Christ Church Cathedral Annual General Meeting of the Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral

Annual General Meeting

of the

Cathedral Congregation

Monday 28 February 2011 at 7pm

Contents

Agenda……………………………………………… ……………………..……… page 3

Minutes of 2010 AGM…………………………….……………………………. page 4

Matters arising ………………………………..………………………..……….… page 11

Correspondence…………………………………………….……………….…… page 11

2010 Reports

Dean’s report………………………………………………… ……………….….. page 14

Financial papers …………………………………… ……………………………. page 16

Wardens’ report………………………………………………………..………….. page 21

Stewardship………………………………………………………………… ……. page 22

Memorial Garden………………………………….…………………………..…. page 23

Missions……………………………………………………………..…………….. page 28

Newcastle Grammar School………………………………………….……..…... page 29

2010 Reports from Parish Organisations

 Cathedral Servers………………………………………………………. page 31  Cathedral Anglican Women……………………………………… ……. page 32  Cathedral Men’s Group……………………………… ……………….... page 34  Community Lunches……………………………………………… ….... page 35  Prayer Group………….……………………………………………… … page 35  Mothers’ Union………………………..………………………..……….. page 36  Pastoral Partners…………………….…………………………………. page 39  Souvenir Shop…………………………………... ……………………… page 39  Activities for Children……………………………… …………………... page 41

Music Reports

 Cathedral Music programme…………………………… …………….. page 42  Friends of Cathedral Music…………………………… …..…………… page 45

Agenda

Annual General Meeting of Christ Church Cathedral Parishioners

Monday 28 February 2011

1 Prayers

2 Apologies

3 Minutes of 2010 AGM

4 Matters arising from the minutes

5 Dean’s report

6 Financial report from the Treasurer and 2011 Budget

7 Wardens’ report *** In accordance with Administration 8 Stewardship of Parishes Ordinance 2010, Fact Sheet 5, pp 2-3: 9 Memorial Garden Any General Business items for 10 Missions the Agenda which parishioners wish to be raised at the AGM are 11 Newcastle Grammar School to be forwarded to the Parish Secretary within seven days of the 12 Reports from parish organisations meeting for consideration by the  Cathedral Servers Parish Executive. The meeting  Cathedral Anglican Women would then need to agree to  Cathedral Men’s Group consider any such items already  Community Lunches agreed to by the Executive and  Mothers’ Union placed before it.  Pastoral Partners  Prayer Group  Souvenir Shop  Activities for children

14 Music Reports  Cathedral Music programme  Friends of Cathedral Music

15 Election and appointment of People’s Wardens People’s wardens: 2

16 Election and appointment of People’s Councillors to serve on Cathedral Council People’s Councillors: 9

17 Election and appointment of Lay Synod representatives Lay Representatives: 3

18 Election of the Missions’ Secretary

19 Appointment of Auditor

20 General Business ***

21 The Blessing

Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of the Parishioners of Christ Church Cathedral Tuesday 09 February 2010 Opening: The Dean opened the meeting with prayer at 7.30pm and welcomed all to the meeting. Present: The Very Revd Dr James Rigney (Chair), S. Adam, J Allan, T Allan, R Bailey, R Barnard, G Bath, R Bath, E Butcher, M Butcher, V Butcher, R Caddies, J Caddies, J Cameron, W Carroll, R Catt, J Catt, D Chapman, A Clark, M Clark, C Clayden, K Clayden, I Clucas, D Davies, T Davies, P Douglass, K Dover, P Dowdell, P Edwards, S Evans, C Foster, Fr T Fox, D Giles, V Giles, J Goldrick, P Goodshaw, R Goodwin, A Green, D Gummow, R Gummow, P Guy, A Hamilton, J Hamilton, EG Hamilton, G Hansen, LR Hansen, L Harrison, G Hicks, L Hopkins, H Merchent, B Jordan, J Jordan, A Kitchingman, J Kitchingman, L Knock, R Knock, G Lambert, J Lambert, L Levey, J Levey, R Millbank, E McCoy, J McNaughton, M McNaughton, Meg McNaughton, C McNaughton, K Murree-Allen, R Murree-Allen, M Nelson, V Nelson, C Outteridge, H Parr, I Parr, H Partridge, J Partridge, O Pearson, G Philpott, Andrew Price, B Ravenscroft, P Ravenscroft, A Rigney, C Rigney, C Roberts, G Roser, P Rosser, S Sandstrom, L Scanlon, W Scott, C Smith, E Smith, J Smith, M Smithson, Fr J Southerden, R Southerden, B Streete, L Streete, H Tabart, L Tabart, A Taylor, M Thirlwell, N Thomas, J Thomson, H Waring, T Waring, M Warren, L Webb, R Wells, K Whitla, G Williams, Fr Stephen Williams, J Wotton, C Wright, S Wright.

Apologies: Bishop Richard Appleby, E Appleby, D Bailey, J Browne, K Chapman, J Gleadall, G Goyette, B Green, Fr P Thirlwell, B Orrock, G Orrock, L Sharpe, D Stewart, N Sullivan, V Wheeler, P Williams. It was moved by R Knock seconded J Partridge that the apologies be accepted. Carried.

Minutes of the AGM held on Tuesday 10 February 2009 It was moved D Chapman seconded K Murree-Allen, that the Minutes of the AGM held on 10 February 2009 be taken as printed and signed as a true and correct record of that meeting after changing “$7,000.00 to $2,000.00” in the Souvenir Shop report. Carried.

Correspondence FROM A Clark on behalf of Cathedral Council to Bishop Farran re title of Emeritus Dean to be bestowed on 13th Dean of Newcastle Fr Graeme Lawrence. FROM Bishop Farran – response to the letter from A Clark.

Reports The 14th Dean’s First Report as Dean of Newcastle and Rector of the Cathedral Parish Fr James said that in para 4 of his report the name of Bishop Richard Appleby had been omitted and that he has offered his apologies to Bishop Richard. Fr James then spoke warmly of Bishop Richard’s valuable contribution to the life of the Cathedral.

Fr James’ report dealt with 2009 in review and the issues for 2010. He:  spoke of the intense change for the Cathedral in 2009;  thanked Mrs Terry Kerr and Fr. Daniel for their friendship, guidance and contribution to the Cathedral;  thanked the assisting clergy from within the parish and from the diocese;  thanked Claire Foster and the ordinands for their assistance;  spoke of the Servers’ high standards and their faithfulness;  acknowledged the important contribution of the Mothers’ Union to the Cathedral’s Baptismal Ministry and to the Family Service;  said the Cathedral benefited enormously from the skill and dedication of Peter Guy, the Choir Members and the Christ Church Camerata;  thanked Dianne Volker and her committee for the success of the 2009 Flower Festival;  said the role of Audrey and Margaret Clark in convening the Community Lunches is an example to us all, as is the generosity of those who regularly support the lunches;  explained that the mission programme was reduced in 2009 in line with other economies;  said the Cathedral is the setting for a wide variety of civic services;  described the cathedral as a place of pilgrimage;  said the service of the church involves pastoral care and therefore a lay pastoral team has been formed;  described the work of the Cathedral Shop Volunteers and Guides as crucial in the ministry of welcome;  described Cathedrals as places of open conversation and dialogues, places of the meeting of histories and traditions;  said that Cathedrals are places of education;  spoke of challenges and opportunities created by staffing changes;

 thanked the Cathedral Wardens, the Cathedral Council, Chapter and congregation in response to the challenges;  thanked his wife Anna;  spoke of the 2010 issues as being Cathedral finances, Cathedral property and governance of the Cathedral. Statistics for 2009 from the Parish Registers were also presented. It was moved the Dean seconded P Rosser that the report be accepted. Carried.

Treasurer’s report Claire Foster presented the Profit and Loss Budget vs. Actual report for January to December 2009 which showed:  Total Income 625,769.37  Total Expenses 581,285.91  Net Income 44,483.46

2009 Profit & Loss Reconciliation 1/01/2009 Balance Brought Forward -$ 17,342.15 + Income for 2009 $625,769.37 Balance + Income $608,427.22

- Expenditure for 2009 $584,285.91 $ 24,141.31

PLUS Adjusting items $ 3,058.41

31/12/2009 Closing Balance $ 27,199.72 2009 ADJUSTING ITEMS PAYG TAX $21,318.98 GST Collected on Sales $ 4,349.61 $25,668.59 LESS GST Paid on Purchases - $18,276.18 BAS Payments - $ 4,334.00 - $22,610.18 $ 3,058.41

The Debits and Credits for the following accounts were listed: Westpac Loan for Darby Street Property ASDF Chapter Investment Account ASDF Columbarium Account ASDF Rose Window Restoration Account ASDF Special Purposes Account ASDF Youth Group ASDF Church House Proceeds ASDF Preservation of Fabric

Matters arising from the Report 1. D Davies advised that monies received from publications from the wall safe should be given to the Souvenir Shop as the shop purchased the goods being sold. 2. R Millbank advised that the item of $3,000 in income was a contra item as the money was a grant received from Veterans’ Affairs to pay for the publication of a book detailing the military memorabilia in the Cathedral. 3. The financial details of the Darby Street property were explained. 4. The meeting was advised that the $50,000 draw down from the loan on Darby Street was to be used for the Deanery renovations. 5. The meetig was advised that the Trustees had given permission to change from a loan guaranteed by a Bishop’s certificate to a mortgage which meant we are now paying the lower interest rate of 5.8%. It was moved C Foster seconded D Davies that the repost be received. Carried.

The Budget for 2009 The budget shows the anticipated expenditure to be $574,701.00 and anticipated income to be $567,558.64 leaving a budget deficit of $7,142.36.

Matters arising from the Budget 1. P Edwards explained about the process of claiming back GST credits for the past 9 years. She said the ATO has asked for documents, which are stored in the Deanery archives to support the claim. 2. G Hansen said that capital amounts being used as income was not realistic. P Edwards agreed but advised that the Cathedral accounting system was not a business account and the monies received from the draw down had to be deposited in the Chapter account and it was planned to use these monies to renovate the Deanery. 3. R Caddies said that he believed the budgeted amounts for ABM are unrealistic unless someone undertakes to organise functions which in previous years have been organised by L Tabart. A Clark advised that the Parish Council had pledged $5,000 for 2010. 4. A Clark advised that Cathedral Council had decreased the contribution to the Diocese from $29,000.00 to $15,000. 5. The Dean advised that the Diocese had given the Cathedral $20,000 to help pay for an Assistant Priest. 6. A. Rigney said that the downstairs bathroom had been paid for. 7. J. McNaughton was very critical of the stewardship of church land. He also said that the Cathedral Ordinance clearly states the Chapter cannot delegate the responsibility of land and buildings to the Cathedral Council. The Budget, which at this stage is provisional, has to be passed by the Chapter.

Stewardship Report A.Clark presented the report which: 1. showed the receipts for 1 January 2009 – 31 December 2009 * from the envelopes = $ 51,774.45 * from EFT = $ 93,288.63 * from non-pledged envelopes = $ 53,054.75 * from casual giving = $ 51,555.75; 2. gave the historical record of the Fiscal and Stewardship years; and 3. gave the results of the 2009 Stewardship Renewal Programme which cost $489.50 to conduct. Thanks were given to George Hicks for his continuing faithful and meticulous work as recorder, to the Wardens and the people who count the offerings and to the Stewardship Visitors.

A Rigney asked why A Clark had reported that the Stewardship Renewal Programme had cost $489.50 whereas the Stewardship Programme in the expense column of the Profit and Loss Budget showed expenditure of $1,823.50. A Clark explained that the costs shown in the Profit and Loss Budget were for the purchase of the envelopes which is an annual cost and that the $489.50 was the cost for producing materials for the Renewal Programme which is conducted every three years. It was moved A Clark seconded L Tabart that the Stewardship Report be accepted. Carried.

Wardens’ Report The report which was presented by A Taylor spoke of:  the welcome given to the Rigney family in March;  how Fr Daniel Dries and his family had been welcoming and supportive during the time of transition;  the challenges with the budget;  the difficulties with the deanery renovations;  the Darby Street property;  the Glen Ayr issue;  the difficulties with Cathedral staffing;  issues of occupational health and safety;  the relationship with Chapter;  ongoing concerns about Cathedral maintenance. Thanks and appreciation were given for the contribution to the life of the Cathedral by so many people especially Terry Kerr, Fr Daniel, Pam Edwards and Audrey Clark. Delegation of Powers by the Chapter  A Taylor said that records dating back to 1995 show that there have been no formal delegations by Chapter to the Cathedral Council but the Bishop plans to address this issue.  R Caddies said that the report commissioned by Chapter to examine the history of the negotiations over the loss of the house on the Glen Ayr property to determine whether the Parish is owed compensation or whether we may claim the right to take over one of the Diocesan Houses in the Close, did not conclude that the parish is not owed any compensation. He further said that it was

difficult to determine our claim given that papers are missing from the Diocesan files relating to this matter. After much discussion it was moved B Jordan seconded P Edwards that “Chapter be asked to pursue to the ultimate the matter of compensation to the Cathedral.” Carried. In response to the questions about the re pointing of the east wall B Jordan: * said that the architects, EJE, are preparing documentation to repair the wall; * explained the process to be undertaken; * said that two contractors are ready to commence the work; * said that the scaffolding would be very expensive; * said he believed there was enough money in the tax deductible Cathedral Restoration Fund to pay for the work; * explained that the Cathedral was not on the State Heritage Register and therefore was not eligible for grants given to other historical buildings which are on the Register. It was moved A Taylor seconded P Rosser that the report be accepted. Carried.

The Memorial Garden L Tabart: * said that most of the outcomes set out in the 2009 Management Plan have been achieved; * said that payments for the year totaled 36 of which 10 were immurements; * said that the 3rd archival record has been collated by Lyn Scanlon; * paid tribute to the dedicated work of the Committee Members past and present; * thanked Lyn Scanlon and Gay Bath for their work which has been outstanding; * described the development and maintenance of the website and thanked David Scanlon for his work on the website; * described the promotional material which has been developed; * listed the ways in which the Garden is being promoted; * gave information about the location of the Remembrance Book; * spoke about the excellent work carried out by the Secretary Gail Laketa; * said that Wayne Hicks’ maintenance of the Garden has been remarked upon regularly; * spoke about the signage for the Garden; * said that the lining of the pond, the quality of the water and the lighting continue to be problematic; * listed other actions taken during 2009. In response to a question from Fr Guy Philpott, L Tabart said that the garden had been consecrated by Bishop Farran and that all legal requirements are being followed meticulously. It was moved L Tabart seconded L Scanlon that the report be accepted. Carried.

Newcastle Grammar School The report prepared by Fr Tim Fox: * acknowledged the willing and significant cooperation of the Dean and the Cathedral Parish; * listed and described the Chapel services held throughout the year; * explained the specialist role of Peter Guy at the school; * described the School Chaplain’s significant pastoral role; * described the School Chaplain’s role as Honorary Assistant and Choir Member at the Cathedral; * explained the religious education received by the pupils; * spoke of the charities supported by the school; * said pupils had been baptised and confirmed in 2009; * said that the Grammar School attempts to provide an holistic education for pupils and teachers. It was moved Fr Tim seconded C Outteridge that the report be accepted. Carried.

Cathedral Altar Servers The report prepared by Simon Adam: * noted the sad passing of Clem Snape; * made special mention of Laurie Tabart and Brian Walker who have faithfully served at week day services for many years; * described the serving standard at the Cathedral as being of the highest order with the serving team being a benchmark of excellence not only within the Diocese but in the broader church; * listed the number of special services at which the Servers have assisted; * said that the Servers had met with the Deanery family for lunch at the Deanery; * listed the names of the new servers; * said there was a need to train new thurifers; * invited Parishioners to become servers. It was moved S Adam seconded A Taylor that the report be received. Carried.

Cathedral Anglican Women – Day and Evening Groups The report prepared by M Clark: * reported another busy year which included worship, service, fellowship, hospitality and giving; * noted the $4,455.00 donation to Cathedral funds and the simnel cakes which were distributed on Mothering Sunday; * listed the names of new members; * remembered the life and generosity of Joy Whitla; * thanked all those who assisted in any way. It was moved M Clark seconded P Dowdell that the report be accepted. Carried.

Feast for the Senses C Smith’s report described this new event in the life of the Cathedral.

Cathedral Men’s Group The report prepared by Peter Ravenscroft: * said that the Men’s Group had enjoyed a variety of guest speakers and activities during 2009; * thanked the retiring treasurer Harold Partridge for a job well done. A summary of receipts and payments for the 12 months ending 31 December 2009 was presented. It was moved P Ravenscroft seconded T Allan that the report be received. Carried.

Programmes for Children R. Murree-Allen’s report: * described Sunday Story Time; * thanked all who had assisted at the Family Eucharist; * told of the changes to be implemented at the Family Eucharist in 2010; * described a new programme to be trialled in 2010. She also said that volunteers were needed to help with the new programme. It was moved R Murree-Allen seconded J Allan that the report be received. Carried.

Community Lunches It was moved M Clark seconded P Dowdell that the report be received. Carried.

Dinners of Eight It was moved B Ravenscroft seconded D Gummow that this report be received. Carried.

Cathedral Prayer Group and Prayer Mentorship Program Beth Ravenscroft’s report described the work of these two groups. It was moved B Ravenscroft seconded C Foster that the report be received. Carried.

Mothers’ Union This report: * described the work of the Mothers’ Union at the Cathedral and members’ involvement in its work of supporting family life, the baptismal families and the Saturday night Family Eucharists; * told of MU’s involvement in Shrove Tuesday, the bus trip and the Flower Festival; * listed the speakers who spoke on a variety of subjects; * thanked the many members who shared responsibilities during the year; * gave thanks for the life of the late Kath Stewart. It was moved R Southerden seconded J Allen that the report be received. Carried.

Pastoral Partnership Programme This report: * told of the sharing in the Eucharist together and fellowship over breakfast; * listed the speakers to the group; * told of the visit by Bishop Farran; * thanked Virginia Wheeler for her generous hospitality. It was moved P Dowdell seconded C Foster that the report be received. Carried.

Souvenir Shop Report This report said: * $16,000.00 was given to the Cathedral in 2009; * during the year the Souvenir Shop Volunteers and Guides welcomed a large number of visitors from around the world including the cruise ships which berthed in Newcastle Harbour, interstate coach groups, backpackers and Novocastrians;

* the continued success of the shop in supporting the life of the Cathedral would not be possible without the dedicated work of the volunteers who staff the shop on a regular basis. Di Davies paid tribute to: * N Thomas for her embroideries which are in great demand; * S Edwards for her translations of the Cathedral Guide pamphlet and her attention to detail with the display of stock; * D Turner for his diligence with maintenance; * T Davies for providing many gift items; * V Wheeler for her support on the committee; * G Orrock for auditing the books at short notice. The financial Audited Statement for the year ending 31/12/2009 was presented. The acceptance of the report was moved D Davies seconded G Williams. Carried.

Music Report The report prepared by the Cathedral Organist and Master of the Choristers, Peter Guy: * said that the organists and choir have worked hard to maintain the high standard of music that has become so well known at the Cathedral; * said that the music programme at the Cathedral continues to develop; * said that extra choristers were recruited during 2009; * said that currently we have eight choral scholars; * thanked Organ Scholar Benedict Mackey for his services and wished him well in the future; * welcomed our new Organ Scholar James Goldrick; * said that the St Nicholas Choir continues to grow and develop under the leadership of Siobhan Mackey who was thanked for her time and commitment; * highlighted some of the initiatives which took place during 2009; * thanked Friends of Cathedral Music, K Murree-Allen, Sharon Sandstrom and the members of the choirs for their wonderful support. Statements for the Financial performance of the Christ Church Cathedral Music Fund and the Christ Church Camerata Fund were presented. The report was moved P Guy seconded H Waring. Carried.

Friends of Cathedral Music This report: * said that the Friends have attracted a number of new members and there have been many generous donations; * listed the contributions to several projects throughout the year; * described the new projects to be undertaken; * presented the audited statement of accounts; * paid special tribute to Jill Cameron for the keeping of the accounts and to David Carter as Secretary; * thanked members of the committee; * listed the names of the Trustees for the Friends. Further to the report, K Murree-Allen said that although the funds are very healthy and it is planned to install a new organ stop which will cost about $30,000.00 the Friends will continue to raise funds to pay for additional work on the organ such as a new blower. It was moved K Murree-Allen seconded J Cameron that the report be accepted. Carried.

Election of Officers Wardens S Adam and R Caddies were elected as the People’s Wardens.

Cathedral Council The following people were nominated and elected to the Cathedral Council: T Allen; R Bailey; D Chapman; G Hansen; G Lambert; K Murree-Allen; Andrew Price; L Scanlon; J Smith. The Dean will make his appointments within the next 28 days.

Election of Auditor It was moved P Edwards seconded D Chapman that Forsythes be engaged as Auditor for the parish. Carried.

General Business Thanks and Appreciation to Audrey Clark It was moved L Tabart seconded J McNaughton that “Council request the Bishop or which ever other appropriate Diocesan authority as may be correct to bestow the honorary title of Emeritus Church Warden on Audrey Clark.” Carried by a standing ovation.

Thanks and Appreciation to Claire Foster and Christopher Foster It was moved S Adam seconded G Bath that “this Annual General Meeting of parishioners of Christ Church Cathedral Newcastle, acknowledges with gratitude the work carried out by Claire Foster and Christopher Foster in preparing financial statements for the Auditor and subsequently to this gathering, for the year ended 31st December 2009. It is noted that Claire and Chris took up the challenge under very difficult circumstances and at short notice and they should be congratulated for having completed this task cheerfully, thoroughly and most efficiently.” Carried by prolonged acclamation.

Thanks and Appreciation to Pam Edwards It was moved J McNaughton seconded G Williams that “this meeting acknowledge with grateful thanks the enormous contribution made by Pam Edwards in her role as Cathedral Treasurer for the past nine years and wish her well in the future.” Carried by prolonged acclamation.

Missions Fr Robert Catt said that the parish should plan to give more money to the missionary work of the church.

Support for Diocesan Clergy whose Licenses have been Suspended Fr Guy Philpott said that no charges have been brought against these men who should be being treated with love and compassion. He moved that we hold these men in our thoughts and prayers. Fr John Southerden said that a meeting of Clergy had moved a similar motion as there is concern about the process which does not seem transparent. A Taylor said that: 1. the interpretation of the Ordinance should be more liberal and compassionate; 2. that the process must be rapid and must be fair. She also said that more money was needed for the work of the Professional Standards Committee.

After much discussion it was moved Meg McNaughton seconded John McNaughton that: • the Parishioners attending the Cathedral AGM call upon the Bishop to confirm that the appointment of a Chaplain has been made in accordance with the Professional Standards Ordinance to the Priests whose Licenses have been suspended; and • the Bishop ensures compliance with the Professional Standards Ordinance particularly relating to promptness and transparency of process. Carried with one exception.

Vote of Thanks A vote of thanks was given to the Dean by J Thomson. In response the Dean said: * it was hoped that an Assistant Priest would join the Cathedral staff in 2010; * thanked his wife for her work in the Cathedral Office.

CLOSING The Dean thanked everyone for attending the meeting which closed at 10.45pm.

Signed…………………………………………………………

Date……………………………………………………………

Matters arising from the minutes

1. The honorary title of Emeritus Church Warden has been bestowed on Audrey Clark. 2. Letters of thanks were sent to Claire Foster, Chris Foster and Pam Edwards. (See Correspondence) 3. Letters to and from the Bishop re Professional Standards issues were sent. (See Correspondence)

Correspondence

To: Mrs Claire Foster

10 February 2010

Text:

Dear Claire

At the Cathedral Annual General Meeting the following motion was passed unanimously and endorsed with acclamation:

“That this Annual General Meeting of Parishioners of Christ Church Cathedral Newcastle acknowledges with gratitude, the work carried out by Claire Foster and Christopher Foster in preparing financial statements for the Auditor and subsequently to this gathering, for the year ended 31 December 2009.

It is noted that Claire and Chris took up the challenge under very difficult circumstances and short notice. They should be congratulated for having completed the task cheerfully, thoroughly and most efficiently.

Further, that the Secretary of Council be requested to convey this message to them in writing at the earliest convenience.”

Claire, it is with great pleasure that I advise you of this motion.

I would also like to thank you personally for taking on the responsible and onerous role of Acting Treasurer.

With best wishes,

Yours sincerely,

Audrey Clark Cathedral Council Secretary

To Mr Chris Foster 10 February 2010

Text:

Dear Chris

At the Cathedral Annual General Meeting the following motion was passed unanimously and endorsed with acclamation:

Further, that the Secretary of Council be requested to convey this message to them in writing at the earliest convenience.”

Chris, it is with great pleasure that I advise you of this motion.

I would also like to thank you personally for taking on the responsible and onerous role of Assistant Acting Treasurer.

With best wishes,

Yours sincerely,

Audrey Clark Cathedral Council Secretary

To The Bishop of Newcastle

12 February 2010

Text:

Dear Bishop

At the Cathedral AGM held on Tuesday 9 February 2010 the following motion re the Diocesan Clergy whose licenses have been suspended was passed with one exception:

1. that the Parishioners attending the Cathedral AGM call upon the Bishop to confirm the appointment of a Chaplain has been made in accordance with the Professional Standards Ordinance to the Priests whose licenses have been suspended. and 2. that the Bishop ensures compliance with the Professional Standards Ordinance particularly relating to promptness and transparency of process Yours faithfully

Audrey Clark

From The Bishop of Newcastle

16 February 2010

Text: Dear Secretary

I am responding to the letter I received from Audrey Clark in regard to the motion from the recent Annual General Meeting of Cathedral parishioners.

The matter of complaints against clergy in relation to allegations of professional standards violations is highly confidential. This confidentiality that is to be expected in matters of justice and in their consequential investigation safeguards the status of the complainant and the respondents (those against whom the serious complaints are made).

The process involved in matters of alleged violations of professional standards by clergy and lay workers is external to the Bishop of the Diocese. This is to ensure transparency and integrity given that the Bishop has to deliver the final judgement in regard to the determinations (if any) of the Professional Standards Board of the Diocese.

The process is managed by the Director of Professional Standards. In the matter that was raised at the Cathedral congregation’s annual meeting I have obtained senior legal advice that affirms that the process as managed by the Director of Professional Standards is in compliance with the Professional Standards Ordinance.

It would be most inappropriate for me given the nature of the allegations against the respondents and the fact that the investigation is at present being conducted by the New South Wales police to make any further comment. I have sought to act scrupulously in this matter so as in no way to prejudice either the process or the outcome and bring unintentional harm to anyone involved.

I sincerely suggest that those concerned about this matter offer prayer for all involved. This will be the most pastoral way of helping those who were the subjects of concern in the motions that were passed at the Cathedral annual meeting.

Grace and Peace

Dr Brian Farran

Bishop of Newcastle

Dean’s report

The Bishop‟s appointment of Fr Mark Watson to the new post of Canon Pastor not only eased the workload associated with only one full-time member of staff at the cathedral but also brought an attentive and experienced priest among us. We welcome Fr Mark and look forward to the developments in our life for which he has taken responsibility. At the end of February 2011 we welcomed The Reverend Luke Hopkins as an Honorary Deacon. Luke is no stranger to the cathedral thanks to his time as an ordinand in the diocese.

Once again assisting clergy from within the cathedral congregations and from the diocese have generously helped with services. Those to be thanked include Bishop Brian and Bishop Peter, Fr Timothy Fox, Fr Mel Nelson, Fr George Mainprize, Fr Guy Philpott, Fr Philip Thirlwell, Fr John Southerden, Fr Stephen Pullin, Fr John Power, Fr Gary Dodd, Fr Stephen Williams, Fr Chris Bird and Fr Fergus King. Claire Foster has sustained the office of evening prayer on occasions when the clergy have been unable to attend. Our team of servers has continued to maintain the high standard of cathedral worship. It is pleasing to report the recruitment of younger servers to the serving team for 9.30. We are extremely fortunate to benefit from the skill and dedication of our Director of Music, Peter Guy, the Assistant Organist and Organ Scholar and those members of the Cathedral Choir and the St Nicholas Choir who so generously enrich our worship and common life.

As well as welcoming new members of the cathedral community we farewelled some long-standing and supportive members who moved away from Newcastle including Hazel De Jaeger, Lesley Harrison, Wendy Oosterveen, Philip and Deb Goldsworthy, Nilham and Janitha Perumal and their family.

Thanks are due to Dianne Volker and her committee for delivering another successful flower festival in 2011. Personal commitments mean that Dianne is unable to continue the organisation of this event in 2011. I hope a new committee will come forward to enable this very important even to continue. Additionally the Cathedral hosted „A Feast for the Senses‟ which showcased visual and performing arts in the setting of the cathedral. I am grateful to all those members of the organising committee and the contributing artists who envisaged and enabled this event.

As is recorded elsewhere Audrey and Margaret Clark stepped down from their responsibilities as convenors of the Community Lunch Programme after twenty years of service. The cathedral and the community as a whole have reason to be grateful to them for establishing this outreach. We are also grateful to those who have taken on the coordination of this ministry.

In 2010 I wrote „Our wider mission programme and partnership have withered slightly during 2009 and our Diocesan Mission Target was reduced in line with other economies.‟ The cathedral community responded wonderfully to this challenge, passing our mission target early in the year and providing additional support to emergency relief campaigns during the year.

In 2010, the cathedral became a Fair Trade Faith Community committed to serving fair trade products and promoting the cause of Fair Trade: we were featured in a major article in The Encounter as an example for the rest of the Diocese. This is an important sign of our commitment to social justice as part of our witness and ministry. It is my hope that during 2011 all cathedral groups and committees will conform to this decision of the Cathedral Council.

The cathedral continues to be enriched by the positive relationship between it and Newcastle Grammar School. We value our role as the school‟s chapel and the support of the Headmaster Mr Alan Green, the Chairman of Council Dr John Miller, the Director of Music, Mr Kevin Young and the school‟s chaplain Fr Timothy Fox.

The financial situation for the cathedral in 2011 will entail challenges for us. Throughout 2010 members of the council and I have worked to address these in advance. Thanks to the hard work of Rosemary Barnard and Bill Jordan a submission has been made for heritage grants to remove the salt from the east wall and repair the crumbling stonework. In addition we have submitted an application for the listing of the cathedral on the State Heritage Register. If these submissions are successful we will be able to address major maintenance commitments.

The Cathedral Council property group, consisting of The Dean, Keith Murree-Allen, Bill Scott and Greg Hansen have pursued ways of generating income from currently under-performing cathedral properties. This is a vital exercise as it would be unrealistic to rely on the expectation of increased live-giving to meet the present and future responsibilities of the cathedral.

I am encouraged by the good response from cathedral members to the invitation to participate in programmes run by the Newcastle School of Theology for Ministry. During 2011 I hope we can build up the nurture programme within the cathedral so that both new and continuing members of the congregations can grow in their faith. Our ability to meet the challenges of our life together is dependent on the strength and depth of our faith.

I am grateful to the Cathedral Wardens and office bearers, members of the Cathedral Council, the Cathedral Chapter and to the congregation who have responded imaginatively and vigorously to the challenges before us. I remain grateful to Anna who brought her administrative skills to the service of the parish and her generous heart to my support. She has done all this quietly and discreetly but unstintingly and not without cost, so I take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank her.

In Memoriam 2010 We record with regret the death of the following parishioners: Thelma Jones, Peg Noake, Deidré Gummow, Kate Withycombe, Phyllis Delves, Ted McMillan, Jim Guy, Fr David Philp, Claudine Howarth and Jack Marett, Rest Eternal Grant unto them O Lord, and let light perpetual shine upon them.

The Very Reverend Dr James Rigney 14th Dean of Newcastle

CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL STATEMENT OF INCOME AND EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2010

Income DEC 2010 BUDGET FOR 2011 Book Fair and Fete 3,202.95 3,500 Cathedral and Tower Tours 5,138.10 5,000 Collections and Donations 295,378.54 290,000 Contribution from Bookshop 8,000.00 8,000 Contribution from Diocese 20,000.00 - Columbarium Fees 3,564.68 3,500 Donation towards lighting 10,000.00 - Feast for the Senses 8,800.40 - Flower Festival 17,049.50 12,000 Funerals 21,105.75 20,000 Interest ASDF Commission 865.92 900 Bank accounts 1,658.53 -

Trust accounts 36,969.47 42,000

Total Interest 39,493.92 42,900

Memorial Garden re-imbursement 53.10 - Memorial Garden Interment 600.00 600 Mission lunches 2,230.00 2,500 Rent Received Darby Street 5,963.99 - Newcastle Club 200.00 200

6,193.99 200

Sale of Pavers 1,642.00 1,500 Samaritans 412.00 450 Souvenir Shop 8,000.00 8,000 Special Collections - ABM / Missions 8,196.90 8,200 Sundry Income 605.80 1,000 Use of Cathedral 10,386.82 Commercial arrangements 10,386.82 2,000 Newcastle Grammar School 4,615.45 4,700

15,002.27 6,700

Wedding Fees 45,196.00 45,000

Total Income 519,835.90 459,050

Expense DEC 2010 Budget Advertising 1,383.80 Altar Needs Altar Needs - other 6,805.90 7,000

Flowers 7,270.46 7,000

Total Altar Needs 14,076.36 14,000

Bank Charges 2.00 - Building costs Electricity 18,930.75 20,000 Security (refund) (133.57) -

Water rates 1,900.55 2,000

Total Building costs 20,697.73 22,000

Children's Ministry 474.84 500 Contribution to Diocese 15,000.00 15,000 Columbarium Plaques and costs 1,464.82 1,500 Darby Street expenses Agents fees 447.59 - Electricity 243.22 1,200 Interest and Bank Charges 10,993.00 11,250 Legal Costs 1,975.09 - Repairs & Maintenance 2,090.91 2,000 Strata fees 4,695.16 4,000 Tenant compensation 600.00 -

Water rates 640.51 650

Total Darby Street expenses 21,685.48 19,100

Donation Re-imbursements 600.00 - Hospitality 1,245.40 1,500 Insurance 68,847.08 70,000 Miscellaneous 2,049.35 2,000 Mission Lunch expenses 1,610.59 1,600 Mt Thorley Grave 300.00 300 Music expenses Music Scholarships 7,850.00 10,000

Organ tuning and repairs 6,495.00 7,000

Total Music expenses 14,345.00 17,000

Offerings outside Parish 10,141.10 10,000 Postage and Stationery 1,492.04 1,500 Printing 9,815.54 9,500

Military Treasures 2,727.27 -

12,542.81 Repairs and Maintenance Cathedral 18,823.19 20,000 Hearing Loop installation 5,473.05 - Cleaning 1,771.24 2,000 Deanery 23,039.14 25,000 Pest Control 630.00 500

Repairs and Maintenance - Other 1,173.51 1,000

Total Repairs and Maintenance 50,910.13 48,500

Seminars and Conferences 100.00 - Special Collections payments 356.78 - Surplice Fees 19,130.00 19,000 Telephone and internet Internet 511.72 500 Telephone 3,969.03 4,000

Website hosting 210.00 200

Total Telephone and internet 4,690.75 4,700

Travel 1,938.22 2,000

Wages and Stipends 194,024.61 250,000 Total Expense 459,108.89 509,700 Net Income 60,727.01 (50,650)

Current balance of Bank accounts

Chapter account

Balance as per bank statement 13,466.49 Less:- outstanding cheques Date Chq No Amount ($) 17/06/2010 407518 126.05 5/12/2010 407642 780.00 5/12/2010 407638 171.00 11/12/2010 407649 59.95 15/12/2010 407659 118.24 21/12/2010 407664 33.98 26/12/2010 407666 91.20 1,380.42

Reconciled balance 12,086.07

Fundraising account 2,305.07

Max-i High Interest Account 56,413.50

Term Deposit 10,000.00

TOTAL OF RECONCILED CHAPTER BANK ACCOUNTS $ 80,804.64

Reconcilation of Movement during year

Opening balance of retained surpluses (at 31/12/09) Monies in bank accounts - Chapter account 19,252.62 - Fundraising account 9,849.10 29,101.72 Balance of December 2009 BAS owed to ATO - GST refundable 2,882.00 - PAYG withholding (4,757.00) (1,875.00)

Opening balance of retained surpluses 27,226.72

Add: - surplus for 2010 calendar year 60,727.01

Closing balance as at 31st December 2010 87,953.73

Reconciles to following assets

Cash held in bank accounts as above 80,804.64 Net GST refundable from ATO 7,149.09 87,953.73

CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL STATEMENT OF INCOME AND EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2010

ASDF Accounts

Christ Church Cathedral Chapter

31/12/2009 Opening balance $ 769.58 Interest $ 9.99 31/12/2010 Closing balance $ 806.87

Christ Church Cathedral Special Purposes

31/12/2009 Opening balance $30,397.11 Interest $ 381.14 31/12/2010 Closing balance $30,778.25

Christ Church Columbarium

31/12/2009 Opening balance $ 1,374.41 Interest $ 17.24 31/12/2010 Closing balance $ 1,391.65

Christ Church Cathedral Youth Group

31/12/2009 Opening balance $ 48.49 Interest $ 0.60 31/12/2010 Closing balance $ 49.09

Christ Church Cathedral Rose Window Restoration Account

31/12/2009 Opening balance $ 9,345.12 Interest $ 117.17 31/12/2010 Closing balance $ 9,462.29

National Trust of Australia Christ Church Cathedral Newcastle Restoration Appeal

31/12/2009 Opening balance $148,263.69 Interest $ 550.52 Deposits $ 550.00 31/12/2010 Closing balance $149,334.21

CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL STATEMENT OF INCOME AND EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMBER 2010

Amounts owed in relation to Darby Street property

Westpac Bank $182,000.00 Amounts owed to Parishioners (**) $ 43,000.00 Total amounts owed $225,000.00

** These amounts relate to amounts contributed by Parishioners towards reducing the original business loan used to purchase the Darby Street property. These amounts are repayable at the request of the respective Parishioner.

Temporary trusts held by the Trustees

Preservation of fabric account

31/12/2009 Opening balance $7,009.00 Interest $ 73.04 Deposits $ 870.57 31/12/2010 Closing balance $7,914.09

Cathedral Sale of Church House

31/12/2009 Opening balance $76.45 Interest $ 0.73 Deposits $ 0.37 31/12/2010 Closing balance $77.18

Gladys Murree-Allen bequest

31/12/2009 Opening balance $ - Interest $ 75.61 Deposits $10,047.76 31/12/2010 Closing balance $10.075.61

Wardens’ report The following report summarises some of the main issues that have occupied the Wardens during 2010.

Staffing The appointment of Fr Mark Watson as Canon Pastor has provided for more comprehensive pastoral care than was possible when the Dean was the only full-time member of clergy at the cathedral. Fr Mark is responsible for the development of baptismal outreach and children‟s work, as well as the provision of pastoral care within the cathedral.

Budget The question of the unclaimed GST has been resolved by the excellent work of our diligent treasurer Andrew Price. Andrew has also worked hard to simplify the cathedral accounts and provide Chapter and Council with a clearer picture of the state of the cathedral‟s finances.

Maintenance Although some improvements were made to make the Deanery more comfortable for the Dean and his family (installation of some wardrobes and the provision of some curtains and blinds), there is much more work to be undertaken including addressing the leaking roof, inadequate security, failing drains and the replacement of a 1920s kitchen. After twelve months of negotiations by the Dean the poorly installed bathroom in the Deanery was refitted by Programme Maintenance.

Cathedral Property The proposal to sell the Darby Street unit was reversed when Fr Mark Watson agreed to live in the apartment when he was appointed Canon Pastor in September 2010. The Glen Ayr Property presents an on-going challenge about the best use of a valuable asset. We need to address this and other property issues urgently as the Cathedral cannot afford to continue to neglect its assets and needs income from them to become financially secure.

Demographic Survey A subcommittee of Council led by Jane Smith created a draft for a Demographic Survey of the cathedral congregations. It is hoped that this will help to form the basis for a conversation within the cathedral about our mission and vision for the future.

Action in the Supreme Court The current proceedings in the Supreme Court have caused much distress in our congregation and indeed in the Australian Anglican Church. These proceedings have been stood over (we believe) to May 2011. Let us pray that justice will not only be done, but will be seen to be done.

We are grateful to the members of Council and our fellow Chapter members for their advice, support and hard work. The Dean continues to minister to us with love, kindness and skill. We are very grateful for the unpaid and often unrecognised work that Mrs Rigney has done for the administration and work of the cathedral.

Lynette Streete, Robert Caddies, Alan Green

Stewardship The aim of the Stewardship Program in 2010 was twofold.

First, was the objective of applying 21st Century technology to the procedures by which parishioners give.

To achieve this objective requires parishioners to be receptive to the electronic transfer of funds, Internet and phone banking, and using prompts from the Cathedral web site.

Second, was the objective to bring about a paradigm shift in the concept of Stewardship.

In its most truncated form, Stewardship is all about money and meeting budgets. Implicit in this concept is that the idea that resources are limited.

The alternative concept is that God has provided us with abundance. In response to this abundance we should give generously.

What has been the success of the 2010 Program?

The good news, is that approximately 50% of the Cathedral population has embraced the new technologies, albeit partially. Web based giving has yet to be embraced.

With regard to the paradigm shift, the results have been disappointing as many people remain committed to Numbered Envelopes as a means of giving.

Unfortunately, the seeds of change have fallen on stony ground. And, the Cathedral has lost the opportunity to bloom in the community it serves.

If any Stewardship Program is to succeed in the future the Cathedral must first clearly define a Vision. Unfortunately, despite some rhetoric, and an inspirational seminar, this issue has not been addressed. Once the Vision is defined, we need a Strategic Plan to translate it into a reality. And then, and only then, can a Stewardship Program become an integral part of the whole.

With God‟s blessing this sequence of events will occur.

Barry Streete, Stewardship Officer

Christ Church Cathedral Memorial Garden Committee 2010 provided some challenges for the work of this committee but with a high level of commitment from all committee members the outcomes for the year were achieved.

The outcomes determined for 2010, as stated in the 2010 Management Plan, were: 1. The Garden is maintained to a standard of excellence; 2. “Our Trust” is maintained; 3. Appropriate support is given to all who enquire or make bookings; 4. Accurate records are maintained; 5. Public awareness of the Garden is maintained / increased; and 6. All pastoral and committee personnel are supported in their work for the Garden.

1.a) Thanks go to our gardener, Wayne Hicks, who has ensured that the Garden has looked at its best throughout the year. (Wayne also continues to tend to a small additional area of the Cathedral grounds adjacent to the Memorial Garden. This arrangement was made with the Cathedral Council in 2009 as a gesture of financial support for the Cathedral.) 1.b) The lining of the pool, which had deteriorated to a very poor state, was replaced. This renovation was carried out by Riley Industries at the beginning of November. 1.c) As it has been an on-going concern, so the pump presented with yet more problems. After examination of the pump by the local agent of the manufacturer (Clulows) and consideration of the cost of repair it was decided to remove the pump and assess the effectiveness of no pump with regular changing of the water. Long term costs related to the pump are being very carefully considered. This situation is to be reviewed again in March 2011. 1.d) After much discussion and consideration of numerous designs, the sign for the name of the Garden was ordered from and installed by Broadley Signs of Islington. This sign is made of cast and forged bronze - as recommended in the original design brief by Darren Shearer. 1.e) The donor plaque was eventually located and installed, along with an “echo” plaque recognizing the designer of the garden and recording the date of dedication by the Bishop. These two plaques are small and have been placed discreetly so not to detract from the overall design and ambience of the Garden. 1.f) Concern was raised during the year regarding the height of the trees in Cathedral Park and their detraction from the view from and to the Garden. Letters were written by the committee and the Cathedral Council to members of the City Council to ask for action on this matter. Some trimming was undertaken by City Council staff and thanks are given to Councillor Sharon Claydon for her support in this. 1.g) Some work was done on the drafting of a formal maintenance schedule for the Garden. There is now a draft-form document. Thanks go to Geoff Orrock for his work on this.

2.a) A further $25,000 was deposited in the Trust Account. This now brings the total of deposits in the Trust Account to $35,000 plus accrued interest. Approximately $850,00.00 to $1,000,000.00 is needed in this account for the Garden to be self-supporting from interest earned. 2.b) Concern has been expressed that the mooted extension of the columbarium may impact negatively on the income of the Garden. In four years of operation of the Garden the number of payments has reached 100. The number of niches being considered for the extension of the columbarium, however, is 120. Also, the number of payments made for immurements during 2010 has been only 50% the number made during 2009. Very careful financial husbandry is therefore a major focus. Hence conservative measures were taken with the pump and a decision was made to deposit some funds in a fixed term deposit account. The CCCMG Marketing Plan will also be reviewed early in 2011. Basic operational costs of the CCCMG, without a major works program, and without unforeseen events, is more than $21,000 per annum. 2.c) In reaffirming the Garden‟s operational rationale** for 2010 the Cathedral Council passed a motion that $100 for each immurement would be paid to the Cathedral “for additional work carried out by the Verger and other sundries”. 2.d) An agreement was reached with the Cathedral Council mid-year that for the next three years 50% of the interest paid by the Diocese from the Trust Account will be returned to the CCCMG working account to help with Garden maintenance. The other 50% will be retained by the Cathedral as the CCCMG contribution to payment of utilities. 2e) In keeping with established protocols there will be a review mid-year of the levied fee but it is unlikely that there will be a recommendation for a further increase during 2011.

3. The work of our Business Secretary, Gail Laketa, continues to be invaluable. She is the one who is the public face of the committee and her level of commitment is outstanding. A review of her role, as scheduled in the 2010 Management Plan, recognizes the very special role that she plays. Not only does

23 she manage much of the clerical work of the committee she also provides counselling and multifaceted information to all who make enquiries. Her work in promotion of the Garden, both formally in such spheres as at the Flower Festival and with Funeral Directors, and informally with individuals, has become integral to the running of the business of the Garden. We are most fortunate to have her continuing in this role.

4.a) My very grateful thanks go to Gay Bath who has continued throughout 2010 as a most meticulous Treasurer. Her record keeping is both thorough and accurate and her work at all times engenders confidence in the job she performs. Gay‟s commitment to the maintenance of a standard of excellence of the Garden and her level of involvement in the work of the committee are indeed inspirational. 4.b) This year the committee welcomed Helen Merchent as a new member. Helen very generously agreed to become Minutes Secretary and we are most appreciative of all the work she has done this year in this role. Her minutes of each meeting have helped maintain a very accurate record of all committee deliberations while she has very quickly come to terms with the history, challenges and protocols of the business of the Garden. 4.c) The Garden website manager suffered ill-health for many months during 2010 so the addition of names to the “Names List” and some other details were not always kept right up to date. However, the site continued to operate effectively and, as of the end of this month (January 2011), is now completely up to date. 4.d) Names in the Book of Remembrance have been kept up to date with additions being made by the calligrapher every three months. A faculty was agreed to by the Cathedral Council and was granted by the Bishop for a sign to be placed above the Book of Remembrance explaining what the Book is and whose names are listed in it.

5.a) CCCMG again participated in the Cathedral‟s Flower Festival. This is always a positive activity for the Garden and I thank Gail Laketa for all her work in setting up the CCCMG display. I also thank the other committee members, Gay Bath, Geoff Orrock and Helen Merchent for their support throughout the festival. 5.b) There was no Seniors Expo in 2010 so material prepared for this has been set aside for use in 2011 if such an expo runs in 2011. 5.c) Plans for further work in marketing were left in abeyance during 2010 because of the major challenges that were being addressed during the year and because there were major expenses that had to be met. There will be a total review of the committee‟s marketing plan during 2011.

6.a) The Dean’s regular attendance at CCCMG committee meetings has meant that communication on various issues has been made easier. The committee is grateful for his interest and participation in the deliberations of the committee. 6.b) The commitment and hard work of all committee members has been outstanding and invaluable. The team effort has ensured that some major challenges have been met and that there has been ongoing support for the overall work of the committee.

It was with great regret that the committee received Laurie Tabart’s resignation at the beginning of 2010. Laurie provided leadership, as Chairman, from the time the Garden was in its planning stages. His knowledge of the development of the Garden, the establishment of the committee, its policies and protocols, his understanding of the ethos of the Garden and his personal contacts with so many associated with the Garden were integral to the effective development of this important aspect of Cathedral pastoral care and spiritual support. We thank him whole-heartedly for his truly important contribution. Our thanks go to both Laurie and Helen for the hospitality they provided in opening their home to our meetings each month over a number of years.

Towards the end of 2010 the committee also received with regret the resignation of Geoff Orrock. Even though Geoff was with the committee for a relatively short period of time his contribution to its work was also invaluable. Geoff brought with him managerial, engineering and legal expertise which he willingly shared with the committee. His advice was always considered and well-founded. We thank him for all that he did on behalf of the committee.

As a result of Laurie‟s resignation (and that of Christine Smith at the end of 2009) new appointments were made to the committee. The Cathedral Council appointed Lyn Scanlon as Chairperson and ratified the addition of Helen Merchent and David Chapman to the membership. The committee is most grateful that the new members have so willingly taken on board the work associated with maintaining the Garden and have been prepared to make a commitment to the work of the committee.

I am personally very grateful to all members of the committee, both past and present, for the support they have given so whole-heartedly to work of the committee and for the commitment they have made to ensure that the original and legal charter is upheld and the Garden is maintained to a standard of excellence.

Both the Thirteenth and the Fourteenth Deans have commended this Garden as a place of rest for both the living and the departed. May I also commend its “Peace… Tranquility… Remembrance”.

Lyn Scanlon, Chairperson

**The rationale for the operation of the CCCMG committee which was established in its first year of operation covers the following: a) the committee as a sub-committee of Council; b) membership of the committee (with at least some committee members being members of Council and those members having the power to co-opt others to support the work of the committee either as committee members or in other roles); c) operational functions (as set up by the committee and with “its operation not being a financial burden on the Cathedral”); and d) adherence to legal requirements as set out in “Our Trust”.

Missions

During 2010 a particular effort was made to raise the awareness of missions in the cathedral. Throughout the year the Anglican Board of Mission weekly “ABM Pew Reflection” was printed in the pew sheets each week. A Lenten Study Group met weekly throughout Lent, focussing on the Sunday gospels and linking our Lenten experience with the theme of the mission of the church. On March 21 the Reverend Katherine Bowyer was commissioned at the cathedral as Diocesan Canon to the Ordinary and Canon for Missionary Affairs. On Palm Sunday March 28 the Right Reverend Andrew Proud, Bishop of the Horn of Africa, was our preacher at the 8am and 9.30am Eucharists. His visit to Australia was sponsored by ABM.

As well as supporting on-going missionary work we responded to international emergencies through the work of Act for Peace, the international aid agency of the National Council of Churches in Australia, (NCCA). In January, we supported the appeal for funds for the survivors of the earthquake in Haiti and in August we supported the Act for Peace appeal for the flood ravaged people of Pakistan.

Locally the appeal was always open for donations of non-perishable food items for Samaritans, charity arm of the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle. A basket of these food items is presented for blessing at the altar each week at the same time as the offertory.

A new initiative in 2011 was regular Mission Lunches at Monet‟s Restaurant in the old James Fletcher Hospital complex. The first of these was held on 20 July. These lunches are designed to support the work of Samaritans through our patronage, to build fellowship across the congregations in the context of supporting the missionary work of the church, and to run at only a small profit for inclusiveness. $209 was raised for Bush Church Aid, (BCA) at the first of these lunches.

The 22 September 22 the Luncheon provided an opportunity for parishioners and guests to meet Father Mark Watson and welcome him to our parish. $230 was raised for BCA on this occasion. The final lunch for the year, held on 25 November raised $201 for BCA.

November 7 was Sea Sunday and the appeal envelopes were for the work of the Mission to Seafarers, Newcastle.

Jill Cameron, Missions Secretary

Newcastle Grammar School

There can be no doubt that Newcastle Grammar School has the finest school chapel in Australia: Christ Church Cathedral. The School rejoices in its access to the Cathedral and in the close working relationship with the Dean and Cathedral Parish. It is appropriate in an annual report that the School acknowledges the willing and significant cooperation of the Dean and Cathedral Parish in the sharing of this truly inspiring sacred space.

All students and staff at Newcastle Grammar School attend chapel in the Cathedral. There is a weekly service for the Middle School (Years 5-8) and another for the Senior School (Years 9-12). The School Chaplain also conducts chapel services at Park Campus weekly for both the Junior School (Years K-4) and the Preschool. The School Chaplain leads the worship and usually preaches, however students are involved in the readings and prayers and the Houses of the School regularly prepare and conduct services. In addition to these regular services there are other major events in the life of the School celebrated in the Cathedral. These include: Induction of School Leaders and Dedication of the New School Year, Anzac Day, Remembrance Day, Founders Day, Valedictory Eucharist for the departing Year 12 students and a combined School Carol Service which includes both Hill and Park Campuses. Two Eucharists are held each term for each of the Middle and Senior Schools. During 2010 there were approximately 1200 acts of communion associated with the School. A Chapel Choir ably leads the singing at Eucharists under the guidance and care of the Head of Music, Mr Kevin Young. Additionally, numerous students provide excellent music using a variety of instruments. Mr Peter Guy, the Director of Music at the Cathedral and specialist music teacher at the school, acts as the School organist at larger School services, where the Cathedral organ is a wonderful enhancement to the liturgy. His service and great skill are greatly appreciated.

The School Chaplain, together with the Headmaster, has a significant pastoral role to what is in reality a very large parish – over 800 students and their families, together with the staff of the School. During 2010 there have been many occasions when pastoral care has been given to members of the School Family – during times of sickness, crisis and bereavement. The Chaplain also serves as an honorary assistant priest at the Cathedral, assisting with the worship of the Cathedral on most Sundays throughout the year and at other times such as large diocesan functions and on significant feast days. The Chaplain sings often with the Cathedral Choir at additional services, particularly Evensong, and regards this as an important part of his pastoral ministry both to members of the choir and the Cathedral parish. All of these areas are considered to be a significant outreach of the School, not only the School Family but to the wider diocesan family.

All students at Newcastle Grammar School receive Religious Education (Divinity) classes as part of their work. Miss Judith Wotton, the Head of the Junior School, conducts lessons in the Junior School, while the School Chaplain conducts all classes in Years 5 to 10. In Years 11 and 12, Studies of Religion is taken by numerous students as an elective. This course involves the academic study of religion across the world‟s religious traditions, including Christianity. Classes are conducted by a specialist teacher in this field.

Students and staff at Newcastle Grammar School support a number of charities over the year. Each House has a chosen charity group for whom they raise money through fundraising initiatives over one of the four terms. Additional support was offered to the Samaritans this year in the form of desperately needed material aid. It was very gratifying to see the Junior, Middle & Senior School bring forward a vast amount of food at the Offertory during the Easter and End of Year Eucharists. The Offering filled the entire platform in front of the Nave Altar! 2010 saw students and staff from the Senior School participate in the Cathedral Community Lunch programme.

The whole School supports the work of World Vision‟s School to Schools‟ programme in Farkwa, Tanzania. It was very gratifying that after three years of fundraising the School has been able to achieve it‟s pledge of $150,000.00, a truly outstanding result for a regional school. In January 2010, eight students and two teachers went to visit the Farkwa School and see first-hand how the money raised had been spent on much needed infrastructure. This was a life-changing event for all who went and helped to raise enthusiasm for the ongoing support of the project, but perhaps more importantly deepen understanding among the Grammar School Family. At the time of writing, two out of three boarding houses have been built. These boarding houses have provided a much needed, safe living and learning environment for the students of the school, particularly the female students. Future financial support of the school in Farkwa will enable the school to have electricity through the installation of solar panels, while much needed water will become available through the provision of rain water collection tanks. It is worth noting that one of the „gifts‟ given by Year 12 of 2010 to our school was the provision of one rainwater tank for the Farkwa School, so we are off to a great start!

Newcastle Grammar School attempts to provide holistic education for students and teachers and focuses on the development of not only the academic but also the physical, emotional and spiritual. In all that is done we give thanks to God for God‟s goodness and pray for guidance in our work into the future.

Mr Alan Green, Headmaster Reverend Timothy Fox, School Chaplain

2010 reports from Parish Organisations

Cathedral Servers All servers at Christ Church Cathedral should be commended for their dedication and willingness to serve at the normal Sunday, the many festive and other special services at the mother church of the Diocese.

Acknowledgement must also be made of those servers who frequently step in or do double duty and relieve at a moment‟s notice when a server, for whatever reason, finds they are unable to fulfill their roster commitment.

Despite the dedication of our servers, in 2010 the servers‟ roster was under strain, with a clear need for an increase in serving numbers so that the roster has some lee-way, and available servers were not under as much pressure to serve as frequently as they had.

During 2010 four younger members of the Cathedral congregation were welcomed to the serving team for the 9.30am Sunday Eucharist service and they are being trained and mentored by experienced servers.

Their presence among us is a sign of the Cathedral‟s commitment to the nurture of its younger members by providing them with the fullest and widest opportunity to participate in the life of the Church.

A server training day was held on August 28, 2010, and was co-ordinated by Jane Smith. Jane ensured that it was a comprehensive and encouraging programme of reflection about the role of the server, alongside training in serving roles. Jane and other senior servers had also revised our manual of serving roles which had then been approved by the Dean (and the printing was covered by a donation).

The aim of revised manual was to put into simple and uncomplicated terms the flow chart for each serving position in each of the services, in language that was unambiguous to all readers. Our aim continues to be that all servers are comfortable performing in all serving roles.

We are also regularly reminded that serving provides opportunities for theological and spiritual nourishment, as well as a practical contribution to the worshipping life of the Cathedral.

In 2011 we hope to increase the number of servers available to help at the 8am Eucharist and 6pm Evensong services on Sundays.

It is anticipated that the Cathedral servers will be actively involved in supporting the Company of Servers formed under the auspices of the Society of Catholic Priests in the Diocese of Newcastle.

The aim of the Company of Servers is to create an association through which servers and worship teams and their leaders in the Diocese could be spiritually and theologically enriched and enabled.

Bruce Jones

Cathedral Anglican Women Monthly meetings have been held by both the Day and Evening Groups within Cathedral Anglican Women:  The Day Group meets following the 10.30am Eucharist and morning tea on the second Tuesday of each month;  The Evening Group meets following a Eucharist on the fourth Tuesday of each month, concluding with supper.

Activities:  Guest Speakers  Bible Study  Coach trip to Wollombi, St. Albans with Mothers‟ Union  Pancake Night with Mothers‟ Union and Cathedral Men‟s Group  Welcome to Father Mark  Catering for three funerals (Ruth Brown, Peg Noake and Deidre Gummow)  Funding of satellite phone for the Reverend Lu Piper  Feast for the Senses event  Day Group enjoyed lunch at the Wetlands.  Evening Group shared in a Home Eucharist and dinner at the home of Beth and Peter Ravenscroft. Father Mark was the celebrant on this occasion.  Simnel Cakes were donated by Cathedral Anglican Women and Mothers‟ Union for Mothering Sunday. Thank you to:  Norma and Lorna Taylor for providing homemade slices for morning tea for the Day Group;  Margaret Thirlwell for helping organise the coach trip;  Mr Robert Gummow for preparing meeting rooms for meetings;  Mr Alan Green, Headmaster NGS, for his assistance when we needed the Horbury Hunt Hall for catering purposes;  Mr Geoffrey Williams for auditing the books;  Members of the Cathedral Anglican Women for their generous support providing goods, time and skills when called upon; and  Executive Sara Jackson, Barbara Preston (relieving Secretary), Joan Allan, Beth Ravenscroft and Virginia Wheeler for their service.

Pam Dowdell

Christ Church Cathedral Anglican Women Statement of Income & Expenditure for the year ended 31 December, 2010

Income: $ $ $ Interest (Commonwealth Bank) 0.36 Functions and Catering: Pancake Night 1,250.00 Society of Catholic Priests 300.00 Coach Trip (CAW + MU) 2,595.00 Cathedral Men‟s Group & CAW dinner 1,050.00 Funeral Catering – Peg Noake 500.00 Funeral Catering – Deirdre Gummow 750.00 Donation for catering – D. Gummow 100.00 Card Party refund 105.00 Sale of Honey 20.00 TOTAL FUNCTIONS AND CATERING: 6,670.00 TOTAL INCOME: 6,670.36

Expenses: Catering: Pancake Night 506.22 Card Party – Hall Insurance 105.00 Coach Trip (CAW + MU) 2,226.20 Cathedral Men‟s Group & CAW dinner 1,050.00 Funeral Catering 191.61 TOTAL CATERING: 4,079.03 Subscription to Diocesan Anglican Women 25.00 Satellite Phone Accounts 621.24 Feast of the Senses 202.85 TOTAL EXPENSES: 4,928.12 NET INCOME: 1,742.24 RECONCILIATION: $ $ Cash Book Balance @ 31 December 2009 2,248.04 Less: Net Loss for 2008 1,742.24 Cash Book Balance @ 31 December 2008: 3,990.28 Commonwealth Bank A/c 06 2815 00902426 3,990.28 Bank Account Balance @ 31 December 2008: 3,990.28

Auditor’s Report

I have examined the books and records of the Cathedral Anglican Women for the year ended 31 December, 2010 and state that, in my opinion, the above Statement of Income & Expenditure and Bank Reconciliation are properly drawn up so as to give a true and fair view of that Organisation for the year ended 31 December, 2010 and the state of its funds at that date.

Geoffrey Williams, B.Fin.Admin.; Dip.Tax. Charlestown Honorary Auditor 16 January, 2011

Cathedral Men’s Group The committee this year consisted of Chris Grice in the Chair, Geoff Williams who occasionally attended to the Secretary‟s duties, with assistance from others when absent due to work and family commitments, and Peter Goodshaw assisting Harold Partridge as Treasurer. Sadly, by the end of the year, Harold‟s health had declined to the point that he has gone into care and can no longer attend our meetings. Our love goes to Harold and Joan in this difficult time.

It has also been a difficult year for Marianne and Chris Grice, after Marianne‟s stroke earlier in the year. Thankfully, she appears to be well on the way to a gradual recovery. Our love and best wishes also go to Marianne and Chris for a continuing improvement of Marianne‟s health.

Our first meeting was well attended for an interesting historical presentation about Fort Scratchley by John Cater and Jim Raine. Other guest speakers have included Harold and Joan Partridge‟s son-in- law, Bruce Mulligan from Life Without Barriers in August; and Dr Reena George from Vellore, India, in October about her work in Oncology and more recently Palliative Care. These were both fascinating presentations, broadening our minds to understand the quiet, good work being done by unsung heroes.

Our committee for next year will be Peter Ravenscroft and Tony Allan sharing the roles of Chairman and Vice-Chairman, Adrian Price as Secretary and Peter Goodshaw continuing as Treasurer. Peter reported that our bank balance had a balance of $1,375.58.

We ended our year in the traditional way, with a bring and share dinner with the Cathedral Anglican Women, again hosted by Beth and Peter Ravenscroft.

Geoffrey Williams, Secretary,

January to December 2010

BALANCE BROUGHT FORWARD 1.1.2010 $ 809.83 Subscriptions 23.2.2010 $ 90.00 Subscriptions 23.3.2010 $ 60.00 Subscriptions 20.4.2010 $ 90.00 Subscriptions 25.5.2010 $ 70.00 Subscriptions 27.7.2010 $ 80.00 Subscriptions 24.8.2010 $ 110.00 Subscriptions 28.9.2010 $ 60.00 Subscriptions 26.10.2010 $ 90.00 SUBTOTAL $ 1,459.83 Interest 30.6.2010 $ 5.75 Interest 31.12.2010 $ 8.16

SUBTOTAL $ 73.74 Less Payments $ -

BALANCE 31.12.2010 $ 1,473.74

BALANCE AS PER BANK STATEMENT $ 1,473.74

Peter Goodshaw Treasurer

Auditor‟s Report I have examined the books of the Cathedral Men‟s Group for the year ending 31.12.2010, and in my opinion, this statement is a fair and accurate statement of the financial transactions of this organization. Claire Foster Honorary Auditor (Signature appears on original document)

Community Lunches Who would have thought that we would have been involved with the Sunday Lunches for so long. For all those years we have worked with faithful, generous people who always provided high quality food and service. When Father Graeme Lawrence instituted the outreach programme shortly after becoming Dean of the Cathedral in 1984, a need was perceived to provide practical help to those, who at that time were street dwellers, squatters in the old railway sheds and the elderly shut ins who were living close by. For the elderly a “pick up” service brought them to the Cathedral Hall to enjoy a meal and some company. As the inner city changed, with the developments along Honeysuckle Drive and the replacement of old flats by new apartments, so did our Guests. Very occasionally now we may have an itinerant street dweller, but for the most part they have shelter.

The three course meals which are served each fortnight are thoroughly enjoyed by our Guests, a number of whom always say thank you. Why do they come? Why is this ministry important? There are many reason: for those who do not have access to cooking facilities there is an opportunity to enjoy a home cooked meal; for others it gives an opportunity to chat with other guests; some people like to share with the Team their concerns; still others may come for a short time only to see them over a time when finances are tight.

Some of our Guests request a special prayer moment before Grace is said; some ask for a memorial prayer (eg when Peg Noake, who had been very much involved with the lunches, died, a long time Guest asked for her to be remembered.) Sometimes we are able to offer encouragement to those who are really trying hard to improve their lives eg an older man who has discovered he has a talent for painting shares with us the improvement he is making, to the extent that he has actually sold a number of his work; and an older lady who has just enrolled at TAFE to learn to read and write; and so the stories go on.

What a wonderful team of people (over 40) we have had for so many years! Amongst those people is a small group who do not belong to the Cathedral, but having heard about the outreach programme were motivated to join the team. We serve an average of 60 people each fortnight (ranging from about 40 to sometimes 80) and at our 2010 Christmas lunch we had close to 100 Guests.

We never know how many will be having lunch, but if food is left over we pack a meal into take away containers so that a nutritious meal can be enjoyed later. The containers have been generously donated by a person in memory of a deceased friend who had been a member of the team.

What of the future? We are delighted that the Cathedral‟s outreach programme, which as Bishop Brian said, brings vital features of the Gospel alive, will continue in the capable hands of Fr. Philip & Margaret Thirlwell and Adrian & Cherylynne Price (Co-ordinators of the teams) and Claire Foster who will compile the roster. So, many thanks to everyone for their faithful and generous contributions: without you it would not have been possible to maintain our Cathedral Sunday Lunches.

Margaret & Audrey Clark, Co-ordinators

Prayer Group Throughout the year the Evening & Home Prayer Groups have continued in the ministry of prayer with thanksgiving, reflecting on the words of Paul when he wrote to the Christians at Philippi: “In everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God (Phil: 4:6). The Evening Group has met on the 1st Monday of each month to share in the Eucharist followed by a time of thanksgiving for prayers answered and updating on the prayer needs of the world, our Diocese and Parish, and personal requests. This year the meeting is being altered to meet on the first Wednesday of the month.

The Home Group consists of those who find it difficult to come out in the evening but wish to continue to be a part of the prayer ministry. The two groups have joined with those involved in the Pastoral Partners Program on two occasions for the Saturday morning Eucharist followed by Breakfast, a time of fellowship and a speaker. We are grateful for the input from Rev. Dr Julie Perry who was the chaplain to Anglican Care and Rev Dr Barbara Howard who supervises CPE.

We thank Virginia Wheeler who has so graciously opened her home to us for the breakfast. The Prayer Mentorship Program is on hold to be reviewed this coming year. Thank you to those who are part of this ministry and we welcome any members of the Parish who are challenged to share in the ministry of prayer.

Beth Ravenscroft, Co-ordinator

Mothers’ Union

The PURPOSE of Mothers‟ Union is to be especially concerned with all that strengthens and preserves marriage and Christian family life. Its AIM is the advancement of the Christian religion in the sphere of marriage and family life.

Its FIVE OBJECTS are: 1) To uphold Christ‟s teaching on the nature of marriage and to promote its wider understanding. 2) To encourage parents to bring up their children in the faith and life of the church. 3) To maintain a world-wide fellowship of Christians united in prayer, worship and service. 4) To promote conditions in society favourable to stable family life and the protection of children. 5) To help those whose family life has met with adversity.

The MU AUSTRALIA MISSION STATEMENT is: Sharing Christ‟s love by encouraging, strengthening and supporting marriage and family life.

All of this, in fact, largely represents the five Marks of Mission of the Anglican Communion, with our emphasis being on Christian marriage and family life. We seek to „proclaim the good news of the kingdom‟ in and by all that we do. It forms the basis for our programme for the year, and is reflected in annual reports when we look back to see what has been done, and what more needs to be done in the future.

Some of this is done locally, eg we are part of the MU “Coffee and Care” programme at the Worimi Childrens Court at Broadmeadow: one of our members is part of the MU hospital visiting scheme; and we contribute baby clothing etc which is given to needy new mothers for their babies. We bring gifts for teenagers at Christmas to be distributed by Samaritans. This year we learnt more about the work of Samaritans with families from one of our guest speakers.

One of the advantages of being part of a world-wide organisation with close to 4 million members in 81 countries, is that we can also play a part in building up the Kingdom of God in other places. Our Overseas and Northern Outreach Dept is involved with Literacy Development in areas such as Melanesia; with Training in PNG; and with Nursery Schools in Myanmar and Thailand. Our annual Craft Morning raised considerable funds for these projects, as well as being a time of fellowship and bonding for members.

Further afield MU does much to try to overcome injustices, especially regarding women, and we support this through MU Australia, as well as in prayer. We were pleased to learn more about the work of MU in Uganda and Kenya from Anne Clarke our Deanery Leader. We did nothing specific this year regarding the integrity of creation, as we did several years ago. Hopefully, what we learnt then has become part of our daily way of living.

Everything we do is underpinned by prayer. And we thank the Dean, Fr James Rigney, for his Lenten Reflection, when we combined with Cathedral Anglican Women.

One of the outstanding features of 2010 has been use of our new Worship and Prayer Book. Under the guidance of two of the co-authors, Elizabeth Appleby and Robyn Southerden we have been introduced to some of its treasures. This was particularly so for our annual observance of the World Wide Wave of Prayer held in July, and I thank Elizabeth for her ongoing help in preparing this and prayer services at our monthly meetings. It has been my experience when visiting other branches that the new worship book is very much appreciated.

Another new feature this year has been the use of Families World Wide. This valuable publication is not only a Prayer Diary for MU worldwide, but it also gives up-to-date news and information about MU in other countries. This has opened our eyes to the many different ways MU fulfils its Aim and Objects depending on the situation in a particular country.

We have continued to be very involved in the baptism ministry in the parish. MU members attend each baptism, welcoming families and visitors. Every child who is baptised is given a cross and card. We were grateful to receive the proceeds from the combined MU/CAW bus trip to enable us to do this. We also support the Children‟s Ministry Programmes, and we hope to provide ongoing support for the newly established 11.30 am Eucharist on the third Sunday, where families bringing children for baptism can experience something more of the life and worship of the church. My thanks to all who have supported these ministries, especially when baptisms have been held at unusual times, and to Robyn Southerden for taking on the role of co-ordinator. Thanks, too, go to Joan and Tony Allen for their ongoing commitment to the Saturday evening service, held once a month in 2010.

I was privileged to attend the NSW State MU conference in Mittagong earlier in the year, along with a number of representatives from our Diocese. We can learn much from such occasions. We hear of the strengths and problems of MU in other dioceses, and seek ways to enhance the work of MU in our own. We find guidance to develop our own spirituality as well as enjoying much fellowship.

The beginning of 2011 will see a great change in our Diocesan executive. Many of those who have just finished their term of office have served for 7 instead of the usual 6 years. We are deeply grateful for their leadership, and especially that of Carole Harvey as President. We were indeed privileged that she was able to visit our branch as guest speaker. We pray for the new Executive and especially for those who will take on new responsibilities.

We thank Fr James for his support during the year, and we were pleased that Fr Mark Watson was able to spend some time with us soon after he arrived. We look forward to his ministry among us. We were shocked and saddened by the sudden death of our youngest member. Deidre Gummow was an enthusiastic member of MU who managed to attend meetings, initially when her children were small, and later despite a very busy working schedule. She was a firm believer in and upholder of the Aim and Objects of MU, and she served as Branch Secretary for quite a few years. She also valued the support she received from MU. Our prayers are with Robert, Claire, Lauren and Ryan. Members were pleased to be able to participate in various ways during her Requiem Eucharist at the Cathedral. Deidre was a very special person and we will miss her greatly. May she rest in peace.

Finally I would like to thank all members for their love and support and willingness to help me during the year. Dinah Bailey is a quiet but very efficient Secretary, who makes my path much easier; Barbara Oliver and Claire Foster have kept our finances in order; and Elizabeth Apppleby is always ready to share her vast knowledge and experience with us, as Sharon Sandstrom does with her music. But any organisation is only as good as its members, and I thank all members for their ongoing commitment to making our branch function so well.

Margaret Thirlwell, President

Pastoral Partners

2010 has dealt with many challenges beginning in April when I met with the Dean, deciding to take leave from my position as Co-ordinator whilst cataract surgery took place and until driving resumed. I subsequently returned in August. During my absence the Dean met with a group of Pastoral Partners in May.

There were two occasions where we joined with the Prayer Group for Eucharistic Celebrations followed by fellowship over a “bring and share” breakfast with a guest speaker. These gatherings have been inclusive and bonding bringing the two ministries side by side. Speakers have been the Reverend Julia Perry and Dr. Barbara Howard.

I have recently resigned as Pastoral Partners Co-ordinator and wish the ministry under Fr. Mark Watson‟s leadership every blessing. I have been privileged to serve you all. In conclusion I wish to acknowledge Virginia Wheeler and Beth Ravenscroft‟s generosity in opening their homes where our bring and share breakfasts have been held.

Pam Dowdell

Souvenir Shop

The Souvenir Shop Committee met seven times during the year to ensure the smooth running of the shop and to address any issues that pertained to the volunteers. During the year there was a talk given by Constable Tony Tamplin, from Newcastle Police, to the volunteers to advise on safety issues with regards to the shop in general, and money handling in particular. The shop and the wonderful volunteers continued to be the first point of contact for our visitors and once again ensured those visitors received a warm welcome.

The Committee was able to give $16,000 to the Cathedral Chapter this year. Unfortunately this was a reduction of $2,000 from the previous year. As our main customers at the shop come from the Cathedral Community, in the opinion of the Committee, the diminishing core population sadly has contributed to our reduced income.

I should like to thank all the Committee members for their dedication during the year and their perseverance in maintaining our first line of welcome to those who visit us.

Nicolette Thomas, Honorary Secretary.

Activities for Children

Activities for children in 2010 have been presented in three main areas:  Sunday School every Sunday within the 9.30 Eucharist  3 Kids Countdown programmes  Saturday evening service for families once a month.

Sunday School operates each Sunday within the 9.30 Eucharist. The number of children who attend varies but there can be two, six, ten or twelve children, ranging in age from 2 to 12 years old. We try to provide a story that is linked to the gospel reading of the day and a craft activity to enhance the message. Because of the wide age range there are always at least two activities planned. Members of the choir assist with Sunday School and the team consists of Rosie Murree-Allen, Siobhan Mackey, Veronica Butcher, Emilie Butcher and Jenny Pickering. It is hoped that in 2011 the Sunday School space can be improved and programmes suitable to all ages can be offered.

Kids Countdown Programmes There have been three programmes run during 2010, on one afternoon per week from 4.00pm to 5.30pm. The children were aged from 5 -12 years, though some younger children have attended with parents. Each programme lasted for six weeks with a specific focus Kids Countdown to Easter (attended by 13 children), Kids meet the Super Heroes of the Bible (attended by 11 children), and Kids Countdown to Christmas (attended by 20 children). Each afternoon children gathered in the Cathedral and enjoyed stories, games, craft, songs, afternoon tea (which was kindly provided by the Cathedral Mothers‟ Union), and a search each week for Charlie the church mouse and his friends, which was always enjoyed by the children and ensured they visited every inch of the Cathedral! This series was run by a very willing team of dedicated people who assisted with all the weekly tasks. The team leaders consisted of Rosie Murree- Allen, Siobhan Mackey, Veronica Butcher, Emilie Butcher, Jan Kitchingman, Robyn Southerden, Christine Smith and earlier in the year, our dear friend, the late Diedre Gummow. We were all shocked by her death and remember with fondness the activities she organised for the children, and are all inspired by her dedication to the building of Children‟s Ministry in the Cathedral. May she rest in peace.

Saturday Evening Service for Families During 2010, for various reasons, it became necessary to reduce the frequency of this service from weekly to monthly. Having the St Nicholas Choir sing at this service was an asset and a delightful outlet for their training, but sadly the numbers attending continued to dwindle. Another service, for families seeking baptism for family members, was started on one Sunday a month at 11.30 and many families welcomed this service. During 2011 assessment will be made as to the best way to serve the need for families seeking to worship together at the Cathedral.

Family Picnic Day An extra activity for families in 2010 was the Family Picnic Day which was held in August. We were grateful to the Anglican Men‟s Group who supplied a sausage sizzle lunch. Quite a few families came and enjoyed lunch, fun and games and fellowship. It is hoped to hold similar days in 2011.

Thanks While all the programmes were a team effort, particular thanks are given to three special people, namely Veronica & Emilie Butcher and Siobhan Mackey. They very readily gave assistance in all our Children‟s Ministry areas, giving much of their time and talent, and their help is very much appreciated. Thanks are also given to the Cathedral Mothers Union for providing suppers at the family services and afternoon teas at the Countdown programmes, and for their encouragement and support. Thanks to the Anglican Men‟s Group for the sausage sizzle at the picnic day and for ensuring funds were available for part of the programmes.

Rosie Murree-Allen, Organiser

Music reports

Cathedral Music Programme It is with great pleasure that I present this annual report for the Cathedral‟s music programme for 2010. I begin with a word of thanks to many people who, through their commitment and dedication, enable the continued success of the music programme. Keith Murree-Allen continues to be of invaluable assistance and a great “sounding board” for me, personally. Without his support, we would not be enriched in the same way which we are fortunate to experience presently. Also to Rosie Murree-Allen, who continues to provide hours of valuable assistance “behind the scenes”.

I thank our Organ Scholar, James Goldrick, for his continued and valuable commitment to the Cathedral music programme. It has been heartening to see his development over the past three years into a fine organist, chorister and conductor. James will be concluding his term as organ scholar at the end of February, 2011, and we wish him well in his future endeavours, including post graduate study at the Australian Catholic University in Sydney.

Sharon Sandstrom has very ably assisted as organist at the 8am Eucharist on Sundays. This commitment has been a great support to me and the other organists, and is greatly appreciated. Siobhan Mackey continues her work as director of the St Nicholas‟ Choir. I thank her for continuing dedication and contribution to the training of our younger choristers. The Choral Scholars, Head Choristers and Choristers of our choirs must be thanked for their amazing contribution to the music programme at the Cathedral. Without their commitment, the Cathedral would quite simply not appreciate the fine standard of music that we currently experience.

The practical and financial support provided by the Friends of Newcastle Cathedral Music is of great importance to maintaining the Cathedral‟s music programme. I thank all the “Friends” for their dedication and support.

It goes without saying that none of what we are able to achieve would be possible without the support of the Cathedral clergy and staff. My thanks go to Fr James, Fr Mark and Fr Tim for their support over the past year, as well as to Robert and Margaret for their assistance.

The Cathedral Choir remains the most visible aspect of our music programme, providing the music for the Solemn Eucharist and Evensong on nearly every Sunday of the year. Our repertoire continues to expand, with new settings of the Eucharist and evening canticles added to the library this year, as well as new introits, motets and anthems. Our repertoire includes music spanning over 400 years, including chant through to music composed in the modern day.

In addition to this, there are the additional liturgies throughout the year, notably Lent and Holy Week, Advent, Christmas and for other feast days and Diocesan services, for which the choir is required. The standard of the choir‟s contribution continues to enhance our worshipping life, as well as provide a source of spiritual nourishment for our parishioners and visitors alike.

Of particular note to me in 2010 was the music at these major celebrations, especially at Advent and Christmas. Following the Bishop‟s request that the services at Holy Week may be slightly revised, we were fortunate to provide the music for a Tenebrae liturgy during that week. This liturgy is one of contrast and silence, readings and music, darkness and light and is a moving experience and opportunity for reflection on the journey of Holy Week. I encourage everyone to consider this liturgy in their own personal journeys.

As in previous years, we have been fortunate to experience a number of orchestral masses throughout the year. I thank the members of Christ Church Camerata who have been available for these liturgies, which provide an extra source of enrichment to our worshipping life.

We have also been fortunate to engage the services of Fr Rupert Jeffcoat and David Drury at times throughout the year. We greatly appreciated Fr Rupert‟s contribution in conducting the choir on Trinity Sunday and David‟s accompanying of the Duruflé Requiem and other liturgical accompaniments and improvisations for All Souls‟. We are truly fortunate that musicians of such calibre are willing to travel to Newcastle to be involved with our music programme. It is also a learning experience for our choir to experience various conducting and rehearsal techniques of other professional musicians.

In October, the Cathedral Choir toured to Melbourne to join with the choir of Christ Church, South Yarra. The combined choirs sang at Christ Church in the morning, before singing Evensong at St Paul‟s Cathedral. The benefits of tours such as this are endless. It is an important “bonding” opportunity for the choir, and also time for them to meet other people with similar interests and to sing in new places. We thank David Drury and the choirs of St Paul‟s College and Women‟s College from the University of Sydney, who provided the music for our Cathedral that weekend.

The St Nicholas‟ Choir continues to rehearse on Friday evenings during school term. Siobhan Mackey continues to direct and rehearse the choir, which has been singing at the Saturday evening Family Eucharist, and more recently at the Sunday morning Family Baptism Eucharist. They have also sung at numerous weddings throughout the year, as well as additional family liturgies on Good Friday, Easter and Christmas. This choir also provides training for our future Cathedral Choristers. As such, recruitment is an important priority for this year as well as a continued and increased focus on the training of choristers, following the guidelines provided by the Royal School of Church Music.

In addition to the music provided for various liturgies within the Cathedral, the music programme provides an outreach to the community through the presentation of various concerts throughout the year. This outreach has been focussed around the Christ Church Camerata. It is important to note the dedication of the musicians involved in this group who give so willingly of their time. This ensemble has greatly enhanced the profile of the Cathedral‟s music programme in the community, and has achieved international notoriety.

Other concerts were provided throughout the year, including a series of Bach‟s solo violin sonatas and partitas by Ronald Woodcock, and a recital presented by Canadian organist, Ian Sadler.

Looking ahead to 2011, the choirs and organists have a busy schedule to maintain. In addition to their regular duties, tentative dates have been booked for a commercial recording project for the Cathedral Choir. The choir will also present two works in June with the Camerata, as well as be involved in a combined choir‟s event for the Royal School of Church Music in May. The Camerata will this year present three concerts, as well as undertake a recording project of their own. We will be joined by the choir of Christ„s College, Cambridge in July, as well as an organ recital by Ben Sheen of Oxford in August. Ronald Woodcock will perform another series of concerts and there are a number of other concert projects still being finalised. Brochures for these events will soon be available in the Cathedral.

I finish by asking for the continued support of the parish of our Cathedral. It is most heartening to receive valuable feedback from parishioners and to have their support. I ask that you keep all of those involved in the music ministry of this Cathedral in your thoughts and prayers.

Peter Guy, Organist and Master of the Choristers

Friends of Cathedral Music

The year 2010 has been a rather quiet for the Friends, although we have been able to make useful contributions to the musical life of the cathedral. We have attracted new members and there have been many generous donations, as well as special donations to assist choristers.

There have been substantial Tax deductible donations so that we now have over $35,000 in the Trust Account. We are limited in the way we can spend the trust money. We also have $5087 in the membership account and the spending requirements from this fund are less strict.

We have been able to contribute to several projects throughout the year: New Music – 40 copies of English Church Music $900 Voice for Life Programme for St Nicholas Choir choristers $486 Cassocks & surplices for the choir 4x $1065 Choristers Travel with choir to Christ Church Sth Yarra in Sept $1000

Our support for Organ CD by Peter Guy has paid off with costs being recovered quickly, and a profit for the Friends of $540 this year making a total of $7237.50 over the last two years. All CDs have now been sold.

We have a very healthy balance of funds at present, mostly in fixed deposit. However, most of this is earmarked for our special project, electronic 32ft pedal stops 1) soft 2) loud. A recent quote suggests we will have sufficient funds for that.

However, there are other matters which may require attention eg the organ blower, and as both projects would involve dismantling some of the organ and the use of scaffolding, it may be best to try to accumulate funds for both projects. Peter Jewkes, the organ builder has been asked to give a report on the organ. However, the committee doesn‟t believe it is its responsibility to cover the cost of the blower.

Special thanks must go our Treasurer Jill Cameron whose management of the financial side of things is meticulous, thorough, accurate and always done cheerfully. Keeping track of the two funds we have a) membership fees and b) donations, reporting to the Tax Office and arranging for Auditors reports is very time consuming.

David Carter continues to act as Secretary, and travels from Sydney for regular meetings and functions. However, health problems are making it increasingly more difficult for him to attend our meetings. He has been the linchpin in the whole organisation and was largely instrumental in the setting up of the Friends and our tax deductible status.

Geoff Williams unfortunately resigned from the committee in Jan 2010. Also Sam and Katie Donovan live well outside the parish and cannot attend. We therefore are keen to have at least two new persons join our committee.

Other members of the Committee giving valued service are Helen Waring, Rosie Murree-Allen, together with the cathedral organist Peter Guy and Siobhan Mackey, director of the St Nicholas Choir.

Hopefully, we will be able to continue to support the Cathedral Music in 2011 and to bring to fruition the project for the 32ft pedal stop.

Keith Murree-Allen, Chairman, Friends of Cathedral Music