motivation after the holidays.

It is an inspiring way to start the year in knowing that so many of our volunteers are doing such great things and being recognised through community events and awards.

I encourage you to read the articles in this issue about

Hayden Zammit and Rod Coy, two of our volunteers who won awards at the end of last year.

To every single one of our volunteers, thank you for the ongoing effort and support you so generously give to Cancer Council. I am continually inspired and motivated by the amazing work you do.

Photo by John Veage, courtesy of St George and Sutherland Shire Leader.

From page 1: Speaking your language

CALD communities, by providing culturally sensitive health education.

“Many migrants in Australia can speak English, but when it comes to complex issues such as health, it is better to receive information in your primary language. Cancer Council is training multilingual community speakers for this purpose,” he said.

He added that the focus group demonstrated the need to develop specific tactics for each individual community, and that volunteers were already wholeheartedly tackling the challenge.

One such volunteer is Dr Zizi Shenouda, who has been involved in the program for a year and gives presentations in both Arabic and English. “It is a very rewarding program, because I am providing education and information to people who might have difficulty accessing it otherwise,” she said. “Also, I have a family history of cancer, and by being with people and talking with them, I feel I am helping to defeat the disease that took my uncle and aunty from me.”

Interested volunteers can email Romi Scodellaro at romis@ nswcc.org.au or contact their regional office.

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Relay volunteer honoured Tireless volunteer Rod Coy has received a distinguished award for his outstanding leadership in community service as Chair of the Sutherland Shire Relay For Life.

“Ordinary people participating in Relay events there helped fund these advances in cancer treatments, and I wanted to make my own contribution here,” Rod said.

On 5 December 2009, he was presented with the Cook Community Medal by Federal MP Scott Morrison. This was the highest accolade of the 37 Cook Community Awards conferred upon dedicated volunteers in the Sutherland region.

Under his leadership, Sutherland Shire’s Relay has become the most successful one in NSW, attracting more than 6,000 participants every year and evolving into a prominent event on the community’s calendar.

Rod hopes that this year’s Relay on 1-2 May will raise more than $500,000.

Rod (pictured above with his award) has headed the Relay committee for the past six years. His involvement in the event began after his prostate cancer was successfully treated using the latest medical techniques developed in America, where Relay For Life contributes a huge amount of money to cancer research.

Inspired by the saying “Quantum potes tantum aude” (“As much as you can do, so much dare to do”), Rod finds his volunteer work immensely satisfying, and was honoured to receive this award.

Volunteer Voice | Autumn 2010

Trio offers expert help On any given day of the year, you may find a doctor, a lawyer, a chemical engineer, an accountant or numerous other professionals who are volunteering their expertise at Cancer Council NSW. Their work not only saves us thousands of dollars in consultants’ fees but also helps us improve the way we work.

Such is the case with retired business executive Merlyne Thompson, who volunteers in the Statewide Services Division.

This division comprises 10 offices spanning regional NSW, where local strategies are developed, directions decided, programs delivered and people supported.

“Last year, as part of our strategic development, we needed to see how effective we were in engaging local communities,” said Statewide Services Development Manager, Larry Musolino. “With her extensive knowledge and experience, Merlyne demonstrated an amazing ability to translate our activities into clear and simple scorecards.”

As part of the project, a database was needed. However, our Information Systems staff were

Merlyne Thompson.

Denis Mock and Caroline Deng.

already overcommitted and could not schedule it until six months on.

absolutely brilliant,” Larry said.

“It demonstrates that volunteers can contribute significantly in more developmental and strategic roles, and are integral in our work to defeat cancer.”

So volunteers Denis Mock, an experienced, semi-retired software developer, and Caroline Deng, a computer database developer, teamed up and built the database according to schedule and expectations at no cost.

“The initial feedback about the work of these volunteers has been

If you have professional skills to offer, contact Volunteer Program Manager, Donna Purcell, at donnap@ccnsw. org.au or (02) 9334 1724.

Nutrition news The cost of healthy food Thank you to all volunteers who completed our food basket surveys in December 2008 and July 2009, enabling us to collect information on the cost of 44 common grocery items and the availability of fresh fruit and vegetables in 150 locations in NSW. We have found a huge variation in the cost of the same basket of food items across the state: a difference of $148 between the cheapest and most expensive stores, which could add up to large costs in some areas and create a barrier to a nutritious diet.

Fresh fruit and vegetables were less available in rural compared to

metropolitan areas. Of further concern, we found that over time there have been greater cost increases in the healthy food components of the food basket compared to the more unhealthy ones. We believe there needs to be government monitoring of the costs of healthy food in NSW.

the next step in our campaign.

Food Marketing Complaints Registry

You can help us by advising us of any examples that could be the basis for a complaint, and by lending your support to formal complaints lodged through the registry.

Cancer Council NSW has also been at the forefront of advocacy efforts to reduce children’s exposure to food marketing. Our Nutrition Unit will be establishing a Food Marketing Complaints Registry in 2010 as

This registry will make it easier for parents and consumers to make complaints about objectionable examples of food marketing to children. We plan to identify instances of marketing campaigns and tactics not adequately covered by existing industry standards or codes.

Contact Kathy Chapman at kathyc@nswcc.org.au for further information. page 3

Volunteer Voice | Autumn 2010

Update

Book review

from the CEO, Dr Andrew Penman

Welcome back to Cancer Council NSW for this new decade in our work to defeat cancer. We are very pleased to have you with us.

Cancer remains the leading cause of premature death in the developed world and in one single year – 2009 – there were more than 39,000 people diagnosed with cancer in NSW. Cancer is an experience lived in every family and community, and preventing cancer is a challenge shared by every person. Seeing the time and energy you invest with us as a volunteer, I know you have taken up that challenge.

Many organisations talk about the need to “attract good people”,

and Cancer Council is no different.

When reading this edition of Volunteer Voice, you’ll see just how many inspiring people we have working with us, including those who have been recognised for their work by community awards.

It takes all types of people to defeat cancer, and so many varied roles and responsibilities. We have some famous people and some awardwinning people – and we also have the valued quiet achievers who come back week after week, year after year, because they believe in what we do.

We have a clear vision of what needs to happen to defeat cancer, and this will be realised when lives will not be cut short by cancer nor their quality of life diminished. With volunteers such as you working with our organisation, I know we can achieve our vision. Thank you for your commitment.

Cooking with Baz

by Sean Dooley

Sean’s father, Baz, is an Australian larrikin, his life dominated by drinking, horseracing and his mates – with his wife and children often a low priority.

The book traces the family’s bewilderment when Sean’s mother is diagnosed with cancer, and how this changes their lives as Baz becomes his wife’s carer. When Baz himself develops cancer, father and son gradually achieve an emotional closeness. Despite its sombre themes, this memoir contains many amusing anecdotes of family life and is an entertaining read.

Guest speakers needed Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea (ABMT) is one of Cancer Council’s leading fundraisers and is the largest, most successful event of its kind in Australia. We receive many requests for guest speakers to attend these functions, and need dedicated volunteers to fulfil this important role.

Guest speakers talk about the great work Cancer Council NSW is doing and thank everyone at the event for their support – because ABMT is about more than having a cuppa and a chat: those who attend are actually helping to save lives by their donations.

Feedback from guest speakers is always very positive, given the buzz they get from meeting and speaking with our supporters at these events. No public speaking experience is necessary and all training will be provided.

If you are in the Metropolitan or Greater Western Sydney areas and could help us during May or June, contact the Metro Events Unit at info.metro@nswcc.org.au or (02) 9334 1900. page 4

Volunteer Voice | Autumn 2010

Central and Southern Sydney Local News

Slip! Slop! Slap! at surf event Volunteers from the Sutherland Shire Cancer Network – which promotes cancer awareness and prevention in the area – encouraged residents to protect their skin from the sun at the Cook Community Classic last November.

This event is held annually in Cronulla and features local surf clubs competing in a range of activities, with money raised being donated to local community organisations.

“Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, and two in three

people who grew up in Australia will develop some sort of skin cancer before the age of 70,” said Alison Todd, Sutherland Shire Cancer Network member and long-time Cancer Council NSW volunteer. “The good news is that skin cancer is almost totally preventable and most skin cancers can be cured if found and treated early.”

Volunteers Robyn Brand and Polly Price supported their local Cancer Network by operating a stall at the event, selling sunscreen and providing information to the public.

Back row (L-R): Polly Price, Lita Sarlas and Alison Todd.

Front row (L-R): Robyn Brand and Margaret Skagias.

Meet Claire Baggott Claire Baggott came to Australia from England in 2008. During a six-month career break, she decided to do some volunteer work to contribute her professional skills in business, human resources and project management to an organisation that makes a difference to society – and chose Cancer Council NSW. Claire (pictured right) works as the Office Coordinator and Community Speakers Coordinator for our region.

She assists with developing the Community Speakers Program, focusing on a recruitment strategy and liaising with the speakers. She is also working on a marketing strategy to ensure that Cancer Council is targeting the right corporate and community groups to host the speakers.

“Sutherland Shire is blessed with beautiful beaches and a great outdoor culture. We

hit the beach at the Cook Classic to remind everyone to protect their skin by slipping on a shirt, slopping on some sunscreen and slapping on a hat while enjoying a great day out,” said Margaret Skagias, Community Network Coordinator.

Sun safety mascot, Sid the Seagull (pictured above), was also there, reinforcing the cancer-smart Slip!

Slap! Slop! message to children at the event.

Volunteer enquiries: Margaret Skagias at margarets@nswcc.org.au or (02) 9334 1711.

“There is a real appreciation for one’s contribution at Cancer Council,” Claire said. “Everyone has made me feel very welcome.”

Claire has thoroughly enjoyed her time in Australia, but is looking forward to her return to England in May this year. An avid photographer, she plans to set up her own photography business there. And after her positive experience at Cancer Council, she hopes to find a similar volunteer role in England.

“There is a real appreciation for one’s contribution at Cancer Council.”

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Volunteer Voice | Autumn 2010

Far North Coast Local News

Local office ready to review and rebuild supported during this review, and through the structure that will be developed for the future.

Following the restructure, the team working from the office now consists of: • Sandra Rowan – Lead Office Coordinator • Fiona Murray – Regional Programs Coordinator, Supportive Care (across the entire region) • Rory Janssens – Project Coordinator for Ballina Shire, Byron Shire and Clarence Valley Council areas • Debbie Smith – Project Coordinator for Tweed Shire, Richmond Valley, Kyogle and Lismore City Council areas.

Left to right: Rory Janssens, Debbie Smith, Fiona Murray and Sandra Rowan.

Cancer Council NSW has restructured our Far North Coast office, based in Alstonville, and will be rebuilding in line with community need and commitment.

Rory and Debbie will work closely with the communities in their areas across all aspects of Cancer Council work, rather than dividing work by event or activity as previously occurred. This change is in line with Cancer Council’s commitment to engage closely with local communities.

The decision was in response to community feedback and Cancer Council will work closely with the community to engage them in the new strategy for the region.

The review process will include working closely with the local Regional Advisory Committee and the community in the Far North Coast to determine the best structure and strategy for the future in this region. Recommendations from the review are expected by July 2010.

We remain committed to the people of the Far North Coast and will ensure that the community continues to be well

Staff members current and past thank you for your support and commitment.

Sun shines on Ballina Relay Ballina’s Relay took place on 7-8 November 2009. With torrential rain falling in the days leading up to that weekend, there was every chance that the event could by marred by very wet weather.

The next Ballina Relay is scheduled for 6-7 November 2010, and we hope to make it even better than last year’s one! Relay is for young and old and you can walk as many or few laps as you like. It is not a race

and you don’t need to run – you just need to care about cancer.

Scene from the ceremony for survivors and carers.

Alan Brown cuts the ribbon at Ballina’s 2009 Relay.

So why not join in at this or one of our other regional Relay events? Visit www.relay.cancercouncil.com.au to find out more information.

However, when Saturday came, the clouds parted and the 638 participants were able to walk around Kingsford Smith Park with ease.

The dedicated Relay committee worked extremely hard to produce a most successful community event, and the impressive sum of $63,000 was raised, which will contribute vital funds to continue cancer research, prevention and support in NSW. page 6

Volunteer Voice | Autumn 2010

Greater Western Sydney Local News

Big shave for a worthy cause Photo by Melvyn Knipe, courtesy of Penrith Press.

Wallacia resident Peter Davies was rather attached to his long hair, 28-year-old beard and 34-year-old moustache.

However, he shaved the whole lot off on 16 January 2010 as a fundraiser for Cancer Council NSW. His gesture came as his close friend of 25 years, Andy Hart, recovered from an operation for oesophageal cancer.

Supported by the Penrith Press newspaper, the Wallacia Hotel, local businesses, family, and friends from near and far, Peter raised over $6,000. On the day, Andy was also inspired to shave off his 32-year-old beard, whilst another friend, Dave Boland, from Mt Isa, had his head shaved.

Crystal, Peter’s proud seven-year-old daughter, had never seen her father look like this. Peter’s only concern is that he now doesn’t match up to his personalised number plate, “BEAR”!

The efforts of four dedicated volunteers in our region were recognised on Australia Day.

Chair of Hills Relay For Life 2010

What does your role mean to you?

When I covered the Hills Relay for the Hills Shire Times, I was asked to join the committee. So I did, and have never regretted it. My husband, David, set up our Team Jordan for Relay two years ago.

He passed away in April last year, so this role is an important part of doing something positive in our journey.

Team Jordan (L-R): son Matt, Bev, Mary Cline (Bev’s mother) and daughter Hannah.

Photo courtesy of Hills Shire Times.

What are your interests/passions?

I love good food and wine (in moderation), theatre, films, books – and my family.

A favourite quote?

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

Above right: Peter Davies (back); front row (left to right): Andy Hart, Luke O’Conner and Dave Boland after the shave.

Australia Day honours

Volunteer Profile Bev Jordan

Above left: Peter and Crystal Davies before the shave.

• Bob Smith, a tireless volunteer and fundraiser who serves on the Blacktown Relay For Life Committee and is dedicated to making his local community a better place, was proclaimed Blacktown City’s Citizen of the Year.

• Bankstown City named Trent Engisch, Chair of the Bankstown Relay For Life, as its Citizen of the Year, for his commitment to the community, whilst Elaine Crocket was joint winner of its Community Services Award for an Individual. Elaine’s extensive volunteer involvement includes Daffodil Day, Relay For Life and cancer patient support services.

• Marlene Nasr, a volunteer with our Parramatta office until she became an employee at our Penrith office earlier this year, is Parramatta City’s Citizen of the Year. During the past three years, Marlene has raised more than $53,000 for Cancer Council NSW. “Cancer Council NSW is privileged to have so many spirited volunteers in our region. On behalf of all our researchers, cancer patients and those touched by cancer, we salute your efforts,” said Regional Manager, Gunjan Tripathi. page 7

Volunteer Voice | Autumn 2010

Hunter Local News

Relay Steady Cook! two seasonal vegetables, a fruit and a protein food, with 45 minutes to create a main meal and a dessert.

The chefs prepared simple meals that parents could recreate at home, using an abundance of seasonal vegetables and fruit.

The 150 Relay participants remained totally engaged for the hour-long event. They voted Ben Sales the winner, for his effort of incorporating 10 different vegetables into one meal! Each attendee took home a grab bag containing the Eat It To Beat It recipe book plus fruit and vegetable fact sheets.

Cancer Council’s Eat It To Beat It team, in collaboration with Relay Mission Coordinator, Robyn McDermott, presented a “cooking duel” between celebrity chef Janelle Bloom and local chef Ben Sales (pictured above) late last year.

There was much positive feedback about the cook-off, and we hope to deliver it again at future Relay events.

The contest took place at Newcastle’s Relay For Life and was sponsored by Newcastle Kitchen & Cutlery. The aim was to show families new and unique ways to prepare, cook and serve budgetfriendly vegetables and fruit.

As in the Ready Steady Cook television show, the two chefs were given a “mystery box” containing

Crowd votes for the winner.

New cancer support groups Two new cancer support groups have been established in our region: • The Myeloma Support Group meets on the first Monday of every month from 3pm to 5pm. Facilitated by myeloma survivor Dr John Miller, the group provides peer support for survivors and carers.

• The first meeting of the Melanoma Support Group was held in February. Depending on the level of interest, this group will meet at 3pm on the fourth Thursday of each month. Local melanoma survivor Graham Hamilton will co-facilitate the group with his wife and carer.

The groups meet at our Broadmeadow office. Contact Shayne Connell on (02) 4923 0703 for more information.

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Young Citizen of the Year Congratulations to Louise Mackay, who was presented with the 2010 Newcastle Young Citizen of the Year Award at a civic ceremony on Australia Day, for her efforts in fundraising, advocating, and supporting cancer patients in the Hunter Region.

A student at Newcastle University, 23-year-old Louise (pictured below, left, with her mother, Deborah Lawson) began organising fashion parade events to raise money for the Calvary Mater Newcastle Hospital Haematology Unit, where she had received treatment in isolation wards for leukaemia.

She wanted to enable the hospital to put laptops and internet connections in the isolation rooms.

Louise is a Newcastle Relay committee member and was the “Face of Relay” in 2008.

She also founded Newcastle Fashion Week in 2009, to showcase local designers and retailers while raising funds for Cancer Council NSW.

Volunteer Voice | Autumn 2010

Mid North Coast Local News

Relay inspires roadworthy fundraiser When Steve Hutchinson attended Kempsey’s Relay For Life in October 2009, he was so inspired by the community spirit and the fantastic response to the various fundraising projects, he vowed to make a difference.

Steve is the service manager at the Coffs Harbour division of truck sales company Brown and Hurley. He approached his employer with an idea of purchasing an old trailer, which he could make roadworthy and sell at a profit.

“My plan was to ask my suppliers to donate the parts we need, and ask Brown and Hurley to let the boys work on it for free,” Steve said.

He found that Brown and Hurley, “the Big Truck People”, also had a big heart and were delighted to support him.

Steve hopes to make a profit of $20,000 from the sale of the trailer. This will go towards the fundraising effort of the team that Steve is organising from Brown and Hurley for Coffs Harbour’s Relay For Life on 29-30 May this year.

Good on you, Steve – keep on truckin’!

Steve Hutchinson and Fiona Foulkes with the rig.

Patty Delaney: 15 years of service Grafton Shopping World as the first smoke-free regional shopping centre, and bringing about changes in midwifery practice to stop sun exposure as a treatment for jaundiced babies.

A small, windowless room at the rear of Cancer Council’s Coffs Harbour shop became the Mid North Coast’s first regional office in November 1994, when Patty Delaney was appointed Community Development Officer.

Patty (pictured above, left, with volunteer Janelle Bray) promptly set about recruiting willing volunteers to run events such as Daffodil Day and Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, and to help her to implement a number of projects and programs in the region.

Patty is now Regional Manager, and her achievements include establishing

In 1999, Patty presented the Mid North Coast SunSmart Childcare Project to the Second World Conference for Cancer Organisations in Atlanta, USA. While there, she attended a Relay For Life event in Tacoma, Washington State.

Patty was subsequently instrumental in encouraging Cancer Council to run Relay For Life in NSW. Since 2000, with the support of dedicated volunteers who organise and participate in Relay events in the state, more than $25 million has been raised.

Patty’s 15 years of service, and the ongoing support of her team of volunteers, have significantly enhanced the profile of Cancer Council NSW in the region.

Hastings Cancer Network update The Hastings Cancer Network is off and running with some great plans for 2010, including a Cancer Services Directory for the Hastings Valley, which will assist people locate cancer-related services in their region.

The Cancer Network is also doing research into what services are available for in-home support and how these might be improved.

If you would like further information or are interested in being involved with the Cancer Network, please phone Vanessa Crossley on (02) 6659 8404.

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Volunteer Voice | Autumn 2010

Volunteer Profile

Northern Sydney and Central Coast Local News

Keeping Aussies SunSmart Kimberley Jacobson Kimberley is a Communications student who, as part of her course, volunteered with Cancer Council NSW as the Community Speakers Marketing Assistant.

What have you enjoyed about volunteering at Cancer Council?

Getting to know more about how Cancer Council operates and what goes on behind the scenes. Also witnessing at first hand the great work it does for the community through events and programs such as Community Speakers. It was also great to meet the other volunteers who work so hard to try to make a difference in other people’s lives.

The Gosford Community Cancer Network (GCCN) took an opportunity to keep locals SunSmart on Australia Day. Network members set up stall at the Gosford waterfront celebrations and gave out SunSmart brochures, promoted the Be Sun Sound message, and ensured everyone was lathering up with sunscreen.

“The day was extremely hot and we provided over a litre of sunscreen in just over two hours. So many people were coming to our stall!” said Sandra Shorrock, Community Network Coordinator.

A dressing-up competition was also held, to raise funds and awareness for Cancer Council NSW. Local community members were invited to come along in their best

“Aussie clobber”, with entry fees donated to Cancer Council. Judged

by Sandra and community member Chris King, prizes were awarded for the best junior, best individual, best family and the most creative entry.

“It was a very exciting day and great way to meet and be part of the local community,” Sandra said. The Community Network has decided to make this an annual event and needs more members to help. No particular experience is required – just a willingness to participate and a passion to work with your community.

Interested volunteers can contact Sandra Shorrock on (02) 4336 4500.

What has surprised you most about working with Cancer Council?

The sheer number of volunteers who are here giving their time every week!

A favourite quote?

“Joie de vivre: joy in life or carefree enjoyment of life.”

Ukulele launch for Relay The launch of the Northern Harbour Relay For Life 2010 was held last November at the Mosman Art Gallery. The night was a resounding success, with entertainment, refreshments, prizes, raffles and a fantastic show

page 10

by the Ukulele Orchestra. The Relay committee raised $2,000 and created much interest about the event in the community.

Visit www.relay.cancercouncil. com.au and select Northern

Harbour 2010, or join the Northern Harbour Relay For Life Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ group.php?gid=92100356722 to find out more about this Relay, which will take place on 27-28 March 2010.

Volunteer Voice | Autumn 2010

North West Local News

‘Fab Four’ from Inverell

Celebrating

our achievements

Jean Bell, Val McKenzie, Penny Abbington and Gayle Moore have all cared for someone at the end of their life and they know what it takes to look after a person with a terminal illness at home.

Last year they trained as HOME Hospice Community Mentors and are now ready to use their experience and skills to help caregivers in the same situation.

The annual Christmas party for volunteers and supporters, held last November, celebrated what we had achieved together during the year.

They will join Angela Stones from Bingara, who was instrumental in bringing the Community Mentoring Program to the region. HOME Hospice is funded by Cancer Council NSW and is free for caregivers.

With the theme Together we will defeat cancer, the event was also the perfect opportunity to showcase Cancer Council’s information, support and research programs.

The mentors provide encouragement and support to caregivers, and help them gather a network of supporters to do many of the day-to-day tasks that can become overwhelming.

Left to right: Jean Bell, Val McKenzie, Penny Abbington and Gayle Moore.

A huge thank you goes to Margaret Chamen, who stepped in at short notice to give a talk on clinical trials and the Cancer, Lifestyle and Evaluation of Risk (CLEAR) Study.

If you are caring for someone with a terminal illness at home, or you know someone who is, then please visit www.homehospice.com.au or call HOME Hospice on 1800 132 229 for more information.

It was great to hear how many clinical trials are being conducted in our region, and how Cancer Council provides funding for the staff assisting with these trials.

Relay committees up and running

Photo by Tim Hughes.

The North West’s 2010 autumn Relay season began at Glen Innes on 12 March, to be followed by events at Inverell, Tamworth and Narrabri.

Each town has an enthusiastic and energetic committee of volunteers, ready to make their Relay a huge success.

Log on to www.relay.cancer council.com.au to register a team or become involved.

Glen Innes RFL Committee Chair, Craig Thomas (foreground), with some of the team.

Many volunteers commented on how much they learnt from the afternoon and how it helped them to understand what their fundraising efforts can achieve.

Thanks also to the Quality Hotel Powerhouse, which kindly donated the use of its facilities and helped with the cost of refreshments.

Australia Day honours • Manilla’s 2009 Relay For Life won the Community Event of the Year and Walcha’s Relay For Life Committee received an Appreciation Certificate in recent Australia Day honours ceremonies.

The annual Connecting Communities Forum (North West Region) will be held on Saturday 19 June 2010.

• Hugh Price, Logistics Coordinator for the 2009 Quirindi Relay For Life Committee, was awarded Citizen of the Year for the Liverpool Plains Shire Council.

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Volunteer Voice | Autumn 2010

Southern Local News

Tribute to Bob Mann Robert Noel Mann was a family man, a tireless community worker and a dedicated Cancer Council NSW volunteer. Sadly, in late November 2009, Bob lost his fight against cancer.

Diagnosed 18 months ago, Bob never let his illness get in the way of his community involvement. A well-known face around Nowra, Bob dedicated endless hours to his volunteer and community work and was always concerned about others.

The late Bob Mann (left) with fellow Shoalhaven driver Leigh Bowman (right).

Staff news Regional Programs Coordinator, Sally Tortorici (pictured right), has been welcomed back to the Southern Regional Office after her second maternity leave ended in January 2010.

This meant we bade farewell to Caitlin Marshall (pictured below), who has overseen the establishment of the Southern Highlands Cancer Council Information Centre in Bowral, and the review and subsequent recruitment of many new volunteers to the Eurobodalla Volunteer In-Home Support Program. We wish her well for the future.

page 12

Over the years, he played several roles within the community. He was heavily involved with the Shoalhaven Probus Club, Nowra Rotary and the committee for the Shoalhaven Police and Community Youth Club. For ten

years, he was a beloved volunteer driver with Cancer Council’s Shoalhaven Patient Transport Service, and continued to offer his driving services even when receiving treatment himself. Bob was also a passionate supporter of Cancer Council’s Relay For Life event.

The glass was always half full for Bob: it was a joy to be with him. He will be greatly missed by his fellow drivers, all at the Southern Regional Office and many in the Shoalhaven community.

Supporter tops Daffodil Day fundraising Noel Dare is a man on a mission – a mission to say “Thank you for saving my life”.

In 1997, Noel’s future did not look promising. He was given the unwanted news that he had a rapidly growing melanoma. But Noel refused to accept the diagnosis.

He was determined he would live, and he aspired one day to see the Nullarbor Plain.

In fact, Noel spent so many hours selling Daffodil Day merchandise last year that he raised $9,610 for Cancer Council – the highest individual amount in the state!

Congratulations to Noel for a fantastic effort.

With the loving support of his family, Noel did survive. In 2007, he even achieved his dream of reaching the Nullarbor. Noel is now determined to help as many other people as he can through his tireless fundraising work.

Noel spends countless hours outside Woolworths and Sam’s Warehouse in Shellharbour, selling raffle tickets for The Melanoma Institute and Daffodil Day merchandise for Cancer Council NSW.

Woolworths Shellharbour manager, Manfred Kubitzky (left), with Noel Dare (right).

Volunteer Voice | Autumn 2010

South West Local News

Regional happenings The communities of the South West Region were busy towards the end of 2009, supporting many of our programs and fundraising events.

• Our screening premiere of the movie New Moon, the sequel to Twilight, was an overwhelming success in November, with the sell-out of two cinemas. A radio competition with a prize of tickets and a chauffeur-driven ride to the movie in vampire Edward’s Volvo, proved to be popular! Charles Sturt University photography students volunteered to photograph screaming “Twi-hard” fans with a life-size cut-out of Edward.

• Girls Night In was a huge success across the region.

There were many garden parties, cocktail parties, fancy dress occasions and dinners, with guests displaying their wholehearted support for research into women’s cancers.

• Pink Ribbon Day saw the return of our valued volunteers to the streets of the South West Region. We would like to thank the volunteers who helped on the day, members of the community who kindly purchased Pink Ribbon Day items, and all of our supporters who sold merchandise on our behalf. We look forward to working with you again on 25 October 2010.

• Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea will be held on 27 May 2010. If you would like to get involved in this fantastic event this year, please log onto www.biggestmorningtea.com.au or call our office on (02) 6937 2600.

Pictured right, top: New Moon movie night. Back row (left to right): Annemaree Binger, Megan Savin and Annabel Macdonald. Front row (left to right): Amy Pokoney and Prue Densley.

Pictured right, below: Volunteers help on Pink Ribbon Day.

Information Centre opens

Welcome to new staff

A new Cancer Council Information Centre opened in November 2009, situated at the Riverina Cancer Care Centre in Wagga Wagga.

There have been quite a few staff changes in the office in recent months and we would like to welcome:

The centre, run by specially trained volunteers, provides information and support services to cancer patients and their carers, family and friends. It offers a range of written material and brochures, access to the Cancer Council Helpline, and the use of computers for browsing cancer-related web sites. All services are free.

We will be recruiting new volunteers for the Information Centre soon. For further information, please contact Louise Jacobson on (02) 6937 2607.

• Megan Savin – Regional Programs Coordinator • Kaylene Wilson – Office Coordinator • Annabel Macdonald – Relay For Life Coordinator, replacing Prue Densley • Prue Densley – Community Relations Coordinator, replacing Amy Pokoney, who caught the travel bug and has headed for Vancouver.

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Volunteer Voice | Autumn 2010

Western Local News

Pink tractor turns heads for cancer In June 2009, Mark Ross, Forbes branch manager of farm equipment company R McClintock & Co, approached us with a great fundraising idea: to raffle a pink tractor to raise money for Cancer Council NSW. The firm’s Case IH dealers sourced the tractor and staff volunteered their time to accomplish the amazing pink transformation.

residents of the Central West for their support of this fundraiser.

For more information on how to Do Your Thing to raise funds for Cancer Council, as Mark and his team did, log onto www.doyourthing.com.au and register your interest.

Dubbo RSL Aged Care Country Club has been holding an Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea (ABMT) event for the last 12 years, raising over $4,000 in 2009. Organisers are already planning for this year’s function on 27 May 2010 to be the best yet!

Pictured left to right: Joan Barclay, Aileen Milson, Michael Russell, Marie Smith and Sylvia England.

Many local businesses supported the fundraising initiative, all wanting to help the worthy cause. “We see customers affected and we all know someone who has been touched by cancer in some way,” Mark said.

The tractor was won by local Parkes resident Tony Beuzeville, and more than $14,500 was raised for cancer research. Cancer Council thanks the

Pictured above: Tony Beuzeville (left) and Mark Ross (right). Pictured below: McClintock staff with the tractor.

Many thanks to others in the region who have raised funds by “doing their own thing”: Kirsten Williams and Maree Weldon, Bourke’s Little Pink Party, $17,324; Gulgong Post Office, $289; Gooloogong Country Club, $377; Canowindra High School, $211; Octec Incorporated, $64; Coolah Central Women’s Bowling Club, $54; Shayley Coughlan’s head shave, $3,093; Charles Sturt University Orange SRC, $641; Narromine News, $60; Nicky Daniel’s Think Pink Town event, $17,398; Corinella Public School, $103; Cowra Motors, $300; Lake Cargelligo Central School, $110; Sue Edwards, Christmas light display, $100; Pink Ribbon Day events: Lee Hostel, Blayney, $156; Wattle Flat Public School, $201; Orange Ten Pin Bowl, $550; Parkes High School, $120; Carol Wright.

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Welcome back After two years travelling NSW with Cancer Council’s Outreach Service, Annella Powell has returned to take on the role of Regional Manager. She aims to lead the team to educate the community on what everyone can do to reduce their cancer risk, and to inform people about Cancer Council NSW services and the way we put our research funding to work.

“Volunteers are an important part of the process,” said Annella.

“It’s as simple as passing on our Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20 number to anyone who asks you a question about cancer.

That may make a significant difference to someone’s life.”

Volunteer Voice | Autumn 2010

Recipe corner

Training day enriches group leaders Cancer Council NSW has completed its most recent training day for cancer support group leaders.

There are 308 cancer support groups across NSW – half of them led by volunteers – and they play an important part in the cancer patient’s journey, by providing information and emotional support.

Caprese salad

The free training day, run by two psychologists, aimed to increase the 20 participants’ confidence as leaders. It utilised presentations, DVDs of challenging scenarios, group work and role-plays to facilitate learning.

Ingredients • 4 ripe Roma tomatoes • 180g medium bocconcini (fresh mozzarella cheese) • 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Post-evaluation comments highlighted the value of the day’s experiences: “I’ve learnt strategies in dealing with challenging situations, such as the dominant talker and the death of a member”; “I know the importance of having a group agreement”; “I realise how important it is for me to be ‘listening’ to what is not said”.

Directions • Slice tomatoes and bocconcini and arrange in overlapping pattern on serving plate; season with salt and pepper.

• Whisk together oil and vinegar and drizzle over the salad.

• Scatter with basil leaves. Serve immediately.

Cancer Council has been supporting group leaders using this model since 2004, and provides a guidebook on how to set up and maintain a group.

Regional group leaders attending training have the cost of their travel and accommodation met by their local Cancer Council offices.

Next training days: 7 May – Grief, Loss and Change; 13 August – general training. Enquiries to Kim Pearce: kimp@nswcc.org.au or (02) 9334 1846.

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP NETWORK

Valuable intern experience As a final-year Bachelor of Arts (Communications) student, Sophie West had a “selfish desire” to become a better job candidate by working as a volunteer.

Sophie (pictured right) said this desire changed soon after she started as a media and communications intern at Cancer Council NSW in January 2009.

“Within the first two months, I had read countless case studies of families struggling with the life-changing sentence: ‘You have cancer’,” she said.

Sophie said these experiences really hit home in February 2009

when her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. “My family and I were able to directly benefit from many of the services that Cancer Council offers, and the team at Cancer Council gave me overwhelming emotional support.”

Since November 2009, Sophie has been working fulltime in the media department at Cancer Council Australia – her first paid role as a communications professional – and she believes her intern experience was a real advantage in securing her new position.

or a few days a week over a university semester – you can make a real difference to the lives of people affected by cancer and their families,” she said.

“And you can lend a hand to yourself by gaining that muchneeded working experience.”

“By volunteering your time – a few short weeks in summer holidays

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Volunteer Voice | Autumn 2010

Events calendar General events

Hunter Region

North West Region

10-16 May 2010: National Volunteer Week

14 April 2010: Scone Men’s Cancer Support Group; Cessnock Prostate Cancer Support Group

23-24 April 2010: Inverell Relay

27 May 2010: Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea

3 May 2010: Myeloma Support Group, Broadmeadow office 17 May 2010: Cancer Action Network meeting, Broadmeadow office

31 May 2010: World No Tobacco Day

Central and Southern Sydney Region 1-2 May 2010: Sutherland Relay.

Information night: 19 April 2010, Tradies, 57 Manchester Rd, Gymea 15-16 May 2010: Eastern Suburbs Relay. Information nights: 7 April 2010, Little Bay Community Centre; 21 April 2010, Waverley Library Theatrette

Far North Coast Region 27-28 March 2010: Grafton Relay 1-2 May 2010: Lismore Relay

Greater Western Sydney Region

24-25 April 2010: Hastings Relay 1-2 May 2010: Manning Valley Relay 15-16 May 2010: Nambucca Valley Relay 29-30 May 2010: Coffs Harbour Relay

Northern Sydney and Central Coast Region

8-9 May 2010: Narrabri Relay 11 June 2010: Sex and The City 2 fundraiser, Forum 6 Cinemas, Tamworth 19 June 2010: Connecting Communities Forum

Southern Region 27-28 March 2010: Shoalhaven Relay 1-2 May 2010: Young Relay, Kiama Relay

South West Region 27-28 March 2010: Deniliquin Relay 29-30 May 2010: Hillston Relay 23-24 October 2010: Border Relay

First Wednesday of each month: Soiree Support Group (young women with breast cancer). (02) 4336 4500

Western Region

Last Wednesday of each month: Breast Cancer Support Group.

(02) 4336 4500

November 2010: Parkes Relay.

The committee needs helpers.

(02) 6392 0800

10-11 April 2010: Coonamble Relay

27-28 March 2010: Northern Harbour Relay 12 May 2010: Office volunteers meeting

For volunteer enquiries please email volunteersydney@nswcc.org.au or call the Volunteer Hotline (02) 9334 1773 Central and Southern Sydney (Woolloomooloo): 153 Dowling Street, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011

(02) 9334 1754

Far North Coast (Alstonville): 101-103 Main Street, Alstonville NSW 2477

(02) 6627 0300

Hunter (Newcastle): 22 Lambton Road, Broadmeadow NSW 2292

(02) 4923 0700

Mid North Coast (Coffs Harbour): 121 High Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

(02) 6659 8400

North West (Tamworth): Shop 2, 218 Peel Street, Tamworth NSW 2340

(02) 6763 0900

Northern Sydney and Central Coast (Gosford) Community Hub: The Hive, Erina Fair NSW 2250

(02) 4336 4500

South West (Wagga Wagga): 1/37 Tompson Street, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

(02) 6937 2600

Southern (Wollongong): 1 Lowden Square, Wollongong NSW 2500

(02) 4223 0200

Western (Orange): 75 Kite Street, Orange NSW 2800

(02) 6392 0800

Western Sydney (Parramatta): 43 Hunter Street, Parramatta NSW 2150

(02) 9354 2000

Casula Hub: Casula Community Centre, 39 Ingham Drive, Casula NSW 2170

(02) 9354 2050

Rouse Hill Hub: Level 2, 29 Main Street, Rouse Hill NSW 2155

(02) 9354 2070

Penrith Hub: Community Connections Building,114-116 Henry Street, Penrith NSW 2750

(02) 9354 2060

CAN3001 03/10

Regional offices and hubs

30 March 2010: Sharing our stories/ sharing our lives, Casula Hub. Bookings (02) 9354 2050

Mid North Coast Region

1-2 May 2010: Tamworth Relay