Newspaper of the Anglican Diocese of Grafton, North Coast Anglican Transforming lives through Jesus Christ December 2019 | Issue No 6

Special schools sustainability edition Tell someonePage 6 who cares

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More details page 12 December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 1 From the bishop

celebrated this at Epiphany. calling upon this knowledge new, unchartered territory. the months to come? Are The Feast of Christmas was of the night sky and a For the Magi, the star you prepared to offer up not introduced until the decision to follow the star. represented the will of God to others the things you Fourth Century. The Scriptures tell us that for their lives. Following it treasure? One of the things I appreciate the Magi were overjoyed by involved significant sacrifice. Like the Magi, we too have about living in Grafton is the the sight of the star (Matthew In what ways are we as set out on a quest, not darkness of the night sky. 2:10). The King James version individuals and communities knowing the details of where Set against a jet black sky, states that they “rejoiced with open to seeking out and the journey will lead us, only the stars are breathtakingly exceeding great joy”. The following his will with all the knowing that we are seeking beautiful. Having lived most journey of following the star, sacrifices this will imply? Does God’s will, guided by faith and of my life in a big city, this of seeking out what God is seeking out and following his hope. is something new to me. doing, is one we’re all called will give us great joy, despite Lord God, you guided the Magi In the time of King Herod… wise For the ancients, to look at to make. the cost involved? to your beloved Son, Jesus men from the East came to the stars was to peer into This year our spiritual journey In order to follow the star, Christ. May your blessing come Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the the dark future. Yet for through Advent to Christmas, the Magi needed to keep upon us, your light guide us, child who has been born king those who could interpret it New Year, Epiphany and their eyes fixed on it. Every your strength uphold us, and of the Jews? For we observed properly the dark night sky beyond is happening single day God wants to lead your love protect us, so that his star at its rising, and have held endless possibilities. alongside another journey us to Jesus. Are our eyes fixed we too may grow in wonder at come to pay him homage”. Navigation was largely by - our journey as a Diocese on him? the glory of God. We ask this stars and constellations. It (Matthew 2:1-2). through the Consultation On their journey, the Magi through Christ our Lord. held the possibility of travel These words from Matthew’s Process for the proposed bore gifts for the Christchild. Amen. by sea or land to distant Gospel remind us that we restructure of parishes and What are your gifts and the regions well beyond the are preparing for the annual worship centres. Like the gifts of your parish, school safety and familiarity of the +Murray celebration of the Birth of Magi, we need to walk by the or other ministry unit? How local. Yet the Christian story @MurrayAHarvey our Lord. The early Christians light of faith as we traverse might you offer these up in begins, in part, with the Magi

Reading the Scriptures

By The Venerable Matthew that I agreed with and in a way firmly believe that, when we Jones, Archdeacon of the that I myself have preached are reading Scripture and we North about in the past. However, allow ourselves to be led by they then went on to propose the Spirit, we can discover new I read with great interest the a completely different view for insights every time we delve articles by Bishop Murray us, the listeners, to consider. into these sacred stories. and Archdeacon Stuart about I had never thought of that reading the Scriptures in the When I was a theological passage in that way before and last edition of North Coast student, one of the subjects I found myself being drawn Anglican. I found myself we studied was Homiletics, i.e. into the story in a completely engaging deeply with their learning how to preach. In the new, and I must admit, rather words and it got me thinking textbook Prate, Prattle or Preach exciting way. about my own response to the the author, Ivor Bailey, told a Bible. John Donne was an English story about a Bible study group priest and poet and Dean that was divided into four As someone who regularly of St Paul’s, London in 1621. smaller groups. Each group preaches, I often come upon He is quoted as saying, “One was given a different imaginary the end that, to their surprise, living with this reality right different interpretations of opinion makes not catholic setting in which to look at the they had approached the text now. From the security and Bible passages when I am doctrine,” (Love’s Redeeming text, “Looking to Jesus the from four totally different comfort of my armchair, can researching for my sermons. Work. Oxford University Press, pioneer and perfecter of our points of view. The point was I really understand the plight Some of these stimulate my 2001). In the context of the faith.” (Hebrews 12:2) NRSV. clearly made that “where you’re of the Israelites escaping from thinking and some challenge sermon I heard recently, I coming from determines what the Egyptians, or the refugee some of my long-held views. He writes: “The first group agree wholeheartedly with you see.” (Prate, Prattle or status of the Holy Family However, I must confess were to consider the text from Donne and can see the value in Preach, JBCE, 1987). fleeing from King Herod and that there are times when the viewpoint of a Christian listening to the views of others I am very mindful of my his soldiers? However, I am I find that anything really politician in Uganda at the which can both encourage upbringing and cultural context sure there would be millions radically different to my time of Idi Amin. The second and challenge me. Different when I read Bible stories about who can relate to these Biblical views gets dismissed and I group were to see themselves opinions can be stimulating people from other parts of the passages from their own lived keep looking for articles and as a small group of Christian and educational. world and from other times in experience today. Maybe the commentaries that I can agree students, meeting secretly in history. I cannot really resonate above quote is true in relation with that support the points Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Moscow University. The third with the idea of slavery, which to reading the sacred texts, I am making in my sermon. writing of the Bible says, group looked at the text from is mentioned a lot in the Bible, that, “Where you’re coming Recently however, I have been “In the Bible there is more the position of a small group of but I am sure there would be from determines what you challenged to explore more of that finds me than I have elderly ladies in a poor inner- many today who can, especially see.” the views which may be very experienced in all other books city area, one having been in places where human I pray that I will continue to different to mine. put together; that the words recently widowed. The fourth of the Bible find me at greater group was set in an affluent trafficking and kidnapping is be challenged to read and This came about when I was depths of my being; and that American church, discussing prevalent. I cannot really relate understand the Scriptures listening to a sermon that whatever finds me brings with the text over a Prayer to war and hostile invasions, in new ways. I pray that I will one of my colleagues was it an irresistible evidence of Breakfast. such as we find in parts of the not block my ears or shut my preaching. In the sermon, its having proceeded from the Old Testament and Psalms, eyes to things I disagree with, which was referring to a The four groups believed each Holy Spirit”. (S.T. Coleridge, but I am sure there are many just because they make me passage of Scripture that I was had been given the same Confessions of an enquiring today in other parts of the uncomfortable. I pray that I very familiar with, the preacher background briefing; it was Spirit, Letter 11, A&C Black, world who can see this as may have “ears to listen” as explained the passage in a way not until they came together at 1956, pp 42-3). I have come to their story, those who are Jesus says. (Mark 4:9) NRSV.

North Contact Details Subscriptions (inc. GST) Contributions Photographs Editorial Editor: Louise Mackay Australia $16.00 p.a Articles should be sent, preferably, by The editor is not responsible for the Coast All photographs must be sent as an opinions expressed by contributors, nor PO Box 4 Grafton NSW 2460 Overseas $28.00 p.a email or as an attachment in Word, or attachment in JPEG format with a dpi P: (02) 66 424122 if sent by post should be typed. Articles do their views necessarily reflect the Anglican of 500 or greater. Photographs sent policy of this paper or of the diocese. Fax: (02) 66 431814 Advertising need to be between 300-400 words through the mail will not be returned Newspaper of Email: [email protected] but may be edited as a result of space Acceptance of advertisements does not Contract $2.80 per column cm necessarily mean endorsement of the the Anglican Casual $3.50 per column cm constraints. Circulation product or service. Diocese of Rates include GST Circulation: 3000 Deadline: January 17, 2020 Grafton

Page 2 North Coast Anglican December 2019 Special Meeting of the Diocese

By The Venerable Tiffany Sparks, Diocesan Archdeacon & Ministry Development Officer On November 9 the Anglican Diocese of Grafton had a special meeting at Coffs Harbour to begin the consultation process towards restructuring the Diocese. As a result of many years discussing restructuring the Diocese, Bishop Murray was asked to develop a proposal. The Bishop, along with the Senior Leadership Team and Bishop-in-Council, has spent many months developing a proposed restructure with the primary focus on mission, and inviting parishes to look at how they do church and mission in their community with a vision for the next 20 years. The proposal looks at how we can do team ministry better, not just the clergy, but on a parish-to-parish level. The models from ministry are encouraging parishes to work with each other as a “hub” rather than as stand-alone islands. Photo by David Ford By creating new ministry units, parishes can benefit from the different gifts and energies that what has been and that is we want to do). process we can free up the the restructure proposals and team ministry can bring and understandable. people of God to strategically imagine new ways in which support and inspire each other We believe in a God of be the people of God in this they can do ministry. in the mission of God in this However, it was the vision of abundance who desires us to diocese. region. this diocese that change and have life to the full. We need to People are invited to give restructure needed to occur find where God is calling us to During this consultation feedback to Bishop-in-Council With any change, there in order for this diocese to be in 2019 and beyond. process, people are by the end of March 2020. is always some grief for flourish (and flourishing is what The hope is that through this encouraged to engage with

Wellbeing Hub for Bishop Druitt College

Wellbeing is a central focus to build and sustain the at Bishop Druitt College and wellbeing of the whole school is based on ensuring that community. This new space will the physical, emotional and support at-risk students and social needs of everyone reduce stigma around mental in the community are met, health issues. The Wellbeing taking into account individual Hub will be supported by requirements. After consulting our two school counsellors, with the BDC community to two Chaplains and the K- 12 see if a Wellbeing Hub was Director of Student Wellbeing. something that would be of It will contain five offices, a great support and benefit to small group counselling room the students, the decision was and a large activity room. The made to bring this space to activity room is called The Oasis life. BDC’s vision is to create a and will be used by various wellbeing environment through BDC student groups. Some of the construction of a brand these groups are Mindfulness, new K-12 Wellbeing Hub. Goori Group, Breakfast Club, Simon Doyle – Assistant Principal, Rev’d David Morgan – Chaplain, Jane Mosco – Counsellor, The Wellbeing Hub will be a Art for Wellbeing, LQBTQI+, Nick Johnstone – Principal, Saskia Klop – Counsellor, Sue O’Connor – Director of Student one-stop-shop for information Rock and Water, Human Rights Wellbeing K-12, Rev‘d Naomi Cooke – Chaplain. and resources on strategies and Environment Groups to name just a few.

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December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 3 Welcome to the Labyrinth

By Bryan McClelland and I needed before a Anna Mulholland challenging overseas “I’ve started walking the labyrinth trip. I particularly every day,” Uki woman, mid 30s. related to the art in the church and what “It is wonderful that the church the artist has written has opened this for the whole about his personal community to use,” Several Uki life journey,” said locals. one of Uki’s creatives On October 18, a wonderful about to depart on cross generational mix of more a trip to Europe to than 70 people from the Uki record for a musical/ community gathered at the narrative creation with opening of the Labyrinth, and his equally creative “Absence”, an art exhibition partner. hosted in the church. Locals The original idea came and parishioners together from members of walked the labyrinth, admired the congregation. A the art and embraced the team of parishioners peace and tranquillity of the created the labyrinth garden. - some did the hard The Labyrinth was designed labour, others worked by Peter Abraham, artist on labyrinth design, and regular at Holy Trinity, planning the garden, Uki. Peter also created the donating rocks, plants, contemplative and illustrative mowing, weeding and art exhibition inside the church. more. The church has been Thank you to the overwhelmed by the way the Parish Council for the local people have embraced gift for the purchase this church initiative, and of bricks. believe it will continue to build “The kids have already been, see the continuing deeper bridges in Uki for a long time. and want me to come down, development of relations The school librarian is really so I will do so soon,” said a between the church and the keen, and has been teaching local single mother of two. local community as a result classes about the worth of After hearing of its mediational of the gift of the Labyrinth to the labyrinth and taking them purpose, “Ooh - I think I need our beautiful Uki community, across to use it. to go down on my own too!” including more seekers “The labyrinth was just what attending services at Holy It has been encouraging to Trinity.

Christmas in a Shoebox

By Rebekah Erga, Christian To date, 143 shoeboxes have Studies Teacher and been returned to the school Primary Chaplaincy team for the SCAS Operation Every year the generous Christmas Child collection. SCAS school community These boxes have been participates in Operation lovingly filled with gifts Christmas Child (OCC) which will ultimately bring project, run by Samaritan’s joy to children in developing Purse. Samaritan’s Purse countries. partners with local churches A special thank you to in developing nations you and your family for to reach out to children participating in delivering the by providing gift-filled Good News of Jesus Christ shoeboxes and bringing the around the world. Good News of Jesus Christ. We are blessed to have Mr After receiving shoebox Graeme Kightley, from the gifts, many children are also St Columba Anglican School invited back to participate Council, as the regional in The Greatest Journey – an coordinator for this program. evangelism and discipleship A special thank you also to program. Since 1993, the our special “secret angel” Samaritan’s Purse project, who has been lovingly hand- OCC, has collected and making carry bags to be delivered more than 135 added to the shoeboxes. She million shoeboxes to children has made hundreds for us in more than 150 countries over the years. and territories.

Zero Tolerance for Sexual Misconduct Grafton Diocese has established formal procedures to deal with sexual misconduct. Persons aggrieved by the sexual misconduct of a church worker - whether they are an ordained or lay person - should report it. If you wish to speak to someone about sexual abuse by a church worker please phone 1800 370 757 or email [email protected] to reach our Director of Professional Standards who can receive your report with confidentiality.

Page 4 North Coast Anglican December 2019 All Creatures Great, Small, Fluffy and Scaly

Many Parishes of the Grafton Diocese held Blessing of the Animals throughout the end of October. Check out the adorable photos.

Bangalow

Ballina Cathedral Ballina

Cathedral Macksville

Snapshot

All Saints Friends Murwillumbah recently sent 19 shoeboxes filled with toys, Brother Geoffrey and Brother Wayne, Little Brothers of Francis, came to speak at books, games etc to Drake for the families in distress from drought and fires. They All Creatures Great and Small, an occasional service of reflections, words and music also sent bags of clothes, sheets, doonas and four newly made patchwork quilts. on October 6 at All Souls’ Bangalow. Following the Feast of St Francis, they told “We hope that this will let families know we are thinking of them and that the us more about their Franciscan Hermitage at Tabulam and their lives as religious boxes help bring smiles to the children’s faces.” brothers.

December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 5 Special schools sustainability edition Tell someone who cares

Students from St Columba Anglican School generate awareness of the declining koala population

The BDC Climate Change Position

By Nick Johnstone, Principal This increase will cause coastal with students and Bishop Druitt College erosion and the loss of arable staff involved in There has been much written land as well as a lowering our Environmental about climate change in the of the ocean pH (increasing Group and other media in recent days and acidity). Both of ocean acidity environmental therefore it was important and ocean warming have initiatives are that the Bishop Druitt College negative connotations for our being planned position is added to the coral reefs. for the 2020 conversation. This information is school year and will be integral As many of you know I have discouraging, to say the least, it to our school a tertiary background in is essential that while we think improvement plan. science and theology as well globally we must act locally. as education and there is a  What is Bishop Druitt  Why is Bishop natural crossover between the College doing to care for our Druitt College scientific method and theology. planet? taking action in a This crossover pertains to practical way? reasoned argument and The college has replaced all The college sees reasoned logic. The scientific our lighting with LEDs which the ethical and argument is as follows. have a longer life and reduce moral imperative As it currently stands, the electricity consumption. In that the current Intergovernmental Panel on a campus of our size that generation has in Climate Change notes that equates to over 4400 LEDs. forming part of the the world is likely to warm by The college is in the process of ecological solution. 1.5°C at its current rate by 2030 installing a 98kW solar system From a theological or soon after. This is mainly on the roof of the Branson perspective, as an due to an increase in carbon Centre. This will reduce our Anglican school, dioxide in the atmosphere. This consumption by over one third. we also have a increase in CO2 creates both a We are also planning on setting responsibility thermal atmospheric blanket up our shared farm (Farnworth) to care for each and is also partly absorbed by with solar power when phase other and for our oceans. two is actioned in the new year. Our college is also working the earth. Ms From a scientific perspective, through our Sustainability Greta Thunberg this increase in CO2 creates of thousands of students (and public. Committee (a subcommittee is, as we know, an increased frequency of teachers) worldwide who are of Council) to develop policies a passionate climate change At Bishop Druitt College, we heatwaves, droughts, and taking action on this issue. and practices to reduce our activists who has captured the applaud Greta’s integrity, flooding. It will also result in We need a little controversy waste and to focus future world’s attention through her courage and her sense of social the melting of ice sheets and to create the environment for purchases using ecologically school strikes and her speech justice. It should also be noted glaciers resulting in a 5 to 10cm change and Greta has opened sustainable materials. The at the United Nations. I truly that these three values are part increase in sea levels globally. the discussion to the general college is also socially active thank Greta and the hundreds of our set of college values.

Page 6 North Coast Anglican December 2019 Special schools sustainability edition Sustainability at St Columba Anglican School

“Sustainability” is a term that  A fortnightly sustainability sometimes seems as in vogue item in Primary assembly. as Pete Evans’ Paleo diet,  Request accepted for but at St Columba in 2019, removal of paper towels sustainability is something that in staff bathrooms in has become far more than a 2020. word.  A fundraiser for the Koala It has become a part of our Hospital, through the School and is growing from production of bag tags the ground up like a newly and “No Junk Mail” signs in emerging seedling in the Term 4 2019. Primary vegetable patch.  Koala Smart participation With the inspiration and for all Primary students passion of two very special to generate awareness Primary teachers, Mrs and understanding Rosenbaum and Ms Kiehn, of the declining koala our students population. have developed the Primary  And last but not least, a Sustainability Committee with BIC writing instruments over 50 students committing recycling program their own time to improve included in all Primary SCAS each and every week. Just classes. take a look at the achievements the Committee has achieved The , under this year alone: the guidance of HSIE teacher, Mr Tejcek, has also been  Recording all students’ forging its own path on the names in Years 3 to 6 who sustainability trail, and has bring nude food lunch laid the foundation for growth boxes, every day of the over the years to come. Our week. Secondary School has been  Using the House points involved in projects and Blue International Marine system and Boost Juice initiatives such as: vouchers as incentives for Debris Database.  Year 10 students being nude food lunch boxes.  Students from throughout a part of the School’s  Years 3 to 6 bringing over the Secondary School first “Chairman’s Climate participating in a number 1100 nude lunch-boxes Change Forum” and this year. of international student contributing to the climate strikes. With Ivy  A beeswax wrap workshop School’s response to the Moore (Year 11) and Mr for all Sustainability global climate crisis. Tejcek being selected Committee members.  Every Year 10 Geography and trained by former US  Green bins being student writing and Vice-President Al Gore as included in all Year 5 and illustrating their own “Climate Reality Leaders” Year 6 classrooms and children’s book to educate in Brisbane. playgrounds. children on issues relating  Our departing senior  Red bin removal from to environmental change students continued the the playground and and management. tradition and added classrooms in Years 5 and  Koala Smart participation to SCAS’s carbon 6 areas in Term 4 2019. by students to sequestration program  The collection of data generate awareness by planting an Illawarra on reusable coffee cup and understanding Flame tree as part of usage at the Cafe, and of the declining koala the School’s growing targeted communication population. arboretum on the back and support to increase  Every Year 9 student oval. further usage. participating in a week- Sustainability is alive and well  Multiple classroom long marine debris and at St Columba, but we still have presentations for the ocean awareness week a long way to go in becoming whole of Primary on and cleaning rubbish a more energy-efficient, sustainability (green off every single beach waste-free and overall more bin usage, nude food, in Port Macquarie and environmentally friendly school sustainable food then recording the debris and we are looking forward to production etc). collected to the Tangaroa the challenge.

STEM talk and career paths for students

STEM in Schools was held for Cowper and Dr Mel Conaghan said. at Bishop Druitt College Coleman, Marine Ecologist at “STEM skills are being used to in November. Year 10 the National Marine Science solve global challenges and students participated in Centre to the Q&A panel. new research frontiers are a classroom activity with Students posed challenging being frequently discovered CSIRO and special guest questions on a range of with new technologies.” panellists in an effort to topics, including Australia’s Dr Coleman outlined her demonstrate the diverse and future energy security, the role at the National Marine rewarding career journeys use of genetically modified Science Centre in Coffs that come from pursuing crops, our involvement in the Harbour. Her research STEM subjects (science, space race and cybersecurity. includes experimental marine technology, engineering and “Students interested in ecology, population genetics mathematics). STEM subjects have a broad and seaweed ecology and BDC welcomed Mr Pat range of potential career conservation. Conaghan, Federal member paths ahead of them,” Mr

December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 7 Special schools sustainability edition The Future Is In Their Hands

By Jo Hethrington, Director of Early Learning, Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School At Lindisfarne we are on a journey to integrate sustainable values, actions, and features in every facet of our school environment. It is our hope to ingrain this message in the developing minds of our future youth, and to support their passion in ensuring the ongoing sustainability of our world. The Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden at Sunshine Avenue continues to expand and flourish – now including a beautiful outdoor classroom and kitchen area along with pizza ovens and additional herb gardens. The lessons undertaken and the experiences in our garden are part of what makes Sunshine Avenue special. These experiences were recently shared at the Sustainable Schools Symposium which was held in May at Somerset College, where some of our Year 4 students presented our school’s journey in developing L to R: Year 4 student Kiki Dorsey, Holly Somerville Knox founder of environmental start-up “Tell Someone Who Cares”, Year 4 the Stephanie Alexander student Phoenix Carpenter and Year 4 teacher Lauran Turnbull. Kitchen Garden Program at Sunshine Avenue. Ms Lauran Turnbull, myself, and our and mathematical problem around Bali and how they have kitchen garden specialist, solving. We concluded motivated other young people Mrs Maria Roberson; along the workshop by teaching to action. with students Simon Hodges, participants how to make a pot Logan Douglas, Kiki Dorsey and We all left the day feeling from recycled newspaper and Phoenix Carpenter, presented moved by the myriad of planting a seed to take home a workshop to approximately incredible young speakers who and grow. 50 students and teachers from were so enthusiastic about the across the Gold Coast and The students present also left causes they supported and Northern NSW. inspired as they heard from nourishing the future of our role-models such as 18-year- beautiful planet. The students ignited the old Melati Wijsen who, along thoughts of the people present Thank you to the Lindisfarne with her sister, have driven by exploring possible ways Parents and Friends the campaign to ban plastic of integrating learning into a Association who have bag use in Bali. Melati spoke school garden. Ideas included generously supported the passionately about their science experiments, cooking kitchen garden program from journey as young ambassadors incursions, entrepreneurship inception to its fruition. for “Bye Bye Plastic Bags”, through the selling of produce, helping to clean the oceans

BDC and Prosper work together to reduce plastic pollution

Prosper Coffs Harbour’s in the fundraising efforts for waterway so there is no litter Protection of the Environment the seabin over the coming escaping into the wider ocean Trust is taking a stand against months.” environment. ocean plastics. Together, with The seabin is a cleaning “We need to support the support of Bishop Druitt device that will operate 24/7 organisations doing great College, the trust will aim to collecting floating debris in things in our community and raise enough money to bring the water, reducing litter the seabin project is one of a seabin to Coffs Harbour. escaping into the estuary and them. We are very pleased to The Fundraising Manager the wider ocean environment. be working with Prosper Coffs from Prosper Coffs Harbour, The seabin can collect up to Harbour to bring a seabin to Melissa Nunn says, “We 1.5kgs of floating debris per the Jetty,” said Nick Johnstone, need to do something about day. This includes large plastic Bishop Druitt College plastic pollution now and bags, bottles, plastic straws, Principal. by fundraising to purchase coffee cups, food wrappers, If you would like more a seabin we can all make surface oils and micros information about the seabin a difference to reduce our plastics down to 2mm small. campaign please visit the plastic pollution impact on Once the funds have been www.prospercoffs.org.auand the ocean and maintain a raised for the seabin it will be to donate visit https://give. clean waterway. We are very donated to the Jetty Marina everydayhero.com/au/seabin- Pictured from left: Matt Newberry, Chloe Braun, Imogen excited to have the support of where it will be maintained for-coffs-harbour Lamont, Melissa Nunn, Nick Johnstone Bishop Druitt College to assist and continue to clean the

Page 8 North Coast Anglican December 2019 Special schools sustainability edition Tell someone who cares Living Sustainably at CVAS Clarence Valley Anglican School water bottles, etc to collect the recently received a Highly 10 cents through Return and Commended award from the Earn, as well as sorting rubbish Clarence Valley Council for in the Primary classrooms and being a sustainable school. turning lights off when not in Part of what how makes CVAS use. a sustainable school is the The interviewing committee extensive use of solar power, were impressed and this is collecting rain water and using an encouragement to look at it in the school gardens and further ways we can support oval. our environment. The school also takes on the initiative to recycle poppers,

SCAS Students Doing it for the Koalas

The Lake Innes Nature reserve in Port Macquarie is home to St Columba Anglican School (SCAS) as our campus backs onto the Googik Heritage Trail. It is also home to a colony of up to 600 koalas. New South Wales continues to experience high intensity bushfires, the blaze of which devastated parts of our Lake Innes Reserve, decimating the habitat of our koala neighbours. The Year 6 class of 2019 at SCAS have been motivated to make change to protect our local koala population, especially as they become under threat from the fires. Having formed their own “Sustainability Committee” earlier this year, they have tackled environmental issues by taking action in an array of school-based initiatives. Their most recent enterprise raised funds for the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital. Using sustainably sourced St Columba Anglican School Sustainability committee donates to Sue Ashton from the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital timber, they created bag tags and “no junk mail” signs and sold them to their peers. sign, we are also helping put “A lot of kids think they don’t Their sales raised an initiative of these empowered Year 6 student Indi saw the a stop to people cutting down have a voice and they can’t impressive $700 for the Port young students. They are the initiative as not only raising trees to make mail that people change anything. I think they Macquarie Koala Hospital, future. important funds, but also are only throwing away,” Indi really can, and kids do make a which will be used to purchase “And do not forget to do good increasing awareness of the said. lot of impact on a lot of what water stations that will be and to share with others, for plight of our koala community. Fellow Year 6 classmate, Sura, we do. We should have a say. placed within the burnt with such sacrifices God is “Koalas are losing their believes their efforts are a That is the reason why we did bushland for koalas and other pleased.” (Hebrews 13:16) habitat and they are dying. By testament to the power of this, because we want change,” wildlife. The SCAS community purchasing a “no junk mail” young people to make change. Sura said. is incredibly proud of the

December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 9 Commissioning of The Rev’d Dway Goon Chew

By Yvonne Turner from Lindisfarne Anglican The commissioning of The College were among the Rev’d Dway Goon Chew as large community leaders who the Priest at Tweed Heads attended. took place at St Cuthbert’s on Debra Pinkerton from Twin November 17. Towns Uniting Church The service began quietly spoke on behalf of all other with a Welcome to Country by denominations, welcoming Auntie Ruth Conlan. Dway to the district. Then the roof was raised and Rev’d Dway and his wife Leeza the atmosphere set as The have warmly been welcomed Servant Song, Brother, Sister into the parish. let me serve you was sung to Archdeacon Matthew Jones commence the commissioning when delivering the “Sermon” service. It was electric and gave Dway a bright red poster the feeling of absolute joy – with the message “KEEP overwhelming! CALM AND CARRY ON”. A Rev’d Dway Goon Chew, very informative and amusing whose last parish was address, with the message that Ayr in North Queensland, we must know that God is in was commissioned by our the midst of all of this. Don’t be Bishop Murray Harvey with a afraid. congregation of about 150 as St Cuthbert’s singing group witnesses. added to the atmosphere of The local member of state the very inspirational service. parliament Geoff Provest, many Drinks and nibbles in the priests and deacons from the breezeway and a terrific supper Diocese, ministers from other followed. The next chapter in denominations, headmaster the life of St Cuthbert’s begins. Stuart Marquardt, chaplain and Good luck Rev’d Dway. student leader Abby Rynehart

A Light Hearted Journey of Harps

In an exquisite October Featuring an astonishing concert, the Byron Music range of seven harps including Society presented The a green Irish, blue electric Harp’s Journey with Louise and superb concert harp, Johnson, one of the most Louise was able to let each prominent Australian and instrument sing with its own international harpists, in a distinctive voice of nuance and rare and outstanding musical colour thus creating a magical performance at St Mary’s connection with the audience. Church, Ballina. This was the fourth concert at From medieval to modern, St Mary’s this year in an active from classical to jazz, from effort of the parish to connect acoustic to electric, Louise took to the wider community the audience on an exciting through music. journey through the ages. Our next event is a Christmas Journeying from an ancient Concert by Vox Caldera Syrian Hymn and Medieval Chamber Choir on 14 Music to the 20th Century, the December. audience was transported to different places in time.

Launch of New Pioneering Ministry at South Grafton Anglican

The last three months have new family service. of ministry as presented to all been busy for the Parish of “One of the gaping holes that is parishes recently. South Grafton. With a new prolific in Anglican churches is “Our parish sees the rector comes new vision family attendance”, said Rev’d opportunities of becoming part and change. It has been a Tim. of a blend with Maclean and challenging period for all. The “Building into the lives of our Grafton. It gives us, like the Saturday night service had its communities is not rocket other parishes, the opportunity final send off, to make way for science, but it is not a given to offer our region a wider new ministry. either. We have to intentionally spectrum of Anglican worship South Grafton Anglican have change the way we present and theology. a new logo, new website, ourselves - The Body of Christ “We are a broad church and and a new family service to to the world around us in a way there is scope and space within go with them. The Rev’d Tim that they can engage with. our future region of Clarence Waghorn has a passion for new “For many churches, this is our for us to make an impact for ministries and seeing God’s last opportunity to be relevant, the Gospel. We do not vie for Kingdom grow in the local so we should not hold back on parishioners who go to other church. asking what needs to change.” churches in our new model In less than 100 days of his but reach out to those who are South Grafton Anglican is also induction, South Grafton yet to experience the love of preparing for the new model Anglican launched TEN30, their Christ.”

Page 10 North Coast Anglican December 2019 Alstonville Anglicans support Heartfelt House

By Johnny Sernberg, Treasurer and Susan Fitzpatrick, Rector’s Warden Alstonville Anglicans together with Bishop Murray Harvey, during his visit to St Bartholomew’s on October 13, presented a donation of $5,300 to Heartfelt House. Bishop Murray had preached on Luke 17:11-19, referring to isolation, healing and moving forward. He acknowledged the worthy donation and the excellent work of Heartfelt House enabling people to heal and look to the future. This donation was a result of the very successful Auction of Promises fundraising event held on March 9. With the strong ties that have developed over many years between St Bartholomew’s and Heartfelt House, it was only Caroline Maunder, Heartfelt House; Bishop Murray, Susan Fitzpatrick, Rector’s Warden fitting that funds raised at the Auction of Promises be given to this very worthy cause. The night was very entertaining for donations to the on paper against each item and played well-known pieces It would be a shame to miss and exciting as many worthy cause. during the evening. from international operetta to the opportunity presented by experienced for the first time As well as personal bidding in Entertainment was delivered much enthusiastic applause. a novel popular fundraising the frantic elements of bidding the main auction, there was a by the Ballina Pipe Band and Some say the evening was so activity, wouldn’t it? So, watch in person for services and very successful silent auction our very own in-house musical successful that we must repeat this space! offers of assistance in return where guests wrote their bid guru, Marius Mulder, who sang the night again next year.

Moving into the neighbourhood 2019 CHRISTMAS APPEAL

Please donate this Christmas to help us move in times of disaster anglicanoverseasaid.org.au 1800 249 880

December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 11 Baby Show and Fête Music supports Affordable Housing

All Saints Church Jumping castle and face- On October 20, Alstonville The evening presented the and songs by several young Murwillumbah recently held painting provided fun for the Anglicans presented a donation best of voice, keyboard and aspiring musicians. Everyone a most successful Baby Show children. of $1,400 to the Anglicare instrumental music. The commented on the wonderful and Fête. The Fête had 16 stalls, Northcoast Affordable Housing audience was entertained with talents of all involved and 35 babies were entered into including flowers, cakes, plants Foundation. The donation the keyboard recitals of Marius departed the evening with the show, creating a church full BBQ, hot pies and much more. resulted from an Evening of Mulder, the excellent acapella joyful music resonating in their of happy families and smiling An enjoyable day reaching out Rhythm held on September 21 harmonies of the Headliners memories. A great evening and faces. to the community. at St Bartholomew’s church. Chorus and the instrumental one worthy scheduling again.

L-R: Rev’d Dr Desiree Snyman, Roslyn Felch (Anglicare NC), Susan Fitzpatrick and Jenny Noble (Wardens)

Page 12 North Coast Anglican December 2019 The Bells of St Mary’s In Brief APPOINTMENTS By Rev’d Matthew Jones With the visit of Dr Lindy Crocker The Rev’d Daryl McCullough has been appointed from Sydney to holiday with the as the next Priest at Coffs Harbour Parish. Browns nearly two years ago The Rev’d Anne Goode has been appointed as came some tuition on hand bells the next Priest at The Bellinger Parish. and the first opportunity to play bells during a Service at St Mary’s, The Rev’ds Bob & Christine Woolner have been Ballina. Lindy has remained our appointed Intentional Locums in the Parish of mentor and gives advice and Nambucca Heads for a term of one year. guidance at each further visit. FAREWELL Jennifer has been able to purchase bells from various sources. Our Roz Rogers concluded her ministry at CVAS as Lay first set of 13 bells was an octave Chaplain and her fixed-term appointment for her of bells from middle G up. Jennifer Cathedral ministry finishes in December. was very fortunate to find these second hand bells in excellent RESIGNATION condition. This enabled us to get started on forming a bell choir and Lawrence Outridge has resigned as a Stipendiary practising as a group, gradually Left to right: Yvonne Wright; Rosalind Latimer; Jennifer Brown (Bell Lay Minister in the Parish of Port Macquarie and becoming more experienced and Captain); Ian Brown (Associate Organist); David King. his last day in the Parish will be 1 December 2019. focused on each other. The music has to be specially PERSONAL arranged for a hand bell choir and in memory of someone or in Not everyone is able to practice The Rev’d Margaret Rose and Bob have moved most of what we play has been gratitude for their bell choir. with bells at home. It is suggested arranged by Ian Brown. Only one from Mullumbimby to Queensland. Many bell groups play “off the this can be done with wine glasses. octave somewhat limits the scope table”, where each player lifts bells There are no broken wine glasses of music which can be played, so DEATHS sharply upwards to ring them. We to report yet, just a scratched table Jennifer purchased new another play bells “in hand”. We are taught which ought to have broken the The Very Rev’d Dr Greg Jenks’ mother died on 30 octave of bells to add below the that the bells contain Champagne glass. October in Brisbane. Please keep Greg and his original ones. which must not be spilled, and We have been playing for services family in your prayers. The range of our bells is now the bell is thrust forward to ring. and special occasions about four to all that we could ever wish for. Our more experienced players are six times each year, either before Mrs Carol Holbeck died on 30 October. Carol was This last set has inscriptions in becoming expert at three or four a service or during Communion or the wife of the Rev’d Jim Holbeck and the sister- each handle. Reading these has in hand. The handles are looped both. Currently we are practising in-law of Mrs Del Ezzy. Please keep the families in enabled us to discover that the together, one bell is rung forward Christmas Carols to play at the your prayers. bells were once owned by Pilgrim and one is rung with a sideways Festival of Lessons and Carols and The Rev’d Alf Gurlack died in Toowoomba on Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, flick of the wrist. at St Andrews Nursing Home. 11 November 2019. Alf was a past Rector of the Texas. Several had been given Bellinger Parish. His wife Shirley died six days before him. Please keep the family in your prayers.

OFFICE ARRANGEMENTS OVER New for Woolgoolga CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR

An exciting development has Mr Johnstone has commissioned growth regions and all are seeking Registry occurred with Bishop Druitt the Independent Schools another school to meet the The Registry Office will close on the afternoon of College Council endorsing Association to conduct a shortfall,” Mr Johnstone said. Monday 23 December and will re-open at 9am on both the Principal, Mr Nick demographic study of the region College Chair, Mr David Ford, Monday 6 January 2020. Johnstone, and the college Chair, with positive results. The regional stated, “We are vigorously Anglican Funds Grafton Diocese Mr David Ford, to investigate growth has been endorsed by exploring a Pre-school to Year 4 the establishment of a second renowned demographer Bernard campus in the region and have AFGD will be providing a part-time operation campus in the Woolgoolga region. Salt. already investigated a number of during that period with the exception of weekends This campus will initially focus on “The Northern Beaches region potential sites.” and Public Holidays. Preschool to Year 4. and Woolgoolga, in particular, are Dates for Your Diary

23 December 2019 – Bishop’s Registry closes for the Christmas holidays 6 January 2020 – Bishop’s Registry reopens after the holidays 7 February 2020 – Clergy Conference 8 February 2020 – LLM Formation Day in the north 29 February 2020 – LLM Formation Day in the south 11-14 May 2020 – Clergy Retreat 27 June 2020 – Special Synod 22-23 August 2020 – LLM Conference 24-26 August 2020 – Ministry School 4-6 September 2020 - Synod

Anglican Diocese of Grafton Do you have an up-to-date will? Please consider giving to the work of the Church in your will. Our diocese has been blessed by the generosity of benefactors in times past. As we seek to expand Christ’s Mission in the 21st century, please consider how you might contribute. You should get legal advice before making your will. You may wish to consider the activities of the Anglican Diocese of Grafton as the recipient of either a specific gift or the residue of your estate. The following wording may be useful for you and your legal advisor when making your will: “I bequeath to the Corporate Trustees of the Diocese of Grafton in the State of New South Wales the sum of ..... to be used for the general purposes of the Diocese of Grafton in such manner as the said Trustees may approve.”

December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 13 Reflections Reflection on Formation Program

By The Venerable Tiffany other interesting topics. It was Sparks, Diocesan Archdeacon pleasing to see the depth of & Ministry Development thought and conversation that Officer occurred. This intensive was “live-in” so the students got to In early November, we were know each other by sharing a delighted to host a formation residence and breaking bread intensive for four people in together. search for God’s call on their lives and the possibility of “Many of our sessions ordained ministry. It is always a touched on a common topic of privilege to be part of people’s “What does it mean to be an faith journeys and to hear Anglican?” and we gave much their story. Bright and early thoughtful consideration on Tuesday morning we started being a Christian in a largely out with Morning Prayer at the secular Australia, and on Cathedral as a lead in to the being an Anglican Christian in week of reflection, learning Grafton,” and discussion. The students Grant added. were “invited” to lead and read It was intense as the title at both morning and evening proclaims, but it was enriching prayer. Over the course of to see people who are faithfully the week, this aspect of the exploring God’s call on their intensive came to be a giant lives to ordained ministry. It part of the conversation, is also good to see parishes their experience. with much speculation about raising up future leaders “Spending time with ministry how to read the psalms. Do for the church. If you have leaders taught me a lot and you pause? How long do you someone in your parish gave me new perspectives on pause? How do you know if the who you think is called for everything from music in the pause is long enough? Who ordained ministry, tap them on liturgy, pastoral care for people leads the pause? It is funny a shoulder and affirm them. in sickness and grief and how how the little things can be One of the most common to read and understand the great topics of conversation movements of the Spirit is lectionary and Prayer Book and consternation. However, through people identifying for a variety of liturgies. It was this way of bonding over gifts and calls in others and great to be able to learn not worship set the tone for the encouraging them. just theology but also practical next few days and positively We finished up on Friday with knowledge that we can really impacted the group. a pizza lunch at Epic Assist use in everyday ministry,” “My favourite part of each day Job Seeker Agency for people Grant said. of the formation intensive was with disabilities (part of the “In simple prose I loved this beginning with Morning Prayer Anglicare group). It was good experience. I loved each of at the Cathedral. Everyone for the students to connect the instructors and their was very welcoming to us even with the community and hear instruction. I loved meeting though we had varying levels of some of the needs people Aaron, Kassimiro and Grant of experience in doing Morning have and contextual issues. We and pray God’s blessing as Mr Grant, David, and Aaron,” the incredibly wonderful Prayer,” Grant said. were warmly received by the they proceed along the path to Kassimiro said. “I was actually accommodation and food, happy to be refreshed in my and the wealth of knowledge “I came away with a staff and clients at Epic and it ordination. I am hopeful that service to God and to do it with shared. The time together was commitment to thoughtfully was a great way to finish four the new bonds of friendships wisdom and reverence I need indeed a blessing. Thanks be incorporate the practice of days of intensive learning and that were created in our week days like those days”. to God for the time together, Morning and Evening Prayer formation. of community together will for all that was provided and into my daily contemplative Many thanks to all who mature and grow, and that our “When people come together to the hands that brought it and reflective regime,” David contributed their time for paths will intersect on many in the name of Christ, for the all together. Through their said. these formation days, for occasions in the future” David purpose of Christ. Great things said. can and do happen. Such is considerable efforts, Grafton David from Ballina parish, their observations, learnings the case with the final Grafton Diocese gave an exemplary Aaron from Kawana parish, and accommodations. Also “The welcoming, the Intensive for the year. As one example of Christian Kassimiro from Coffs Harbour many thanks to the students accommodation, the food, and who attended, it is certainly no stewardship and fellowship and Grant from the Cathedral who took time out of their all the presentations by all our exaggeration to state that the and showed just how truly, were invited to sessions on employment to explore God’s formators were all beneficial to entire time was full of blessings wonderful things can happen liturgy, music, ministry to the call for ordination and for being me personally. I also enjoyed shared. From the blessing when people come together in sick and dying, Anglicanism in open to learn. Here are some the accompanying of my of new friendships gained, the name of Christ,” Aaron said. the Australian context amongst thoughts by the participants of three brothers in Christ Jesus

Praying with the saints Richard Baxter, Pastor and Spiritual Writer

By Rev’d Camellia Flanagan master of the free grammar Baxter’s Puritan writings which nonconformist, he is now earth. Despite our unworthiness, school at Dudley in 1638 and remain in print is not easy described as an English Puritan you have invited us through our Died 1691 ordained and licensed by the to measure; The Reformed church leader, poet, hymnodist, mediator, Jesus Christ, to present Feast Day 8 December Bishop of Worcester. Pastor published in 1656 is theologian and controversialist, ourselves and our prayers to you. Born on November 12, His best-known ministry was widely read. Baxter’s views on and he endured persecution, Receive us graciously. Help us by 1615 Richard had a limited 17 years at Kidderminster justification and sanctification imprisonment and illness. your Spirit. Let us stand in awe of education. Mentor and where the town of about are considered controversial Among his notable sayings you. Put your law into our hearts schoolmaster John Owen 2000 were converted, (apart and unconventional within the are, “Prayer must carry on and write it on our minds. Let persuaded him not to attend from five years as a chaplain Calvinist tradition because his our work as well as preaching” your word come to us in power, university. Life in his time was in Cromwell’s army). It was teachings seem to undermine and “Pastors must shepherd and help us receive it in love, with influenced by The English impossible for Baxter to get the doctrine of salvation by themselves before they can attentive, reverent, and teachable Civil War, the ousting of the to know them all. His ministry faith, emphasising the necessity shepherd their flock”. minds. Through your word, allow monarchy in the 1640’s and style of house-to-house of repentance and faithfulness. us to taste the flavour of eternal its restoration which affected In our time can we pray visiting, discipleship, teaching In 1662 Richard married life. Make us fervent in prayer church and society. Richard Richard’s prayer? catechism and pastoral Margaret Charlton, who was and joyful in praise. Help us serve studied theology with Francis “Eternal, Almighty, and most counselling, transformed the like-minded, and when she died you this day without distraction, Garget, the local clergyman and gracious God: heaven is your town into a vibrant Christian in 1681 he wrote the hymn Ye that we may find that a day read widely, including Calvinist throne, and earth is your community, and set an example holy Angels Bright (TIS 108). in your courts is better than a writers, orthodox Church of footstool; holy and reverend is thousand elsewhere, and that it is of thoroughness and urgency He became alienated from England theology, writings your name; you are praised by good for us to come near to God; in proclaiming and applying the church, regarded as a from conforming puritans and the angels of heaven, and in through Jesus Christ our Lord and the gospel. The influence of Presbyterian, and moderate nonconformists. He became the gathering of your church on Saviour. Amen.”

Page 14 North Coast Anglican December 2019 Threads laid bare Water, Water Everywhere

By Rev’d Camellia Flanagan about 70% of the earth’s with Christ - drowning and substance from which all cisterns. Mentioned in the surface. It is the earth’s most rising to new life - so we can things are made. We read in Bible is the pool of Bersheba In time of drought and abundant natural resource begin a new life guided by Genesis 1:2, “In the beginning (Genesis 21:19), Isaac’s well subsequent fire we realise and is essential for life to the Spirit of Christ. We have when God created the (Genesis 24:11) the waters just how precious water is. survive and thrive, but if it is parables and stories in the heavens and the earth, the of Nephtoah (Joshua 15:9) And if we are surrounded by unavailable, all life perishes Bible about water, such as earth was a formless void and The pool of Siloam (John water which is not drinkable, and not all water can sustain Jesus walking on water and darkness covered the face of 9:7) and Jacob’s well (John we may have cause to think life. Understandably water turning water into good the deep, while a wind from 4:6). Significant is Jesus’ of Samuel Taylor Coleridge can be a symbol for life, and wine. These stories point to a God swept over the face of conversation with the Woman and The Rime of the Ancient as Christians we are baptised transcendence of our earthly the waters.” from Samaria at Jacob’s well Mariner. The Old Sailor on a in water used as a symbol condition demonstrated by when he told her, “The water becalmed ship is surrounded Given enough time water can of life, but also a symbol of the one who created it. And that I will give will become by salt water that he cannot wear away stones and water cleansing or purifying of our in Greek philosophy water in them a spring of water drink. Water makes up in may places is collected soul, and a symbol of dying is thought to be the original in stone lined wells and gushing up to eternal life.”

St Columba Anglican School “Expect great things from God; attempt great things for God”

By Mr Terry Muldoon, that prepares a student for a Principal, St Columba world that no longer exists. Anglican School, Port “We’ve always done it that way” Macquarie can no longer offer us comfort. In fact, doing things the same Members of our Diocesan old way can result in our community who have not students being left behind and stepped onto a school campus refusing them opportunities over the last decade might for the future that they so be shocked to find how much richly deserve. An act too today’s teaching and learning, catastrophic to contemplate. and how much the schools themselves, have changed. While we adults may mourn the loss of certainty and the At first glance the buildings comfort of a style of education are somewhat bigger and that gave them success in the better designed, the learning past, we cannot betray the environment more alive and future of our children by failing energetic and the students to acknowledge that the world more actively engaged in their has changed and that the way learning. education is structured must Underpinning these changes change with it. is a truly significant shift in St Columba will not do this! the educational environment “Yearning for a new way will and I am happy to say not produce it. Only ending the that our Diocesan schools old way can do that.” are determined to remain Today’s Successful Learners throughout their lives; collegial wisdom across In a society where the world of educational leaders, refusing (MCEETYA) the entire Diocese; to accept the “truism” that work continues to evolve at a • Are motivated to reach regional schools lag behind rate never seen before, we can • Develop their capacity to their full potential. • Looking to grow so that St their city counterparts. and will offer our children an learn and play an active Further than that, we are Columba does not allow education that focuses on the role in their own learning; its educational offerings I reflect on the words of Bishop looking at ways of ensuring skills, knowledge and attitudes to be denied, through Murray in his invitation to • Have the essential skills our students are successful that we know will offer our limited enrolment places, our community to the special in literacy and numeracy after they leave our learning students, your children, the to the growing number of Synod to discuss the future and are creative and community. We are moving opportunity to rise to the families who seek to be of the Diocese: “The thought productive users of into partnership with Charles challenge of achieving success part of our educational of restructuring can produce technology, especially Sturt University to ensure that in this increasingly competitive story. uncertainty and even fear for ICT, as a foundation for the old silo approach that sees and globalised world. the future. However, it is my success in all learning schools and universities as “It shouldn’t be that the impression that, given that the At St Columba, we will continue areas; separate and even disparate family you are born into that “old models” are not working to offer our students the • Are able to think deeply entities no longer applies to the determines your life chances, as well as they used to, many foundational skills of literacy and logically, and obtain lives of our students. but to some extent they do. are waiting expectantly for and numeracy, continue to and evaluate evidence In terms of our wider Lives are not predictable, the opportunity to do things help them develop positive in a disciplined way as community, there are a human beings surprise. There differently and embrace new attitudes and skills that will the result of studying number of priorities that St may be a really good teacher. models.” make them valued members of fundamental disciplines; Columba will be addressing You might have access to a really good school.” Dr Dina the wider community, but we • Are creative, innovative over the next year. These The Bishop might just as Bowman, the Brotherhood will go further than that. and resourceful, and are include: well have been talking about of St Laurence study that has Over the past two years, St able to solve problems • Increasing and improving education. followed a group of Australians Columba has been planning in ways that draw upon our involvement with As we rush towards 2020 for the past 29 years provides to meet this challenge. We a range of learning areas the education of our it may come as a shock to a fascinating insight into who have reviewed and changed and disciplines; indigenous community; some that many schools and gets a leg up in society. our teaching and learning educators are still talking about • Are able to plan • Working in partnership leadership structure to Our schools are: how we can incorporate the activities independently, with the Local Nautilus allow for greater innovation, so-called 21st century learning collaborate, work in teams Senior College, who • Future-focussed coordination and flexibility. capacities into our education and communicate ideas; work with the most • Actively responding to system. We have researched • Are able to make sense marginalised students in the needs of their varied educational movements, and We are 20% into the “new” of their world and think our community; communities in ways that visited schools and systems century and many educators about how things have • Working with our only independent schools that have allowed us to see the are still just talking! become the way they are; local Council to be an can - not shackled by an best and learn from the best. urban-based bureaucracy In today’s world, any school • Are on a pathway towards energetic participant in We have benchmarked our that claims to prepare its continued success in the development of the • Lively, innovative and agile planning, efforts and goals students for success cannot, further education, training Health and Education • On a mission to bring a against the very best in the should not and must not, or employment, and precinct; lived Anglican ethos to world. be shackled to an outdated acquire the skills to make • Working with our the thousands of students teaching and learning system informed learning and Diocesan Schools to who walk through their employment decisions ensure that we share our gates each day.

December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 15 Anglicare North Coast Connection Disaster Recovery Volunteers Swing Into Action

In the event of a major disaster to helping those in need. such as an extreme weather Many Anglicare staff also went event, Anglicare North Coast “above and beyond”, assisting has a network of trained with a whole range of tasks, at volunteers that, when activated times well outside of normal by Family and Community business hours. Owen Gray Services, can work with other and Tony Auld both deserve locally accredited organisations a special mention for their to assist in local emergency efforts. activations. These volunteers To become an Anglicare proved invaluable in the Disaster Recovery volunteer, recent widespread bushfire it is essential to undertake a emergency across our region. training course. These courses Whilst Anglicare has been are run regularly in different involved in disaster recovery locations across the Diocese for many years, the program by our Disaster Recovery really proved it’s worth Coordinator, Owen Gray. during this emergency, with Training will occur early in 2020 unprecedented activations of and dates will be advertised volunteers. All told, Anglicare on our website and in this volunteers assisted at most of newspaper. Please consider the 21 evacuation centres set doing the training so that you up by Families and Community are able to assist next time Services, working alongside there is a disaster. volunteers from other To register your interest, please agencies, such as The Salvation email [email protected]. Roslyn Felsch, an Anglicare Manager, collecting donated goods from Coles in Goonellabah Army and The Red Cross. Well au, with your name, location done and thank you to all our and contact details. volunteers for their untiring work and strong commitment

Bill Johnston worked tirelessly as an Anglicare volunteer at the Owen Gray, Anglicare’s Disaster Recovery Coordinator, and volunteer Doug Ridley at the Grafton Evacuation Centre for many days Nimbin Evacuation Centre

Research Paints a Gloomy Picture

Two recent research reports situation on the North Coast is When these barriers are in our region who are living in “economic disadvantage” paint a very gloomy picture for worse than the state average. considered in light of scarcity of in poverty, or “significant and in Kempsey 20% of our region. We know that across our jobs many people, particularly economic disadvantage”. women were in “economic The Anglicare Australia Jobs region there are high levels of those with little or no A few examples illustrate disadvantage”. Snapshot 2019 found that unemployment, particularly for qualifications and experience, this point really well: across These are statistics that it in NSW for each entry level youth, and that there are many are likely to be looking for work NSW 13.3% of people live in would be easier not to know position there were at least barriers faced by those who for a long time to come. “economic disadvantage”, about, but they demonstrate five people competing for the are unemployed. The NSW Council of Social compared to 24.2% in the reality of life for many in position. Barriers include transport Services report Mapping Nambucca Heads, and around our region, thus presenting us Whilst the report did not and limited educational Economic Disadvantage in NSW, 21% in Kempsey and Lismore; all with a challenge – what can delve into individual regions opportunities in many parts of released in October, found in Nambucca Heads 42% of and should be done about this in the state, it is likely that the the region. alarming numbers of people children were found to be problem?

AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOUNDATION

AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOUNDATION DONATIONS Our mission is to provide appropriate, affordable accommodation to disadvantaged persons Phone (02) 6643 4844 throughout the North Coast of NSW. To donate or for further information please view our website or Anglicare North Coast, PO Box 401 Grafton 2460 contact our office.

anglicarenorthcoast.org.au ALL DONATIONS TO ANGLICARE NORTH COAST OVER $2.00 ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE AND ARE USED TO HELP US FULFIL OUR MISSION

Page 16 North Coast Anglican December 2019