Ron’s Gazette

MAY and JUNE 2018

Supporting Tuart Place, 24 High St, Fremantle, WA Ph 08-6140-2380 Freecall 1800-619-795 or Email: [email protected] Web: www.tuartplace.org

All who were in out-of-home care during childhood are cordially invited to gather at Tuart Place each Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9am to 4-30pm.

T U A R T “Together we build Understanding, Acceptance, Respect and Trust. “When given appropriate care and nurturing, the Tuart Tree can stand strong and care for itself even through hard times”

FORGOTTEN AUSTRALIANS COMING TOGETHER INC. (FACT)

This newsletter is produced by Ron Love, a Forgotten Australian, Chairman of Forgotten Australians Coming Together Inc, FACT, an Ambassador for Forgotten Australians and is active in working to further the interests of all people who experienced out-of-home care during childhood.

Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the , and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” “Drop-In Day” is on Mondays at Tuart Place ALL TUART PLACE SERVICES ARE FREE Drop-In to Tuart Place and share the enjoyment of the happy 2018 with others. All who were in out-of-home care as a child in the last century are welcome to gather each Monday, Wednesday and Thursday at TUART PLACE, 24 High St, in Fremantle. Tuart Place courteously offers a friendly service to all who choose to drop in and visit. That’s a great reason to drop in with a friend or two, enjoy a relaxing cuppa and a chat in the friendly, family atmosphere. Come and meet with the great crowd of people. Many enjoy being part of the singing group that gathers each Monday at about 10am and starts singing from about 10-30 to 12noon. Some enjoy sitting back and listening - Some drop in to swap a Library book, compare your old school photos with some in the huge Tuart Place collection or learn a new board game. Others who have come to visit, meet friends, new and old or to have a friendly chat with the staff and Tuart Place participants. We do ask that you please maintain quiet in and around the area where the Singing Group gathers. Some of the Free Services and Sessions being offered include individual counselling, support groups, social activities, workshops, volunteering opportunities, computer, iphone and ipad skills, craft, sewing, origami, movies, tutoring of grammar, reading, maths or writing skills, visiting health services, family history tracing, with free assistance to find and access records by the West Australian Genealogical Society Inc, help with contacting Centrelink, other agencies and more. Forgotten Australians are helping Forgotten Australians - offering a unique service for all who have lived-in experience of out- of-home care during childhood. Monday lunch times are Great opportunities at Tuart Place for sharing good food and good times while creating new friends. The famous Tuart Place Monday Lunches may be best described as ‘Tasty culinary delights’. Ask about our group adventures currently being looked at, and find out how you can participate in some. ALL TUART PLACE SERVICES ARE FREE A GREAT DAY of SHARING INFORMATION about TUART PLACE and CARE LEAVERS for STUDENTS WITH VOLUNTEERING INTERESTS Jo, Dave and Ron were very proud to represent Tuart Place and Care Leavers at the ‘Volunteering Expo’ at the University of Notre Dame in the heart of Fremantle (just across the road from Tuart Place on Thursday 8-3-2018). Jo, the Program coordinator at Tuart Place, said it was wonderful to meet so many students who were interested in volunteering with us. A huge thankyou goes to Kim Shaw for organising such a great event for so many worthy organisations and their representatives for students who may be interested in furthering their education through the valuable knowledge and experience gained during times of volunteering.

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Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS”

Tuart Place Events Calendar June 4th Mon: WA Day – Public holiday Tuart Place is closed. June 6th Wed: Support Group10-30am to 12noon, Computer & mobile phone assistance from 10-30, Blood Pressure and blood-sugar testing by Rezwan & Ashley from 10-30am, Group LUNCH 12noon. June 7th Thurs: Computer & Mobile Phone assistance from 10-30am June 11th Mon: Singing Group 10-30 to 12noon, Computer & Mobile phone assistance from 10-30, 12noon to 1pm Monday LUNCH, 1pm Presentation by Michael Magazanik from Rightside Legal talking on reforms to Civil Liberty Act & the Limitation Act describing how they improve the legal position of WA survivors. June 13th Wed: 10.30am to noon Support Group, 12noon Group Lunch. June 14th Thurs: 10.30am onward Computer & Mobile Phone assistance, 9-30am Consultation about the National Apology. COME & HAVE YOUR SAY ABOUT WHAT THE PRIME MINISTER’S APOLOGY SHOULD SAY, 11AM Arts & Crafts (every 2nd Thursday) June 18th Mon: Singing Group 10-30 to 12noon, Computer & Mobile phone assistance from 10-30, 12noon to 1pm Monday LUNCH, Private WAGS family tracing with Lesley 1pm to 4pm book with Vicky for appointment, FREE Legal appointments with Mr Gary Dean book with Vicky for appointment, Social Activities Group meeting at 1pm. June 20th Wed: Support Group from 10.30am to 12noon – Computer & Mobile Phone Help from 10.30am onward - Group Lunch 12noon to 1pm. June 21st Thurs: Computer & Mobile Phone Help from 10.30am onward, BE AT THE MELVILLE SUPER BOWL AT 10-30AM FOR SOME GROUP BOWLING FUN. June 25th Mon: Singing Group 10-30 to 12noon, Computer & Mobile phone assistance from 10-30, 12noon to 1pm Monday LUNCH, Presentation on ‘DonateLife WA’ and the importance of organ & tissue donating. June 27th Wed: 10.30am to noon Support Group, 12noon Group Lunch. June 28th Thurs: 10.30am onward Computer & Mobile Phone assistance, 11am Arts & Crafts (every 2nd Thursday). July 2nd Mon: FREE DENTAL CLINIC by Kimberly Dental team, Singing Group 10-30 to 12noon, Computer & Mobile phone assistance from 10-30, 12noon to 1pm Monday LUNCH, Private WAGS family tracing with Lesley 1pm to 4pm book with Vicky for appointment. July 4th Wed: Support Group from 10.30am to 12noon – Computer & Mobile Phone Help from 10.30am onward - Group Lunch 12noon to 1pm July 6th Thurs: 10.30am onward Computer & Mobile Phone assistance. July 9th Mon: Singing Group 10-30 to 12noon, Computer & Mobile phone assistance from 10-30, Monday LUNCH 12noon to 1pm + ‘WINTER WARMER’ EVENT – LUNCH, RAFFLE AND ‘HAVE A GO TALLENT SHOW’. July 11th Wed: Support Group from 10.30am to 12noon – Computer & Mobile Phone Help from 10.30am onward - Group Lunch 12noon to 1pm July 12th Thurs: 10.30am onward Computer & Mobile Phone assistance, 11am Arts & Crafts (every 2nd Thursday). July 16th Mon: Singing Group 10-30 to 12noon, Computer & Mobile phone assistance from 10-30, 12noon to 1pm Monday LUNCH, FREE mens haircuts by Jaqci from 1pm, SAG meeting 1pm July 18th Wed: Support Group from 10.30am to 12noon – Computer & Mobile Phone Help from 10.30am onward - Group Lunch 12noon to 1pm July 19th Thurs: 10.30am onward Computer & Mobile Phone assistance, MEET near Maylands rail station for BUS TRIP TO MUNDARING WIER +Sausage Sizzle Lunch. July 23rd Mon: Singing Group 10-30 to 12noon, Computer & Mobile phone assistance from 10-30, 12noon to 1pm Monday LUNCH, 1pm onwards enjoy another fun event of BINGO! July 25th Wed: ‘Anh Do’s Brush with fame’ Inspirational video&chat painting- Jessica Mauboy, 10.30am to 12noon, Computer&Mobile Phone Help from 10.30am onward - Group Lunch 12noon to 1pm July 26th Thurs: 10.30am onward Computer & Mobile Phone assistance, 11am Arts & Crafts July 30th Mon: Singing Group 10-30 to 12noon, Computer & Mobile phone assistance from 10-30, 12noon to 1pm Monday LUNCH, August 1th Wed: Support Group from 10.30am to 12noon – Computer & Mobile Phone Help from 10.30am onward - Group Lunch 12noon to 1pm August 2nd Thurs: 10.30am onward Computer & Mobile Phone assistance, ALL TUART PLACE SERVICES ARE FREE

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Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” Citizens Advice Bureau informing West Australia since 1963 Thank you to Selva and Kathryn (Laurie Humphreys’ niece) for presenting and discussing your services with a large group of Care Leavers at Tuart Place on 19-3-2018. The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) is on a mission to connect people with information and services so they can make independent and informed decisions. Included in the information and referrals provided is a low-cost legal advice service on a wide range of issues, and a mediation service. Services offered  Free information on a wide range of issues  Low-cost Legal Advice  Low-cost mediation & dispute resolution  Free Tax Help (July-October)  Assistance with WA NILS (No Interest Loan Scheme) applications  Justice of the Peace  Probate Assistance  Preparation of Family Court documents  Letters of Administration  Wills  Enduring Powers of Attorney  Enduring Powers of Guardianship History: The first Citizens Advice Bureau Centre was created in England in response to the prospect of world war. Volunteers dealt with problems ranging from the loss of ration books, homelessness and evacuation. They also helped locate missing relatives and prisoners of war. In 1963, Mrs G Rushton initiated the opening of the ‘CAB’ of WA. The service, similar to its counterpart in England, is focused on linking people in their respective communities with required information. CAB is in 10 locations across WA and are constantly evolving to meet the needs of people in the WA community. CAB services are also available by phone - for enquiries and to obtain legal advice on 92215711 from 9-30am to 4pm Mon to Fri (not public holidays) and ask for the number of the Citizens Advice Bureau office near you. World Social Worker Day was 20-3-2018 Although the Day has past we still pay tribute to those wonderful people who embark on their noble career as a Social Worker. They are very much appreciated women and men who make our world ‘that little bit easier’ for us to enjoy and improve our quality of life. This is a time when people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – collectively known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers who regard Tuart Place as their sanctuary, pay tribute and say thank you to the Social Workers who are on the Board for Forgotten Australians Coming Together Inc, those who are on the Tuart Place staff and those who volunteer their valuable time to provide significant assistance for the Care Leavers at Tuart Place.

Do you have enjoyable information to share with others? Maybe a brief poem or a short story about your happier times? Share your helpful hints and how they have helped you? Write or change a short poem to bring a better affect for you personally? Please keep articles to one page or just a short 'snippet'?

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Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” A special milestone a group from Tuart Pace including Care Leavers, The Chairperson for the Board of Forgotten Australians Coming Together Inc, the Tuart Place Director and a Tuart Place volunteer proudly supported an enormously important community event held by Adoption Jigsaw on Wednesday 21st March from 5.30pm at the Lecture Theatre in the State Library of WA in James St, Perth. Adoption Jigsaw is an Australian organisation which provides information, counselling, research and intermediary services to people separated from family for many different reasons. For more information on Adoption Jigsaw and their range of services, please email [email protected] Phone 9328 4000 or visit www.jigsaw.org.au It was 3 CELEBRATIONS IN-ONE. 1. THE 40th ANNIVERSARY FOR JIGSAW: 2. THE 5TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NATIONAL APOLOGY FOR FORCED ADOPTIONS AND 3. THE BOOK LAUNCH OF ‘MOMENTS OF MEMORY’. STORIES of significance WRITTEN BY MOTHERS - people separated by adoption or any other reason. IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR SOMEONE or want to know if they are searching for you, please register your details. Completely confidential. ‘LOOKING FOR FAMILY’? Information on reproductive technologies, ‘Search’ and ‘Intermediary services’ for people separated through , raised by one parent. Phone: (08) 9388 1922. Website: www.jigsaw.org.au . The presentations began with ‘Remembering the Sixties’ a music and video - presentation. Then Wendy Brown, the current Chairperson for Adoption Jigsaw and editor of the book ‘Moments of Memory’ gave a wonderful WELCOME and INTRODUCTION – An interesting ‘History Of Jigsaw’ was presented to the David, Ron, Carmel, June (Photo by Dr Philippa White audience by the Manager of Adoption Jigsaw, Isabel Andrews. A fantastic, impacting and emotional dramatization was performed by four members of the AGE LINK THEATRE - this indicated more detail about the emotions and hardships felt by mothers, children, fathers, new parents and the adoption agencies. I THINK EVERYONE IN THE PACKED LECTURE THEATRE HAD TEARS WELLING IN THEIR EYES. Powerful videos made by Julia Gillard for this special occasion were delivered with exceptionally deep and meaningful, COMMEMORATIVE MESSAGES. Kerry Nazzari, a Board member for Adoption Jigsaw talked on who are still impacted by the Apology for Forced Adoptions and THE POWER OF ‘SORRY’. The applause was long and carried a message of respect and support. As we later gathered and discussed the many impacting facets mentioned in the powerful presentations, there was some delightful delicacies to help us celebrate the success of this MAGNIFICENT event. Congratulations and well done to all who were involved in this unforgettable event. Adoption Jigsaw can be contacted between 9am and 4pm Monday to Friday on 9328 4000, email: [email protected] or on the Web: www.jigsaw.org.au We were honoured to support Adoption Jigsaw at this time of great significance. It is always a great time to celebrate the birthdays of care Leavers. Recently, a group of fine, intrepid young-at-heart men gathered to celebrate the birthdays for Jack Amarta and Chris Binks. Although Jack was too ill to attend, it was great that some Clonny ‘Old Boys’ went to visit Jack to wish him a Happy Birthday in person. Also on this day there was reason for more celebration when Chris announced he recently became a great, great, great grandfather. Wahoo! Page 4 MAY & JUNE Edition 2018

Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” The Wednesday morning Group with Susy People attending the Wednesday morning group from 10.30am to 12noon say it’s a very friendly and supportive atmosphere to chat and meet with others who’ve had similar experiences: “I just feel comfortable here, there’s no pressure.” “It’s a really safe environment”. “You don’t have to talk if you don’t want to”. “You can just sit and listen and you slowly get your confidence”. “I was very quiet when I first started coming and now I don’t stop talking!” “The support group has been a great help to me”. “As we got going, we got more confident, we opened up more and shared more of our real feelings and that was a big, big help for me.” Keeping a positive outlook and feeling confident can be difficult when you’ve had bad things happen in childhood. As we get older we tend to reflect back on our lives and traumatic memories can surface. This is quite normal, and very common in situations where childhood trauma is triggered by present-day events. Susy, the group facilitator, provides an easy-going environment where discussion and support go hand-in-hand. The relaxed, informal sessions include practical tips and ideas to use in everyday life. New members are always welcome. Come for a cuppa at 10am and stay for lunch at 12 noon The ‘Writing Group’ with Carmel Ahern at Tuart Place On Wednesday the 18th of April 2018 from10.30 am to 12noon, I attended a very interesting and productive writing session run by Carmel Ahern. It was a thought provoking session which made me think about the things around me - like images, sounds and smells which normally I would take for granted. There is a story in most things that happen in our day to day lives. Being part of Carmel’s Writing Group made me feel very relaxed and comfortable. There was no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way for us to express ourselves. By jotting down our own thoughts throughout the session, surprising results were revealed about how thoughts can affect our decisions and actions. All decisions and actions begin with a thought. The great group of people who participated seemed to enjoy the process of the morning’s session. I am looking forward to experiencing another excellent Writing Group by Carmel Ahern later in the year at Tuart Place. …..Carmel Ipock

‘Mind Matters Most’? Congratulations to Carmel Ahern for facilitating a well-appreciated FREE Writing Workshop at Tuart Place on 18-4-2018 which focussed on some advantages of tuning in to our FEELINGS, THOUGHTS and ACTIONS. One of the aims of the group was to form our own ‘Feelings Survival Kit’. Looking into ‘how I think’ and ‘exploring my Thoughts, Feelings and Actions’ was a challenge at first then it became easier as the session went on. Everyone has the capacity to find their inner strength and resilience. THOUGHTS: are my ideas in my head that influence my feelings and actions. Some thoughts that I knowingly use are helping me to feel better - and some are damaging or unhelpful at times when I am trying to lift my spirits. So exploring my thoughts was a great way of observing which of my thoughts are helpful and can allow me to feel better and which thoughts should not be used at any time. FEELINGS: are the emotions and sensations that are in my body and connected to my thoughts and actions. My ‘Feelings Survival Tool-kit’ is now an improved list of my helpful thoughts. ACTIONS: are helpful things that I am able to do with my thoughts and feelings. ie, walking, drawing, talking, laughing, crying, etc’. With my known helpful thoughts, feelings and actions, I have formed a ‘Happy Song’ that is uplifting for me. So when I recognise that I am feeling down, I can tune into my helpful thoughts and sing my ‘Happy Song’ that will brighten my world and allow me to share good feelings, thoughts and actions with others. Due to Carmel’s inspiring success of the WRITING WORKSHOP we are expecting a follow-up at Tuart Place some time in the future. Have you wanted to write your own story, a letter, life notes, a bucket list or your past quotes but haven’t found the time? This Writing Group plays with ideas and expressing your thoughts on paper and enjoying the experience - so let Vicky know that you want to be in the next session with Carmel Ahern. ….. Ron

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Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS”

Congratulations for the great team effort into our first fundraising SAUSAGE SIZZLE for 2018. It happened on Saturday March 24 at Bunnings O'Connor. Raffle tickets were sold for a wonderful basket filled with lots of yummy goodies to eat. The profit for this wonderful day’s effort for Care Leavers is about $1200. THANKYOU to Mary for donating another $50 Bunning’s Gift Voucher. Another successful Sausage Sizzle by those dedicated volunteers who helped out on the day Ann, Mary, Julie, Elizabeth, John & Epe, Carmel, Alf, Noel and John O’F under the guidance of Mike Carroll and the Social Activities Group. A representative from Bunnings drew the winning RAFFLE ticket and Russell from Hamilton Hill was the happy raffle winner on the day. Thank you to the caring people who gave donations to the wonderful Raffle-prize hamper – thank you to Jo for preparing the wonderful hamper for the raffle. Thank you again to Mr Tony Galati of the Spud Shed for your continuing kind donations of 35Kgs of onions for our Fund Raising Sausage Sizzles. Another wonderful effort by the Care Leaver’s team. The next meeting for the Social Activities Group (SAG) is set for Monday, JUNE 18th, 2018.Please notify Mike if you have a donation for the next raffle and if you are available give some great volunteers a well-earned break?

Pulmonary Hypertension WA Thank you to Melissa and the Pulmonary Hypertension WA team for inviting me to another fantastic celebration of World Pulmonary Hypertension Day on 5-5-2018. It is always a special treat and an education in maintaining strength and determination amidst pain and discomfort when sharing time with the PHWA group. I really enjoyed supporting the Quiz night and sharing the warm interaction with members of the PHWA team and their families and friends. Ongoing pics were seen by the world on Facebook during the event.

Do you have that Crafty Feeling? Thank you to the wonderful Craft Group at Tuart Place for their high standard of much appreciated work throughout the year - and for the huge efforts in creating and preparing some awesome raffle prizes for some great events for Care Leavers like our ‘HAVE-A- GO TALENT SHOW’. Currently the craft group is working hard on creating and preparing more for coming celebrations. Members of this fun-loving Craft Group welcome more men and ladies to join their active group on CRAFT DAY, every second Thursday from 11am onward. Why not come along and enjoy craft days at Tuart Place. A recent project by Vera’s group was decorating these crafty carry bags. Bring your own craft ideas or join in and enjoy the team projects.

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Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” UNFINISHED BUSINESS - MAKING REDRESS RIGHT Redress WA is UNFINISHED BUSINESS for the three main groups of care leavers affected by the scheme - The Stolen Generations and their descendants (51%), the ‘Forgotten Australians’ (36%), and former child migrants from the UK and Malta (12%). These three groups of survivors are united in their request to the McGowan Government as a matter of urgency to address the damage and UNFINISHED BUSINESS of REDRESS WA. When REDRESS WA was introduced by the previous Labor Government in December 2007, Redress WA was a sophisticated model of redress and, in international terms, a gold-standard institutional response to survivors of childhood in state care. It is widely acknowledged that the dramatic reduction of Redress WA payments by the incoming Liberal government in 2009, after all 5,917 applications had been received, was a gross breach of trust that caused enormous distress to applicants. At the time, Labor MPs fought extremely hard for reversal of the payment cuts, condemning the decision in parliamentary debates as: ‘heartless’, ‘brutal’, ‘cruel’, ‘shameful’ and ‘disgraceful’. MAKE REDRESS RIGHT is supported by a wide range of stakeholders, including the following organisations: The Australian Association of Social Workers, Aboriginal Legal Service WA, Bringing Them Home WA, Family Inclusion Network WA, First Nations Homelessness Project, Forgotten Australians Coming Together Inc, Old Faibridgians’ Association (WA), Phoenix Support and Advocacy Service, Tardun Old Boys’ Association Inc, Tuart Place, WA Council of Social Services, Yokai, Yorganup and Yorgam Aboriginal Corporation. Ann McVeigh hand-made dozens of “Chatter box” papers with the same wording as on the West Australian Memorial for Forgotten Australians and Former Child Migrants 16-11-2009.These were added to an information package to be presented to members of Parliament at Parliament House on Tuesday, April 10th, 2018. We’re aiming for inclusion in the 2019/20 State budget and a public statement of support from the Government’s leadership. This action is part of an ongoing movement to MAKE REDRESS RIGHT. A dedicated group of Care Leavers Ann, Gloria, John, Dale and Ron including Jim Morrison of the Stolen Generation, Tuart Place Director Dr Philippa White and Tuart Place Coordinator Susy Vaughan supported by Legal volunteer Gary Dean, delivered an important sharing of information was well-presented. The Carpenter government left REDRESS WA (2009 to 2011) UNFINISHED. Now that Labor is back in government, we are moving to MAKE REDRESS RIGHT for the thousands of care Leavers who were misguided and feel pushed aside by the unfinished REDRESS WA. How can the State Government Make Memorial for Forgotten Australians Redress (WA) Right? Offer a formal apology to care leavers who applied for the & Former Child Migrants16-11-09 Redress WA scheme and suffered as a result of the reduction in payment levels, after having completed their obligations under the scheme. Restore the original terms under which Redress WA applicants fulfilled the requirements of the scheme (minimum payment $10,000, maximum payment $80,000). ‘Top up’ the reduced-level of payments made to Redress WA applicants (minimum payment $5,000, maximum payment $45,000). 20 Labor politicians listened intently to our presentation on 10-4-18 at Parliament. We are now putting effort into continuing our movement by sharing ‘MAKE REDRESS RIGHT’ badges, using talk-back radio to Premier Mark McGowan and accepting an invitation from Minister Simone McGurk to attend a morning Tea at Parliament House on 17-5-18 to further our requests to MAKE REDRESS RIGHT. T U A R T TOGETHER UNDERSTANDING ACCEPTANCE RESPECT TRUST “Together we build Understanding, Acceptance, Respect and Trust” “When given appropriate care and nurturing, the Tuart Tree can stand strong and care for itself even through hard times” Page 7 MAY & JUNE Edition 2018

Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” TUART PLACE is a WINNER in the 2018 Community Services Excellence Awards Wed 2nd May 2018 between 5pm and 7.30pm at the Perth Convention Centre at 21 Mounts Bay Road, Perth, Finalists in the 2018 Community Services Excellence Awards included health, Aboriginal, housing, youth, homelessness, mental health, out of home care, and emergency relief organisations. Tuart Place was one of four worthy organisations selected in category 2 - as ‘Medium Organisations, being the quiet achievers of the community. This award recognises a medium-sized organisation that has made a positive difference for individuals, families or communities through it’s collaborative, innovative and creative programs or services’. Tuart Place representatives and supporters loudly celebrated WINNING the Medium Organisation category. When Tuart Place was proclaimed a WINNER the Perth Convention Centre roared with good, supportive cheer from our team and other supportive people and organisations. There were some really great organisations as finalists in eight categories recognised at this event and all are worthy of winning awards. The 2018 Community Services Excellence Awards were presented by the much appreciated partnership with the Department of Communities – Department of the Premier and cabinet, WACOSS (WA Council Of Social Service) and LOTTERYWEST, recognising and celebrating the important and beneficial work of organisations and individuals in the community services sector, who have demonstrated they have made a positive difference to people, families, and communities through innovative and creative practice. THE PROUD WINNERS are. In Category 1. ‘Small Organisation’: BEFRIEND. Category 2. ‘Medium Organisations’: TUART PLACE. Category 3. ‘Large Organisation’: Parkerville Children and Youth Care. Category 4. ‘Regional Organisation’: EON Foundation. Category 5. ‘Outstanding Commitment to Collaborative Place-Based Services or Solutions’: Save The Children – Youth Partnership Project. Category 6. ‘Outstanding Contribution to improving life in Communities by an Aboriginal organisation’: Gumala Aboriginal Corporation. Category 7. ‘Above and Beyond’: Delly’s Sice (Manjimup Family Centre). Category 8. ‘Excellence in Leadership’: Dawn Wallam (Yorganup) Congratulations to all who are volunteering or working to help others and who are making this world a better place for all to enjoy. Well done to Dr Philippa White (Pip) – A tower of inspiration and a great leader to many – Director of Tuart Place. Congratulations and thank you for the fantastic work of The FACT Inc, Board, the Tuart Place staff, Volunteers and Care Leavers for taking Tuart Place higher with ongoing successful achievements as one extended family - to be the winner of the prestegious Medium Organisations Award for the

2018 Community Services Excellence Awards.

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Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS”

Who am I?

Orphan Me

I’m an abandoned child that nobody kept No one to love me, a mum must have wept Separated forever in times that were black Alone in this world, no mother came back

Put on a ship to a strange distant land Nobody asked me, I didn’t raise my hand My life turned to misery, never heard so many lies Dazed and confused, no one heard all my cries.

They sent me “Down Under”, a land of milk and honey There I slaved barefooted for no love and no money They gave me the strap every day that went by No mercy, no respect the shame took my pride.

I’d cry myself to sleep not knowing my real name Was I Robert or Shane? Someone was to blame. Was my age changed so I’d never be found? The church knew the truth but it went underground.

I had no Mum and Dad like other kids had No one to cheer me when I was lonely or sad My heart was yearning for a place to belong A brother or sister? What had gone wrong?

Retracing my steps so I travelled the Earth Back to the Motherland, the place of my birth Nothing but lies from those who would care Still trying to shake off this cross that I must bear.

By Bob Taylor Ranger Bob Talga Qld. October 2010

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Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” A Care Leaver writes – MAKE REDRESS RIGHT Mr McGowan, I have read transcripts from Hansard – memorable speeches that seem to be genuine. Now that Labor is back in power, are you still going to MAKE REDRESS RIGHT for victims of the interrupted REDRESS WA scheme? There are not so many of us left in WA now. So it is easier to make us a priority. Not like Mr Barnett who took our funding and built a sport stadium. Maybe the new stadium needs to be called REDRESS STADIUM and REDRESS WA may be funded by a small percentage of it’s profits? We care leavers are aging, and time is not on our side now. We ask you to help us salvage what is left of our lives. You know we are worthy. Why is the focus on ‘’ being the only form of abuse deemed worthy of REDRESS? Not all of us suffered sexual abuse and yet we are terminally scarred by the physical, emotional and mental abuse that we did receive as children. I have witnessed horrific physical, mental and emotional abuse inflicted upon unprotected children in the name of the state and institutions. We are worthy. How do you judge who suffered more? Why is the focus only on certain parts of the anatomy? Abuse to any part of our body is heinous. I hope each child who endured such acts of abuse is compensated well for the heinous inflicted on them while in the care of the state and institutions. We are all worthy. Please don’t join the National Redress scheme and make our misery and suffering a political issue and reduce it to how cheaply it can be resolved. That would be abusive in the extreme. Under the REDRESS WA scheme, all victims would be covered. No- one’s abuse and suffering is deemed less worthy. All we have left now is what remained in Pandora’s Box after everything was taken away. That was ‘HOPE’. I believe now is the time to move beyond denial and stop trying to convince people that these abuses didn’t have serious consequences. That seems to just be seeking reasons for delaying and reducing payment to worthy survivors.

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK is always a day to celebrate

National Volunteer Week was established by Presidential Proclamation in 1974 to highlight the various opportunities available for those interested in volunteering. In 2018 National Volunteer Week is an opportunity to remember and express our appreciation by saying THANK YOU to all the volunteers who help us at Tuart Place as well as the thousands of volunteers across the country who keep many organizations running, communities safe and provide the services that otherwise would not exist without volunteers. It’s also a time for us to consider volunteering or providing support to those organizations vital to your community. YOU can be one of the volunteers who are making this world a better place for us all. Ashley and Rezwan are medical students, two wonderful young ladies who have joined other much appreciated volunteers to assist Care Leavers at Tuart Place. Among other important knowledge, they have learned how to do blood pressure checks and test for blood sugar content. We have Blood Pressure testing equipment donated by the Social Activities Group and blood-sugar testing equipment donated by Helen and Kevin Wright. Rezwan and Ashley have graciously volunteered more of their valuable time to assist Care Leavers by carrying out Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar checks at Tuart Place starting in the near future. Currently there are some wonderful volunteers assisting Care Leavers to reach an improved quality of life at Tuart Place. Thank you to Linda Blagg, Rosemary Mero, Natalie Tonking, Gordon Paton, Emilien Rulence, Barbara Strudwick, Nick Thomas, Izzy larkins, Ruth Shelley, Rezwan Cyrus, Ashley Benny, Tara Devoy, Sarah Regan, Board Members for Forgotten Australians Coming Together Inc, Ron Cevrina, Maria, Lee, Katrina, Kevin, Marlon, Eddie, Lyn, Ann and Paddy for your fantastic work for Care Leavers and Tuart Place. Page 10 MAY & JUNE Edition 2018

Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” ANZAC DAY Remembering the men and women who fought for the freedom we enjoy today. This story is about one of the people we proudly know at Tuart Place. Gordon Grant. A former child migrant to Australia who lived in institutions as a child then as a care leaver he joined the armed forces and was recommended for a Victoria Cross (VC). The VC was instituted by Queen Victoria in 1856 and is the highest decoration awarded to the British and Commonwealth armed forces for gallantry in the face of the enemy. Born on the 25th of September in 1933 in Cardiff, Wales - Gordon was named Nigel Gordon Grant by his mother Catherine who was of an Irish catholic family. Gordon’s father was a plumber and of protestant faith. They were married in a protestant church in Cardiff. Sadly, due to religious bigotry, by members of his mother’s catholic family, a separation was caused. At fifteen months old, Gordon was taken to a girl’s orphanage in Cardiff. He was baptised and the nuns gave him the name of “Sunny Jim”. He was transferred to a boy’s orphanage at Swansea 6 weeks later and re- named of Nigel Fitzgibbon. ‘Fitzgibbon’ was his mother’s maiden name and his name change was in effort to prevent his father from locating him – it succeeded. In 1947, at 13 years of age, Gordon was sent on the SS Asturius to Australia with hundreds of other child migrants who were destined for children’s institutions in Western Australia. Gordon was one of four groups to be sent to Castledare, Clontarf, Bindoon and Tardun. he was placed in St Joseph’s Farm School, Boy’s Town at Bindoon (about 85kilometres north of Perth). At the age of 17, Gordon left Bindoon to work at Bunnings for 5years. He also completed three months of basic National Service training at the Swanbourne Military Barracks near Perth in that time. He was then required to do four years in the Citizen Military Force (CMF) now ‘Army Reserve’ in the 11/44th Infantry Battalion as a bandsman. Life in the army for Gordon was from1948 to 1979. In 1952 Gordon found his real name was ‘Grant’ (his father’s name). In 1957 he enlisted in the regular army. At Kapooka in NSW he completed his recruit training then was allocated to the Royal Australian Medical Corps (RAAMC) for most of his military life. For the latter ten years of his military career Gordon held the rank of Warrant Officer1, Regimental Sergeant Major. He served with distinction for 24 years, including in active military services overseas in North Borneo (1964), in Vietnam twice (1967&68) and in the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam as a Warrant Officer Class2, and also later as a Warrant Officer Class 1 and Medical Adviser. As Medical Adviser and Warrant Officer Class 2, Gordon’s tasks in Vietnam July 1967 included ‘Assisting with administration of medical facilities in Quang Tri City, to provide good communications, regular supplies, rations and the rapid evacuation of casualties. In 1968 he returned to Australia to a new posting as Regimental Sergeant Major of an Army Reserve unit; 1st Field Ambulance (RAAAMC). This unit was split into 3 Sub-Units, located in NSW. Gordon was the only ARA Cardre member serving in this unit. In 1972 he was posted back to Vietnam to serve again with AATV in Phouc Twi Province. As the Vietnam conflict was ending and most of our Australian combat and support units had withdrawn, Gordon’s final posting was with the Australian Army as an SO4 Ops; an ARA Cardre Staff Member with 1 training group (Army Reserve) Qld in 1876. Though he had suffered horrendous abuse in institutions as a child, he served a total of 27 years with the Australian Army and in 1878 he applied for a discharge from the ARA. In 1964 Gordon was recommended for a medal in recognition of his outstanding life-saving work at Kaumut and ‘In the nature of Military Affairs’. The recommendation was not answered. In 2015 the recommendation was resurrected and re-submitted to the Chief of Army. Subsequently it went to the Inquiry into Unresolved Recognition of Past Acts of Naval and Military Gallantry and Valour. This high level tribunal investigated submissions covering events from WW1 To Vietnam, 92 related to Army and quite a few of these concerned previously unsuccessful submissions for the award of VCs from WW1. In this event the tribunal proved to be a ‘fizzer’ because they referred all of the submissions back to the Service Chiefs. The Services were hardly likely to recommend an award which they had previously declined. So consequently the re-submission about Gordon’s valiant work was rejected and even though it was the end of the appeal process, those who recommended the citation or who know, hold Gordon Grant’s outstanding efforts in high esteem. Congratulations and thank you to Gordon and to all who fought for the freedom we enjoy today. On Anzac Day, April 25th, we recognize the courage, mateship, skill, and perseverance of all who have served. We respect, honour and support those who fought and gave their lives for the freedom we enjoy today. Especially for the many who were not able to make it home to their families. Their gallantry and sacrifice will not be forgotten. Lest we forget. Page 11 MAY & JUNE Edition 2018

Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” BINGO! Join the group and be at Tuart Place after lunch on Monday 23-7-18 from 1pm for another fun filled game of BINGO. You may even win a prize.

It is so important to keep in touch and support people in our extended Tuart Place family. Helen, Yvonne, Eddie, Paddy, Terry, Ray, Dougie F, Ron L and others have recently not been able to visit Tuart Place regularly due to illness and have felt uplifted by receiving those very much appreciated visits, phone calls, cards and messages with good wishes from other Care Leavers, Tuart Place staff and Fact Board Members. We feel appreciated being part of the extended Tuart Place family. OUR BEST WISHES FOR A HAPPY BIRTHDAY go to Ginny W, Jennifer A, Jim O, Steve O’B, Paddy C, mark P and all who were in out-of-home care during childhood and are celebrating their birthday around this time of the year. In grand Tuart Place tradition, a “Happy Birthday” is wished for all Care Leavers from participants, Board members, Staff, volunteers and supporters in our extended Tuart Place family. May all who are celebrating a birthday enjoy peace, good health and happiness on your Special Day and every day. Happy Birthday to all and thank you for sharing your courage and good cheer with us at Tuart Place.

Men's Health Week June 11- 17 This year’s theme “MEN AND FAMILIES: MAKING HEALTHY CONNECTIONS” explores the different ways families support the health and wellbeing of men and boys, and the positive contributions men and boys make to their families (of origin and choice). The focus is on healthy connections and families - exploring what these can look like, and how men and boys can make and sustain positive family connections. Communities across Australia come together during this week to create fun and engaging events, promotions and activities that are tailored to the needs of men and boys. These events focus on improving and maintaining the mental and physical health of men, boys and their families. MEN’S HEALTH WEEK is a time for encouraging men and boys to learn how they can manage to improve their health and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Males born in Australia in 2010 have a life expectancy of 78years while females may expect to live for 82.3years. It is said that from the start of life, males suffer more illness, more accidents then die earlier than females. The mental, physical and emotional health of males needs to be improved because THE SUICIDE RATE OF MALES IS FOUR TIMES HIGHER THAN FEMALES. Accidents, cancer and heart disease account for the majority of deaths for males. MEN’S HEALTH WEEK is a great time for organisations, families and friends to make opportunities available for encouraging males at risk to take notice of how to find the education needed for adjusting those negative issues and improving their life skills. Look for the Men’s Health Week information and see how you can make the rest of your life a happier time for you and your family. For more ‘Men's Health Week’ information you can go online to http://www.menshealthweek.org.au/health-info/why-men- s-health or contact ‘Men's Health Information & Resource Centre’ in Western Sydney University Locked Bag 1797 Penrith NSW 2751 Australia. HAVE YOUR SAY ABOUT THE NATIONAL APOLOGY: Prime Minister Mr Turnbull will give a National Apology to victims & survivors of Child Sexual Abuse by the end of 2018. The apology is to be shaped by the views of victims & survivors. On Thurs, June 14th, you have the opportunity to have your say at a consultation meeting. Places are limited. Please call 61402380 for a place to tell your views. Page 12 MAY & JUNE Edition 2018

Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” Family Tracing with WAGS (WA Genealogical Society) Have you ever been interested in finding out more about your ancestry? You can pre-book a time with Lesley for a one hour private appointment. Lesley, who is a family tracing expert from the WA Genealogical Society, is caring, confidential, efficient and donates her valuable time to assist Care leavers at Tuart Place. There may be private times still available for the next sessions from 1pm on Monday 18-6-18 & 2-7-18. Please register soon with Vicky on 61402380, freecall 1800- 619-795 or email: [email protected].

MAKING REDRESS RIGHT On Thursday 17-5-18 Care Leavers and Tuart Place Staff and Board members for Forgotten Australians Coming Together Inc, again gathered at Parliament House WA. With the much appreciated support from Marlene J, Reg C, Kevin C, John S, Joanne A, Ian C, Tony H, Dr Robert I, Carmel I, Ron L, Gloria N and Derick S, we were entertained with a fabulous Morning Tea at Parliament House. Thank you to Marlene’s suggestion for this Morning Tea to happen at Parliament House and Thank you to the Honourable Minister Simone McGurk MLA - Minister for Child Protection; Women’s Interests; Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence; Community Service and ‘Minister for acting on Marlene’s suggestion and inviting us to this wonderful Morning Tea’. We were able to meet and talk with about 20 members of the Labor Parliament. Marlene Jackamarra who has now made another suggestion that the next gathering with the members of the Labor Parliament be a BBQ on the lawns behind Parliament House. THE 2018 MOORE RIVER GET-AWAY-WEEKEND FOR CARE LEAVERS WAS ANOTHER GREAT SUCCESS. Rob Eddie is one who enjoyed the great experience of the 2018 Moor River ‘Get- Away-Weekend’ Friday 20th to Sunday 22nd April 2018. He mentioned ‘It was a great time at Moore River. John’s planning worked perfectly and Epe was such a ‘DEDICATED and HAPPY cook’, Tony Pavia cooked some really fantastic Rhubarb and apple pie. Thank you to Tony for adding your international delicacies to the menu for sharing with other Care Leavers. John wrote: - It is a constant pleasure to see the variety of activities around the Tuart Place Family, the work done by the staff and members alike, has impressed me greatly, People willing to participate at what was on offer. Our recent venture was a trip to Moore River with 23 people spending the weekend at the Guilderton Resort. It was a resounding success, we got to meet people who are not able to visit Tuart Place often – they come along and make friends with those who regularly visit Tuart Place. The food was prepared by Epe, John, Gwen, Bob, Jennifer and Tony just to name a few. People got to talk and make acquaintance with like-minded people. On weekends like this we have time away from the usual environment of ‘home life’ and are able to extend our reach and experiences with ‘new things’. It is a strong possibility that we may be able to repeat this event next year – we are looking at different venues for future gatherings. Many thanks to all who helped make this a beneficial and memorable time’. John, Epe and friends. Thank you Rob for your great pictures and memories of the weekend. All reports indicate that the Get-Away-Weekend was a resounding success and will continue. A huge THANK YOU to John for exercising your fantastic organising skills - to Epe for taking on the massive tasks of cooking for the group - and to the Great Group-helpers at the gathering for keeping this great event for Care Leavers as an option on our calendar. Page 13 MAY & JUNE Edition 2018

Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” The McGowan Family – Mohil & Clones, Leitrim, Eire After years of searching for his family, Ray McGowan waited a long time for his cousins, Robert and Martin, to come to visit him in Australia. Ray spent a lot of time with Robert from Yorkshire and Martin from Liverpool in England after they arrived at Fremantle on February 20th until they left on February 28th, 2018. The first place Ray took his cousins was the place where Ray has enjoyed years of singing and spending time with his Australian extended family, at Tuart Place. Ray, Martin and Robert joined Care Leavers, Staff, volunteers and FACT Inc, Board members there and enjoyed singing heartily with all. It was a joyous occasion at Tuart Place. Ray later showed Robert and Martin around Fremantle. Then enjoyed visiting Yanchep, just north of Perth, to see koalas in the trees. On another day-out with Robert and Martin, Ray really appreciated Jaqci driving him on a site-seeing trip and to enjoy a lunch at Dee’s father’s house in the Rockingham area. Most of Ray’s known family has passed on except for Robert and Martin and they did not learn about Ray’s existence until recent times. Earlier searches revealed Ray’s mother, Kathleen McGowan, passed on in 1995 - Ray has a sister ‘Annie’ - he had 6 aunties, an uncle Phillip and an uncle Patrick who died in a vehicle accident in 1943. The picture on the left is one of Ray’s birthday celebrations at a restaurant beside the river at Point Walter. ‘Dee’, the lady in the photo has been a strong support to Ray for many years. Ray worked with the Child Migrant Trust for 19 years as he searched for his family and appreciates them for assisting him going to England to find his family. Robert and Martin came to Australia with the assistance of the Child Migrant Trust and they liked it so much, they may be back next year? Ray sends his thanks to all who are assisting him and helping to improving his quality of life. The wonderful FREE Podiatry Clinic at Tuart Place was a popular success on Monday, May 7th. Professor Michael Wilding and students of the UWA Podiatry Clinic were busy providing free basic foot assessments and advice for Care Leavers and families at Tuart Place. Excellent caring and some pampering were enjoyed all afternoon from 1pm. Thank you Professor Michael Wilding and students of the UWA Podiatry Clinic for another afternoon of helping Care Leavers. Thank you to Tuart Place for providing a safe venue and organising this wonderful free service for us. Visiting King’s Park on 23-5-18 The trip to Kings Park on Wednesday 23-5-18 was a rewarding experience. Kings Park is a 406 hectare park in the heart of Perth’s landscape. Free guided walks are available for viewing this home to the tranquil Parklands of WA’s Botanical Gardens with a panoramic view of Perth city and the Swan River. There are several cafes, picnic BBQ areas and playgrounds as well as houses, many memorials and public artworks to be enjoyed. I enjoyed chatting to the helpful people at the Information desk. The botanical name for the Tuart Tree is Eucalyptus Gomphocephala. Tuart is the largest tree of Perth’s coastal plain. It grows in sand over limestone and is indigenous to Western Australia, being almost entirely restricted to a narrow coastal strip from Jurien Bay in the north to near Busselton in the south. Tuart is fairly salt tolerant and grows closer to the ocean than any other Perth eucalypt but salt-laden winds prevent trees from growing tall. The best specimens are found in the Ludlow forest, now a national park outside Busselton. Tuart is one of the three eucalypts which occur naturally in Kings Park, the others being Jarrah and Marri. As quoted by Care Leavers at Tuart Place…“When given appropriate care and nurturing, the Tuart Tree can stand strong and care for itself even through hard times”. In early history, Tuart was valued for it’s toughness and was used where strength was needed, ie rail wagons, ship building, Bridge supports and as butcher’s chopping blocks. More info can be found at WWW.bgpa.wa.gov.au Page 14 MAY & JUNE Edition 2018

Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” Get Ready for the 165th Toodyay Agricultural Show Saturday 6 October 2018 at Toodyay Showgrounds The Social Activities Group is on course for supporting Care Leavers to visit the Toodyay Agricultural Show again in 2018. In the past, this has been a very successful outing for a bus load of Care Leavers to enjoy. We leave on a FREE bus from Guildford Rail station at 10am on 6-10-18 and leave the Toodyay Show grounds at 2- 30pm. You can BYO lunch or purchase a wide variety of food from stalls and tea rooms on site? If this suits you, Please contact Jo with your name for reserving your seat on the 20 seater bus. The townsite of Toodyay is located approximately 85 kilometres east of Perth in the picturesque Avon Valley. For those who usually take their caravan to Toodyay for this weekend, from Perth you may choose to drive to Toodyay via several options. These options include scenic routes along Toodyay Road via Gidgegannup - Great Eastern Highway via Clackline and Great Northern Highway via Chittering Road & Julimar Road (Scenic Route). Entry Tickets: Senior Citizens $5 - Adults $10 - Children $5 (6-15 yrs). Children under 12 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. ‘WINTER WARMER’ ON MONDAY, JULY 9TH, It all starts with the Singing Group at 10 am – a Lovely warm Lunch at 12 noon – A lucky RAFFLE with lots of prizes and the ‘HAVE A GO TALLENT SHOW’. PLEASE LET VICKY KNOW BY JULY 2ND IF YOU ARE COMING

Have you thought about ‘Organ Donation’ lately? The idea of organ donation can be a bit daunting or scary for some people. As part of the Department of Health, Jenny Duggan from DonateLife WA is set to share some facts with us about organ donation and tissue donation on June 25th 2018. Please let Vicky know that you are going to be there.

TimeTrackers Mike Murray and Lesley Silvester back at Tuart Place There were so many people especially former child migrants who really appreciated the valuable information provided by Mike Murray and Lesley Silvester during the ‘DNA and FAMILY HISTORY’ presentation at Tuart Place on Monday 30-4-18. Now that DNA testing has become reasonably cheap & accessible, many more people are taking advantage of this avenue to help trace their family history. Mike’s introductory talk informed the audience about 1. ‘What is DNA and what do we inherit from our parents’. 2. ‘What is involved in taking a DNA test’. 3. ‘The three DNA tests that are available (what, where and how much it costs?) 4. ‘What you may learn from the results’. THANK YOU to the TIMETRACKERS, Mike and Lesley for caring enough about care leavers, to stay after the presentation to show a care leaver how to go thru the steps of using her recently purchased DNA TEST KIT.

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Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” ‘Sanctuary’ A wonderful award winning short story by Sylvia a care leaver (1 of 2) The little blonde haired boy scraped the bottom of the blackened billy with his hand. His older brother looked on in anticipation, holding the baby in his lap. The blonde haired child lifted his hand out of the billy, finger tips coated with small particles of grey porridge. He offered his sticky fingers to the baby, who sucked hungrily at the offered finger tips, till all the tiny blobs of porridge were consumed. The morning’s food was all gone now, and their mother still had not returned to the campsite. A scrawny dog lifted his nose, sniffing the air in anticipation, but it was too late. The boys had cleaned the billy can of every speck of food. The sun rose higher in the sky and heat haze began to shimmer around the breakways in the distance. The three children huddled into the sparse shade of the bush shade their mother had built at the foot of the towering boulders. The cool shadows cast by the tall boulders were shrinking rapidly with the sun’s travel across the sky. Now the only shade cast by the boulders was at their base. The dog scuffed at the ground there, excavating a hollow before flopping into the cool sand, resting his head on his outstretched paws, one ear twitching. He snapped angrily at blowflies attempting to land on his head. A big black crow cawed loudly in the gnarled and ancient quondong tree near the tiny waterhole, another replied from the heat hazed distance. The waterhole was a deep, narrow and seemingly bottomless hole, in a large sheet of orange rock that covered the ground near the boulders. The deep purple shadows cast by the boulders, usually concealed the hollow in the rocky surface from a casual glance by passersby. Very few people knew of the existence of the waterhole. It was a closely guarded secret among their mother’s people, who often covered the opening with a rock. The unusually tall quondong tree and the large rounded boulders were the distinctive landmarks for those who knew of the waterhole and were seeking it. The children looked up as they heard the whirring whistling sound from the wings of a startled crested pigeon taking flight. Their mother came, walking quickly, from behind the boulders, the lizard and two large goannas tucked into her belt, swinging with the motion of her body. She stirred the ashes of the campfire and threw a bundle of spinifex grass onto the still hot coals, blowing carefully til the grass ignited. Her eldest son passed her some kindling and she soon had the fire burning strongly. Tossing her catch into the fire, she used a long stick to push the coals around the creatures so they would cook evenly. The baby climbed onto her lap and cuddled up to his mother seeking the comfort of her breast. (this is page 1 of 2) . Free Legal Advice at Tuart Place At Tuart Place you can book a half hour appointment with Gary to discuss any general legal concerns or questions. Next session is on Monday June 18 2018 from 1pm. Telephone appointments can also be arranged upon request. Please call Vicky on 61402380, freecall 1800-619-795 or email: [email protected] to register for your appointment for between 1pm and 4pm on 18-6-18 for Free legal advice. Page 16 MAY & JUNE Edition 2018

Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” A LIVELY, entertaining Show and Tell on Monday 28-5-18: Straight after lunch we're had a great "Show and Tell" session while joyously preparing mail for the mail-out. This is a time to tell your short interesting story either about yourself or maybe about a precious item that you own. For example: Maybe you've been on holiday and seen or done something unusual, or perhaps you have something with a lot of sentimental value? Carmel and Ron were great story tellers –Ron started with his story about trying to free a live snake’s head from a beer can, and Carmel told of her years of enjoying the great sport of TENPIN BOWLING. Others followed our lead and told their stories of interest. Please let Jo or Vicky know the date of a Monday when you wish to tell your short ‘Show and Tell’ story? MEANWHILE: Join the group on Thurs, June 21st at 10-30am and ENJOY A GAME OF TENPIN BOWLING and get strike after strike at the Melville Super Bowl at 248 Stock Rd in Melville. Plus: There is an option to stay for lunch. Please book with Vicky for this fun event. REMOVAL OF FAMILY HEADSTONES AT KARRAKATTA CEMETARY WA. On Monday the 19th of February, Tuart Place participant Dale Lynch talked about the redevelopment that is happening at Karrakatta Cemetery and removal of family headstones including grave markers and numbers. Our mission is to make people aware of the renewal process happening there. Plots are being prepared in the walkway between graves. This is to enable more interments to take place. To do this the headstones and surrounds either side are removed. The headstones (not the surrounds) are put elsewhere in a garden, in the lawn area, on a limestone wall, taken by family or if deemed to be damaged, are destroyed. The new burials will have a headstone on the grave. Under the current policy no remains are disturbed. We urge people to phone the Cemetery and make sure their contact details are up to date. That way they can be informed when renewal plans will affect them. We also advise people to check on the tenure as in 1987 changes were made and 50 and 99 year tenures were made redundant. All graves are now only 25 year tenures. Can you help us spread the word please? We want to ensure people are aware of what they need to do to save their family headstones if it’s not too late. We would very much appreciate your support in any way please. Thank you for your time. yours sincerely Kate Edwards https://www.facebook.com/groups/317215618710978/ Our email Address is [email protected] If you'd like more information you can join the Facebook group ‘Saving Family Headstones at Karrakatta’. Dale has also left a copy of the petition at Tuart Place for anyone who'd like to sign it.Cheers, Dale Lynch HEAL FOR LIFE FOUNDATION (WA) HEALING FROM TRAUMA AND ABUSE TAKES EVERYTHING YOU'VE GOT, BUT YOU'VE GOT WHAT IT TAKES. ADULT PROGRAM: In Western Australia we offer a five day residential program to help you heal from your childhood issues. It is run by trained survivors for survivors in peaceful rural surroundings. Independent research has shown that 98% of guests found the program effective in helping them heal from childhood trauma. The program is run in groups with a maximum number of twelve, however, all our work is done independently and we do not share details of our stories with the group. WA contact: Dale Lynch 0427462947.

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Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” Carol Ripper’s SUPER SUCCULENTS SESSION at Tuart Place This session was a great success on Monday 21st-5- 18. There was fun galore and some really great arrangements were achieved by some talented people in the excited group. Everything was supplied and we proudly displayed and took our ‘creation’ home with us. Thank you Carol for your excellent presentation.

Michael Magazanik of Rightside Legal at Tuart Place on Mon 11-6-18 shares some advice on Your Compensation Rights: WA’s new abuse laws mean that for the first time survivors of childhood sexual abuse may be able to obtain proper compensation. The reforms to the Civil Liberty Act and the Limitation Act have been passed by parliament and are likely to take effect in early July. Even if you have already received compensation and have signed a deed, you may have further compensation rights under the new laws. Michael is set to give an over view of the new laws and describe how they improve the legal position of WA survivors. He is also happy to meet with attendees privately after the information session. Please book with Vicky. Men’s haircuts Free by Jacqi Jacqi is genuinely appreciated for donating much of her valuable time and professional expertise as she cares for Care Leavers at Tuart Place over the past years. Kindly regarded as one of the Tuart Place extended family, Jacqi is the favourite hairdresser and personal stylist of many Care Leavers. Book with Vicky for an appointment for Men’s haircuts from 1pm on 11-6-18 &16-7-18. Welcoming the Kimberley Dental Team back to Tuart Place Free Dental Checkups at Tuart Place on Monday July 2nd 2018. our Family members are welcome Kimberley Dental Team Ltd is a not-for-profit, non- government organisation founded by Jan and John Owen in May 2009. Each year the well-qualified team of dental practitioners donate valuable time providing thousands of hours of free dental work to people finding difficulty in paying for dental treatment. Part of the Kimberly Dental Team’s intention is to reduce the long term cost and suffering that dental disease may inflict. This free service brings bigger smiles and more self-confidence for Care Leavers. These wonderful, welcome dental check-ups and treatments extend to people who were in out-of-home care during childhood and our family members. If you or your family members wish to take advantage of this kind offer of free dental care, please contact Vicky at Tuart Place on Ph 61402380 or Email: [email protected] for an appointment. For more Kimberley Dental Team information visit http://www.kimberleydentalteam.com. Thank you again to The Kimberly Dental Team for the free, professional dental treatment. Thank you Tuart Place for organising this uplifting event in a safe venue. JOIN US ON A FUN BUS TRIP TO MUNDARING WEIR WE MEET AT 10-30AM ON THURSDAY JULY 19TH NEAR THE MAYLANDS RAILWAY STATION. We can enjoy the scenic tour to the Weir celebrate with a sausage sizzle lunch out in the country before we return to the Maylands railway station. Please let Vicky know if you are interested in a FUN day out in the country.

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Ron’s Gazette For people who were formerly Wards of the State, Child Migrants, Forced Adoptees, Fostered Children, members of the Stolen Generations, and non-Aboriginal Australians who were placed in institutional care during childhood – also known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers “YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP A GOOD GROUP FROM RISING TO GREATER HEIGHTS” THANK YOU FOR MAKING A GOOD DIFFERENCE Congratulations and Thank You to all the folks who contribute their skills, expertise and some of their valuable time and dollars each month for the benefit of Forgotten Australians and Former Child Migrants in WA. If you are already sponsoring a project or contributing to Tuart Place, you are MAKING A GOOD DIFFERENCE for the welfare of many of us who could use some support at times when things are not going well. Your worthwhile and very much appreciated contributions are used to offer a better quality of life for adults who have experienced out-of-home care during childhood and are seeking assistance now. When you proudly share the news of your contributions with friends, please remember to invite them to also MAKE A GOOD DIFFERENCE toward supporting Forgotten Australians & Former Child Migrants? Tuart Place is open from 9-30am to 4-30pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays for all to get to know us better. While joining our Famous Free Monday lunches at 12noon, you may ask how you can contribute to a wide range of services and projects happening now or planned for the future.

Opinions expressed in Ron’s Gazette are those of individuals and not necessarily those of the editor, the Board for Forgotten Australians Coming Together Inc, or Tuart Place and membership. Any advice, either explicit or implied is not intended to replace qualified medical advice. At Tuart Place you are welcome to voice your suggestions, so your valued ideas for Group entertainment and other interests may be shared, negotiated and may be put into a plan of action? You may choose to anonymously use our Suggestion Box, located, for your convenience, in the main hall. Please share your ideas for ways in assisting the progress and preservation of the good name of Tuart Place? The friendly staff are also available to help arrange Reunions and events for Special Interest Groups at Tuart Place and other venues. Contact Tuart Place on 61402380, Freecall: 1800-619-795 or email [email protected] .

“Together we build Understanding, Acceptance, Respect and Trust” “When given appropriate care and nurturing, the Tuart Tree can stand strong and care for itself eve n through hard times”

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