Vision
Summer 2008 Issue No. 63
A publication from the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Circulation 18,000
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd opens the
Ozanam Learning Centre
Contents
Letters to the Editor
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President’s letter
Dear Barbara,
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News
I am writing to congratulate you on the ‘vision’ that you presented to the Society in the publication ‘Vision’ issue number 62. I am a Sister of Mercy, working with farming families and I am a member of the St Mary’s Conference in Inverell, NSW.
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2008 Christmas Appeal
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Ozanam Learning Centre
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Research: Life Lessons
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Rural Task Force in Ulladulla
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Social Justice on the Road
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Redfern Task Force
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Growing Works
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Events
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Spiritual Reflection
I have been a member of the Society for about two years but this vision is just a delight for me. I was especially pleased to note your emphasis “to enhance spiritual development of all members by fully embracing the spirituality of our mission, and minimizing the distractions that have softened this focus in the past.” In saying this I am not inferring that the members are not spiritual and committed people but it seems to me that many of them have had little opportunity for input, reflection and prayer. At our last meeting we noted your ‘vision’ and key steps which were all well received by the Conference. I look forward to hearing about the implementation of this ‘vision’. Thank you for your interest in the Society. Yours in mercy, Sr Judith Breen rsm Dear Editor,
Vision is produced by Community and Corporate Relations, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW, and is distributed free of charge throughout the Society to Catholic parishes, and schools and relevant entities in New South Wales. Editor: Rachel Irvine Supervising Editor: Julie McDonald Writers: Andy Marks, Dane Hiser, Kate Scholl, Tamara Holmes, Bill Johnston, George Owen, Rachel Irvine. Layout and Design: Rachel Irvine Distribution: Ozanam Industries, a Special Work of St Vincent de Paul Society NSW All correspondence and contributions can be sent to: Publications Officer Community and Corporate Relations St Vincent de Paul Society PO Box 5, Petersham NSW 2049 Email: rachel.irvine@vinnies.org.au Phone: (02) 9568 0287 The current Society of St Vincent de Paul (NSW) State Council Members are: Barbara Ryan, Peter Sharp, Michael Callaghan, Beverley Kerr, Lisa Bright, Don Hewitt, Gillian Ferguson, John Donnelly, Evan Brett, Kevin Walsh, Gwen Sampson, Des Kinsella, Terry Walsh, Pauline Black, Leo Sheehan, Ivor Davies. Disclaimer: The views expressed in Vision are the views of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the St Vincent de Paul Society. Responsibility for the content of this publication is taken by Julie McDonald, CCR Manager. © St Vincent de Paul Society NSW 2008
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I refer to the marvellous work being undertaken at the NSW Society’s Marian Centre. I had the fortune of seeing that work and its operations some weeks ago and was so impressed with it that I determined to express my impressions and gratitude for it. For the past fifteen years I have worked in social housing and I have to say I have never encountered such a positive and inspiring housing experience as I did at the Marian Centre. There I observed human tragedy being turned into hopeful reality in an environment for which it would be hard to find an equal. The Centre’s manager, Ilknur Chaloupka, needs stated recognition for what she and her staff are accomplishing. Seeing children and their mothers experiencing transformation through the love and honour shown to them is indeed the stuff of the Incarnation at work. Moreover, it is a glimpse into heaven itself because it reveals the love of God alive and at work. My visit was for me a transfiguring experience for which I shall be grateful always. Yours faithfully, Walter J. Ogle State Housing Manger St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland
Summer 2008
From the President’s Desk Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Mrs. Barbara Ryan
It is my great pleasure to introduce the Christmas edition of Vision, celebrating the good work of the St Vincent de Paul Society’s members, volunteers and staff in answering the Christmas wishes of people most in need.
The Society’s 2008 Christmas Appeal encourages people to compare their own Christmas wishes with people less fortunate, and in making a gift to help change their story. The Christmas story, when a miracle took place under the Star of David, reminds us to ‘wish upon a star’. However, the Society recognises that today there are many people with Christmas stories whose wishes seem pointless in the face of loneliness, despair and hopelessness. This Christmas, the Society will work to restore the faith of people who need it most and to give them hope that we will help change their story. To support your local appeal, State Council has sent a resource kit including an information booklet, posters and Parish envelopes to help you with your local fundraising. This will be further supported with a comprehensive marketing and advertising campaign. We wish you every success with your own local campaign. In this edition of Vision, we are very excited to report on the Prime Minister Kevin Rudd’s official opening of the Society’s newest service, the Ozanam Learning Centre on November 6th 2008. Situated behind the Matthew Talbot Hostel in Woolloomooloo, Sydney, the Ozanam Learning Centre expands on the Talbot’s holistic approach to addressing homelessness, using education and recreation programs to achieve positive outcomes for people at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness. The opening of the Ozanam Learning Centre is a true milestone in the provision of homeless services in Australia and is an achievement made possible by supporters, volunteers
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and staff of the Society’s Matthew Talbot Homeless Services. To coincide with the launch, State Council released the research paper, ‘Life Lessons’, which explores the power and benefits of such programs in the current climate of service provision. The event and report received significant media exposure for the Society. This edition also celebrates other service initiatives and developments in addressing homelessness and disadvantage across the state in areas such as Redfern, Katoomba, Deniliquin, Broken Hill and Ulladulla. Accompanying this edition, the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW is pleased to release a World Youth Day Special Edition of Vision to celebrate and capture the Society’s involvement in the most culturally and spiritually significant event in Australia. World Youth Day 2008 in Sydney was a monumental success that had a global impact and I would sincerely like to thank all of you in the Society who participated in any way, from the youth who facilitated and took part in many events, to the conference members across the state who provided support through fundraising and accommodating pilgrims. I hope you enjoy this edition of Vision and our World Youth Day Special and wish you and your families and safe and happy Christmas. Yours sincerely,
Barbara Ryan State President St Vincent de Paul Society NSW
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News Compeer celebrates 12th Annual Dinner The 12th Annual Compeer Sydney Dinner was held on Saturday 20th September 2008 at The Epping Club. Compeer, the Society’s friendship program that pairs people living with a mental illness with a volunteer friend in their community, has been run in NSW for over a decade. The dinner is the social highlight of the Compeer year and celebrates friendships old and new with great food, music and dancing. The friendships at the dinner ranged in length from 2 weeks to 12 years. Guests arrived steadily from 6 pm and mingled and chatted with one another. Flight, a 4-piece band with an instrumental Cuban sound livened up the ballroom while guests dined on delicious food. In between courses, door prizes were drawn, with all Compeer guests leaving the dinner with something to share on their friendship outing.
Forbes Centre hosts Fashion Parade fundraiser On the evening of Wednesday 17 September 2008, the Forbes Vinnies Centre held a Fashion Parade to raise important funds for the local Winter Appeal. The people of Forbes and the surrounding area opened their hearts and purses to make the event such a success. Community support for the event was overwhelming. Several businesses in the area donated auction items
The Society’s Compeer Program would like to thank the many organisations and companies who donated prizes for the evening including: • • • • • • • • • • • •
Art Gallery of NSW Captain Cook Cruises Ensemble Theatre Featherdale Wildlife Park Greater Union Organisation Pty Ltd Historic Houses Trust Hoyts Fox Studios IMAX Theatre Ocean World Manly Rotary Club of Sydney Darling Harbour Vagabond Cruises Zoological Parks Board of NSW
The evening was a great success and a wonderful celebration of the Compeer Program and its friendships. For more information on Compeer or how to become a volunteer friend please contact Neralie Clark on (02) 9568 0294 or neralie.clark@vinnies.org.au
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while community members posed as models in the Fashion Parade, and students from Red Bend Catholic College served delicious nibbles to guests. The emcee for the evening, Judy Prior, and auctioneer, Tim MacKay, kept the large crowd entertained throughout the evening. One visitor from out of town said that she had never seen anything like the generosity of the people of Forbes. A total of $4,220 was raised to help people in need.
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News AUSLAN practice group The St Vincent de Paul Society at 24 Iolanthe St, Campbelltown is the home of an AUSLAN (Australian Sign Language) practice group. The group meets every Tuesday afternoon from 1 pm until 3 pm to learn to sign, build up a vocabulary of signs and practice what they have learnt. Members of the group share signs that they have seen and work out the meaning and context of new signs. The members of the group are very supportive and patient with each other in their endevour to learn AUSLAN.
volunteered at the Meal Centre since its inception in 1973. Both members were part of the Centre’s formation committee, and are still actively involved in the Centres running.
Vincentians receive medals for service in Disaster Recovery
The group welcomes new members and encourages people wishing to join to bring a sense of humour and the ability to think creatively and on-the-spot. The group is keen to meet new people and encourage fluency in this beautiful visual language. For information on joining this AUSLAN group, contact Linda Wilson on SMS 0438 571 180 or fax (02) 4657 1683.
Meal Centre in Broken Hill celebrates 35 years Vinnies Meal Centre in Broken Hill is proud to have recently celebrated 35 years in preparation and service of meals to homeless persons and other members of the local community. Hot meals are supplied at lunchtime Monday to Friday for $2.00 per meal. Over this 35-year period, 226,765 meals have been prepared and served by teams of dedicated volunteers. A dinner to celebrate this achievement and thank the volunteers was held Saturday 28th June 2008. State President, Barbara Ryan; Diocesan President, Leo Sheehan; and Broken Hill Regional President, Phil Sky attended to recognise this special milestone. Vic Braidie and Pat Leonard were acknowledged specifically by Pat Davis, Broken Hill Meal Centre President, for the their services because the two have
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On the 9 July 2008, a number of Vincentians from the Gosford and Wyong Regions were presented with Medallions from the NSW State Government for services in Disaster Recovery, particularly during the 2008 floods in the Hunter and Central Coast Regions. The Medallions were presented by Bill Robinson, State Disaster Recovery Coordinator, John Riley, Coordinator Central Coast and Barry Egan, Coordinator Wyong Region. Back Row: Brian Staggs, Bill Robinson, Des Riach, Barry Egan, Peter Redman, Barry Clark, John Maher, John Riley, Des Worboys. Front Row: Murdoch Patterson-Barrie, Robert Star, Bernice Egan, Ann King, Tim McGovern. Not Present: David Maher, Brian Robertson, John Cleary. Congratulations to all.
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News CEO Sleepout a success
Parramatta & Wollongong Door Knock Appeals The annual Door Knock Appeal held over the last two weekends in August raised over $270,000 as part of the Dioceses’ Winter Appeal for good works within the Parramatta and Wollongong Dioceses. Nearly 1,200 enthusiastic volunteers braved cold and wet conditions to Door Knock on behalf of the St Vincent de Paul Society.
Rhys Muldoon and CEOs sleeping out to make a difference.
The CEO Sleepout, held on the 19th June 2008 at Luna Park, was a great success. Eighty people attended the opening of the event to encourage the CEOs who slept outside in the cold on cardboard and concrete. The annual event, which raised over $23,000, is part of the Parramatta Diocese’s homelessness awareness program, Escape from Poverty. The Parramatta Diocese would like to thank all the CEOs and local businesses who participated in this year’s Sleepout. If you know a CEO who would like to help raise awareness and funding for homelessness issues, next year’s event has been confirmed for Thursday 25th June 2009. Email David Starr at david.starr@vinnies.org.au for more information.
John Picot, CEO St Vincent de Paul Society NSW and Steve Martin, President Real Estate Institute of NSW.
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The most encouraging aspect of this year’s Door Knock was the support from students in the region. Over 100 students from one school in the Parramatta Diocese knocked on doors in their community. The event demonstrated a great team effort between coordinators, volunteers, and Conferences. Many volunteers showed great dedication to the St Vincent de Paul Society by taking part both weekends. The donations from the 2008 Door Knock Appeal will assist in continuing the good works within the Parramatta and Wollongong Dioceses.
This time, its personal... The 2008 Winter Appeal raised over $3.5 million for the good works of the St Vincent de Paul Society and Matthew Talbot Homless Services at a State and Conference level. With the current economic and housing situation worsening, Society members and volunteers saw a considerable increase in calls for assistance during winter. The 2008 Winter Appeal, themed ‘This time, its personal’, provided an insight into the lives of the people the Society assists through photographs taken by the clients. The significant response to this Appeal demonstrates the generosity and compassion of the Australian community. Fundraising is a Special Work of the St Vincent de Paul Society and is referred to as such in ‘The Rule’. The work of the Society is made possible through these fundraising efforts and by generous contributions that follow.
Summer 2008
News Generous donation amplifies success of Outreach
Society votes in new Mission and Vision statements nationally
Mary MacKillop Outreach in Lewisham continues to receive fantastic community and corporate support for a range of the programs and activities on offer to mentally and physically disabled clients and volunteers.
The National Council of the St Vincent de Paul Society recently approved a new Mission and Vision Statement. The endorsement followed a period of consultation in which views for and against change were expressed.
Recently, Roland Australia responded to a request for assistance and kindly donated a PA system, a digital piano and a video software editing program for the Rendu Youth Project valued at $9,500. This generous donation has enabled Mary MacKillop Outreach to extend its current programs and has enabled them to develop new programs in order to provide further recreation, hope, empowerment and socialisation to the people it assists.
As well as being more concise and contemporary, the statements reflect the International Council’s changes to membership and are a conscious attempt to appeal to younger members.
The people assisted by Mary MacKillop Outreach now have the opportunity to play a brand new piano, sing Kareoke, hold mini concerts and enjoy premium sound at their events.
Mission The St Vincent de Paul Society is a lay Catholic organisation that aspires to live the Gospel message by serving Christ in the poor with love, respect, justice, hope and joy, and by working to shape a more compassionate and just society.
Thank you Roland Australia.
Your Society in NSW Conferences: People assisted by Conferences: Conference Home Visits: Members: Associate Members: Members under 50: Special Works: Centres: Youth Members: Youth Associate Members: Mini Vinnies Conferences: Assistance calls fulfilled: Vision
471 473,041 207,534 4770 1333 469 91 267 1882 1497 171 915,031
The Mission and Vision statements focus on lay Catholics serving Christ in the poor. They are a simple and confident expression of what the Society stands for.
Vision The St Vincent de Paul Society aspires to be recognised as a caring Catholic charity, offering a “hand up� to people in need. We do this by respecting their dignity, sharing our hope, and encouraging them to take control of their own destiny. New materials featuring the Mission and Vision Statements for use in Conferences and Special Works will be available at the end of the year. For more information, please contact Katherine Wild in the Community and Corporate Relations team on (02) 9568 0298 or katherine.wild@vinnies.org.au.
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News Year 12 student says ‘thanks’ to Compeer
Incident Street (CIS) management program known as M.A.T.E.S. aimed at pro-active crisis prevention. This program was developed by the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW in consultation with the NSW Police Force, Brisbane Water and Tuggerah Lakes Local Area Commands in response to officers’ traumatic ordeals during emergency procedures at the Somersby road collapse, which occurred in June 2007. The work Jessica has done with Katie will be included within the M.A.T.E.S Training Workshops. Her area of focus is primarily based around the family environment and specifically how detrimental CIS is on the officer’s efficiency in social interaction.
Sergeant Mark Drysdale, Brisbane Water LAC; Yr 12 student Jessica Drysdale, St Peters Catholic Collage Tuggerah; Katie Sewell, Broken Bay Diocese Central Coast Compeer Program Coordinator; Chief Inspector Mark Death, Brisbane Water LAC.
In mid-November 2007, Jessica Drysdale, a Year 12 student at St Peter’s Catholic College Tuggerah, was introduced to Katie Sewell, St Vincent de Paul Society Central Coast Compeer Coordinator to discuss her Personal Interest Project (PIP). The PIP is a component of the HSC Society and Culture syllabus, which sees students’ choose a focus topic that is unique to them. Initially, Jessica was overwhelmed when she realised how much subject material she had to gather during the PIP process. It was not until she became familiar with the benefits of the project that she strove to produce a PIP that delved into a unique topic and explored the environment in which we live. The topic Jessica chose related to the effect of Critical Incident Stress (CIS) upon members of the NSW Police Force and their immediate families. “The reason I chose this topic was to gain insight into what it is my father, who has been a police officer for the past eighteen years, experiences whilst at work.” Jessica said. Katie became a mentor throughout Jessica’s PIP study, providing her with relevant, practical information pertaining to her topic. Katie gained most of her resources through involvement with the Critical
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Jessica says, “Working with Katie in the development of M.A.T.E.S has been a very beneficial process, particularly as I have been able to gain a greater understanding and empathy for police officers, like my father, who, due to the nature of their work, come into contact with confronting situations habitually.” “I would like to thank all those that were involved in my Year 12 HSC PIP study including my teachers and my family. I would encourage any students in the future partaking in the PIP study to contact persons within an industry of interest to take on a mentoring role.”
Vinnies Good Works DVD Available The Society has compiled a DVD of three and six minute segments showcasing some of the Society’s good works including; About Vinnies; Homelessness; Migrants & Refugees; Mental Health & Compeer; Financial Hardship and World Poverty. State Council will be producing these DVDs to send to all Conferences, Regions, Dioceses, Special Works and Youth Teams. They will be sent out in November 2008. We hope the DVD’s are a useful resource for promoting the Society in your local community. For further information contact Katherine Wild on (02) 9568 0231 or katherine.wild@vinnies.org.au.
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News
Regional President’s Seminar Over the weekend of November 7th, 8th and 9th, Learning Services hosted a seminar for Regional Presidents and others interested in Society leadership roles at the newly opened Ozanam Learning Centre in Woolloomooloo, Sydney. Michael Callaghan provided the opening address and referred to the common thread of Vincentian Spirituality which binds us all in our mission of service to people in need. He welcomed all participants with special thanks to those from regional NSW. Lively debate in groups ensured that the participants’ generosity of spirit was rewarded. Brian Murnane, member of the Social Justice Advisory Committee provided the keynote address on the opening night, which covered the structure of the Society and considerations for the future. As a learning organisation, the Society must adapt to the realities of the environment in which it operates. Drought and economic challenges, whether imported or domestic, increase the burden on those already in need. The Society is called upon now more than ever to adapt to change in order to support the everincreasing number of homeless, marginalised and disadvantaged people.
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Speakers engaged and challenged participants to accept different perspectives on topics relevant to the Society’s work. Graham English and Bill Johnston spoke on spirituality in a time of great change. Narelle Brown expertly described the role of the Energy and Water Ombudsman’s Office (EWON) and its relevance to members. Practical strategies for recruitment of new and suitable members and volunteers was facilitated by Kate Scholl, Volunteer Development Coordinator, a marketing and media workshop was facilitated by Julie McDonald, Community and Corporate Relations Manager and Dr Andy Marks spoke about the Society and social justice from a regional perspective. The weekend provided useful information to assist Regional Presidents and those interested in leadership. The social aspect was especially enjoyable with a meal on Saturday evening where attendees had the opportunity to relax and catch up. On Sunday, the panel, comprised of Brian Murnane, Dr Andy Marks and Michael Callaghan, addressed issues from the floor with an enthusiastic session characterised by a uniquely Vincentian dedication to progress in the service of the poor.
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News Reconnect develops program on drug & alcohol impairment
drive the vehicle as you would a normal motor vehicle that responds to your commands; the second mode replicates how a vehicle would respond to someone driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In order to purchase a SIDNE for the program, a campaign called ‘28 Days to Live r Longer’ was born. Members of the Deniliquin and Finley communities gave up alcohol for the month of January and had other community members and service clubs sponsor them for their efforts. The response to the campaign was fantastic with 80 people from the two communities participating, and $17,000, the target for the project, being raised. The purchase of SIDNE is no longer a dream for the team at Vinnies. It’s one thing to tell people not to drink and drive, but quite another to show them.
In 2007, Vinnies Reconnect Deniliquin purchased ‘fatal vision goggles’ to educate young people and the community on the impact of alcohol and drugs on cognitive skills. The goggles were used in schools and in the broader community as a fun, interactive and experiential learning tool. The fatal vision goggles are designed to distort vision and cause behaviours exhibited by someone under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Feedback from youth, families and schools was very positive. Through collaboration with local Drug and Alcohol Professionals, Vinnies Reconnect Deniliquin decided to expand this program to teach about the effects of drugs and alcohol on a person’s ability to operate a motor vehicle through a SIDNE (Simulated Impaired Driving Experience). The SIDNE is the first of its kind in Australia. The battery-operated motor vehicle replicates how a motor vehicle will respond to someone driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. The SIDNE operates in two modes. The first mode allows the driver to
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Society starts new gambling service The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW has recently announced its newest Special Work, Gambling Help. Funded by the Responsible Gambling Fund, Gambling Help is the first service of its kind for the Society and will be run from Baulkham Hills. The Gambling Help service has three general aims; to provide a range of appropriate treatment approaches to help excessive gamblers cut back or stop gambling; to provide support for individuals in addressing the problems associated with excessive gambling and to evaluate the extent to which individuals are helped by the counselling. The Gambling Help team will be located at: Shop 7, 7-9 Seven Hills Road, Baulkham Hills. For information, please contact Archana Bhat at archana.bhat@vinnies.org.au.
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Good Works
Volunteers affect change at
Xavier House
SC
Johnson Company Employee Volunteering Day brought a team of workers to the St Vincent de Paul Society’s Xavier House in Stanmore to renovate their laundry room. Xavier House, a Special Work of the in the Society in the Sydney Archdiocese, provides safe, comfortable and affordable accommodation for young men who come to Sydney from the country for work, education or apprenticeships. The SC Johnson team arrived early in the morning and set to work cleaning, repairing walls and removing years of grime and dust before painting the walls a bright Vinnies blue. A new cabinet was also installed in the dining room by another team. Hayes Van der Meer, Xavier House Manager, was
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delighted with the result. “Our laundry room has needed renovating for some time and in one day, it is all completed. I am delighted with the willing team we have had. Corporate volunteering is a great way to get those unfinished projects off your list!” Many corporate groups are looking for 1-2 day projects for staff teams to offer service to the St Vincent de Paul Society. Corporate volunteering opportunities provide a wonderful way to develop relationships with organisations who want an opportunity to be of assistance to the local community. Please contact Kate Scholl on (02) 9560 8666 for more information about how a corporate group might assist you with one of your unfinished projects. v
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Christmas Appeal 2008 Remember when you were a child and one of your biggest tasks in December was writing a Christmas Wish List filled with all the toys, books, clothes and latest technology your heart desired? It was a time of innocence when your biggest choice was deciding which potential gift from Santa you wanted more: a superhero-inspired lunch box and school bag, your favourite band’s latest release or the multi-action, remote controlled car that all the other kids at school were talking about. Those with children or grandchildren will understand how toy companies, television networks, movie studios, clothing companies and publishers will all compete for top billing on your families’ Wish List this Christmas. However, there are children, men and women who will have more important needs rather than the usual Christmas wants and must haves. The St Vincent de Paul Society assists people who don’t have a roof over their heads, a bed to sleep in or a meal on the table.
Help change their story. The Society’s Christmas Appeal shares the story of John, 37, who has reached a stage where wishes are a painful reminder of how deeply isolated and alone he is. It is sobering to think: How can someone believe in the magic of Christmas when they don’t believe they will make it through the festive period? This Christmas, John asks for; a hair cut, clean clothes, a proper bed, somewhere to call his own and a normal life. This Wish List takes more than a jolly red man in a sleigh to fulfill. Making John’s wishes a reality require the compassion and resources of local Society members, and the support of the local community. The Society in its work, hopes to fulfill these wishes and ensure John has different Christmas wishes next year. The St Vincent de Paul Society’s State Council has released an information kit, providing Conferences, Centres, Regions and Special Works with the resources they need to run the 2008 Christmas Appeal at a local level.
John asks for; a hair cut, clean clothes, a proper bed, somewhere to call his own and a normal life. This year’s Christmas Appeal invites the community to help us “Change Someone’s Story”, by encouraging people to think about what is on their own Christmas Wish List and then compare it to that of people in need, and help change their story. By making a gift, they can help change the story of a person or family in need.
ry Australians, a in rd o y n a m r Fo shelter will be r o g in th lo c , d foo this year. st li ir e th f o p to donating meone’s story by Help change so g.au or call 13 18 12 or es. vinni
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The local appeal is complemented by a State Appeal including direct mail and advertising through press, radio, television, online and outdoor. The St Vincent de Paul Society’s Christmas Appeal brings the community together, as parishes, schools, businesses and donors pool their resources to collect money, clothing, food and toys to support their neighbours and make the Christmas wishes of all in the community come true. For assistance with your Christmas Appeal, please contact Dane Hiser or Katherine Wild on (02) 9560 8666 or email to katherine.wild@vinnies.org.au v
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Change the story for John and others like him this Christmas. Give now at vinnies.org.au or call 13 18 12 Vision
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Christmas Appeal 2008
This Christmas, in addition to the parish and donor appeal, the St Vincent de Paul Society is running a special Vinnies Secret Santa Campaign to encourage staff in businesses to give to Vinnies the money they would usually spend on useless Secret Santa (or Kris Kringle) gifts for colleagues. This is a light-hearted campaign that encourages people to think of the pointlessness of a novelty gift compared to the real needs of people facing crisis and disadvantage. Instead of buying another Frosty the Snowman Mug, garish colorful tie or Reindeer Pen for a colleague, participants can give the gift of hope to people who need it most.After making a donation through www.vinnies.org.au/secretsanta fun electronic vouchers can be printed off to give in lieu of a gift so the recipient can still enjoy the spirit of Secret Santa. The St Vincent de Paul Society is using creative guerilla-style marketing techniques to encourage people to think about running the Vinnies Secret Santa campaign throughout offices in Sydney, supported by an advertising campaign and interactive competition on Nova and Vega radio stations. Visit www.vinnies.org.au/secretsanta and download all the material you need to be a Vinnies Secret Santa in your office, including, badges, vouchers and posters. Further information is available from the Community and Corporate Relations Team on (02) 9568 0298.
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www.vinnies.org.au/secretsanta
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The increasing costs of Christmas Vincentians continue to visit families and individuals in parks and outside their perimeters, wherever possible providing assistance and assuring these people they are not alone. Core Vincentian activities like visitation only intensify during Christmas. This is also the time of year when the ranks of volunteers at our hostels, refuges and Night Patrol vans typically swell. Despite the compassion shown by thousands of members and volunteers, the scale of the current crisis continues to grow.
Australians in disadvantage face pressures over the increasing cost of the Christmas season This year, for tens of thousands of disadvantaged Australians, a range of extraordinary cost hikes are placing families and individuals under significant stress at the one time of the year when they and their loved ones should be free of worry. As we approach the Christmas period, the St Vincent de Paul Society is concerned about a wide array of issues placing unprecedented pressures on vulnerable families and individuals. Essential provisions like housing, food, transport, education and health are slipping beyond the reach of hundreds of thousands of people. For many people, the tightening rental market has left them no option but to seek out ‘last resort’ or ‘marginal housing’, such as caravan parks. The St Vincent de Paul Society research report, Residents at Risk highlighted the beginnings of this trend when released in June of this year. In the months since, Society members report that the situation is worsening, with many caravan parks in Sydney adding the names of families to waiting lists due to the incredibly high demand for this type of housing. In the meantime, many people, some with children, are waiting it out, sleeping in cars on the outskirts of major urban and rural centres.
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As if the current housing crisis were not enough, the cost of essentials like food and petrol have risen at a rate far ahead of price markers such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI). During the course of the year, petrol rose 19 per cent; bread and cereals, 12 per cent; dairy products, 8 per cent; and meat and seafood, 4 per cent. Medical expenses have also risen drastically in the last year, with some essential drugs increasing in price by 24 per cent, well beyond the reach of vulnerable groups like pensioners. A recent study revealed many pensioners and low income groups are forgoing essential medication simply because they cannot absorb these cost spikes. Combine these cost increases with the pressures of keeping up with bills, school expenses, and childcare costs and it is clear that even working families are finding it difficult to cope, let alone those on single incomes or welfare payments. People in this vulnerable position are also more susceptible to predatory lending practices and credit card debt, which only exacerbates already stressful situations. In the lead up to the current crisis, the Society strengthened its capacity to provide longstanding preventative measures such as budget counselling. Similarly, the core Vincentian activity of visitation allows us to continue the person-to-person connection we have with disadvantaged people, ensuring our broader assessment of the situation is complemented by first-hand knowledge. Pro-active planning ensures that with the ongoing support of our generous donors, we are well placed to meet the challenges that lay ahead, throughout Christmas and beyond.
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Prime Minister opens breakthrough service
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd officially opened the Ozanam Learning Centre on 6 November 2008. This state of the art St Vincent de Paul Society facility is the largest of its kind in Australia, providing an innovative range of learning and recreation programs critical in breaking the cycle of homelessness. In renewing his government’s commitment to addressing homelessness, the Prime Minister recognised the complexities of the issue. Mr Rudd said “There’s no one single path to homelessness, everyone’s story is different. Collectively it is a story
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of Australian disadvantage. Homelessness is a window into Australian disadvantage, and our response is a window into the heart of our community, a window into the heart and soul of our nation.” The Prime Minister toured the facility, taking the opportunity to meet with a client of the Matthew Talbot Hostel, which is situated alongside the Ozanam Learning Centre. Alan, a 38 year old, formerly homeless man demonstrated the practical side of his Certificate II TAFE course in hospitality.
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Commenting on Alan’s successful transition back into mainstream society, Mr Rudd said, “Alan’s story is a great story where the rubber hits the road in this thing we call social justice.” He continued, “The life of Alan is the life of each and every one of us. Potentially. The life of our wider family. Potentially. Or it’s the life of our wider circle of loved-ones. Potentially.” Mr Rudd added, “The reason I’m pleased to be here in particular to support this new initiative is that the
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Centre is entirely consistent with the direction we as a government now seek to take in dealing with the issue of homelessness.” In closing, Mr Rudd congratulated the St Vincent de Paul Society, acknowledging the positive steps it has taken to respond to the complex challenges of homelessness. In addition, the Ozanam Learning Centre was blessed by Bishop Terence Brady on Sunday 2 November 2008. v
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Research
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Life 18
Summer 2008
The multi-faceted nature of homelessness demands an integrated and innovative response. New research released by the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW reveals learning and recreation programs are critical parts of progressive homeless service delivery. Coinciding with the launch of the Ozanam Learning Centre, 6 November 2008, the St Vincent de Paul Society’s research team released the social justice report, Life Lessons: Learning and recreation as pathways out of homelessness.
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“With the homeless population constantly changing and new challenges adding to the already complex experience of homelessness, it has never been more important for homeless services to adapt and renew”,
The report’s findings confirm that recreation and education can and do produce positive outcomes for many people in various stages of disadvantage. Whether they are at risk of homelessness, currently experiencing homelessness or in the early stages of moving on, Cassie adds that “appropriately resourced learning and recreation programs, implemented in conjunction with housing, health and employment assistance can enable sustained independent living.” Listening to homeless people is the key. “Good client feedback models are crucial if learning and recreation programs are to work”, says Andy. “The programs that produce the best results are those that accurately reflect the needs of the people they are set up to assist, rather than imposing more demands.”
learning and recreation programs have proven to be successful ways of empowering a homeless person... says Dr Andy Marks, Senior Researcher with the Society and co-author of the report. “When correctly planned, implemented and evaluated, learning and recreation programs have proven to be extraordinarily successful ways of empowering a homeless person to make the transition back into the mainstream community”, says Andy. Throughout the 37 homeless facilities comprising Matthew Talbot Homeless Services, the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW has long used learning and recreation as therapeutic, motivational and supportive devices for people dealing with the trauma of homelessness and related issues such as domestic violence, family breakdown, addiction and mental illness. The Ozanam Learning Centre consolidates and enhances this expertise. As the report’s co-author, Cassie Douglas explains, “The ‘Life Lessons’ report examines the viability and structure of learning and recreation programs, not just across Matthew Talbot Homeless Services and at the Ozanam Learning Centre, but throughout a range of comparable national and international homeless services.”
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The ability to plan, adapt and renew is critical if learning and recreation programs are to stand the test of time. “The homeless population is constantly changing, and of course no two experiences of homelessness are the same”, Andy adds. “If learning and recreation programs are to affect lasting and sustained selfempowerment, they must be capable and willing to adapt, not only to changes in the homeless population but the changes shaping the broader community.” v
s n o s s e L e f i L ons thways out of homelessness Life Laned ss recreation as pa Learning
sandra Douglas
ks and Cas By Dr Andy Mar 8 November 200
Copies of the report are available on request. Email: katherine.wild@vinnies.org.au or at www.vinnies.org.au
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heartb and stories of
The St Vincent de Paul Society’s Rural Task Force marked its second anniversary in August by meeting in Ulladulla, where the idea for the Task Force was born. Speaking at the meeting, Bev Kerr, President of the Rural Task Force, recalled how this vital Society initiative was enacted in response to the following question put to the Society’s State Council by the Ulladulla Conference: “what are we doing to help people struggling with the drought?” Since then, the Rural Task Force has travelled throughout regional NSW making good on its commitment to go out into rural communities and work person-to-person, on the ground where it can be of most benefit. Beginning at Peak Hill, in July 2006, the Task Force has since met with local farming
“
and business communities in Manilla, Coolamon, Lake Cargelligo, Merriwa, Coolah, Warialda, Warren, and of course, Ulladulla. The next meeting is planned for the township of Berrigan in the Riverina.
Bev told the Ulladulla meeting that the Task Force had “heard some terrible stories in the past two years.” One such tale of heartbreak was that of a farmer who took his drought affected sheep to the saleyard, only to be told he’d have to take his stock back as they were in too poor a condition to accept for sale. He replied that he had no grain to feed them and asked if he could give them to the yard. They said they were sorry but they couldn’t take them. Devastated, he took his sheep home and shot the entire flock, and then shot himself.
“we brought a parcel of food to one farmer’s wife”, sat on the kitchen floor and cried.”
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Summer 2008
reak hope
in the bush
Bev’s talk was followed by reports from other members of the Task Force who provided updates on conditions in their respective areas. Pauline Black from Wagga Wagga Diocese said the Riverina continues to be badly affected by the drought. Many farmers had taken their own lives. The Society is providing assistance to struggling schools by paying for excursions and events. Local farmers are also being helped with bills, food parcels, fuel, maintenance costs, ambulance cover, and counseling. Importantly, Pauline added that Society members are also providing “non-material support” in the form of prayers and Masses. Another important, if unconventional form of assistance has been the establishment of ‘spotters’. Spotters, Pauline explained, are a group of farmers’ wives who ring the
Society and other agencies if they see a neighbour in trouble. On the advice of a spotter, “we brought a parcel of food to one farmer’s wife”, Pauline recalls, “and she was so overwhelmed she sat on the kitchen floor and cried.” Mick Holmes from Young reported that farmers across the Canberra/Goulburn Diocese are trying to put crops in but are being forced to cut corners because of the cost of sprays and fertilisers. This is unsurprising says Mick when you consider it can cost anything between $200-550 per acre to achieve a successful yield. Mick added that marginal increases in rainfall have had little impact because falls have not been steady enough to seep into the sub-soil.
Pauline recalls, “and she was so overwhelmed she
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“ farmers are ‘
If Australia wants a farming
she ‘ll be
Don Hewitt reported on conditions in Armidale and the New England. The Society has recently expanded its visits with farmers in the area. Don told how he took part in a visit to a farming couple in their 70s, who for the first time in three generations were forced by the drought to take their stock on the road or the “long paddock” as it is referred to colloquially. The couple had been camping out on the roadside, moving 300 head at a cost of $1.30 per head, per day. Vinnies members helped them with bills and purchased a second-hand caravan so they would not be forced to sleep in the back of their truck. Don commented that the Dioceses’ expanded visitation work has been an unparalleled learning experience for all involved. Allen Murphy from Bathurst Diocese commented, “the Australian farming community is one of the proudest in the world.” He observed that farmers experiencing extreme personal hardship are invariably more concerned about their neighbours than
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themselves. Allen was particularly concerned about the decline in local communities. With time, he said, we can recover from the drought but the loss of communities is irreversible. Mental health is another point of concern. Allan was very encouraged by the attendance of more than 200 people at a recent mental health forum. The heartfelt stories shared at the forum had a much needed healing affect. “I don’t think there was a dry eye in the house”, he observed. Peter Leckie from Sydney Archdiocese raised the issue of “partnering”; a process by which urban Dioceses pair up with their rural counterparts to provide resources, support and assistance. Peter commented: “We stand ready and willing to help in any way needed.” Vince Toohey from Wilcannia/Forbes Diocese, an area encompassing half of NSW, conducts his visitation on the phone. Vince takes the time to build trust during
Summer 2008
industry, we can no longer turn our backs and say,
tough –
right mate.‘ the course of these conversations. He’s heard many tales of heartbreak, such as the story of one hard working, typically stoic young farmer who broke down in tears around the family dinner table, no longer able to hide his frustration and despair. Vince has also been lobbying government, telling one highlevel inquiry: “If Australia wants a farming industry, we can no longer turn our backs and say, ‘famers are tough – she’ll be right mate’. Farming people are no different from other Australians and are entitled to a similar lifestyle. It’s the least you would expect from a civilised society.”
Senior researcher Dr Andy Marks and Dane Hiser were guests of the Task Force. Dane highlighted a range of opportunities for increased media and communications support while Andy commended the Task Force as a leading example of progressive social service delivery, able to adapt and directly respond to
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need when and where it occurs. Having met with local farmers, Andy is currently preparing a research report on the complexities of rural disadvantage. Bev assured all present that the Rural Task Force will continue to provide assistance on the ground, person-to-person, wherever it is needed. Ongoing St Vincent de Paul Society initiatives such as the ‘Mate Helping Mate’ DVD, a vital mental health resource, are also having a positive impact on the lives of rural Australians. Similarly, the Society is currently conducting intensive social justice research in regional areas like Ulladulla to ensure that our practical response and advocacy work is continually informed by the latest research. As Vince correctly said, “it’s the least you would expect”. v
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Social Justice
SOCIAL JUSTICE
ON THE ROAD BLACKHEATH The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW held the first of its Social Justice ‘on the road’ forums in the Blue Mountains town of Blackheath on September 17. The forums are designed to proactively bring social justice issues to light on the ground in the areas where current research, local knowledge and constructive discussion can be converted into informed action.
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Summer 2008
andy.marks@vinnies.org.au
O
rganised in cooperation with the Blackheath Conference, the Katoomba Homelessness Forum focussed on issues surrounding homelessness currently being confronted in the Katoomba and wider Blue Mountains region. The Social Justice team (based at Lewisham) is currently conducting intensive research into these issues. The forum is a vital part of this research. Despite inclement weather, which locals described as “a balmy mountains day”, nearly 50 people attended the event, including: local and regional Society members and a range of stakeholders from other critical organisations in the region. Blackheath Conference President Terry Beaver began proceedings with the Good Samaritan parable, followed by opening prayers and an acknowledgment of the region’s traditional owners. Katoomba Regional President, Catherine Beaver then provided a candid and insightful assessment of homelessness and local conditions. “Like most places, homelessness in Katoomba presents its own unique set of challenges”, said Catherine. “Of late”, she continued, “we’re getting more and more young families arriving and
the vast resources and networks to adapt, homeless people do not. As such, the onus is on us to meet the challenge of a rapidly changing world and strive to find new ways to connect with the homeless population. A local homeless person, Doug, followed the Social Justice presentation, speaking openly about his experiences on the street. With the help of Vinnies, Doug now resides in Blackheath. He offered a range of incredibly incisive comments about seemingly simple things such as the intense feelings of loneliness homeless people experience. “It’s so hard”, he said. Since finding his way back from the streets, Doug has made it his mission to openly share his experiences with others. “I go down to Sydney and sell The Big Issue. I try and tell as many people as I can about homelessness. I try and open their minds up, to get them to care for people who are going through a really tough time. We all carry baggage. People who are homeless just don’t know how to deal with their baggage.” Doug’s presentation was followed by brief talks by a range of attendees including: Captain Colin Young of
I try and tell as many people as I can about homelessness. I try and open their minds up, to get them to care for people who are going through a really tough time. sleeping in their cars.” Given the climatic extremes in Katoomba, the Conference endeavours to respond quickly to all cases. “If we know about it, we don’t leave people to sleep outdoors”, she added.
the Salvation Army, Celia and Maree of the Katoomba Wimlah Women’s Refuge, Mic Clarke of Katoomba Mental Health Services and a senior policy advisor from Housing NSW.
The Society’s senior researcher, Dr Andy Marks gave a presentation on current research findings relating to the socio-economic, demographic and psychological characteristics of the Australian homeless population, plus a discussion of the influence of integrated issues such as family breakdown, mental illness, addiction and domestic violence on the experience of homelessness. Special attention was also given to the increasingly diverse and mobile nature of the homeless population, particularly homeless youths, and the need to structure homeless services in a manner that enables sustained engagement with people most in need of assistance.
The inter-agency dialogue and cooperation that exists in the Blue Mountains region is certainly producing some very encouraging results. Services are talking to each other, sharing information and knowledge with one aim in common, to help people in disadvantage. It seems simple, but this level of cooperation is rare.
One of the key messages of the Social Justice presentation was: organisations like the Society have
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Given the positive outcomes of the event, it was agreed that future forums would be held in the region. The Katoomba Homelessness Research Report is planned for release in Feb 2009. As for the Social Justice ‘on the road’ series of forums, the success of the Katoomba event will definitely result in the scheduling of various issue-based forums wherever the need arises in other regions throughout NSW. v
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Youth
By Esther McLaren, Redfern Task Force volunteer
The food and other resources for the barbecues are provided through a combination of Vinnies funding and sausage sizzle fundraising by Task Force volunteers at various Bunnings Warehouse locations, as well as meat donated by former Task Force volunteer Daniel Kim, who owns GMGP Australian Fresh Meat at Auburn. The majority of the volunteers at the barbecues are the younger members of Task Phyllis, Jan, Ivan, Ky, Rick (seated), Alicia and Rachael (seated). Force, says Siva. Phyllis, a volunteer who helps with the oung people are the driving force behind set up and cooking, says she enjoys mingling with monthly barbecues for inner city residents, held the guests at the barbecues, and has come by the St Vincent de Paul Society’s Redfern across a wide range of people through Task Force, says Siva Markandu, who has been a Task her involvement with Vinnies. “It’s Force Force member for over 25 years. It was at the good to meet these people and do instigation of brothers Paul and John Tannous, Task something meaningful. When you Force volunteers, that President Barry Finch agreed talk to then you realise they do to institute barbecues as a monthly event. appreciate the barbecues.”
Y
The barbecues, which have been held on the last Saturday of each month since August 2007, draw between 30 to 80 guests, to enjoy marinated beef, pork belly, sausages, fresh fruit and cold drinks, and most importantly a chat with the volunteers and fellow residents.
Another volunteer, Rick, says doing community work has always been something he enjoys. “I like the people, I like helping out
Redfern Task For 26
Summer 2008
where I can, and I enjoy talking to people – both to the other volunteers and the guests.” Rick adds, “And I like to learn new barbecue skills!”
“It’s a social event. By bringing them together we are widening their circle of acquaintances and if they later see one another they can say hi and have a chat.”
Jan, an employee of the Society’s Community and Corporate Relations Team and member is a recent recruit to the Task Force who started volunteering at the barbecues after she dropped off some Christmas toys to the Task Force headquarters in Redfern. Jan says, “When I came inside and saw the many volunteers I thought - these people know what they are doing.”
Siva adds that many guests also live in high rise housing blocks where they are sometimes subject to physical or verbal abuse. “If they get to meet and talk to other Redfern residents and if they are known to other guests at the barbecues, those guests might be able to recognise them and go to their aid [in such situations].”
Jan says she just likes being around people, and feeling the sense of community that comes with helping out in her neighborhood. “It’s very much like a family. It’s just about helping and being kind to people. You can make their day a bit happier,” she says. Siva says the barbecues are a chance for guests to socialise as many are new to the inner-city and don’t make friends easily. Guests discuss the latest in sport with volunteers who are amazed by their wealth of sporting knowledge. “They are often single people, living alone in small rooms in boarding houses. Coming to the barbecue is an outing for them. It’s something they look forward to,” Siva says. “For some, having a good meal is enough reason to come - but there are other reasons.”
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The need for the barbecue arose out of home visitation, the core work of the Redfern Task Force. Siva says, “It’s not the Vincentian way to sit in the office and get people to come to us - the whole idea is to make clients feel comfortable in their own surroundings.” “On home visits clients talk freely to us, and we get to understand their actual needs. Sometimes it’s not just material assistance that they need.” Evening visits are mostly conducted by young volunteers, who devote up to three hours after a normal working day. Siva muses that the Society was founded over 150 years ago by a group of young students, so it’s appropriate that young people are still a big part of the Society. “Often you hear people say that youth these days are too full of themselves, and don’t contribute to society but young people do want to volunteer if given the opportunity. The Redfern Task Force gives young people that opportunity,” he says. Many Redfern Task Force members were involved with the recent World Youth Day events, with over 20 overseas pilgrims attending the July barbecue. Some of the pilgrims even accompanied members on scheduled home visits. Siva says he and other senior members of the Task Force would like to see the younger volunteers gain enough confidence and experience to take over running the home visitation program in the inner city suburbs. “Not many people get the opportunity to do great things in their lifetime, but we do get opportunities to do small things that mean a lot in our day-to-day lives.” v
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Growing Works
newsletter
Welcome!
Reflective Resource
These pages are dedicated to our members and volunteers and their Growing Works. Please share with us your stories and ideas of how volunteers are being recruited, appreciated, and supported in the many good works they are involved with. Let us hear your ideas, news and views! Contact Kate Scholl Volunteer Development Coordinator E: kate.scholl@vinnies.org.au T: 9560 8666 F: 9564 3622
The Society’s official opening and closing prayers for meetings are available free of charge in a Power Point presentation created by Lisa Bright, NSW State Council Vice President for Youth. It is an inspiring collection of prayers with additional reflections. Included are suggestions for different ways the prayers can be used. Please contact Kate Scholl for a copy sent by email.
Community Resources The Volunteer Development Advisory Committee has created a template document for any Diocese, Region or Conference to insert local resources and referral information including a Community Resources Directory for Conference members to use in assisting clients to access relevant services. When the Society’s new intranet is ready, it will be available online for members. In the meantime Kate Scholl or your Diocesan VDAC member is happy to email it to you.
A taste of Vinnies:
Information at Springwood Margaret Smith organised an information evening at Springwood Parish in the Parramatta Diocese earlier this year. The purpose was to let people in the community know the many works of the St Vincent de Paul Society. There were 11 speakers who spoke about their experience of volunteering in services such as: Disaster Recovery; Budget Counselling; Family Holiday units; Retail Centres; Buddies Days; Kids Camps; Twinning; Home visitation; Food Bank; and the Door Knock appeal. In addition to increasing outreach, the event highlighted the variety of service opportunities available for potential volunteers.
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Do you need help with: Ideas for promoting your volunteer program and needs? Writing role descriptions for your volunteers to allow for more focused recruiting ? Considering new roles for additional volunteers in your service? Finding a group of people to help with a special project ? Evaluating your current volunteer program? Kate Scholl can help you if you would like assistance with any of these tasks. Phone (02) 9560 8666.
Summer 2008
Sharing news from the Volunteer Development Advisory Committee (VDAC)
Promoting what we do September Snippets in Glen Innes
The St Patrick’s Conference in Glen Innes selected September to raise the awareness of the Society in the parish and to encourage parishioners to consider becoming Conference members and/or Centre volunteers. September was chosen because of the feast days of Blessed Frederic Ozanam, 9th September, St Vincent de Paul, 27th September and Social Justice Sunday on 28th September. During the month they placed ‘Snippets from the St Vincent de Paul Society’ in the Mass Sheets. A copy of these are available from Kate Scholl. A special Mass celebrated on the feast of Blessed Frederic Ozanam, included great participation from many Conference Members and Centre Volunteers.
Campbelltown Appreciation Luncheon and Liturgy The Social Justice group from St Patricks College Campbelltown hosted a thank you lunch for Vinnies staff and volunteers in Macarthur on Friday 22nd August. They prepared a thank you liturgy and distributed personal letters of encouragement and gratitude to the Vincentian groups gathered and then provided a lunch complete with choral entertainment.
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Commissioning of Martin Coleman as Namoi Barwon Regional President with his wife, Janet Coleman and Bishop Luc Matthys in the Armidale Diocese.
Upcoming Events
International Volunteer Day 2008 Friday 5th December
International Volunteer Day (IVD) was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1985. IVD is now celebrated world wide with thousands of volunteers involved in a range of IVD initiatives including clean-up campaigns, conferences, exhibitions, morning teas and many other activities all aimed to highlight the role of volunteers in their communities. More information is available at: www.worldvolunteerweb.org
Volunteers Available
The St Vincent de Paul Society is registered with the volunteering network, Good Company. Good Company makes volunteering easy by matching the skills of professionals with the needs of community groups. It’s an efficient way of matching those who’d like to help with those who need their skills. Check out www.goodcompany.com. Kate Scholl can provide a password to register your volunteer wish.
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Events
Barbara Ryan, President, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW, addresses guests at the October 2008 Raceday.
T
he long-awaited Matthew Talbot Homeless Services Race Day was took place at Royal Randwick on Caulfield Cup Day, Saturday, 18 October 2008. Royal Randwick has made a grand come-back, having successfully hosted World Youth Day in July this year. Celebrating the 10th anniversary of this wellestablished event, the Oaks Lawn Marquee was filled to capacity with 560 guests, to welcome back an event lost last year to equine flu. Embracing a new lease on life, the AJC’s racing fraternity and supporters filled the air with an electricity which touched every race-goer and fashionista.
Steve O’Connor, long time Matthew Talbot Homeless Services volunteer, manages raffle ticket sales.
the St Vincent de Paul Society. With the face of homelessness changing and growing younger, Matthew Talbot Homeless Services offers a range of services and programs including guidance and support, life skills and education programs to help people regain their self-esteem and work toward independent living. With the St Vincent de Paul Society’s racing calendar back on track, we look forward to seeing you all at the Matthew Talbot Homeless Services Race Days in 2009. Thank you for your support.
The positive vibe and guests’ high spirits made for an unforgettable race day; and thanks to the generosity of Br Dan Stafford’s friends and supporters $55,718 was raised for the Matthew Talbot Homeless Services, a Special Work of
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Summer 2008
Spirituality
A Christmas
reflection from Bill Johnston, Spiritual Advisor, NSW State Council
The Long Christmas Dinner is a short one act play by the United States playwright and novelist, Thornton Wilder. At once lighthearted and serious, it reviews some ninety years of Christmas gatherings for the Bayard family. Eleven family members from four generations pass by the Christmas dinner table and we learn of births, deaths and marriages, happiness and sadness, including the death of a twin, Samuel, in World War II. As well as being a celebration of family, the play can be appreciated in a deeply spiritual sense. Christmas does not just come around once a year, while our lives go on in their usual way. We, like the Bayards, are on a constant changing journey of life; every recurring December 25th finds us somewhere new. The only constant is what Christmas signifies; the entry of Jesus, God made man, into human existence where he remains forever. The Christmas of the Bayards – our Christmas too – contrasts with that of the many of the people that the Society seeks to serve. Here is another view, from a mother, of what Christmas is: No Christmas for my children, No husband for my bed, No money for tomorrow, No place to lay my head, No tree with mounds of presents, No ornaments or lights, No smiles on Christmas morning, No feast on Christmas night, No toys to ease the boredom Of hours before closed doors, No family celebrations, No trips to crowded stores, No fireplace, no Santa, No games aglow with friends, No fire but feeble fury As Christmas slowly ends. For me I have no pity, My sorrow stronger proves, Because for my sweet children I’ve nothing but my love. (Nicholas Gordon)
May generosity and peace be the spirit of Christmas 2008. May all people experience the joy of family and community. May we know the loving presence of God in all the journeys that will be ours in 2009.
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For many ordinary Australians, food, clothing or shelter will be top of their list this year.
!
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