HELPING REWRITE THE FUTURE 2018/19 Annual Review / contents

CONTENTS

message from chair and executive officers 4 highlights 6 vision and mission 7 our core values 8 our funding focus areas 10 helping rewrite the future 12 case studies kaden centre 14 options theatre company 16 leukaemia foundation 18 cerebral palsy alliance 20 john hunter children’s hospital kids club 22 stroke foundation 24 batyr 26 veritas house 28 the chairman’s medal recipient 30 who we helped in 2018/19 32 governance 36 founders’ group 37 board of directors 38

Page 2 An accessible dinghy at the Toronto Branch of Sailability NSW / contents

An accessible dinghy at the Toronto Branch of Sailability NSW Page 3 / chair and executive officers

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS (L–R): Rebecca Wilson (Executive Officer), Phil Neat (Chair) and Graham Batten (Executive Officer). (Executive Batten Officer), (Chair) and Graham (Executive Wilson Neat Phil Rebecca (L–R):

To ask an organisation to review its vision is to question meaningful change for people in need. not only what that organisation stands for now, but This year, the Charitable Foundation was privileged what influence it desires to have next month, next year to partner with charitable organisations on 25 new and next decade. Newcastle Permanent Charitable projects that brought to life our vision for community Foundation’s perpetual funding model demands a clear good. Travelling throughout our NSW regional and distinctive vision, to ensure today’s actions and footprint, undoubtedly during one of the toughest decisions are focussed on positively shaping outcomes years for these communities, we have celebrated the that benefit our community’s future. launch of many diverse and life-changing initiatives that The 2018/19 financial year was an opportunity for the address important social issues now and for the future Charitable Foundation to revisit our vision, strategy across our three core focus areas of health, youth and and operating model. The review reaffirmed our social wellbeing. Projects, which commenced this year, belief in our mission, our grant-giving model and our included supporting carers for people with dementia, governance structure, but produced a defining new breaking the stigma of mental illness for young people vision expressed as: “Helping rewrite the future. Now. and providing expanded opportunities for people living And for generations to come.” with a disability. This new vision does not represent a major shift in The Charitable Foundation’s community grants for how we operate but reflects the maturity level of the the year, which involved two funding rounds, again Charitable Foundation’s grant-giving model after more totalled more than $1.5 million. This has brought our than 15 years. Our vision acknowledges the significant total community commitment over the past 15 years impact our grants can have when combined with to more than $19.9 million for 460 important charitable the shared vision of our funding partners to effect initiatives. Each project has displayed an unwavering

Page 4 / chair and executive officers

commitment to meaningful social change and the past Directors and Officers of the Foundation who have Charitable Foundation absolutely applauds these contributed greatly to our governance, operations and charity partners, their staff and volunteers for their community over the past 15 years. commitment, determination, innovation and spirit that The Charitable Foundation Board and management have made these initiatives possible. acknowledge the most significant operational support Defining our new vision has presented an opportunity provided by Newcastle Permanent that facilitates to take some of these stories to the wider community. the maximum use of our fund for charitable grants. In March, the Charitable Foundation launched a new Special thanks also must be extended to Newcastle campaign that has demonstrated the life-changing Permanent staff, who are our advocates and share the impact of these projects. Thank you to the individuals passion for improving the future for those in need in our and families who shared their stories to portray and community. represent the thousands of people whose futures we’ve Our new vision gives the Charitable Foundation a helped to rewrite since 2003. renewed focus on the future, as we continue working Executive Officer, Graham Batten took an extended with charity partners on our shared belief for a brighter break during the year to spend time with family. future of healthy, connected and resilient Australian Rebecca Wilson joined the Charitable Foundation regional communities. as Acting Executive Officer for that period when she brought fresh talent, eyes and enthusiasm, and was instrumental in the delivery of our new branding campaign. Phil Neat Chair The Charitable Foundation Board of Directors welcomed new faces, with Kurt Fearnley and Chad Watson joining, bringing with them Board renewal, new insights and perspectives. Sadly, we farewelled long-standing Board members, Julie Ainsworth and Graham Batten Executive Officer David Shanley who retired following years of valuable and committed contribution. All Charitable Foundation Directors over the past 15 years have voluntarily given their time, skills, wise counsel, and commitment. In May, Rebecca Wilson Executive Officer the Founder’s Group was announced to recognise those (October 2018 – February 2019)

Page 5 / highlights

HIGHLIGHTS OF 2018/19

Over $1.56 million given in grants in 2018 /19

$19.9 million in funding since 2003

25 projects funded in 2018/19, making a total of 460 since 2003

Page 6 / vision and mission

VISION Helping rewrite the future. Now. And for generations to come.

MISSION To help people who are disadvantaged, marginalised or isolated and support social opportunity and development in our Australian regional communities.

Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation For us, in addition to the $30 million endowment, was created more than15 years ago as a gift from our resources and operational costs to manage the Newcastle Permanent Building Society to the day-to-day activities of the Charitable Foundation community. are an ongoing gift to the community from Newcastle Permanent Building Society. This gift, in the form of a $30 million endowment over time, is never to be returned to Newcastle Under our model we focus on funding initiatives Permanent Building Society. Instead, these funds and programs that deliver immediate outcomes have been invested to generate an ongoing income, to ensure the maximum benefit is received by our such as interest. Each year the income earned from local communities. This means we don’t support this endowment is presented as grants to our local multi-year projects. If a project is worthy, or can be communities: in 2018/19 we provided more than $1.5 extended further into the community, we encourage million in grants. the charitable group to apply for another grant in a future funding round. We’re not reliant on a parent company’s annual profits to fund our grants. This means that, even This financial year, we reached a total $19.9 million in the tough years, we will continue to provide provided in community grants since 2003. We meaningful support to important social causes in believe our funding model delivers sustainable our community. Our perpetual model means we’ll and successful long-term outcomes for our local keep doing this today and for future generations. communities.

Page 7 / our core values

OUR CORE VALUES

Our core values are the beliefs, traits and behavioural outcomes which guide our pursuit of our vision and mission.

WE DO THIS THROUGH: Supporting projects and initiatives that address disadvantage, marginalisation, or isolation of people in regional NSW communities. Supporting projects that maximise the opportunity to improve the lives of people in need, of all ages, in our regional NSW communities. Supporting innovative technology which benefits the lives of disadvantaged, marginalised, and isolated people in regional NSW communities. Supporting opportunities for youth to develop as outstanding Australian citizens. Supporting projects that are not able to attract government or corporate sponsorship funding and support. Recognising and supporting the invaluable contribution made to our community by volunteers. Being an advocate for Australian regional communities and the endeavours we support.

Page 8 Early Links program participant / our core values

Page 9 / our funding focus areas

OUR FUNDING FOCUS AREAS

The Charitable Foundation funds projects that directly benefit those most in need in our community. We seek to support projects that are sustainable over the long term or deliver an enduring community benefit beyond the funding period.

Page 10 Musicians Making a Difference (MMAD) participant / our funding focus areas

OUR THREE AREAS OF FOCUS FOR FUNDING ARE: Health Social Wellbeing Projects that provide improved health outcomes for We support projects that provide improved social the most disadvantaged, isolated and vulnerable in wellbeing for the most disadvantaged, marginalised our community, with a priority for: or isolated in our community. We: projects that use new technology to deliver assist socially disadvantaged people improved health services to regional areas, in our community to build new skills, initiatives that improve health awareness facilitate marginalised and isolated groups to and resources in regional communities and build social connections, and disadvantaged groups, help communities build resilience through initiatives that support good mental health social infrastructure, connectedness and in regional communities, and healthy lifestyle. projects that address key health issues for Eight grants totalling $432,926 regional communities. 10 grants totalling $585,000

Young People We support projects that provide improved life outcomes for marginalised and at-risk young people in our community. We: support early intervention initiatives for childhood education, development, and wellbeing, facilitate remediation, development and mentoring for disadvantaged and disengaged youth, and assist initiatives that support youth mental health in regional communities. Seven grants totalling $543,000

Page 11 / helping rewrite the future HELPING REWRITE THE FUTURE

Page 12 / helping rewrite the future

NOW. AND FOR GENERATIONS TO COME. The way the Charitable Foundation is set-up, and our funding model, means we’re committed to not just helping our community today, we’re also committed to helping our community for future generations. Our mission is to help people who are disadvantaged, marginalised or isolated, and support social opportunity and development in our Australian regional communities. During the past 15 years we’ve seen first-hand that people who are disadvantaged, marginalised or isolated, can sometimes feel they have a pre- determined future. Through a grant from Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation, we’ve been able to help these people overcome challenges, find connections, unlock opportunities and live a life they once didn’t think possible. We’re helping rewrite the future. Now. And for generations to come. Our case studies illustrate how a grant from the Charitable Foundation can change a life for good and help rewrite a brighter, better future.

Page 13 / kaden centre

KADEN CENTRE Helping people with cancer regain their strength and independence $63,000

Page 14 Loukas Nadiotis, exercise physician and Linda Pompe, program participant / kaden centre

It was only a few weeks after Christmas with her family when Linda discovered an abnormal lump in her EXERCISE HAS breast. Tests a short time later confirmed her worst fears and the mother of three was diagnosed with GIVEN ME lobular breast cancer. INDEPENDENCE Three months later, she had undergone surgery and decided to start chemotherapy and radiation made possible by a $63,000 grant from the Charitable treatment due to the aggressive nature of the cancer. Foundation, which was used to expand the floor space When her doctor told her about the Kaden Centre, a and purchase important specialised gym equipment. facility offering targeted exercise programs for people Being able to control part of their recovery and regain experiencing all stages of cancer, she knew it was some independence is an important sentiment echoed something she wanted to be part of. by many clients at the Kaden Centre, including Linda. “Once I heard about the Kaden Centre and the medical “I’ve achieved so many milestones and seen instant evidence of how exercise can help with treatment and progress since coming here – not just physically, but help reduce the reoccurrence rate, I got in touch and also mentally. Seeing the results from the effort you put have been coming ever since,” Linda said. in and being part of such a supportive environment is really rewarding,” Linda said. “It’s an amazing establishment with dedicated staff that tailor the exercise programs according to every To capture the resilient nature of the clients that come individual’s treatment and ability. Instead of looking through her doors, Suzanne chose the name Kaden for too far into the future, it helps me focus on how I can the Centre as it means fighter or warrior and the logo is influence the treatment I’m getting now by helping my the Greek symbol of strength. cells generate a positive and healthy outcome.” “I’m so proud of the Centre and what our clients achieve here. The Charitable Foundation helped us Established in 2018 by three-time cancer survivor, to grow to where we are today. Without the grant, Suzanne Clark-Pitrolo, the Centre is helping hundreds we would have had to start knocking people back,” of people stay fit and healthy throughout their cancer Suzanne said. journey. kadencentre.org.au “My own treatment left me so physically depleted that I couldn’t even get up out of a chair,” Suzanne said. “I began researching the benefits of exercise on cancer recovery, but couldn’t find any facilities that catered to

my needs, so I decided to do something about it.” The Centre has grown from just three clients to welcoming more than 200 appointments per week,

Page 15 / options theatre company

OPTIONS THEATRE COMPANY Community Performance Space Development $80,000

Page 16 Nathan Parker, participant, Options Theatre Company / options theatre company

At school Nathan didn’t know how to fit in and Options Theatre Company is a living, breathing, struggled as he often felt left out and like he didn’t theatrical training facility with a unique ensemble of belong. After finishing school, Nathan found an over 200 creatives, including actors, technicians, inclusive and supportive collective at Options Theatre musicians, directors, dancers and artists with Company, a unique ensemble of artists, performers disability. and creatives with a disability. By creating a safe space for those with a disability, Since joining the ranks of Options Theatre Company, Options Theatre Company has fostered a Nathan has overcome adversity to rewrite his future. collaborative and supportive environment where This path of self-discovery has changed Nathan’s life. fellow artists have been able to discover new skills, When he first started at Options Theatre Company, form strong friendships and gain a sense of belonging Nathan had no idea he had singing, dancing and that they may have never experienced previously. acting abilities. “We focus on people’s abilities; what they can do. Under the guidance of professional coaches, and The theatre company is about finding a way to with the support of his peers, Nathan learnt to sing, leverage the abilities they do have, to tell their story,” dance, and act for the first time in his life. He began Stuart Smith, Artistic Director of Options Theatre live performances with the Company and built the Company said. confidence to be the star of the show. He now radiates Options Theatre Company has received two grants joy as a natural entertainer. from the Charitable Foundation totalling more than $80,000. These grants have funded the purchase and installation of a professional, industry-standard theatrical lighting rig, retractable, configurable NOW I’M seating for up to 100 people and the fit-out of a box THE STAR OF office and café. THE SHOW optionstheatrecompany.org.au

“Now I can make people smile and laugh. I really surprised myself. I could never do that at school. My future looks amazing now,” Nathan said.

Page 17 / leukaemia foundation

LEUKAEMIA FOUNDATION / Young Bloods program $65,000

Page 18 Danica Williams, participant in the Young Bloods Program, Leukaemia Foundation / leukaemia foundation

Danica was a busy and active teenager; she was a good student and played touch football, netball, was a member of the Umina Surf Life Saving Club and NOW I’M had been accepted into the Central Coast Academy of Sport for netball umpiring. Danica began to notice BACK ON that things just weren’t quite right; she regularly felt unwell, couldn’t concentrate and was continually MY FEET fatigued. myeloma, live a better quality of life. They assist After two years of misdiagnosis and at barely 18 families across regional and rural Australia to attend years old she was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin life saving treatment at major hospitals by providing lymphoma. There was an immediate feeling of transport and accommodation for appointments, and relief that there was finally a name for the change ensuring they can get the medicines needed to beat to Danica’s health, but the sensation of relief quickly the blood cancer. moved to complete devastation. Since 2007 Leukaemia Foundation has received “I was barely 18 and I wasn’t meant to survive,” $261,000 from the Charitable Foundation of which Danica said. $65,000 assisted the Young Bloods program. Danica’s chemotherapy treatment left her so weak Young Bloods helps those aged under 25 with a she could barely breathe, let alone walk, and she blood cancer, or affected by a blood cancer, to overcome their life changing circumstances, by became severely underweight and deconditioned. providing services such as psychologists, academic Following her treatment the Leukaemia Foundation, tutoring, personal training or any other support they through its Young Bloods program funded by the may need. Charitable Foundation, provided a specialised exercise physiologist who worked with her by helping leukaemia.org.au to rebuild Danica’s strength and lung capacity. Danica defied the odds of her diagnosis and is now active again. She runs regularly and has completed her qualifications as a metaphysical healer. She now manages her own business helping others to lead their best life. “Through the Young Bloods program, I felt like I was able to get back on my feet and start living a normal life,” Danica said. The Leukaemia Foundation is the only national organisation dedicated to helping those with blood cancers, such as leukaemia, lymphoma and

Page 19 / cerebral palsy alliance

CEREBRAL PALSY ALLIANCE / Wizzybug program $66,300

Page 20 Carter Goodwin, participant, Cerebral Palsy Alliance and his brother Hudson Goodwin / cerebral palsy alliance

The rollercoaster for Alex and Sam started when their twins, Carter and Milla, arrived early at 34 and a half weeks. The twins entered the world strong NOW THERE’S and healthy but at three days old, they contracted a virus in hospital. While Milla fully recovered, Carter NO STOPPING acquired a brain injury. Carter’s cerebral palsy is the result of this brain injury CARTER and he lives with tight muscles causing mobility Cerebral Palsy Alliance helps people of all ages who impairment. He also has vision impairment and is are living with neurological and physical disabilities non-verbal. This means that Carter needs support to so they can lead the most comfortable, independent do many things that others can do independently. and inclusive lives possible. Since 2011 Cerebral Palsy Carter’s brother, sister and neighbours love to ride Alliance has received $256,000 from the Charitable their bikes in the street, but Carter could only sit and Foundation, of which more than $60,000 has watch as his impairment made it difficult for him to allowed families such as Carter’s to access specialist join in. With help from the Cerebral Palsy Alliance and equipment including the Wizzybug. Now kids like the Charitable Foundation, Carter has access to the Carter are supported to join in all the fun with their ‘Wizzybug’, a first wheelchair for kids that resembles family and friends. an adorable ladybug. The Wizzybug allows Carter to cerebralpalsy.org.au join in with his siblings when they’re riding their bikes or playing active games. The Charitable Foundation’s gift of Wizzybugs to Cerebral Palsy Alliance enables Carter to explore and develop his spatial awareness and fine motor skills. “I have no doubt Carter will achieve everything he wants to in life, but this wouldn’t be possible without technology like the Wizzybug”, said Carter’s dad, Alex.

Page 21 / john hunter children’s hospital kids club

JOHN HUNTER CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL KIDS CLUB / NICview $240,000

Page 22 Baby Pople, NICview participant / john hunter children’s hospital kids club

Erin and Brett from Cessnock, NSW were delighted While Erin and Brett knew their children were in the very when they found out they were expecting twins. It was a best of hands with the experienced NICU staff, it was particularly complicated and tough pregnancy for Erin difficult being separated from the twins. With the help with many hospital visits and trips to the obstetrician, of NICview, Erin and Brett were able to log in and watch which being an hour’s drive from home resulted in a lot their babies from home, or anywhere. of time off work. NICview is a special webcam set up on all John Hunter At 31 weeks, Erin was admitted to hospital with Children’s Hospital NICU cribs. Families can use their complications and the twins were delivered personal devices such as a mobile phone to securely prematurely. The twins were immediately transferred log in and watch their babies from miles away. These to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the cameras help parents bond with their baby or babies, John Hunter Children’s Hospital in Newcastle, where relieving the anxiety and stress caused by separation. they stayed for several weeks. John Hunter Children’s For Erin and Brett, this connection to their twins was Hospital is the major neonatal centre for the Hunter, immeasurable. “NICview allowed us to log in and watch New England and Mid North Coast regions, providing over our baby boys when we couldn’t be with them. It support to regional families, many of whom similar to made a world of difference being able to see them from Erin and Brett, live hours away. miles away,” Erin said. The Charitable Foundation has provided almost $240,000 to the John Hunter Children’s Hospital Kids WE COULD Club for the installation of NICview camera systems on every crib at John Hunter Children’s Hospital NICU. Up WATCH OVER to 1,200 families rely on NICview each year, making it a vital piece of technology for families to log in from THEM FROM home and connect with their babies. MILES AWAY hnekidshealth.nsw.gov.au It was heartbreaking for Erin and Brett leaving their new babies in the NICU when Erin was discharged from hospital. Knowing they had to get in the car and drive home, away from their precious babies, was incredibly hard. There were lots of tears driving home from the hospital the first time. They just wanted to turn around and go back to their babies, who required more time in NICU to grow and get stronger.

Page 23 / stroke foundation

STROKE FOUNDATION / StrokeSafe Ambassador Program for Regional and Rural NSW $40,000

Page 24 Bob Carnaby, Stroke Foundation spokesperson / stroke foundation

Bob’s wake-up call came not long after his own brother-in-law suffered a major stroke that left him paralysed down his right side and unable to NOW I USE MY communicate. EXPERIENCE “My brother-in-law had been brushing his teeth when he suddenly dropped his toothbrush. We didn’t know it at the time, but he had suffered a TO HELP transient ischaemic attack (TIA), which was like the tremor before an earthquake. Three weeks later OTHERS he had a major stroke and he’s now permanently “The support from the Newcastle Permanent incapacitated,” Bob said. Charitable Foundation allowed us to expand “Seeing what he went through and knowing about the StrokeSafe Speaker program into Tamworth, my own medical condition, I gave up alcohol, Armidale, Coffs Harbour and Grafton and continue changed my diet and started exercising to try and our mission to prevent stroke, save lives and enhance reduce my chances of having a stroke.” Bob has since recovery,” Rhian said. lost 16 kilograms and his blood pressure is now in Since undergoing training, Bob has delivered normal range. more than 20 Stroke Safe talks in his hometown of It was during research into his own condition that Grafton, and to groups as far spread as Bellingen and he came across an opportunity with the Stroke Woodburn. Foundation to raise awareness and educate others “My job as a Speaker is to spread the message about about the warning signs of stroke. how to spot the potentially life saving F.A.S.T. (Face. “I saw that the Stroke Foundation was recruiting for Arms.Speech.Time) signs of stroke and call triple zero the StrokeSafe Speaker program to help spread the (000) at the first sign. It’s been a humbling experience message about what stroke is, how to recognise it and I’ve met some great people out of it,” Bob said. and how to prevent it,” Bob said. strokefoundation.org.au “I wanted to be a part of it and help others based on my own experience.” Bob attended a training session at the end of last year in Tamworth that was funded by Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation. Stroke Foundation State Manager, Rhian Paton-Kelly, said the grant helped broaden the reach of potentially life-saving stroke messages across regional NSW.

Page 25 / batyr

BATYR Finding a voice to speak out about mental health $50,000

Page 26 batyr program participants / batyr

When cancer took the life of Tom’s stepmum, Karen, he became increasingly withdrawn and began experiencing NOW I HAVE mental ill-health at the age of just 16. Although he didn’t know it at the time, Tom struggled THE VOICE TO with depression for almost a year before he finally recognised he wasn’t coping. SPEAK UP “Depression interfered with my relationships to family and friends. I found no joy in anything – sport, my “Organisations like batyr are so important because they mates, uni, nothing. I hated being around people but create a safe and open dialogue about mental ill-health also hated being by myself. I was isolated in my own and provide young people with the information on head. I always felt so awkward and uncomfortable in my how to access various support services so they can own skin,” Tom said. speak out.” After reaching out to his dad, Tom received help from his Currently living in Finland to complete a Master’s degree in Education and Globalisation, Tom is making good doctor and started accessing support services. mental health an ongoing priority and is excited by what “My world started to change the minute I told someone. his future holds. It was a burden that was no longer mine,” Tom “Karen has become more important to me as the years explained. “I’m lucky to have a close-knit group of friends have passed because it’s only when I reflect that I can see and the best family in the world. I know I can be myself the impact she had on my life. Despite her diagnosis and with them and tell them whenever I’m feeling down.” declining health, she found the money to send me to a During his journey to recovery, Tom learnt to speak different school to finish Year 12 and even enrolled me in about his experience in public after attending a Being a university course without me knowing,” Tom said. Herd workshop with batyr, a for-purpose organisation “I wasn’t going to finish Year 10. Now all of a sudden I’m that aims to reduce the stigma around mental health and in Finland doing a Master’s. Without her I wouldn’t be increase help-seeking rates among young Australians. where I am today. I’m hoping this degree will allow me to A $50,000 grant from the Newcastle Permanent come home and make positive contributions to regional Charitable Foundation helped batyr to deliver 11 school Australia,” Tom said. programs and train six Being Herd speakers, including batyr.com.au Tom, across the Central West region of NSW. “It was always daunting getting in front of 200 Year 10s and telling them my hardest moments, but I genuinely think hearing someone else speaking about their journey would have helped me understand that it was ok to feel sad or scared,” Tom said.

Page 27 / veritas house

VERITAS HOUSE / Transitional housing for homeless youth $50,000

Page 28 Program participant / veritas house

Each year in the Bathurst region, Veritas House assists over 150 young people aged 16-24 who are homeless. Many are escaping violent or abusive domestic NOW I’M IN environments and have no option but to leave home. Youth homelessness is often invisible to the general CONTROL OF community as young people couch surf from place to place to avoid sleeping rough. Having no fixed MY FUTURE address makes it difficult to get a job, find permanent The current unit was purchased in 2014 and was in accommodation or have a normal social life. desperate need of a renovation. The kitchen was over Veritas House helps to break the cycle of homelessness, 30 years old and the furnishings had seen better days. by providing accommodation in a self-contained unit Operating the unit on a non-commercial basis meant for a six month period to young people transitioning Veritas House did not have the funding to improve from a homeless refuge. The unit is rented to the young the home as extensively as they would have liked, person at below market rate and they are provided with and so applied for a Newcastle Permanent Charitable support to learn about managing their finances as well Foundation Grant. as home management skills. For many tenants, just like A $50,000 grant from the Charitable Foundation ‘Annie’, the unit is the first home where they have been enabled the unit to be fully renovated to include a able to feel safe. new kitchen, bathroom and laundry as well as new At the end of the lease, Veritas House provides a furnishings. The result is a unit that will benefit rental reference which assists them to secure long term the Bathurst community by helping to break the cycle accommodation in Bathurst’s highly competitive rental of homelessness and disadvantage for generations market. to come. Annie has no doubt that without the help of Veritas veritashouse.org.au House her life would be very different to the one that she has now. “I am now working, completed my studies and have a place of my own. I now feel I have more control of my future,” Annie said.

Page 29 / the chairman’s medal recipient

THE CHAIRMAN’S MEDAL RECIPIENT / Carolyn Comyns, Autoimmune Resource Research Centre Inc. (ARRC) Volunteer

Page 30 Carolyn Comyns, ARRC volunteer / the chairman’s medal recipient

Joint pain, muscle pain and fatigue are just some of the day-to-day symptoms that Carolyn Comyns lives with since being diagnosed with lupus in 2008. NOW I Despite her condition, Carolyn has spent the last 11 years volunteering with the Autoimmune Resource CAN KEEP and Research Centre (ARRC), providing support and strategies to other people living with a range of HELPING autoimmune diseases. In recognition of her invaluable work with ARRC, she OTHERS was awarded the Newcastle Permanent Charitable charitable organisation for further volunteer Foundation’s 2019 Chairman’s Medal. development. Established by the Charitable Foundation in 2018 “I don’t like to draw attention to myself, but I’m also to honour the late Michael Slater, who was both very pleased for the funds to be going to ARRC for the Chairman of Newcastle Permanent Building Society excellent work that they do. It will allow them to reach and Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation more people, to pass on more information and guide for almost 10 years, the Medal acknowledges the others through their journey,” Carolyn said. contribution of an outstanding individual volunteer to Relying purely on grants and hard-working volunteers their organisation’s work and the community. like Carolyn, ARRC aims to improve the quality of life Helping with everything from fundraising and for people living with autoimmune diseases through administration, to selling patient wellness products and education, support, advocacy and access to the latest distributing fact sheets, Carolyn is also the main contact therapeutic strategies. for ARRC’s Café Conversation group in Newcastle ARRC CEO, Dr Marline Squance, said Carolyn is where members can share their experiences and social instrumental to the organisation. times together. “I was so excited when I heard that Carolyn was “There are so many people out there who don’t have being acknowledged for the work that she does. Her the support that I have and it’s an ongoing thing. There’s empathy with other people living with autoimmune always enjoyment when you get a group of women illness allows her to ease the worries of new patients. together, we have a chat and a laugh,” Carolyn said. She has the ability to help people find their way forward “It’s helped me too. It’s made me go out, talk to people after a diagnosis,” Marline said. and mix with new people. I’ve always done some The Medal is presented annually during National volunteer work, but it does make a difference to mix Volunteer Week in May to a volunteer from a charity that with others – it keeps a smile on your face.” has previously received funding from the Charitable Along with a medal, the Charitable Foundation Foundation. also provides a $3,000 cash grant to the recipient’s autoimmune.org.au/

Page 31 / who we helped in 2018/19

WHO WE HELPED IN 2018/19

ALL REGIONS University of Newcastle Out(fit) will design, engineer and build a custom community engagement truck to Health $123,000 Out(fit) engage with, and help improve the shared community spaces within disadvantaged communities. Cystic Fibrosis This grant will enable the Breathe Better 2 project to provide critical equipment Health $74,000 Community Care and access to a suitable fitness program for young people and adults affected by cystic fibrosis, helping to reduce hospitalisations and improving quality of life. Musicians Making a MMAD will continue production of its unique Rhyme & Reason podcast series Youth $50,000 Difference (MMAD) into its second season, and develop a supporting app to help young people overcome personal challenges through relevant and engaging content and practical resources. KIDS Foundation The KIDS Foundation will roll out its SeeMore Safety educational program, aligned Youth $98,000 to the Early Years Learning Framework, to 650 child care centres and pre-schools throughout rural and regional NSW.

Page 32 /who we helped in 2018/19

HUNTER, CENTRAL WEST, MID NORTH COAST Cerebral Palsy Alliance A grant to purchase three state-of-the-art virtual magic carpets to create a virtual Health $71,000 world of inclusive play possibilities is set to revolutionise occupational therapy outcomes for children living with cerebral palsy. CareFlight This grant will enable CareFlight to purchase an ambulance-style vehicle to Health $128,000 transport 3,000 patients each year from Newcastle Airport to John Hunter Hospital and home again, connecting patients in regional areas with the specialist medical treatment they need. Compass Housing Expansion of Compass Housing’s GROW a Star program with 25 scholarships to Youth $55,000 be delivered to young people in Compass’ Dubbo, Taree, Cessnock and Singleton communities. Family Planning NSW This grant will enable disability sector training to develop the skills of workers and Social $50,000 teachers in delivering sexuality education that is evidence-based, positive and relevant to the lives of people with intellectual disability, improving decision-making and self-protection skills.

HUNTER The Kaden Centre The Kaden Centre will refurbish and expand its facility in Warabrook which provides Health $63,000 an exercise and wellness space for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Waves of Wellness WOW will purchase a new vehicle and expand its surf therapy programs to the Health $58,000 Foundation Hunter and North Coast regions of NSW, providing support for more people suffering from mental health challenges. Hunter Women’s Centre Funding for a pilot therapeutic group program for women who have been victims of Social $22,000 childhood sexual abuse. SHINE for Kids SHINE for Kids will expand their RISE Education Program to help support children Youth $55,000 Cooperative with incarcerated parents in the Hunter, providing programs and support to encourage children to have a positive engagement with education and help break the cycle of intergenerational reoffending. Hunter Medical This grant will help HMRI attract, support and retain young researchers to become Youth $75,000 Research Institute top scientific leaders and specialists in research discoveries and developments, with a focus on improving health and wellbeing in regional communities.

CENTRAL COAST Central Coast Kids in Funding to help 100 disadvantaged families care for their seriously ill or injured Health $44,000 Need child by providing specialised pharmaceutical or equipment support through the Born to Live program. The Pyjama Foundation Pyjama Foundation will expand their Love of Learning program into the Hunter and Youth $24,000 Central Coast regions, helping change the educational future of children in the foster care system.

Page 33 / who we helped in 2018/19 WHO WE HELPED IN 2018/19 Continued

CENTRAL WEST Housing Plus Construction of a secure playground for children escaping domestic violence. Youth $ 77,92 6 Veritas House This grant will enable the refurbishment of Veritas House’s transition housing Youth $50,000 Incorporated unit which provides accommodation and support services for more than 150 of Bathurst’s most vulnerable young people aged 16-24.

NEW ENGLAND Life Education NSW Upgrade for Life Education NSW’s Northern Mobile Learning Centre serving schools Youth $22,000 throughout the New England and North West of NSW.

NORTHERN RIVERS MacKillop Family Redevelop the Seasons for Growth program to specifically cater to young people Youth $70,000 Services in out of home care. The pilot in the Northern Rivers region will provide vulnerable young people in care with access to a safe space where they can process their loss and grief among trained companions, helping to improve their mental health and social wellbeing. Mental Health Support A large van to transport donated household supplies for people affected by mental Social $60,000 Group illness in the Northern Rivers Region. Ballina Community Fit out a new Men’s Shed with state-of-the-art equipment, in order to engage Social $128,000 Men’s Shed more men in the community and provide worthwhile projects and social bonds for them to improve their overall health and wellbeing. The Buttery The Buttery will help establish a pilot follow-up program for 12 months after Social $58,000 participants with addiction and mental health issues complete the Buttery’s CORE day program, supporting participants in the community and reducing the rate of relapse.

Page 34 /who we helped in 2018/19

The KIDS Foundation received $98,000 in funding Page 35 / governance

GOVERNANCE

On its 100th anniversary in 2003, Newcastle Permanent created the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation as a gift to the community. Newcastle Permanent Community Foundation Company Ltd is the trustee of the Foundation and is represented by a Board of Directors, comprising representatives of the Newcastle Permanent Board and appointed Community Directors. The Charitable Foundation Board elects its own Chair. The Charitable Foundation is classified as a Private Ancillary Fund (PAF) and is regulated by the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profit Commission (ACNC). The Charitable Foundation provides more than $1.5 million annually in grants to eligible not-for-profit community organisations across the Hunter, Central Coast, Central West, Mid North Coast, New England and Northern Rivers regions of NSW. The Board meets at least four times each year and has responsibility to set and monitor the Charitable Foundation’s strategic direction, guide its financial, risk and investment decisions, ensure compliance with the Charitable Foundation’s Trust Deed, guidelines and taxation and other legislation, and to approve funding of charitable grants. Newcastle Permanent Building Society has endowed $30 million to the Charitable Foundation to administer within the guidelines of its own governing rules, character and strategic plan. The Charitable Foundation has invested the funds from Newcastle Permanent so as to generate an income stream that is used to support worthy and important community projects and initiatives into the future. Operational support is provided by Newcastle Permanent under a defined administrative services agreement.

Page 36 / founders’ group

FOUNDERS’ GROUP

The Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation Founders’ Group was established in 2019 to acknowledge those people who have made a significant contribution to the Charitable Foundation’s development over the years and, in doing so, help write our future. The first inductees of the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation Founders’ Group are: • Mr Barrie Lewis – inaugural Charitable Foundation Chair & Director (2003-2015) • Mr Michael MacDonald – Charitable Foundation Chair & Director (2004-2007) • The late Air Vice Marshall Jack Cornish (Ret) – former Newcastle Permanent Chair and Director and inaugural Charitable Foundation Community Director (2004-2007) • The late Michael Slater – Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation Chair (2007-2016) & Director (2017) • Ms Samantha Martin-Williams – Community Director & then NPBS appointed Director (2014-2017) • Ms Julie Ainsworth – Community Director (2012-2019) • The late Karen Brown – first Foundation Manager (2003-2005) • Mr Jason Bourke – first Foundation Executive Officer (2005-2016)

Page 37 / board of directors

BOARD OF DIRECTORS (L–R): Phil Neat (Chair), David Shanley, Chad Watson, Jennifer Leslie, Mike Rabbitt and Kurt Fearnley. Rabbitt Mike Leslie, Jennifer Chad Watson, Shanley, (Chair), David Neat Phil (L–R):

CHAIR Philip (Phil) J. Neat MBA, MAICD, FAMI, CPM, GIA (Cert) Board member since July 2003 Phil has been the Chair of Newcastle Permanent Community Foundation Company Ltd since March 2017 and a Director since 2003. Phil is also a Director of Newcastle Permanent Building Society Ltd and is the former Chair of the Risk Management and Remuneration Committees of that Board. Phil was an adviser for more than 30 years to major Australian and international corporations involved in the infrastructure, property development and resource/mining sectors. He had a background in journalism before establishing his own consultancy business. Awards: NSW Olympic Council Order of Merit.

Page 38 / board of directors

DIRECTORS Jennifer M. Leslie Julie C. Ainsworth Mike F. Rabbitt BCom, CFP, FCA (Aust) –FPS, Board member March 2012 – OAM, JP MAICD, TFASFA March 2019 Board member since Board member since March 2017 Julie was a Director of the company November 2007 Jennifer has a well-established until her retirement from the Board Mike has more than 30 years’ career forged in the Hunter region, in March 2019. Julie has more than experience in media, marketing including over 14 years as the four decades of management and community services roles. inaugural Managing Director of experience in the newspaper media He was Lead Sports Presenter Pitcher Partners Newcastle and industry and was the first female and Promotions Manager for Hunter Wealth Management from General Manager of Newcastle NBN Television between 1993 which she retired in 2019. Jennifer Newspapers Pty Ltd. Julie is involved and 2014. Mike and has served, is also a Director of Newcastle in a large number of local boards and continues to serve, on a and committees in a voluntary Permanent Building Society Ltd and number of committees and boards capacity and has a personal passion Newcastle Friendly Society Ltd and of community organisations in supporting the disadvantaged in is former Director of the Hillross throughout regional NSW including the community. Julie is a past winner the Central Coast Academy of Advisors Association, Mai Wel of the Newcastle & Hunter Woman Ltd and a former Advisory Board of Enterprise Award and TAFE Alumni Sports, and Newcastle Rugby Member of the Maitland-Newcastle Contribution to the Community League. Mike is a life member of Catholic Development Fund. Award, and was the Newcastle/ Hunter Academy of Sport and Hunter nominee for the Woman of current Chairman of Merewether David E. Shanley the Year NSW State Award on two Carlton Rugby Club Foundation BCom, CFP, GAICD, GIA (Cert) occasions. Board member since July 2015 Chad L. Watson David was a Director of the Kurt Fearnley Board member since January 2019 company until his retirement from AO BEd (HMvt) Chad is the managing editor of the Board in July 2019. David has Board member since August 2018 Australian Community Media’s more than 35 years’ experience Kurt is a three-time Paralympic Gold NSW Central group of print and in the finance sector with a Medallist in wheelchair racing and online publications. Chad has background in the building society has won the prestigious New York, exceptionally strong links with and credit union industries. For London and Chicago marathons the Hunter and regional NSW more than 25 years he has been an multiple times. communities, and is passionate advisor to personal and corporate Kurt is a passionate disability about championing issues, clients on technical financial advocate and devotes himself to a highlighting successes and planning issues. David was also a number of national and Hunter- providing equal access to services Director of Newcastle Permanent based charitable initiatives. He is a within regional communities. Building Society Ltd and Newcastle Director of the Australian Paralympic Chad holds many community Friendly Society Ltd until his Committee and a former Director of leadership roles, including being retirement from the Boards of those Australian Volunteers International. an ambassador for White Ribbon, companies in July 2019. Kurt’s exploits both in and out of a Board member of Got Your Back sport saw him recognised as the Sista and is part of Mindframe’s 2009 NSW Young Australian of the national group advising on the Year and the 2019 NSW Australian media portrayal of suicide and of the Year. mental illness.

Page 39 charitablefoundation.com.au facebook.com/charitablefoundation linkedin.com/company/charitablefoundation

Newcastle Permanent Community Foundation Company Ltd ABN 79 092 437 379 as Trustee for Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation