Jymbilung House Community Care named Champion Employer 2011

A small community aged care organisation in Beaudesert, Queensland, has taken out top gong at Australia’s leading employment awards in Brisbane last night.

Having been nominated by Mission Australia, Jymbilung House Community Care was named Champion Employer of the Year at the National Employment Services Association’s awards, in recognition of their outstanding contribution to providing positive employment opportunities for disadvantaged job seekers.

Mission Australia Employment Solutions Business Manager Robert Kennard said this was great recognition of the important partnership between Mission Australia and Jymbilung, which had led to the placement of more than 40 job seekers over the past 11 years.

“Jymbilung has been one of our most valued partners, and that is why we nominated them for this prestigious national award,” Mr Kennard said.

“Here at Mission Australia, we are delighted to see one of our best local employers being recognised on the national stage for their significant efforts to provide job opportunities for people struggling with unemployment.

“In area where the unemployment rate is higher than the national average, at 6.5 per cent, the efforts of Jymbilung to provide employment opportunities for local job seekers are particularly important. They are helping to make a real difference in the local community.

“In particular, Jymbilung has made a significant contribution to addressing Indigenous unemployment, with the majority of the placements we have achieved at this organisation having been for Indigenous job seekers.

“Jymbilung have always shown remarkable perseverance and patience in working with our job seekers to overcome barriers to employment, and provide training opportunities that will allow employees to gain accredited qualifications in Aged Care, First Aid and Occupational Health and Safety.

“This is a huge coup for a local organisation and for our staff at Mission Australia who have worked so closely with Jymbilung for over a decade.

“Aged care is a challenging industry, but Jymbilung provides its staff with excellent support, ongoing training and great working conditions. That’s why we are always so pleased when we are able to link a job seeker with a position in this organisation.”

Established in 1994, Jymbilung House is a home and community care initiative, set up to assist frail aged, younger people with disabilities and their carers to stay in their own homes longer and enjoy a better quality of life.

Proudly sponsored by Mununjali Housing, Jymbilung originally was funded for the Indigenous population of Beaudesert Shire, however the program services now both Indigenous and mainstream clients.

The winners were announced at the NESA’s gala awards dinner at The Sofitel Hotel in Brisbane last night.

Pictured (from left): Mission Australia Service Manager Anne Humphreys; Mission Australia Employment Solutions Queensland General Manager Phil Shultz; Jymbilung Centre Manager Matthew Moore; Jymbilung Operations Manager Paula Jakavicius, and Employment Solutions Beaudesert Sales Representative Shelly Currie.

Thinking outside the box inspires great art

Seven Catalyst Clemente students unveiled their acrylics, oils and pencil drawings last Thursday night at the opening of a new art exhibition at Brisbane’s Australian Catholic University (ACU).

The class has just completed 2D Studies and Art, one of four units they have to finish to obtain a Certificate in Liberal Studies through the innovative learning program Mission Australia has run with ACU in Brisbane since 2006.

Joining students at the Catalyst Clemente Art Exhibition opening were Prof Lindsay Farrell, ACU’s Acting Associate Vice Chancellor; Prof Jude Butcher, Director of the Institute for Advancing Community Engagement, and our State Director Queensland, Penny Gillespie, who spoke to students and guests.

“The fact is, we don’t all fit into a specific mould and the system doesn’t work for everyone,” Ms Gillespie said at the launch. “But at Mission Australia, we believe it shouldn’t be the case that those who ‘don’t fit’ should miss out.

“What we can see here tonight is the kind of results you can achieve – the remarkable talent you can unearth – when you start thinking outside the box to give everyone a chance at learning.”

Three Catalyst students – Chris, Pamela and Luke – also shared how the program had transformed their lives:

After suffering an acute brain injury, Chris had been socially isolated for many years and struggled to connect with others. Chris, who has completed his second Catalyst unit, explained how the program had given him a love of art and he now is a prolific painter.

His classmate Luke told guests how, over the course of his decade-long struggle with mental illness he’d cut himself off from the outside world. Thanks to Catalyst Clemente he now has a new lease on life, is enjoying volunteer work and is about to complete his fourth semester of study.

Finally, Pamela was presented with her complete graduation certificate on the night for completing the Catalyst program. Pamela thanked all the staff at ACU, Mission Australia and Minter Ellison Lawyers, who are involved in the program. She told guests she had been blown away by the experience,

Catalyst offers marginalised people, many of whom are dealing with mental health issues or disabilities and are socially disadvantaged, the opportunity to undertake free accredited university courses in humanities subjects. The program helps participants overcome self-esteem, mental health and confidence issues, interact and plan for a positive future.

Subjects are taught by lecturers from ACU National and students team up with volunteer learning partners such as Minter Ellison Lawyers, who provide fortnightly individual support and academic assistance to students as part of its Community Investment Program.

The program, which is made possible thanks to community generosity, involves four unit semesters of study, with classes held for three hours each week for 12 weeks.

After each unit, students are awarded Certificates of Attainment and on completion of all four, they are awarded Certificates in Liberal Arts and given credit points towards further university studies.

Congratulations to all our Brisbane students, including Rhonda, Josephine and Naomi, who have finished their first unit, and Amanda, who has completed two units.

If you would like to support Catalyst Clemente in Brisbane, please call MaryAnne Morgan on (07) 3394 8152.

Further reading:

• Catalyst students celebrate learning
• Learning life lessons through Catalyst Clemente

Christmas lunch brings cheer to Brisbane’s homeless

One of Brisbane’s leading homeless services, Roma House, warmed up winter this week by hosting a special Christmas in July community lunch.

Around 80 guests, including residents, staff, other local community service workers, the State Member for Brisbane Central, Grace Grace MP, and Brisbane City Councillor for Central, David Hinchliffe, gathered together on Tuesday to enjoy festive food and great company.

A traditional Christmas lunch - complete with turkey, ham, roast vegetables with gravy and topped off by pudding and custard and trifle - was served by Mission Australia staff and volunteers from Brisbane’s corporate and donor community.

Even Santa made an off-season appearance, handing out beautiful handmade scarves, beanies, quilts and blankets, kindly donated by Knitting for Brisbane’s Needy, to residents. Some even took the opportunity to have a photo snapped with the big man.

Guests were entertained by musical performances by staff and residents. They also heard a residents’ presentation about Roma House’s therapeutic kitchen program, The House of Plenty, which an intentional therapeutic that connects and empowers residents through cooking and sharing meals.

Christmas in July lunch guests also enjoyed a video about the innovative Adventure Based Therapy program that also operates out of the Spring Hill site – you can learn more about it and link to the video from this page.

“This is the third consecutive year we’ve held a Christmas in July lunch,” said Operations Manager Avryl Gration. “It provides the residents with something to look forward to, and nice memories to call on during the cold winter months – and it provides our residents with a real feeling of home and belonging.”

Channel 10 News in Brisbane also made it along to Christmas in July at Roma House. You can watch their coverage of this inspirational event here.

New van freshens up Café One service

Mission Australia’s Café One on Wickham has a new refrigerated van to help it support disadvantaged people in Brisbane thanks to the generosity of The Talbot Family Foundation.

The café in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley provides low-cost meals and coffee as well as a range of support services to the city’s homeless and other people in need of a hand up. Importantly, Café One is a place to connect.

The Talbot Family Foundation kindly funded the new VW Caddy van, which will make it easier for the café to access fresh produce and other donated supplies in order to provide nutritious low-cost meals to people in need.

Amanda Talbot, wife of the late Ken Talbot, Chairman Don Nissen and the Foundation’s CEO, Lynne Gardner, last month officially handed the vehicle over to Penny Gillespie, State Director Mission Australia (pictured), at the café.

“They were really thrilled and all commented on the great vibe at the café and could really see its importance in the community,” said Helen O'Connor, Mission Australia’s Queensland Relationship Manager.

A Café One customer was moved to make a spontaneous speech, thanking Mission Australia and The Talbot Family Foundation for their support.

“She was incredibly thankful to the café and the staff - both past and present - for helping her along her journey because she now has a home and had worked incredibly hard to get there,” said Helen.

David* is a more recent Café One regular who appreciates the good food and support he has received there in recent weeks. Through his visits to Café One David has not only had access to nutritious food, but has found a safe place to stay after living on the streets.

When David came in asking for a meal at Café One’, the service’s Acting Team Leader Mitchell Peterson set up an account to ensure he could regularly access healthy food at the eatery. He also organised accommodation for David at Mission Australia’s Roma House.

“I was raised in a foster home since I was 18 months old until about 16,” David said. “Since then, I’ve come to places like Café One for advice, guidance and counselling. I’m 27 this year and I’d like to say Café One is a huge, great benefit and support network to the community and all people of society.

“The support I receive here is really hopeful,” he added. “At times during the week I can’t eat, so I come here for a feed that’s better than home-cooked meals and better than starving.

“My mum has been coming here for a few years and Café One supports her with food and counselling, which we all need as humans.”

Café One on Wickham relies on donations, local community support and volunteers to operate. As part of The Talbot Family Foundation’s long-term commitment to Mission Australia, Café One will receive a generous annual donation for five years.

If you would like to donate to Café One call 1800 88 88 68 or click on the ‘Donate’ button on the top left of our website. Local philanthropists who wish to support Café One can contact Helen O’Connor, Mission Australia Relationship Manager, on (07) 3394 8149.

Volunteering opportunities at Café One also regularly appear on the Volunteering section of our website.

*Name has been changed to protect the person’s identity

Our latest Wild Earth Adventurers return!

Anyone who has “gone bush” for a few days knows how escaping a city or town can rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit. But for someone who has spent years living on the streets of a city, spending a few days in a natural environment can be amazingly therapeutic.

This philosophy is at the centre of Wild Earth Adventures. Based at Mission Australia’s Roma House in Brisbane, the program aims to help people who have been homeless to set life goals, build self-esteem and reconnect with nature.

Social Worker Amanda Smith and Sue Cramb, Clinical Nurse and Adventure Based Learning Facilitator, have just returned from a three-day Wild Earth Adventures program in Queensland’s Coloola National Park with participants from Roma House.

As part of the ‘Experiments with Self Identity, Group and Nature’ adventure, the group paddled into the National Park and camped in a remote setting for three days.

One of the participants, Debbie* – a former Roma House resident who is still receiving support from the service – had already been on nine adventure-based learning programs. These programs complement the creative and professional case management support available to residents of Roma House and its outreach clients.

Having spent much of her life experiencing grief and depression, Debbie said the program allowed her to “leave this crazy city and things become clearer. I always feel better when I get back from a camp”.

Emily*, a Torres Strait Islander participant, was thrilled to be given the opportunity to reconnect with nature after many years of living in the city.

On completing the program’s 13km uphill trek, Emily realised she had the potential to change her situation: “Completing this hike, something I didn’t think that I could, makes me realise that I can also get out of homelessness and go further than I thought I could”.

Amanda said that while the three-day program was at times gruelling, the participants were up for the challenge:

“Like all of our Wild Earth Adventurers, they were well prepared to ensure their emotional, mental and physical needs were met. All had to attend several preparatory meetings beforehand so they could set goals for the experience and be well informed about the plan and expectations,” Amanda said.

“Adventure therapy relies on creating a small group that have clear goals, describing a mutually agreed to working agreement, being drug and alcohol-free and eager to physically and mentally challenge ourselves,” she added.

“There is certainly a strong culture being created by regular participants and this program allows for unique opportunities to people to be able to talk through issues with qualified professionals.”

Wild Earth Adventures have been held approximately every two weeks since the program began in 2009.

To learn more about Roma House’s adventure-based learning programs, we have released a new video today - view below or visit our Channel at youtube.com/missionaust:



For more information or to donate to this project please contact Amanda Smith on SmithAma@missionaustralia.com.au or call (07) 3839 1826.

*Names have been changed.

Queensland Police warn donors and residents to be vigilant

The Queensland Police Service is urging the public to beware of unscrupulous individuals who are taking advantage of the public’s compassion in the aftermath of the floods.

Police have received reports of fraudulent emails, phone callers and door-to-door scammers who are seeking funds.

Mission Australia urges people wishing to support communities in flood-affected Queensland to please go to qld.gov.au/floods/donate or call 1800 219 028 between 6am and 11pm.

Police are also asking people to be extremely cautious when taking phone calls from people claiming to be from consumer and government offices.

Unscrupulous individuals are reportedly calling residential addresses identifying themselves as a representative of a genuine banking institution or representatives of ‘bank reclaim expert’ companies.

According to Detective Superintendent Brian Hay, the scammers call the victim and get them to recite their personal details including their name, birthdate, address, phone number and the banking institution they are with to give the impression they are from a genuine institution.

There are also reports of bogus tradespeople demanding money up-front to clean or paint buildings affected by the floods or clear yards. After receiving payment, these “tradespeople” then disappear with no work being done.

Scams can be reported via the ‘report a scam’ page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995.

Anyone with information that could assist police with their investigations should contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppers.com.au. Crime Stoppers is a 24-hour charitable community volunteer organisation working in partnership with the Queensland Police Service.

Post-flood advice and information

Mission Australia appreciates many of you in flood-affected will be bombarded by post-flood information. However, if you are having difficulty accessing information due to high demand, we hope the following advice is beneficial.

Health and safety

• The priority in flooded areas is opening roads and clearing debris so people can safely re-enter homes and businesses. Wait until transport routes are open before heading off of any journey.
• Be careful with electricity. Before cleaning, ensure gas and electricity is off. Get an electrician to clear your home of danger before using electrical equipment. To report fallen powerlines, call Energex on 13 19 62.
• Wear rubber gloves and water-resistant clothing, including gumboots, goggles or a face mask. Cover any open wounds before cleaning and watch out for snakes.
• Ventilate your home while cleaning. Also throw out food that may have come into contact with floodwaters or perishables spoiled due to power cuts.
• Queensland Urban Utilities has advised that water in Brisbane is safe to drink. However, floodwater is unsafe, being contaminated with chemicals and sewerage, so do not enter it. 

Waste collection and other services

• Brisbane City Council will provide industrial bins and a kerbside collection for damaged goods once floodwaters recede – locations and times to be advised. www.brisbane.qld.gov.au is a good resource but due to high demand currently displays as a low-bandwidth version.
• If you are in Brisbane, call Council on 3403 8888 to report issues outside your property such as fallen trees, potholes or road debris. For help with extensive damage call the SES on 132 500.
• For information on public transport, visit www.translink.com.au or call 13 12 30. Updated information can also be found at www.qld.gov.au/floods/ or www.abc.net.au/emergency/flood/
• Insurance and banking:
• Do not be concerned if insurance documents have been lost or damaged in the flood. Insurance companies keep electronic records and only a name and address.
• Remove water and mud-damaged possessions. Carpets and soft furnishings can be disposed of as part of your clean-up. If possible, take photos or make an inventory of damaged items before removing. Contact your insurer before authorising repairs.
• Call 1300 728 228, The Insurance Council’s 24-hotline, if you have questions about insurance, including lost paperwork.
• Many banks have activated emergency relief measures for flood-affected customers, including the suspension of home loan repayments, waiving of fees and loan support.
  Commonwealth Bank customers call 13 22 21
  NAB Care customers can call 1800 701 599
  ANZ Customers can call 1800 149 549
  Westpac customers call 1800 067 497
  St George customers call 1300 769 578

Volunteering update: All Sydney call centre positions now filled, stay tuned for further opportunities

Yesterday we announced Mission Australia's National Office would act as a support call centre for Volunteering Queensland, which is being inundated with calls from people eager to help with flood recovery activities.

Our Volunteer Team has been able to place volunteers into all available call centre positions, and are working through a large backlog of registrations to fill upcoming opportunities.

Stay tuned on our Twitter and Facebook pages for new volunteering opportunities as they become available through Volunteering Queensland 

A BIG THANK YOU to all the amazing people that have registered to volunteer at such short notice!

Sydney call centre volunteers needed for flood support

As of tomorrow, 14 January, Mission Australia's National Office will act as a support call centre for Volunteering Queensland, which is being inundated with calls from people eager to help with flood recovery activities.

Our Volunteering Team is urgently seeking people who can work in five-hour shifts from Mission Australia’s head office in George Street, Sydney.

Call centre shifts will operate from 10am to 3pm and from 3pm to 8pm for at least the next seven days. Training will be provided on site.

If you are able to register to volunteer for the call centre or on-the-ground support in Queensland, please send an email to volunteering@missionaustralia.com.au or call 1800 110 578, providing your name and contact details.

Mission Australia and Volunteering Queensland would appreciate any time you can donate to support communities in flood-affected areas.

Supporting flood-affected communities

Mission Australia’s Volunteering Team has received many offers from staff and members of the public to help out in flood-affected Queensland. This generosity of spirit truly speaks volumes about our community.

Our National Volunteer Team is working with Volunteering Queensland to engage and utilise staff and community volunteers.

Volunteering Queensland is aware that Mission Australia can supply volunteer resources when required, and people who have asked about helping out are aware that their details may be passed on to local coordinators.

If you are able to register to volunteer, please email volunteering@missionaustralia.com.au or call 1800 110 578, providing your name and contact details.

If you would like to offer financial assistance, Mission Australia urges people to donate to the Premier's Flood Relief Appeal at www.qld.gov.au/floods/donate.html or by calling 1800 219 028

Support rolls in for Queenslanders

Mission Australia staff have rallied behind their colleagues and clients in flood-affected Queensland, sending messages of support from across the nation.

Here are just some of the kind thoughts sent to Queenslanders:

“Hi all up there in Queensland. Our thoughts are with everyone up there at the moment. We cannot imagine what you all must be going through right now and in the weeks and months to come. Just seeing the images on our TVs is distressing enough. Remember that our thoughts are with you all, stay safe and take care.” - Denise Armstrong, Centre Director, Mission Australia Early Learning Services, Springvale South, Victoria.

“Hi Queenslanders. On behalf of all the ladies in this little town of Muswellbrook our thoughts and prayers are with you. Keep your chins up. We’re thinking of you!” - Love and wishes, all the Muswellbrook Ladies, NSW.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. No words could heal the pain and anxiety you may be feeling. Please know that we are all praying for your safety, although we are not close to you in distance, we are close to you in heart and mind.” - Sladjana Armour, Service Manager, Southern Adelaide Metro Regional Services.

Mission Australia’s Volunteering Team also appreciates the large number of calls and emails received from members who would like to assist with the post-flood clean-up.

Further support

The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) has been activated to assist people who have been adversely affected by flooding affecting Queensland. If you or someone you know has been affected by this disaster you should speak to Centrelink as soon as possible to arrange assistance. The AGDRP Fact Sheet contains more information.

You can also view a full list of organisations that offer Disaster Recovery Support and advice. This list includes the SES and Disaster Recovery Line details.

This afternoon we have also been told that Storage King has extended its Free Month’s Storage Free offer to people south-east Queensland and New South Wales. For more details call 1800 STORAGE (1800 786 724). This offer is subject to availability.

Anyone who wishes to help provide emergency relief funding is being urged to donate to the Premier's Flood Relief Appeal at www.qld.gov.au/floods/donate or by calling 1800 219 028. This appeal cannot accept donations of goods or services. Andrew Heslop has written a good article on the ABC’s Drum about how cash donations are vital during times of crisis.

Mission Australia is not running a door-to-door fundraising appeal for flood victims, so please be wary of any unscrupulous individuals claiming to raise funds in the community on our behalf.

Mission Australia’s response to the flood crisis

Mission Australia is taking an Emergency Response Approach to managing the effects of widespread flooding on communities in south-eastern Queensland.

Our staff are seeking out homeless people and other known vulnerable clients in flood-affected areas to ensure they are receiving suitable support. Roma House, which provides accommodation and support services for homeless people in Brisbane, is operating with a skeleton staff due to access issues.

The majority of Mission Australia’s properties and services in south-eastern Queensland remain closed until further notice. This is due to either lack of access, lack of power to the property and safety concerns.

Our Lismore Community Services site has also been closed due to inaccessibility by local staff. Mission Australia services in Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie Community Services are also on alert.

Our Toowoomba Community Services (CS) site will remain open until further notice. Similarly, our Deception Bay (Caboolture) CS site is also open as is our Mt Gravatt Employment Solutions centre.

Who to contact

For help in an emergency or to report storm damage call the State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500.

If you have been flooded and require assistance call the Community Recovery Line on 1800 173 349.

Supporters who wish to provide emergency relief funding are being urged to donate to the Premier's Flood Relief Appeal at www.qld.gov.au/floods/donate or by calling 1800 219 028. This appeal cannot accept donations of goods or services.

Donations can be also be made in person at any branch of the Bank of Queensland, Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, ANZ, NAB, Suncorp, Bank SA, St George, Australian Central Credit Union, Savings and Loans Credit Union, Bank West, the Australian Central Credit Union as well as the Savings and Loans Credit Union. Coles Supermarkets are also accepting donations.

Mission Australia is offering volunteer emergency relief support to the Red Cross. We are currently in discussion with regards to volunteer coordination.

After the flood crisis has passed, there will be a great need to assist with the clean-up at several Mission Australia offices and related community support service buildings. Anyone who is able to volunteer and join our efforts can register their details via our hotline 1800 110 578 or by emailing volunteering@missionaustralia.com.au 

Above photo taken yesterday by Phil Cooney from Mission Australia's office in Warwick, Queensland

Southern Queensland office closures

Queensland Mission Australia staff in flood-affected areas have been forced to close their office doors as waters rapidly move through the state’s south-east.

We understand that the following services are closed today due to accessibility issues for staff:

• State Office
• C4C (Communities for Children)
• Nightspot in Woodridge
• Pathways Inala
• PCB
• RAI Inala
• RAI Ipswich
• Reconnect Gold Coast.
• RAI Caboolture
• Toowoomba Reconnect

Employment Solutions

• Inala Employment Solutions
• Oxley Employment Solutions
• St George Employment Solutions (which will be closed until the end of the week due to power failures).
• Stanthorpe outreach office
• Stones Corner Employment Solutions
• Warwick Employment Solutions
• Toowoomba NEIS

Earlier today the Brisbane River burst its banks at West End, and heavy flooding is expected as water from Toowoomba makes it way towards the city.

Brisbane City Council has posted a temporary and partial archive of flood flag maps for the Brisbane City region at this link. These are potential flood areas and may or may not be affected by the pending flood waters.

Above image courtesy of Brisbane City Council (click here to view full map)

Brisbane kids follow in big footsteps

Former Brisbane Bullets star Andre Moore has made the promotion of healthy living his mission in life.

After hanging up his size 17 pro sneakers, Andre now runs the Big Feat Basketball Mentoring Program as part of Australia’s Pathways to Prevention Project - an early intervention, crime prevention program providing holistic support to children and families in Brisbane’s western suburbs.

The most recent ‘Big Feat’ program involved 180 Grade 5 and 6 students from Carole Park, Durack and Inala state schools. Grade 6 students from Richlands East State School will experience the same “skills, thrills and fun” when Andre’s next sessions begin on August 9.

The 10-week mentoring program uses basketball to promote positive and healthy messages to pre-adolescent children, with Andre teaching kids to discover their strengths, improve their communication skills, become better team players and set goals.

The former professional basketballer, affectionately known as ‘The A-Train’ in his Brisbane Bullets days, has been leading by example for much of his life. The oldest of four children who grew up in a tough part of Chicago, Andre was a father figure to his younger siblings.

“Now I have seven children, so messages I pass on to these kids I pass on to my own,” he said. “By running this program I’m giving back to the community that has supported me.”

Cherie Lamb, Pathways to Prevention Manager, said Andre made a big impact on the lives of local children: "They were in awe of Andre's height and basketball skills.

“Andre provided the students with insight into the importance of making healthy choices in relation to nutrition and exercise, while still keeping their attention by mixing in basketball drills,” she added.

“The children’s evaluation forms showed that ‘Big Feat’ program was a life-changing experience.”

Durack State School principal, Beth Petersen, said teachers and parents were delighted with the program's success: “Our students have responded very positively to Andre and Mission Australia's lessons."

Media Release: Mission Australia to roll out the welcome mats to raise awareness of Brisbane’s homeless

Mission Australia’s Winter Sleepout

Today Mission Australia will be rolling out 387 welcome mats in King George Square to raise awareness of Brisbane’s homeless, and its Winter Sleepout campaign.

Mission Australia’s Winter Sleepout campaign aims to raise awareness and funds to help combat the growing issue of homelessness in Australia.

The campaign has been running since 1988, and this year Mission Australia is encouraging social teams, work mates and community groups to get together and sleep out for one night during winter and seek sponsorship for their efforts.

Mission Australia State Director Tony Stevenson said he hoped Tuesday’s event in King George Square raised awareness of the issue of homelessness in Brisbane, and encouraged people to get behind Mission Australia’s campaign and organise their own winter sleepout.

“Living without a stable home is only one of the problems faced by people who are homeless,” Mr Stevenson said.

“Many also feel isolated and lonely, often going for days without conversation or even making eye contact with anyone.

“Money raised from the 2010 Winter Sleepout campaign will go towards supporting those people currently facing homelessness, and helping them get back on their feet.”

Details of the event in King George Square are as follows:

• Date: Tuesday, 13 July 2010
• Venue: King Gorge Square, Brisbane City
• Time: 5.30am – 1.30pm

Local restaurant Groove Train in King George Square is getting behind Mission Australia’s Winter Sleepout campaign, by offering customers the option of adding $2 to their bill from 12 July to 12 August 2010. Money raised from this initiative will go towards Mission Australia’s 2010 Winter Sleepout campaign and supporting Australia’s homeless.

Mission Australia is one of the country’s longest-running community service organisations. For over 150 years, Mission Australia has been helping to transform the lives of Australians in need. In 2008-2009, Mission Australia assisted more than 13,000 homeless individuals and 950 families through its homeless services.

Additional information regarding Mission Australia’s Winter Sleepout can be found at www.facebook.com/mawintersleepout

Pathways to Prevention Choir make their recording debut

A special Ecumenical Service was held in September 2009 at St John’s Cathedral in Brisbane City to celebrate Mission Australia’s 150th Anniversary.

During the ceremony the 'Pathways Multi-Cultural Choir of Clients and Staff' made their singing debut, performing a song written especially for the service to symbolise the personal achievements made through the Pathways to Prevention Program.

The Pathways Song written by Sue-Anne Swindon received such inspiring feedback from the audience that the decision was made to have it recorded professionally.

Alibi Projects, a Mission Australia corporate partner, generously donated their time, equipment and expertise to make the project possible.

After a couple of weeks of rehearsing, the choir of 40 participants joined in the Oxley Uniting Church for its production.

“I stood amongst members of Inala’s Aboriginal, Samoan and Vietnamese communities, as well as Pathways staff. The experience emphasised the diversity of programs and communities that Mission Australia is involved with, and the rich mix of staff we have to do this work,” said Tim Booth from Mission Australia’s Chaplaincy team in Queensland.

“This is sometimes very difficult work, but it is something worth singing about!” said Tim.

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Mission Australia would like to express a huge thankyou to all contributors who collaborated on the recording: Sue-Anne Swindon, David MacGregor, the Pathways Multi Cultural Choir comprised of clients and staff, Eric Woodrow, David Aberdeen, and Alibi Projects.

• Listen to the Pathways song using the media player below, or download from this link
• For a transcript, visit our earlier article.  

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Broncos lend a hand at Mission Australia's Cafe One on Wickham

Recently Brisbane Broncos players were joined by Rugby League great Alan Langer for a day of volunteering at Mission Australia's Cafe One on Wickham.

As part of their partnership with Cafe One, the Broncos provide financial support, home game promotions each season and access to volunteering opportunities for the players.

This year, the club introduced the 'Broncos in the Community' program, which involves the players volunteering each Wednesday to work with one of the seven charities supported by the club. Last week was devoted to Cafe One, with both players and clients thoroughly enjoying the experience.

The Broncos players helped the Cafe staff with serving food, wiping tables and general cleaning.

With a professional career in Queensland Rugby League spanning two decades, Alan Langer doesn't need to go far in Brisbane to find his fans - and Cafe One is no exception! Alan thoroughly enjoyed the time spent with the Cafe's clients, sharing his experiences and a few laughs.

His presence will endure for a long time - one client mentioned to Cafe staff recently that he didn't get to meet a "legend of the game" very often and would be "keeping his autograph forever".

To view a video from the day, visit Broncos TV.

The Broncos will be working with other charity partners in coming months, with another visit to Cafe One due early May.

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Further Reading...

•  The changing taste of welfare services - The evolution of Café One
• Cafe One on Wickham - Fact Sheet

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Media Release: Mission Australia winner celebrates with BBQ cooked by celebrity chef Ben O'Donoghue

Heather Edwards from Greenslopes was the lucky winner of Mission Australia’s ‘Ben O’Donoghue BBQ’ competition, and on Saturday 13 February, celebrated her luck with nine of her closest friends, a brand new barbeque – and celebrity chef Ben O’Donoghue.

In October 2009, Ben O’Donoghue – one of Australia’s most talented and well-loved celebrity chefs, TV presenters and cook book authors – joined forces with Mission Australia to raise much needed funds for Australians in need.

His latest cook book – BEN’S BARBEQUE – was offered to Mission Australia supporters at the special price of $25, with $10 from each book purchased going towards financing some of Mission Australia’s programs and facilities. Every person who purchased BEN’S BARBEQUE went into the draw to win the ‘Ben O’Donoghue BBQ competition.

By purchasing Ben’s cook book, Ms Edwards has won herself a ‘Beefmaster 4 on Cart’ Barbeque from BBQ’s Galore, two cases of Penfolds wine and a fully catered barbeque Day lunch for ten people – cooked to perfection by Ben O’Donoghue.

Mission Australia CEO Toby Hall, said the ‘Ben O’Donoghue BBQ’ competition had been a great success.

“Australians are well known for enjoying a BBQ, and also for helping each other out in times of need – our competition brought those two things together, and we’ve raised over $5000 for our programs and facilities,” Mr Hall said.

“We really appreciate Ben’s support, and we’d also like to thank everyone out there who showed their support for Mission Australia by purchasing BEN’S BARBEQUE. The money you have raised will go towards helping out Australians in need.”

Ben O’Donoghue said he was delighted to throw his support behind Mission Australia and help some of Australia’s most vulnerable.

“I admire the work Mission Australia does, and the commitment with which they support our country’s most disadvantaged – so I feel privileged to have helped raise some well-deserved funds for the organisation,” Ben said.

“I also really enjoyed meeting Heather and her friends on Saturday and cooking up a storm on her brand new barbeque.”

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Images are available on request

Media contact: Melissa Tucker, Rowland – (07) 3229 4499, 0413 980 229 or Melissa.Tucker@rowland.com.au

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Commemorative Mural for Mission Australia unveiled in Queensland

Young people supported by Mission Australia unveiled a commemorative mural recently, to mark the organisation’s 150th anniversary in 2009.

The mural is located on the back wall of the Queensland State Office, and has been designed and created by four young people who were involved in an Art Development Project supported by Mission Australia’s Project Circuit Breaker and Jugglers Art Space Inc.

Project Circuit Breaker is a prevention and early intervention service that supports young people aged 9 -17 years from Brisbane's northside, to make changes to their lives and further develop the family’s skills and resilience.  The service is operated by Mission Australia and funded by the Qld Department of Communities.

The four young people involved in creating the mural were mentored by a professional artist, in conjunction with Jugglers Art Space Inc. Throughout the creative process, the young people were provided the opportunity to develop their personal strengths and artistic ability.

Kym Dwyer, Team Leader of Project Circuit Breaker, noted that the mural design represents the ongoing transformation that families and young people undergo throughout the program and their lives.

“The images of butterflies are symbolic of this transition, signifying moving from difficult times into a more hopeful and positive future,” Kim said.

One of the young artists noted that Mission Australia's involvement with their community provided inspiration for their artwork.

“This insight into Mission Australia’s work really gave the mural an extra dimension of fulfilment and satisfaction as we knew we were doing this for a great cause and even greater community of people,”

Mission Australia set to celebrate Christmas Day around the country

Thousands of Australians in need will enjoy a Christmas lunch and join in the spirit of the season at Mission Australia services and events across the country on Christmas Day.

Chief among them is Mission Australia’s Christmas Lunch in the Park (CLIP) – an event for around 2,000 disadvantaged and lonely individuals and families in Perth, now being held for the 34th consecutive year.

Run with the help of more than 400 volunteers and generous financial and in-kind donations for individuals and businesses, CLIP is one of Australia’s biggest Christmas Day gatherings.

Every guest at CLIP will enjoy a traditional Christmas lunch, entertainment throughout the day and a gift.

Volunteers greet guests as they arrive, host tables and help Santa distribute the donated gifts.

In Brisbane, Mission Australia’s Café One on Wickham will serve lunch to more than 100 homeless and disadvantaged people in the city’s centre this Christmas Day.

Café One on Wickham provides low cost meals and coffee – as well as a range of individual support services – to individuals and families in need. The café provides a sense of belonging and connection to others which is particularly important at Christmas time.

Mission Australia opened Café One to provide Christmas Day lunch for the first time last year and such was the demand it has decided to continue the tradition in 2009.

Every attendee will receive a Christmas lunch and receive a gift kindly donated by the Brisbane Lord Mayor’s Community Benefit Fund and various other organisations.

Christmas is one of the toughest times of the year for the people Mission Australia helps simply for the reason that at its heart it is a celebration of love, family and joy.

For our clients – many of whom have no family or are disconnected from them – it’s a period when that isolation and loneliness is emphasised like no other time.

However, thanks to the generosity of Mission Australia’s donors and corporate partners, our clients – along with many other thousands of Australians doing it tough – will now be able to join in the Christmas spirit.