George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc.
Annual General Meeting 2017 - 2018
15th October 2018
George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc. Annual General Meeting 2017-2018
Contents
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AGENDA ...... 2
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE’S PROFILE ...... 3
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE’S PROFILE ...... 4
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE’S PROFILE ...... 5
GEORGE STREET NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE ASSOCIATION INC. STAFF FOR
2017 – 2017 ...... 6
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING MINUTES 16TH OCTOBER 2017 ...... 7
PRESIDENT’S REPORT ...... 10
TREASURERS REPORT INCLUDING AUDIT REPORT 2017 – 2018 ...... 12
SENIOR PROGRAM MANAGER ...... 29
INTEGRATED FAMILY SUPPORT HUB ...... 31
GOOD BEGINNINGS HOME BASE FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAM...... 33
MOTORING MACKAY MIGRANTS (MMM) ….…………………………...…………………………...….37
MULTICULTURAL EMPLOYMENT AND MENTORING PROGRAM (MEMP) ...... 38
MACKAY COMMUNITY NO INTEREST LOAN SCHEME (MCNILS) AND STEPS TO SUCCESS
PROGRAM...... 42
MACKAY REGIONAL FINANCIAL WELLBEING PROGRAMME ...... 42
MIGRANT SETTLEMENT PROGRAM ...... 45
MULTICULTURAL PROGRAM ...... 51
STAFF AT GEORGE STREET NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE ASSOCIATION INC...... 54
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George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc.
Annual General Meeting Agenda Monday 15th October 2018
CHAIRPERSON – Peter Tait
Acknowledge the Yuibera People and their Ancestors past and present whose land on which we meet.
1. Opening of the meeting and welcome, attendance, and apologies 2. Guest Speaker: Michelle McNamara 3. Minutes of previous Annual General Meeting held on Monday 16th October 2017 4. Business arising from previous Annual General Meeting 5. President’s Report 6. Treasurer’s Report (including extract from Auditors Report) 7. Election of Office Bearers 8. Appointment of Auditor 9. Acknowledgement of Management Committee Members 10. Appreciation of staff member/s – 5 years service 11. Thanks and closure of meeting
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Management Committee’s Profile
President - Donna Dempsey
I first became involved with GSNCA in late 1989 whilst Debbie Dow was the CDO, who kindly encouraged me to attend their playgroup and come along to listen to guest speakers. Then for many years since the late 1990s I ran a volunteer Systems Advocacy group here for Mental Health Consumers and Carers, and was impressed with the support and professionalism of the Management Committee and staff. After assisting with the massive flood appeal work the organisation undertook in 2008, I was invited to join the Committee, and two years later I was elected President. I am extremely proud to be part of such a wonderful organisation, who with the support of the funding bodies, dedicated Committee members and awesome staff members make GSNCA Inc. such a huge asset to our community.
Vice President - Jeanette Morgan
I’m a wife, mother, mother in-law and grandmother. I’m a Team Leader at the Department of Human Services where I’ve worked for the last 25 years. It is an ever- changing environment and the nature of the work is challenging and rewarding at the same time. I’m happy that I also volunteer at other organisations and get to use my Justice of the Peace position in both my work and volunteer roles. In my time on the Board I have been part of the huge changes that have occurred internally. I enjoy my involvement and being part of the decision making with the Board at George Street Neighbourhood Centre. I have especially been privileged to gain knowledge from the fiscal and legal input given by our Treasurer Peter and Secretary Patrick. I appreciate the work done by all of the committed staff at both sites, and congratulate them on another year of achievements for funding of programs and organisation and participation in successful events. There are other changes happening which will be refreshing for the team.
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Management Committee’s Profile
Secretary - Patrick Heilmeier
I have been part of George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc. since 2011. I became the Association Secretary in 2012. I moved from Adelaide to Mackay with my partner Bronwyn in 2006 and then moved to Cairns in December 2013. I have a legal background and practiced as a solicitor for 9 years (until September 2014) in the areas of commercial and succession and estate planning. I now work in the Cairns tourism industry. It is heartening to see how the George Street Neighbourhood Centre and its staff have come through the challenges of these past six years I have been associated with the organisation and look forward to George Street Neighbourhood Centre achieving even more in the coming year. I enjoy gardening and also travelling with Bronwyn.
Treasurer - Peter Tait
I have been Treasurer of the George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc. since 2001. In this time, I have been very proud to be a part of the growth and expansion of the Centre and the amazing work our staff and volunteers do in providing services to the Mackay community. I am married to Liz and have two daughters. I worked as a Chartered Accountant in public practice for thirty years, retiring in July 2016. In that time, I provided accounting and auditing services to a wide variety of local businesses helping them with financial and taxation matters. I keep active in Mackay and the surrounding community serving on six other boards and management committees. For relaxation, I enjoy the beach, swimming and cycling and travelling with my family to explore new places.
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Management Committee’s Profile
Committee Member - Andrea Pozza
I sought to join the George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc. committee because I appreciate and value the service the organisation provides our Mackay community, a community I am passionate about. I am married to Zoe (we are both Toy Library volunteers) and have two children, Robert and Chiara. I have a Masters degree in Library, and Resource Management and Bachelor degrees in both Arts and Education (Secondary). In my career thus far. I have worked as a Classroom Teacher, Secondary Teacher-Librarian and as an electorate officer for a Federal member of parliament. I am a currently a Senior Teacher at Mackay SHS.
Committee Member - Linda Bishop
My passion and drive comes from working on the frontline in a Community Mental Health Organisation as a Project worker. I have the privilege of working side by side with our community members, this has given me further understanding of the challenges our members face on a daily basis, and it soon led me to think outside the box explore, research and develop new programs in our local region. I am a Steering Committee member of the Mackay Regional Mental Health Network as I feel networking and forming partnerships is a key element to future Community Development opportunities. I am a Committee member of Mackay Clubhouse a new model and program for Mackay. I have been fortunate to be part of Clubhouse from the initial scoping to final implementation of current program. I enjoy my role as a facilitator of Well Ways a Carer mental health education program and a presenter of Living Proof education to young people and interested professionals on mental health. I am currently working with the National Mental Health Commission of Australia collecting stories from individuals effected by Mental Health for the Commission’s Report Card for 2013 this will be launched in November with Publishing of a book and a short film interview of each story.
I look forward to working with and learning from the all the team from George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc.
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George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc. Staff for 2017 – 2018
George Street Neighbourhood Centre Nicolette Ffrost Association Inc. Senior Program Manager Administration George Street Tara Hall Neighbourhood Centre Administration Shakespeare Child and Barb Cronin Family Centre Leadership Assistant Kym Breadsell Family Support Program Coordinator Lara Manuel-Isaacs Good Beginnings Home Base Family Alexandra Whippy Support Program Integrated Family Support - HUB Nicolette Ffrost / Kelly Moran/ Toni Moore Business Trainee Emma IÁnson/Jessica Everson Mackay Regional Financial Wellbeing Natasha Syed Ali/ Venetia Aprile Programme Migrant Settlement Program Lynn Bartlett Multicultural Program Georgine Crawford Community Development Valeriya Edsall Worker/Multicultural Work Pathways Program/Motoring Mackay Migrants Volunteer Hub Support Kelly Moran
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Annual General Meeting Minutes 16th October 2017
Present: Donna Dempsey, Mary McDougall, Denise Roberts, Peter Tait, Patrick Heilmeier, Faith Slater, Julie Appleton , Kay Abela, Diane Mooney, Lara Manual Isaacs, Toni Moore, Georgine Crawford, Katie Morgan, Venetia Aprile, Barb Cronin, Lindy Bishop, Andrea Satireyo, Andrea Pozza, Deb Rae, Helen Styles, Jarrah Steen Danielle Tucker, Rita Satinie Nicolette Ffrost, Dean Lynch
Apologies: Jeanette Morgan, Grant Webb (Dept Education & Training), Tara Hall, Lynn Bartlett
1. Opening of the Meeting: by Peter Tait, acknowledgement and Constitution referred to regarding Chairing of the AGM.
The Annual General Meeting for the George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc. was declared open at 1:05pm. The Chairperson, Peter Tait welcomed all attendees and acknowledged the Traditional Landowners of the region, announced apologies received and asked if any further apologies were to be noted. No further apologies to be noted.
2. Guest Speaker:– Helen Styles
Helen Styles (External Consultant) presented an overview on collaboration between community organisations. Helen has been working on a 3 year project in the WIM region (Whitsunday/Isaac/Mackay) for the Coalition of Community Board Project as part of the work undertaken by the Regional Social Development Centre. This Project is putting together documents which will be used as a set protocols between organisations for collaboration. Helen spoke about better communication between Board Members and Staff and is meeting with Board Members to discuss strategic planning. The goal is to create a shared vision to bring together local organisations. Helen is now looking to set up group to steer the protocols of Collaboration and Government is also keen to learn further.
3. Minutes of AGM held Monday 19th October 2015
Peter Tait asked all present to read through and asked for the minutes to be moved by someone present at that meeting as a true and accurate record. Moved: Faith Slater Seconded by: Patrick Heilmeier Accepted and Carried by the floor
4. Business Arising from Previous Minutes: NIL Noted
5. President’s Report
For a full report by Donna Dempsey please see page 10 of 2015 – 2016 AGM Booklet Donna provided an overview of staff appointed to the Leadership Team and acknowledged the hard work of Helen and Joanne in their roles and welcomed Nicolette Ffrost and Dean Lynch to their new roles. Donna commended each staff member on their contribution to the organisation and acknowledged the hard work of Lara, Toni and Georgine in wrapping up the Early Years Health and Wellbeing Program.
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Donna expressed gratitude to all the funding bodies for the ongoing support they provide in enabling us to deliver the many programs and activities to the community of Mackay. In closing Donna thanked the fellow Management Committee members for their ongoing hard work and commitment.
Moved: Donna Dempsey Seconded: Patrick Heilmeier Accepted and Carried by the floor.
6. Treasurer’s Report
For a full report by Peter Tait please see page 12 of 2015 – 2016 AGM Booklet. Peter highlighted how overall for the year the Centre has achieved a surplus and continues to hold sufficient funds to cover all liabilities and provisions.
Peter acknowledged the support of Naomi, Jarrah in compiling the financial information and other staff and directors at SH Tait & Co and his family for their support.
Moved: Peter Tait Seconded: Andrea Pozzer Accepted and Carried by the floor.
7. Election of Office Bearers and Committee
Peter Tait, Treasurer of GSNCA Inc. chaired the election of office bearer and stood aside to allow Patrick Heilmeier to take over as chair person for the election of the Treasurer’s position.
President Nominee: Donna Dempsey Nominated by: Peter Tait Seconded by: Andrea Pozza Donna was elected unopposed as President
Vice-President Nominee: Jeanette Morgan Nominated by Peter Tait Seconded: Andrea Pozza Jeanette was elected unopposed as Vice President
Treasurer Nominee: Peter Tait Nominated by: Andrea Pozza Seconded: Jeanette Morgan Peter was elected unopposed as Treasurer
Secretary Nominee: Patrick Heilmeier Nominated by: Peter Tait Seconded by: Andrea Pozza Patrick was elected unopposed as Secretary
General Committee Members Nominee: Andrea Pozza Nominated by: Peter Tait Seconded by: Linda Bishop Page | 8 George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc. Annual General Meeting 2017-2018
Andrea was elected unopposed as a Committee Member
Nominee: Linda Bishop Nominated by: Peter Tait Seconded by: Andrea Pozza Linda was elected unopposed as a Committee Member A motion was put forward by Peter Tait that all members be accepted to the committee. Peter congratulated all elected committee members.
Nominee: Helen Styles Nominated by: Peter Tait Seconded by: Linda Bishop Helen was elected unopposed as a Committee Member A motion was put forward by Peter Tait that all members be accepted to the committee. Peter congratulated all elected committee members
8. Appointment of Auditor
It was noted that George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc. wishes to continue with the auditor Brown and Bird Accountants who have been with George Street Neighbourhood Association Inc. for a large number of years.
Moved By: Peter Tait Seconded by: Donna Dempsey Accepted and Carried by the floor
9. Acknowledgement of the Management Committee Members, Leadership Team and Guest Speaker
Dean Lynch presented all Management Committee members with a thank you gift for all of their hard work over the past twelve months.
Peter Tait presented Helen Styles with a gift as guest speaker.
10. Acknowledgement of special service achievements
Special Service Achievements were made to Rita Satinie for 5 years of service. Peter Tait presented Rita with a glass plaque.
11. Closure of Meeting Peter congratulated George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc. on all that had been achieved this past year. Peter thanked the community for attending the meeting and welcomed them all to stay for light refreshments.
Closure of Meeting: 1:40pm
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President’s Report 2017-2018
This past year has been a period of growth and progress for George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc. (GSNCA Inc.). While there were a number of unexpected challenges, most significant being the impact of Ex-Tropical Cylcone Debbie, there has been significant progression towards many of the organisation’s goals and the funded programs have generally exhibited increased outcomes and added innovative deliverables to their services.
The key focuses for the organisation in this past year have been: ➢ Improving the quality and outcomes of funded programs; ➢ Consultation and preparation for the George Street Neighbourhood Centre building upgrade, scheduled for late 2017 and early 2018; ➢ Preparing for the Human Services Quality Framework Audited Assessment, scheduled for late 2017; ➢ Seeking and securing a range of new funding contracts including: ▪ Multicultural Work Pathways Program; ▪ Cyclone Recovery positions for 2 x Generalist Counsellors and 1 x Financial Counsellor; ▪ Safer Pathways for CALD Women Program ➢ Progression towards the Strategic Plan Goals.
Since February 2017, Nicolette Ffrost has been taking the lead in managing the organisation, recently having her title changed from Senior Program Manager to General Manager to better reflect her responsibilities. She has been supported by Leadership Consultant Jarrah Steen to fulfil these responsibilities. Under Nicolette and Jarrah’s lead the organisation this year has secured a number of new funding contracts, been able to progress towards achieving its Strategic Goals and refine the Quality Assurance processes across the organisation. Everyone at GSNCA Inc. was extremely proud when Nicolette’s efforts and achievements were recognised when she recently received the Institute of Leaders and Managers Not For Profit Manager of the Year Award. Both of these ladies have been kept extremely busy this year and the Management Committee would like to acknowledge their great achievements across the year, along with their ongoing commitment to GSNCA Inc.
This year has seen the staff and funded programs of GSNCA Inc. go from strength to strength. Many of the ongoing activities saw increases in participation and a number of newly introduced initiatives have received huge community support. With the change in Leadership roles in February, the GSNCA Inc. Management Committee approved the appointment of a new Community Development worker position that now sits outside of the Leadership Team. This role, with the support of the broader team, has seen an increase in GSNCA Inc. engagement, participation and overall visibility within the Mackay community. The GSNCA Inc. Management Committee would like to thank the staff for all of their innovative ideas, hard work and dedication this year.
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The development of the Volunteer Coordinator role has also seen an increase in the number of volunteers engaging across the organisation. GSNCA Inc. has always had the support of volunteers, however over the past year the organisation has become even more reliant on their valuable contributions. The volunteers have also proved to be valuable to the GSNCA Inc. succession plan with a number of volunteers progressing into paid employment within the organisation. We would like to thank the volunteers for the time that they have contributed to GSNCA Inc. this year and we hope that you continue to support us into the future.
GSNCA Inc. cannot continue to support the local community without the ongoing funding received from our many funding bodies. We would like to thank all of our funding bodies, including government bodies and local donors, who continue to provide us with financial support year after year.
Finally I would like to acknowledge my fellow GSNCA Inc. Management Committee members. Every year brings new experiences, challenges and opportunities to learn and your commitment never waivers. GSNCA Inc. is so incredibly lucky to have such a dedicated, highly skilled and supportive Management Committee and it is always an honour to work with you all year after year. In saying that, Management Committee members Andrea Pozza and Helen Styles have both had to make the difficult decision to leave the GSNCA Inc. Management Committee this year and we would especially like to acknowledge their hard work and contributions to GSNCA Inc. during their time on the Management Committee.
Next year is set to be just as action packed as we look forward to the fulfilment of the GSNC Building Upgrade, passing our HSQF Audit requirements and contemplating new Strategic Goals.
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Treasurers Report including Audit Report 2017-2018 Peter Tait
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2017
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Senior Program Manager
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I am sure that 2017 will be remembered as the year that went too quickly! Everyone at George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc. has worked extremely hard this year delivering Programs, activities, events and everything in between. I would like to thank all staff and volunteers for their hard work, dedication and commitment during 2017.
Ex Tropical Cyclone Debbie caused chaos at the end of March with both Centres being impacted in one way or another. Luckily, it did not take long for normal operating to resume and we could go back to not only delivery our normal week to week activities but also assisting those individuals and families access the information, services and support they needed after the Cyclone. A big thank you to Carolyn Joy who was providing outreach financial services and living in the Whitsunday region during the time Debbie crossed the coast.
2017 for also be remember for our increased presence at pop up shops, stalls and expos. These events are a fantastic way for GSNCA to connect with external stakeholders, individuals and families in the Mackay community as well as increasing the awareness and understanding of what we are doing in the local Mackay community and how we can assist.
During 2017 GSNCA Inc. was successful in securing funding for the Multicultural Work Pathway Program (a 6 month Program due to finish end of 2017) and the Community Recovery Program (due to finish March 2019).
We also received confirmation during the later part of 2016 that Migrant Settlement Program and Mackay Regional Financial Wellbeing Programme would be extended for another year taking both of those programs to 30 June 2018.
GSNCA Inc. was also successful in securing funding through: 1. Macrossan and Amiet Charitable Foundation in the sum of $1000 to train 10 playgroup mums in First Aid and CPR; 2. Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal P/L in the sum of $2000 which will assist in brining a guest speaker to Mackay to discuss cyber safety and the impacts it has.
I would like to thank the following funding bodies who have ensured that GSNCA is able to continue to operate and offer the Service’s programs: The Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services, Department of Multicultural Affairs, Department of Social Services, Good Shepard Microfinance and the Office for Early Childhood Education and Care.
We have really pushed ahead with forming many community partnerships this year and some stakeholders we have worked with include Breast Screen Qld, The Smith Family, Mackay Regional Council, Relationships Australia, ATSICHS, First 5 Forever, University of the Third Age, Zonta, The Mackay Women’s Centre, DVRS, Mackay Child Family Action Group, Mackay Early Years Language and Literacy Network and many more. We look forward to continuing work alongside these stakeholders in 2018 and beyond.
In March 2017, we ran a Volunteer Appreciation Event for all of our wonderful volunteers and to formally recognise the enormous amount time and effort which our volunteers contribute to the organisation. Many of our programs and activities could not run as successfully as they do without the tireless efforts of our volunteers. We currently have a number of volunteers who are actively involved in both centres assisting with World Café, Administration, Good Beginnings, Playgroups, Multicultural Work Pathway Program, Multicultural and Migrant Settlement Programs. Thank you also to all the volunteers who support all staff in their programs and for their dedication and commitment to GSNCA.
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In October 2017 we said goodbye to Lynn Bartlett. Lynn has been with GSNCA for almost 6 years as the Migrant Settlement Program Coordinator. We wish Lynn and her husband all the best as they start they next adventure overseas providing aid work in Central Asia.
In early November 2017, 4 George Street will undergo extensive renovation to improve connectivity between building spaces, increase functionality and efficient as well as address overcrowding. All staff located at 4 George Street will temporarily relocate during this construction period. At this stage, we anticipate moving back in 4 George Street early 2018 and with the Annexe being built during this construction phase we are eagerly looking forward to resuming many of our activities back at 4 George Street in the new year.
I would also like to extend my thanks to Jarrah Steen and the Management Committee who have been supportive and guiding during 2017.
I am extremely proud of what we have achieved this year and look forward to the next chapter and beyond.
Nicolette Ffrost
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Integrated Family Support HUB Program Shakespeare Child & Family Centre
Toni Moore – Support Worker Kelly Moran – Support Worker
Did you know 90% of a child’s brain development happens within the first 5 years?
The Integrated Family Support HUB Program (IFS) works to support outcomes of family and children’s wellbeing by improving access to services, providing information, enabling early identification of problems, enhancing referral pathways and providing holistic responses for families.
IFS HUB delivers 4 weekly Playgroups for children aged 0-5 years and through partner service delivery offers workshops on children’s health and nutrition, education and development. Each program has a focus on enhancing early year development.
Play, Care, Talk & Listen, Read & Count, Encourage
Playgroups IFS HUB Program supports Playgroups with a variety of stimulating and educational activities while ensuring a welcoming environment for parents and their children to connect through conversation and play. In this financial year, Playgroup has seen a significant rise in attendance with 152 parents and 212 children recorded attending Playgroup. Throughout the year IFS HUB Playgroups have partnered with external support services such as:
❖ Mackay Regional Council/ First Five Forever ❖ Paint the Town REaD ❖ Lets Read / Lets Count ❖ Mackay Police ❖ Central Queensland University (CQU) ❖ Queensland Health ❖ Playgroup Australia
Programs & Workshops
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Rockin Kids – Music Therapy with Tania DeBrincat The Rockin Kids Program runs 1 day a week during the school term and is an early intervention program that provides children with the opportunity to participate in hands on activities that assists children with developing skills and sharing positive play experiences. The Program assists parents to extend the range of ways they can relate to their children through interactive play and builds their capacity to use these positive play experiences in the home. Opportunities are given to build supportive networks around families and enhance the parents and children’s social connectedness while improving child development outcomes.
Thank you Tania for being an amazing teacher that brings the families so much joy each week.
Healthy Kids are Happy Kids – Nutrition Workshops with Jody Walker Jody Walker delivers fun interactive workshops during the school term for parents to learn about healthy eating for children, providing discussions around simple recipes that can be made from home, tips for buying seasonal produce and information on child related health matters.
We would like to thank Jody and her down to earth nature for sharing her wealth of knowledge in Health and Nutrition with families.
The following is a list of events and activities the IFS HUB Program organises and participates in:
❖ Easter with Mackay Playgroups ❖ Mackay Regional Council’s Picnic in the Park (Book week) ❖ Under 8’s Expo ❖ Day for Daniel ❖ Bravehearts White Balloon Day ❖ Child Protection Week ❖ NAIDOC Week ❖ Christmas in July Movie Night ❖ Adopt A Family
❖ R U Ok? Day ❖ Good Beginnings Family Fun Day
The IFS HUB Program is also apart of the Mackay Child Friendly Community Action Group (MCFCAG) , a group of local community and government representatives dedicated to building a safer and friendlier environment in our community for children and their families. For Child Protection Week in September 2017 MCFCAG will be hosting the largest family friendly Child Protection Week event held in Mackay ‘KIDZ ARVO OUT’ at Harrup Park.
“Child protection is Everyone’s business. The responsibility lies with the adults in keeping children safe from harm. All members of society need to play a part in ensuring children are nurtured and safe. ” – Key Message from Child Protection Week
The IFS HUB Team will continue to work collaboratively and build relationships with external partners to assist in delivery of quality services and improved outcomes for families in the community.
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The IFS HUB Team would like to make special mention to Amy Duncan and Tom Paterson of Sandy Goose Books for the extremely kind donation of ‘The Barber at the Harbour’ children’s story books for families in need during Christmas in 2016.
My name is Kelly Moran and I have been with George Street in the role as Volunteer Hub Support Worker for the past year and in this time I have come across an abundance of diverse and incredibly community minded folk. They all appear to want to give something back to the community through Volunteering. It has been an honour to meet so many highly skilled folk who enjoy giving us their time to help within our organisation.
The Induction process is currently run by meeting with potential volunteers one on one and providing them with a Volunteer Information Package. This provides some valuable information around their roles, rights and responsibilities as well as information about the centres, policies, procedures and confidentiality agreement. Once all the requirements are met they transition into a Volunteers role of their interest. Often this may not be just one role they partake in, could be several. How much time they are willing to give is entirely up to them and we are grateful and appreciate any time that they do.
We currently have around 30 active volunteers. They have assisted in both general activities at the centres, to larger scale events that we have attended.
These include:
❖ Administration Duties ❖ Drivers Education Program ❖ Seniors Program, calling of Bingo ❖ World Café ❖ Literacy Week (Multicultural Program)
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❖ Playgroups ❖ Global Grooves ❖ NAIDOC Day ❖ Assist with collecting and dropping off of clients to their appointments
I attended the first ever MacKay Volunteers Expo held in May this year to which I was on the committee and we received a high interest about Volunteering within our organisation. It was a very successful event to be apart of and we gained a number of volunteers from it whom actually became volunteers with us. Onwards and upwards to making it even better next year to be able to have even further interest of volunteers to assist and work along side us in the programs, activities and events that we offer here at George Street to service the community. It was a great way to showcase what we do to help strengthen and build a diverse and dynamic community.
To show how appreciative we are of our wonderful volunteers, we hold an annual Volunteers Appreciation Event in May that coincides with National Volunteers Week. This year included making Kokodamas in which they constructed themselves and got to take home and enjoy; followed by a light morning tea with a Thank You cake and presenting them with an Appreciation Certificate for the time they so kindly have given. It is thoroughly enjoyed by all!
I look very much forward to working with and also gaining more volunteers within the organisation, as they too make up the very foundations of what we provide and offer to the community.
Kelly Moran
Family Support Program
The GSNCA Family Support Program aims to improve the wellbeing and safety of children, young people and their families by building the capacity of families to care for and protect their children. The Program provides linkages with external support services to enable families to access resources to stabilise and maintain family wellbeing. Families’ can self refer to the program . To make a referral the following criteria must be met:
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• There is a child/ren unborn to 18 years of age • The family would benefit from access to family support intervention and/or referral to specialist support services: • The child is not currently in need of ongoing Child Safety intervention • The family consents to the referral
The types of issues clients’ experience who come into the program include:
• Parenting challenges • Blended families • Substance abuse • Past Domestic Violence issues • Behaviour of children/young people • Anger management • Relationship problems • Financial difficulties • Disability • Social isolation The work done with FSP clients includes providing them with emotional support, referrals to other services, support in their role as a parent, financial budgeting and links into the community. The Family Support Program is a new program this financial year to George Street Neighbourhood Centre commencing October 2016. During the 2016-2017 Financial Year the Family Support Program has received 87 family referrals from:
• Child Safety • Queensland Police • DVRS • Internal GSNC staff • Goodstart Andergrove • FaaC – Act for Kids • Community Health • Self I look forward to the next 12 months in the Family Support Program and am hoping for another busy and fulfilling year in supporting the needs of our clients.
Good Beginnings Home Base Family Support Program
I am pleased to be presenting my Annual Coordinators Report for 2017. This has been a great year for the program due to a large number of families and volunteers being linked in with the program.
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In my other role as The Financial Wellbeing Officer in The Mackay Regional Financial Wellbeing Programme I would also like to acknowledge my fellow worker Natasha Syed Ali who has been a great support to me in this program. I look forward to the following year and what challenges this year may bring.
The Good Beginnings Home Based Family Support Program provides early intervention support to families who have children 0-18 years. Through coordinators and volunteers the program offers support and practical assistance particularly in the development of home based support structures with the aim of preventing family breakdown.
Assistance from the program is generally provided in the areas of: ➢ Personal and emotional support ➢ Information and skill development in the area of parenting and household management ➢ Assistance to accessing a range of services and activities in the community
Some of issues clients in our program often face include the following: ➢ Unemployment ➢ Underemployment ➢ Relationship breakdown ➢ Domestic Violence ➢ Lack of confidence in parenting skills ➢ Parents with limited literacy and numeracy skills ➢ Child behaviour management ➢ Lack of budgeting skills ➢ Parents with mental health issues ➢ Recent migrants ➢ First time parents ➢ Lack of extended family or social support networks ➢ Fathers who are having to care for children and household for the first time. ➢ Financial stress due to the fact the many of the clients in this program are on a Centrelink pension or allowance and are struggling to survive on these payments.
It is here that I would like to acknowledge our wonderful volunteers who give so selflessly of the time and support the program and families in need. Without these volunteers there would be no Good Beginnings Home Based Family Support Program.
Training that has been provided for our volunteers included the following:
✓ First Aid training ✓ SafeTALK Training ✓ Cultural Awareness Training ✓ Fussy Eaters Training ✓ Digital Cocaine – a Journey Toward iBalance Training
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On the 17th May the program hosted a Good Beginnings Family Fun Day. This was a great success with 126 people attending. This consisted of 54 adults and 72 children. A morning tea was provided along with plenty of children’s activities. . Feedback from participates about this event included the following:
❖ “Excellent. It was great! Had a great time. Food was great.”” ❖ “Amazing. Staff and volunteers were friendly, knowledgeable. Will be back. Everyone was lovey 10/10.” ❖ “It was spectacular. My son had the best time. Please do it again.” ❖ “Very good. Lots to do and great variety of food.” ❖ “Brilliant! Lots to do. The kids had a ball. You all did great. Can’t wait for the next one.” ❖ “It was our first visit at the centre and I was unaware of its existence until a friend told me about it. We had a great time, lots of fun. Really enjoyable.” ❖ “Excellent, my daughter had a wonderful time and I met some lovely new mums. It was great! Thank you so much” ❖ “Really good. Lots to do. Very good company, everyone was welcoming.”
In conclusion I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the Management Committee for their continuing support throughout the year who without their dedication, the George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc. wouldn’t be the great organisation that it is.
Special thanks also goes out to my fellow workers whose support and friendship means so much to me and makes coming to work each day an absolute pleasure.
Venetia Aprile
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Motoring Mackay Migrants (MMM)
My name is Valeriya Edsall and in December 2016 I became a support worker for the Motoring Mackay Migrants Program which is part of the Multicultural Program. MMM had lots of interest from the CALD community and we managed to accept 24 participants into the program. GSNCA is partnering with Michelle’s Driving School and Mackay Driver Education to provide participants with up to 10 free driving lessons to help them get their driver’s licence. The participants must have a mentor volunteer driver and reliable vehicle to practice driving between the lessons. The program also includes educational support from QLD Police on safe driving practices, car maintenance workshop by North Jacklin Mackay, road rules refresher, supervising driver volunteers session and cross cultural awareness training for instructors. Statistics:
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❖ Participants come from the following backgrounds: Philippines, Mongolia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Burma, Zimbabwe, Indonesia, Vietnam. ❖ Language other than English spoken at home: Tagalog, Zimbabwe (Shona), Mongolian, Thai, Bengali, Burmese, Bahasa, Vietnamese. ❖ 60% recent arrivals to Australia ❖ The number of participants dropped from 24 to 21 after the program commenced ❖ Demographics: 19 female and 2 male participants ❖ 7 participants have already successfully passed the driving test and obtained a driver’s licence ❖ The program was due to end in June 2017 but was extended to November 2017
Multicultural Employment and Mentoring Program (MEMP)
Last year I was lucky to become a Multicultural Employment and Mentoring Program support worker. The program finished in December 2016 and was a complete success. From July till December 2016 George Street Neighbourhood Centre was helping CALD job seekers to get more confident and to dive into exploring all the job opportunities in Mackay. The program delivered employment support where participants learned how to promote their abilities positively, how to identify their transferable skills to broaden job opportunities, how to write stand out resumes and cover letters, and finally how to prepare for interviews.
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The culminating event of the MEMP was a Forum devoted to the benefits of a culturally diverse workplace – “Employ and Work Effectively with Culturally Diverse Workers”, which took place on 18th November at the Ocean International Hotel. The Forum gave the opportunity for the employers of migrants and for the migrants who are looking for jobs to meet, share and discuss their experiences and ask the necessary questions. Two employer guest speakers from the aged care industry shared their experience of managing a multicultural workplace. Further three employee guest speakers spoke about their experiences of finding a job and what barriers they faced on the way.
The Program received extremely positive feedback from the participants who completed the survey. Participants indicated that they found the Program useful and “learned how to identify their strengths”, ‘’how to write resumes and cover letters and got some interviewing practice’’. They “learned about the Australian way of life” and Australian “work requirements”. The Program helped the participants to become more confident when applying for jobs in a new Australian environment.
Statistics:
❖ During the course of the Multicultural Employment and Mentoring Program a total of 28 participants attended the workshops. ❖ Participants come from the following backgrounds: Philippines, Indonesia, China, Russia, Ukraine, Chile, Peru, Bolivia, and Pakistan. ❖ At the end of the program 100% of participants started actively looking for a job using the knowledge from the workshops, 2 participants started volunteering and 2 participants got to the interview stage in their job application process. ❖ GSNCA Inc. was successful with a funding submission to deliver this program in 2017.
End of program celebration, December 2016
I would like to thank the Management Committee and my fellow workers for continuing support. It’s an honor to be a part of this team.
Valeriya Edsall
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Mackay Community No Interest Loan Scheme (MCNILS) and Steps to Success Program
Introduction
My name is Tara Hall and I have been the coordinator for the Mackay Community No Interest Loan Scheme (MCNILS) at the George Street Neighbourhood Centre for the past 12 months. We have had an interesting year, new procedures and a change in Loans Committee members and we have embraced the world of technology with internet banking and EFT payments to purchase items for our clients.
The Mackay Community No Interest Loan Scheme celebrates 19 years of service in the Mackay Community this year. Established in 1998 MCNILS provides individuals and families on low incomes an opportunity to apply for an interest free loan. Based at George Street Neighbourhood Centre and delivered from two Centres the No Interest Loan Scheme lends up to $900 to support the community’s most vulnerable to purchase white goods, essential household furniture and medical aids/equipment. NILS works through a process of circular community credit; when a borrower makes a repayment to a NILS program, funds are then available as a loan for someone else in the community. MCNILS responds to the needs of people living on low incomes by:
• Connecting individuals and families to consumer and financial assistance • Providing support to improve financial capability • Enhancing community participation through the recycling of funds into additional loans for other community members. Built on the 3 basic principles of trust, respect and non -judgement MCNILS is a program that promotes financial and social inclusion in the Mackay region. Statistic Snapshot
From October 2016 through to October 2017 MCNILS has supported:
• 208 new loans taking the total of current loans managed to 187 • 30% of loan holders identify as indigenous • 46% of loan holders receive the Newstart payment • The 35-44 age bracket has the highest number of people utilising MCNILS, with 3 people under 18 holding a MCNILS loan and 2 in the 65 and over bracket • 109 children live in a household support by MCNILS
A total of $168,000 has been injected into the community in the past 12 months to support families and individuals on Centrelink payments and those who are of genuine low income to purchase white goods, medical aids/equipment and household furniture.
This equates to 90 new refrigerators, 88 washing machines, 15 loans for household appliances including televisions, and DVD players, 3 loans for medical aids including a CPAP machine and glasses, and 25 loans for household furniture including beds, mattresses and lounges.
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Good Shepherd Microfinance with the help from Good 2 Go (The Good Guys) set up a rebate for any of clients who have been affected by Cyclone Debbie resulting in GSNC assisting 10 clients to have this $400 rebate applied to the total of their loan.
My proudest moment with NILS was helping a young mum obtain her Food License so that she can move forward with her delicious healthy food business.
I would like to thank my amazing Loan Committee for assisting me to achieve what we have and for helping the fantastic number of people in our community to purchase essential items, which many of us take for granted.
Professional Development
As a member of GSNC staff I have been able to participate in the following training opportunities:
• Mental Health First Aide • Professional Coaching • National NILS Conference – in Melbourne • CPR
George Street’s commitment to training is highly commendable and I have learnt a great deal professionally and personally during this year.
Seniors Friendship Group
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We have had another successful year with the Seniors Friendship Group; the ladies have enjoyed a year of Bingo. This year the ladies have asked to step out more often for Morning teas and lunches. I would like to thank our amazing volunteer Faith Slater who has kept this little groups together for many years. Due to health reasons Faith has stepped away for a while to take care of herself. I would like to welcome Colin and his wife Debra who have taken on Bingo calling and looking after our lovely ladies. The Seniors Friendship group has moved into Shakespeare Child and Family centre and they are feeling so much better being close to the amazing staff at this Centre. Barb has taken the ladies under her wing and helped our two new Volunteers keep the ladies happy and safe. The ladies are looking forward to another fantastic year having fun and growing their great friendships.
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Mackay Regional Financial Wellbeing Programme
This year was all about forming new relationships and reconnecting with old networks. The program has managed to physically deliver the service to regions outside of Mackay. We have also engaged with a wider demographic through social media and community education. In this report, we acknowledge Carolyn Joy who was only with us for a short period as an outreach Financial Counsellor. This position was a unique one as it was located off site. Carolyn must be acknowledged for her commitment to her role and GSNCA Inc. She was able to support the Whitsunday community with post Cyclone Debbie assistance and did a tremendous job under very challenging circumstances. The trend for this year is no doubt similar to last years however, the aftermath of Cyclone Debbie has caused significant and ongoing financial hardship to those already doing it tough as well as many who have never experienced financial hardship before.
Financial Wellbeing Officer (Financial Capability)- Venetia Aprile It has been a great year in my role as Financial Wellbeing Officer in the Mackay Regional Financial Wellbeing Program. The role of a Financial Wellbeing Officer consists of helping people to develop budgeting skills, giving information on government services and concessions options, assisting clients on how to read their bills and referring to Financial Counsellors and other support services. The Financial Wellbeing service is delivered via individual face to face budgeting, delivering tailored group sessions around money management, sharing of financial tips through media and providing information at community events such as stalls.
In the last twelve month 17 budgeting presentations have been presented to organisations and groups in the community. This has lead to 616 clients been presented too. These groups consisted of (Central QLD University, Holly Spirit College, Mackay Deaf Services, Mackay ER Network, Women’s Education Group, Mudth-Niyleta, Community Solutions, Centrelink, Max Employment Agency, NEATO, Marabisda Women’s Group, Mackay Suicide Prevention Network, Carers Queensland and the Mackay Pain Support Group.
In the last year there has been 63 individuals assisted by having individual face to face budgeting sessions done with them.
It was decided this year to reach a broader range of people in the general community by putting up on Facebook information about the Mackay Regional Financial Wellbeing Program and budgeting tips. Through doing this a total of 2501 people have been reached. Topics covered on the GSNC Facebook Page have included Money Management Tips, Savings at Christmas Time, Show Time Tips, Tips for Hard Times, Eating on a budget and general information about Mackay Regional Financial Wellbeing Program.
I also attended the Financial Counselling Association of Queensland Conference which was held in March. I found this conference a great learning experience and a great source of inspiration. I would also like to take this time to thank Natasha my fellow worker in the Mackay Regional Financial Wellbeing who had been a great source of support and inspiration.
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Financial Counsellor- Natasha Syed Ali Statistics
We have worked very hard to build our networks around the Mackay, Sarina, Cannonvale, Airlie Beach and Bowen areas. The demand for assistance in the Whitsunday region had become very complicated but manageable due to the impact of Cyclone Debbie.
2014-2015 2015-2016 2016-2017 Financial Counselling (Mackay) 135 127 168 Financial Counselling (Whitsunday & Bowen) - - 17 Financial Counselling (Sarina) - - 9 Financial Wellbeing (Mackay) - 33 63 Number of community education participants 72 190 616
Trends
Non-business related insolvency January-June 2016 July-December 2016 January- June 2017 Queensland 3828 3600 2849 Mackay 125 148 94 Whitsunday 13 24 7 (Jan-Mar) (Source- the Australian Financial Securities Authority- www.afsa.gov.au)
BSWAT We assisted 8 BSWAT offer recipients in this financial year. It has been a positive experience. We were able to work with the Endeavour Foundation to ensure that this was a smooth process for mutual clients.
Domestic and Family Violence The sector welcomed the guidelines by the Australian Bankers Association about working with victims of domestic and family violence. Financial service providers including telcos and utility providers have also committed to offering a more specialised and sensitive service. I have had positive outcomes for clients through this process.
Regional demand Sarina We have started to offer outreach services to the Sarina region. I work from the Sarina Neighbourhood Centre and this has allowed me to build on our relationship with the Mackay Regional Council and other services within the Sarina district. Due to the demand, we have now committed weekly financial counselling support for the next financial year.
Whitsundays Carolyn Joy was able to provide financial counselling support by being based in Bowen and Cannonvale. It has allowed us gain an understanding of the unique needs for the region especially within the sectors of tourism and agriculture. The demand on the service had grown post cyclone and cases were complex. Carolyn was able to engage with Legal Aid Queensland, the Insurance Council Australia during this period.
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Networks and Collaborations Anti Poverty Week Anti-Poverty week was held from Sunday 16th October – Saturday 22nd October 2016. Anti- Poverty Week aims to strengthen public understanding of the causes and consequences of poverty and hardship in Australia and around the world.
We continued to raise awareness of this via social media and this year, we had a successful food drive with all donations going to Anglicare and St Paul’s Uniting Church.
What will the future hold for us? As more households face financial hardship, early intervention through education is crucial. We will continue to work collaboratively to identify priority areas of needs and respond accordingly. We will continue to raise awareness about financial resilience and consumer rights. We will commit to ongoing advocacy through state and national initiatives for the financial wellbeing of the most vulnerable in our community.
Thank you for your continuous support to the program.
Natasha Syed Ali & Venetia Aprile
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MIGRANT SETTLEMENT PROGRAM
Annual Report 2017
Another year has just flown by! It has been over five years since I began this role with George Street Neighbourhood Centre and every year has proved to be very different to the year before.
Before I begin though, I’d like to acknowledge the great work done by the Management Committee in bringing such a range of worthwhile programs to meet the needs in the Mackay region. As an organisation we are equipped to assist across a very broad spectrum of needs in both the multicultural and Australian-born community. Our new post-cyclone Community Recovery program will extend this even further.
I would also like to acknowledge our Manager, Nicolette, who works extremely hard to keep us all working together toward our common goals.
Needless to say, the staff are great! I have felt honoured to be a part of such a great team, and enjoy working with you all.
I would also like to acknowledge the huge support I have received from the faithful team of volunteers who have become such an integral part of this program. I would like to especially thank Michelle Handley from Michelle’s Driving School and Michael Sullivan from Mackay Driver Education Driving School, who both so faithfully volunteer with the Drivers Education course. We have a great team of volunteers who are really ‘quiet achievers’. The clients love you, and this program would not be nearly as valuable for the clients without you! Congratulations to all those who have moved on to paid work. You, also, are some of the great success stories within the program!
Co-ordinator Change
So, with all that said, it is with quite a bit of sadness that I need to announce that I will be leaving my role here at George Street in early October. My husband and I will be moving overseas for new work roles in Central Asia. I will certainly miss all my colleagues, volunteers and clients. This has been a role which has allowed me to become close with many families in the Mackay multicultural community as I have had the privilege of assisting them on their settlement journey over several years. It is a thrill to support people overcome their obstacles - sometimes huge and sometimes small – and to see them achieve their goals and settle happily here.
Update on the Program
1. Case Management –Case Management has changed once again and, although I have still continued to meet clients in the community, there has been a growing need to assist clients experiencing domestic violence in their families. This has meant more interviews in the office, often with interpreters. It has also required a lot of follow-up and document help to assist these clients to work with lawyers and present information to Department of Immigration.
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Requests have also remained high for client placement as volunteers so they can become work-ready. This year we have seen several transitions from volunteering to paid work within the organisations where clients have been placed. 2. Information Sessions – these provide group sessions on a current settlement need among clients, e.g. explaining changes to visa and citizenship requirements, Family Law in Australia, domestic violence awareness etc. This year again, the majority of these have been conducted in partnership with TAFE AMEP with presentations from other organisations such as Mackay Community Legal Centre and Domestic Violence Resource Service. Some have been conducted in partnership with other George Street programs such as Multicultural Work Pathway Program, World Café and Motoring Mackay Migrants. 3. Drivers Education program – this course is still extremely popular. It focuses on helping clients to gain their Learner Driver licence and to become confident drivers on Mackay roads. Three courses have been conducted since the last GSNC Annual General Meeting. This has involved 49 participants plus volunteers. Several Community Work students have also been involved. 4. Community Partnership – a trained team of volunteers provides more intensive settlement support to clients in high-priority areas. This year, driving support has been the most in demand. Also, in partnership with the GSNCA Multicultural worker, clients are able to access free English classes and support for helping their young children to be school-ready. The aim of the program is to empower and build resilience into the migrant community in Mackay. 5. Migrant Women’s Toolkit – these are two-day workshops held in partnership with the GSNCA Multicultural program. Two of these programs have been held this year. Clients are exposed to a wide range of mainstream services available to them in the region, plus they learn skills and information useful for their journey to settlement in Australia.
Partnership Connections
Partnerships are also an essential element of the development of this program and have enabled expansion into new areas for meeting clients’ needs. New and ongoing partnership arrangements this year have included: Domestic Violence Resource Service, Mackay Community Legal Service, Lowanna House, Samaritan House, Motoring Mackay Migrants program, GSNCA Multicultural program, Multicultural Work Pathways Program, CQU AMEP program, Department of Transport and Main Roads, Michelle’s Driving School, Mackay Driver Education Driving School, Mackay Regional Council, and many others.
Training
• Data Exchange Training • ‘Shark Cage’ Training • First Aid training • SGP Networking meeting in Brisbane • GSNCA Inc. ‘in house’ training
Finally, this has been another enjoyable year for me at GSNCA Inc. I have found it challenging but I have learned an enormous amount through interaction with my wonderful team mates, volunteers and clients.
I will miss you all!!!
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Lynn
Volunteers at the Drivers Ed program
Drivers Ed training in August 2017
Lynn Bartlett
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Multicultural Program The CAMS Program Overview: The Multicultural Community Program is Queensland State funded. It is delivered under the umbrella of the Community Action for Multicultural Society (CAMS) network by the George Street Neighbourhood Centre in Mackay covering a catchment area that includes Sarina, Dysart, Moranbah, Whitsundays, Proserpine and Bowen. The program’s main focus is achieving social cohesiveness for the Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) individuals, families and community groups.
Its aims are: 1. To promote activities that encourage and enable CALD individuals to play a positive role in the community; 2. To highlight the needs and issues experienced by migrants and or CALD individuals and their families in order to increase public/community awareness and connectedness. 3. To provide ways and means for CALD individuals to upskill and help improve their living standard to achieve cohesiveness, inclusion and participation in the Mackay community.
Funding: The Program is delivered under the current funding agreement granted in 2015 for the period 2015 -2018 subject to satisfactory performance. The Multicultural Community Program is composed of four sub-programs.
The Multicultural Program (MCP):
1. World Café This is a culture sharing group where migrants come together to practice their English; learn about their rights, privileges and obligations in Australia and connect with the community through friendship and community participation. There is a wide range of activities from DIY projects to excursions; learning to cook other cultures‘ recipes to baking a simple scone; sharing ideas to leading monthly discussions on local and international issues.
Intercultural Performers Group: This group was created in 2015-2016 but disbanded in June 2017 due to a number of the participants finding casual and permanent employment and the group’s inability to recruit new members.
Project Adopt a Mom: This project started last year and delivered in May 2017. The program raised money to provide morning tea and a small present to each of the nominated mothers to help them celebrate motherhood and feel appreciated for the role they play in their families. MCP partnered with Cocoa Mama, a local business, who provided a special menu for the group.
Culture and Conversations: This program under World Café brings the many cultures that make up Mackay’s multicultural community. A representative of a particular culture is invited to present his heritage, history, art, culture and traditions. It runs every last Tuesday of the month except December and January. This was a joint project started with the University of Third Age (U3A) participation.
Community English Classes for Everyday Living: (A free English classes for CALD individuals) There is no visa requirements to join; just a willingness to learn English and the Australian way of life. The program runs a Beginners’ Class and English Conversation Circle. GSNCA Community English has partnered with the City Library starting June 2017 in order to deliver a community – wide English Conversation Circles. This program runs every Tuesday 1:30- 3:00pm at the Dudley Denny Library while the Beginners’ Class runs from the Shakespeare Child and Family Centre. Both classes are running at a minimum to average number of participants.
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Homework Program (Discontinued): Homework program was discontinued at the beginning of the year, January 2017, due to recurring issue of not meeting the number of volunteer-tutors required for a quality and safe program delivery.
Prep-Ready Kids: A program for under 5's where the coordinator works together hand in hand with the migrant families to help them their children develop key skills to prepare them for school within a play-based setting, fun and safe environment where support, respect and gentle encouragement and nurturing is the norm! Parents are encouraged to value their roles as their children’s first teachers. The Smith Family Foundation has provided quite a number of resources for the group through their Let’s Read and Let’s Count programs.
Mackay Migrant Women’s Toolkit (MMWT): Created with the vulnerable migrant women in mind; MMWT is a 2 day workshop providing those in cross-cultural marriages information, support, connection and education. It is also a soft introduction to conversations on Domestic or Family Violence; racial or social discrimination and other issues migrant women are dealing with including their general well- being and that of their families. Several guest speakers from different agencies and fields of expertise are invited as well as a few successful migrant women in Mackay to inspire participants to step out of their comfort zone.
Other Projects and Activities Events Participated
February 2017: Chinese New Year Celebration March 2017: International Women’s Day; Mackay Regional Council’s Harmony Day Celebration
Events Organised / Hosted:
March 2017: Harmony Day May 2017: Adopt a Mom Project August 2017: International Day of World Indigenous People September 2017:AU National Literacy and Numeracy Week, International Literacy Day
Interagency Information Sessions – Hosted
Breastscreen Qld; Sexual Health Education; Relationship Australia via the World Indigenous Day
Multicultural Program Information Sessions – Delivered
AMEP Students – TAFE – CQU; QCAL and QATESOL Annual Conference; Designer Life RTO’s Community Service Class; Mackay Regional Council (@Harrup Park)
Trainings: First 5 Forever; Let’s Read, Let’s Count, Safe Talk
Interagency Connections Made and or Maintained 2016-2017:
Mackay Filipino Australian Society Inc. (MAFASI); - After School Care, Mackay; K& C – Mackay Kindergarten; Ideal Placement; Mackay Regional Council; Relationship Australia; DVRS – Domestic Violence Resource Service, TAFE-CQU Mackay; Indonesian Group; Chinese Group; Mackay Women’s Centre; GSNCA’s Migrant Support Program; Mackay Regional Community Legal Centre; Community Health, Breast screen QLD; Queensland Police;
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MADASSIA; Base Art Mackay; Carers Qld; Dudley Denny Library, Mackay Central School; Mackay SDA Church, Fijian Community; Caboolture Neighbourhood Centre, Townsville Filipino Community, Moranbah and District Support Services; Queensland Police; Carlisle Adventist Christian College; The Smith Family Foundation, Zonta Mackay, Carers Qld, Lendlease, Mackay (Caneland Management)
The Multicultural Community Program activities, 2016 – 2017
Volunteers: The coordinator acknowledges the valuable contributions and active participation of program volunteers. Without their support, the program coordinator would not have been capable of running the program in 2016-2017.
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School Based Administration Trainees
I would like to introduce Jessica and myself Emma.
We both attend Year 12 at Holy Spirit College and began a 2 year School-Based Business Administration Traineeship through George Street Neighbourhood Centre in February 2017.
We work each Wednesday at George Street Neighbourhood Centre and Shakespeare Child and Family Centre assisting in each program wherever needed. Over roughly the year and a half that we have worked at George Street Neighbourhood Centre, a wide range of tasks have been completed across programs. Tasks such as, answering the phone, scanning invoices and printing program brochures, updating the asset register, data entry for the Migrant Settlement Program & creating a budgeting booklet based around food for the Mackay Regional Financial and Wellbeing Programme for Financial Education at the CQU Orientation Day, as well as assisting in grant applications.
We have worked alongside each of George Street’s programs to support creation of events ranging from the use of social media platforms to general preparation of promotional materials. For example, Bags were packed with goods for children and parents with younger families for Kids Arvo Out for the Integrated Family Support HUB Program.
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Staff at George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc.
Nicolette Ffrost George Street Neighbourhood Centre Kym Breadsell Leadership Assistant Association Inc. Senior Project Manager/ Integrated Family Support - HUB
Venetia Aprile
Cyclone Recovery Program/ Mackay Tara Hall George Street Neighbourhood Regional Financial Wellbeing Programme Centre Office Manager
Natasha Syed-Ali Georgine Crawford Mackay Regional Financial Multicultural Program Wellbeing Programme
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Kelly Moran Valeriya Edsall Volunteer Hub Cyclone Recovery Program/ Support/ Integrated Family Community Development Worker/
Support - HUB Multicultural Work Pathways
Program/ Motoring Mackay Migrants/ Safer Pathways CALD Women
Coralie McKenzie Margie Armstrong Cyclone Recovery Program Migrant Settlement Program
Lara Manuel-Isaacs Toni Moore Integrated Family Support - Family Support Program HUB Manager
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Ela Maglente Mike Fry Administration Shakespeare
Cyclone Recovery Program Child and Family Centre
Alexandra Whippy Toni-Marie Strange Good Beginnings Home Cyclone Recovery Program Base Family Support Program
Thank you for your time and we invite you to join us for some light refreshments.
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