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Vision Winter 2008 Issue No. 62 A publication from the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Circulation 18,000

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Vision Winter 2008Issue No. 62

A publication from the St Vincent de Paul Society

NSWCirculation 18,000

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2 Winter 2008

Letters to the EditorContentsPresident’s Message

News

World Youth Day 08

Winter Appeal 2008

This time it’s personal exhibition

Nowra Farm

Urban Lens

Vietnamese community gives back

30 years and still going strong

Social Justice on Domestice Violence

Growing Works newsletter

Captain Charles: Engineer of Charity

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Vision is produced by Community and Corporate Relations, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW, and is distributed free of charge throughout the Society to Catholic parishes, and schools and relevant entities in New South Wales.

Editor: Rachel Irvine

Supervising Editor: Julie McDonald

Writers: Bec Bromhead, Dane Hiser, John Gresser, Kate Scholl, Mary Hadchiti, Jessica Pollard, Amanda Ireland, Andy Marks, Rachel Irvine.

Layout and Design: Rachel Irvine

Distribution: Ozanam Industries, a Special Work of St Vincent de Paul Society

All correspondence and contributions can be sent to:Publications OfficerCommunity and Corporate RelationsSt Vincent de Paul SocietyPO Box 5, Petersham NSW 2049Email: [email protected] Phone: (02) 9568 0287

The current Society of St Vincent de Paul (NSW) State Council Members are:Barbara Ryan, Bill Johnston, Peter Sharp, Michael Callaghan, Des Kinsella, Beverley Kerr, Jessica Wood, Don Hewitt, Gillian Ferguson, John Donnelly, Evan Brett, Kevin Walsh, Gwen Sampson, Terry Walsh, Pauline Black, Leo Sheehan, Ivor Davies.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in Vision are the views of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the St Vincent de Paul Society. Responsibility for the content of this publication is taken by Julie McDonald, CCR Manager.© St Vincent de Paul Society NSW 2008

Dear St Vincent de Paul Society,

I read your article, “Caught in the Space” in Vision magazine. It encourages me very much. I’m happy to know that there is a group who advocate for the voiceless. I have begun to pick up your articles in Catholic Weekly as well and I totally agree with your articles.

My greatest concern is human rights and identity issues of migrants and refugees. The introduction of ‘Caught in the Space’ reminds me of the common defence mechanisms we use to exclude others and how terribly blind we are to our ugly behaviors such as discriminating against, and abusing others. But these others are our brothers and sisters! It reminds me of what Jesus said, “Remove a log from your eyes, before telling off other’s dust.”

Please keep writing on behalf of the voiceless. Give the voiceless a voice to cry out for social justice, love and hope. We should have ears to listen to the voiceless. Keep pointing out our blind spots.

Thank you for your hard work and writing.

Kind regards, Sadami

Dear Friends,

Love and greetings from Father S. John Joseph, India.

I am extremely happy to write this letter of acknowledgement to you. May this Holy Season of Easter shower upon you all its blessings. I am very happy to tell you that on this day, I am in receipt of your package containing the Vision and Record magazines. They are lovely and useful. I do appreciate this good gesture on your part. Millions of thanks.

My love and regards are to all your readers and contributors.

Please keep me and my mission in your prayers. Let us pray for each other.

Thank you and God bless,Father S. John Joseph, India

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From the President’s Desk

Mrs. Barbara Ryan

It is with great pleasure that, for the first time, I introduce you to the latest edition of the St Vincent de Paul Society’s highly regarded Vision magazine.

Throughout my extensive involvement with the Society over the years, I have witnessed the importance of Vision in communicating and capturing the Society’s good works and the

issues we face everyday as we reach out to people in every area of need.

To begin my welcome, I shall briefly share with you my “vision” for the years ahead, which I hope you will adopt to become, our vision. The Rule Article 1.6 states: “adaptation to changing world conditions directs that, faithful to the spirit of the founders, the Society constantly strives for renewal”. I put it to you that our immediate goal be “Renewal of the inclusive spirit and culture of the Society.” Our goal can be achieved through four key steps. The first is to enhance spiritual development of all members by fully embracing the spirituality of our mission, and minimising the distractions that have softened this focus in the past. Secondly, we need to implement and develop inclusive two way communication across the Society. Thirdly, we must revise State Council’s purpose, processes, projects, committees and staff. The fourth step, which is crucial to supporting our good works, is to develop and increase the Society’s profile.

On that note, one small but effective way to help achieve the last step is by utilizing this very publication, Vision magazine. As this edition demonstrates, Vision succinctly captures the latest developments and news in the Society, and therefore is a perfect communication tool to spread the word of our good work. Please feel free to share this publication with your parishioners, friends, family, and colleagues.

In this edition, we celebrate the Society’s role in World Youth Day, undoubtedly the biggest event on the Catholic Church’s calendar this year. World Youth Day will bring global focus on the Church, on Catholic youth and on Catholic organisations. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to rejoice in the role of young people currently involved in the work of the Society and to recruit more like-minded young people to the journey towards the fulfillment of our mission. The youth are crucial to the future survival and growth of the Society. We must embrace and share their energy, enthusiasm, compassion, spirituality and quest for social justice in order

to develop ourselves as Vincentians and bring hope, dignity, relief, comfort and justice to those who need it most.

Also, in this edition, we commend the work of Ozanam Industries in producing over one million hosts for the World Youth Day celebrations. However, they are not the only Special Work who have participated in this spiritually and culturally significant global event. The Mary MacKillop Outreach Men’s Shed, a workshop for retired men and people with intellectual disabilities recently produced 500,000 miniature crosses for World Youth Day, for distribution throughout the journey of the Cross and Icon and during World Youth Day itself.

The work of the people at Ozanam Industries and the Mary MacKillop Men’s Shed proves there is no limit to human potential and the capacity to contribute substantially to the Australian community and indeed in this case, the world. In this edition, we bring your attention to a highly innovative Special Work in regional NSW; Nowra Farm, which provides assistance to homeless men using a unique and progressive model of care. This approach has such a high success rate that the Federal Government is looking at adopting the Nowra Farm model for future government-funded refuges, in a joint effort to break the cycle of homelessness.

In this, the year of the 175th Anniversary of the Society’s history of good works, we celebrate the launch of another very special publication. ‘Captain Charles: Engineer of Charity’ by long time Society volunteer and scholar, Stephen Utick, captures the life of Charles Gordon O’Neill, the man who established the Society in NSW. The release of the book was celebrated with a mass, two pilgrimage journeys to significant locations featured in Charles’ life, lectures and a grand book launch in The Great Hall at the University of Sydney.

As we work together to carry out the Society’s 2008 Winter Appeal, we invite support by reminding the community at large that homeless and marginalised people are currently feeling the effects of a cold, harsh winter and rely on our help. This winter, these people in need are joining with the St Vincent de Paul Society in calling attention to their plight and giving an insight into their lives, as captured in the photographic exhibition in this edition. The idea is that once the community gets to know more about the people we assist, they will be more driven to help them.

I hope you enjoy this edition of Vision and pray for the success of the Winter Appeal.

Yours sincerely,Barbara Ryan

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4 Winter 2008

NewsNews

Last year, the staff of Youth Reach in Dee Why nominated volunteer Woody Cornelius-Mau’u for the Warringah Council’s annual Outstanding Community Service Award. The Council receives many nominations for the awards and undertakes a rigorous selection process.

Woody’s contribution to the local community through his work with Youth Reach was so outstanding that he was chosen as one of seven award recipients by Warringah Council Shire. The awards acknowledge the exceptional voluntary efforts of individuals and their contributions to the local community.

For the past three years, Woody has been a dedicated volunteer to Youth Reach, a Special Work of the St Vincent de Paul Society. In his role, Woody maintains the computers ensuring that they have adequate software, virus protection and file back-up, as well as advising the Youth Reach team on computer hardware that will be appropriate to their service. The computers are a vital tool in the work of Youth Reach and Woody’s voluntary contribution is essential.

In the past three years, Woody has generously given more than 1,000 hours a year in voluntary work.

Youth Reach volunteer receives prestigious award

Jonathon O’Dea, MP; Rob Stokes, MP; Woody Cornelius-Mau’u; and Dick Persson, Warringah Council.

Following the Federal election late last year, the Prime Minister gave his parliamentary colleagues a directive to visit homeless services in their area, as he put homelessness on the national agenda.

Several of Matthew Talbot Homeless Services 37 facilities have been visited by MPs with one of the most recent visitors, the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Tony Burke, visiting a Sydney domestic violence service in April.

Ministers visit Vinnies’ Special Works

Mr Burke, who has a long history with Vinnies, having packed Christmas hampers as a teenager in Belmore, was shown a presentation and talked with some of the residents at the refuge.

“No program can ever undo the damage done by domestic violence, and it’s been good for me to see today where the funding does help,” the Minister said.

In praising the Minister’s visit, Trish O’Donohue, Senior Manager for Homeless Services said, “It’s like a giant band-aid has been ripped off social issues. Visits like this have increased the dialogue on homelessness and the profile of the work that Vinnies does.”

Mr Burke has been working on social policy and social inclusion in rural and remote areas, with former politician Tim Fisher. He pledged to take up these issues at the 2020 Summit.

Trish O’Donohue, Senior Homeless Services Manager and Tony Burke, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry discuss homelessness at Mr. Burke’s visit to a St Vincent de Paul Society Special Work in April.

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Vinnies Centre windows dressed for success

Vinnies Centre in Kingswood, NSW celebrates Australian and New Zealand Diggers with an Anzac Day-themed window in April.

The Vinnies Centre in Kingswood, NSW, is one example of how Vinnies Shops attract customers to their store with their “well dressed, eye-catching and topical” window displays says Margaret Moriarty, Secretary of the Vinnies Centre, Kingswood.

The Kingswood Centre is not located in a shopping centre, where it might naturally attract customers, so Centre volunteers go to great lengths to feature items on sale.

Donna Malcolmson, a dedicated volunteer, regularly creates the innovative window displays. “I’ve been doing the windows for over two years now,” says Donna. “Our most popular windows are the country kitchen-themed displays.”

Donna and other volunteers sort selected donated items by possible themes for windows. When the Centre receives enough donations from a certain theme, for example, The Wiggles, they create a window to promote the items, and the Centre.

Generally, Donna decorates the window one day, and the items go on sale the next. When she created the country kitchen window for the first time, she had several women waiting outside the Centre the next day to purchase the items in the window.

“The women who were waiting purchased all the items in the window,” Donna explained.

Volunteers find it particularly fulfilling to know that their diligence in creating these displays, and bringing more customers to the shop, allows the Centre to provide additional assistance to those in need.

The St Vincent de Paul Society’s ‘Good Works Information System’ (GWIS) proudly celebrated its third birthday in April. The Society’s information system has enabled significant improvement in the Society’s financial management and reporting, fundraising capacity and is progressively improving our knowledge of who our members, volunteers and employees are.

Many Society members and staff have worked to make GWIS a reality including the State Council; Diocesan Executive Officers; Diocesan Financial Controllers, the Community and Corporate Relations team, Diocesan Administration teams and the GWIS Support Team based at the State Council Offices in Lewisham. In response to the new State President’s mandate to improve communication, the GWIS team are running consultation workshops on the development of the Society’s own Intranet, that is, a secure website accessible to the Society’s members, volunteers and staff to access such information as policies, news, and events.

Hot on the heels of the Intranet workshops will be the scoping study and consultation of members and special works managers in the development of a client information system to support the work of conference members and case workers.

Workshops associated with both developments will continue through June and July respectively.

GWIS turns 3 years old

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News

Mater Dei Catholic College in Wagga Wagga boasts a thriving St Vincent de Paul Society Conference, presently led by Ms Carol Ewin, a teacher at the school. The Conference focuses on fundraising for local Special Works and provides the Kooringal Conference with much-needed food and toys during the Christmas Appeal. Importantly the young volunteers have fun while also providing valuable services to the community.

Recipients of recent fundraising efforts have been Micah House and the Edel Quinn Shelter. Micah House has been in operation since 1993 and provides people with breakfast, a two course meal at lunch time, tea and coffee, toilets and showers, facilities for washing clothes, and most importantly, a listening ear. The Edel Quinn Shelter is a facility for homeless men that focuses on developing their skill base and getting them into a place of their own, supported by the local Outreach Program.

During the school’s fundraising efforts, theCollege Conference members encouraged their peers and teachers to bring in Easter eggs for a raffle, collected the eggs in big baskets and sold tickets to friends and family. The event was a great success, with the support of the college community, and raised $1050 for these important St Vincent de Paul Society Special Works.

Back row: Lauren Moran; Sally Taylor; Bernadette Smith; Adam Owens; Kyle Millington; Victoria Keppie. Front row: Jacob Chapple; Rebecca Maher;Lauren Roy; Rebecca Sturey; Michelle Owens.

Vinnies Youth raise funds for local Special Works

‘Hands On’ 2008 is a professional development conference that provides teachers with education on a range of social justice issues that can be incorporated into their teaching. This year’s conference, bearing the theme ‘Be My Witnesses’ was held on Tuesday the 6th of May at the St Joseph’s Spirituality Centre for Reflective Learning in Baulkham Hills. Primary and secondary school teachers from across NSW came together for the conference. Nine workshops on and array of topics from children’s issues, Vincentian spirituality, interfaith dialog, homelessness and advocacy were presented.

The Rural Task Force supported teachers from rural and drought-affected areas to ensure that they could come to Baulkham Hills for the conference. An extremely diverse group of educators came from

‘Hands On’ conference educates teachers

all over NSW, representing Lismore, Wagga Wagga, Armidale, Maitland/Newcastle, Wollongong, Broken Bay, Sydney and Wilcannia/Forbes Dioceses. The group was passionate about educating their students and raising an awareness of social justice issues and a desire to advocate for a positive change.

Dr John Falzon, CEO of the St Vincent de Paul Society’s National Council, was the key note speaker at the conference. All presenters were well received and it proved a valuable and educational day for all. Hands On will be scheduled again in 2009.

For more information, please contact Jessica Pollard on (02) 9560 8666.

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The commissioning of a new conference of charity of the St Vincent de Paul Society took place at the 8.30am Mass at Blessed JohnXXlll Parish Stanhope Gardens on Sunday 6th April. The Parish itself was only consecrated by the Bishop in November 2007.

The new Conference, Blessed John XXIII Stanhope Gardens Conference, was established on the 14th August 2007 with 14 members. Work with family visitation began immediately with the assistance of members from Lalor Park and Quakers Hill, the two conferences that covered family assistance visitations in the Glenwood/Stanhope Gardens areas prior to the opening of the new Conference.

After the Conference members had settled in to the work of home visitation, it was decided to officially commission the Conference and members into the worldwide Vincentian family.

Father Paul Venticinque, the Parish Priest and spiritual advisor to the Conference, conducted the commissioning ceremony. He was assisted by Michael Kukla President of the Parramatta Diocesan Council and Brother Peter McNulty President of the

Blacktown Regional Council. Father Paul presented the Conference President, Mr John Webber with a basket of bread from the Parishioners to symbolize the work of the Society in feeding the poor. Each member was then presented with a lit candle, the Society Mission cross and the Rule, the document that provides guidelines for the St Vincent de Paul Society’s governance.

Under the International Rule of the St Vincent de Paul Society, this new Conference will be aggregated as a Conference of Charity within the worldwide Vincentian Family and the name Blessed John XXlll Stanhope Gardens Conference will be registered with the Council General in Paris.

New Parish. New Conference.Members of the new Blessed John XXIII Stanhope Gardens Conference. The Parish commissioned 14 new members to carry out good works in Lalor Park and Quakers Hill area in the Parramatta Diocese.

News

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8 Winter 2008

w i n s W o r l d Y o u t h D a y c o n t r a c t

Step one: mixing the batter Step two: baking the sheets

Step three: punching the sheets into hosts

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With the eyes of the world on Sydney for World Youth Day in July, Ozanam Industries, a Special Work of the St

Vincent de Paul Society, has won the contract to produce more than one-million communion Hosts for the World Youth Day contingent.

In October 2007, Ozanam Industries received confirmation that they would be the official supplier of Hosts, or altar bread, to WYD08.

The production of 1.05 million small Hosts and 6,000 medium Hosts began in January 2008 and will be completed at the end of June.

Assisted by a four supervisors, eight people with a disability work in the Ozanam Bakehouse in Stanmore on a full time basis. They are involved in all aspects of the manufacturing, sorting and packing process of the Hosts. Their market is usually parishes and religious shops Australia-wide.

Business Development Manager Rod Silber, says all Ozanam workers are very excited and privileged to be playing such a key role in the WYD celebrations.

“It’s a big coup for us and it’s something that I can fairly say will never happen again,” Mr Silber said.

“We’ve upped production since we won the contract in order to meet the July target,” Rod said.

“It’s not usually a large market for Hosts, so we have been working longer and harder to get used to producing so many.”

“Everyone’s thrilled to be involved in World Youth Day in our own way,” Mr Silber said.

Business Development Manager Rod Silber, says all

the remains of the sheets

step five: weighing the hostsstep four: sorting broken hosts

step six: packaging for WYD

Pictured: step two, John Feeley and Fatima Coelho; step three, Andrew Wadley and Maria Martins; step four, Tak-Lun Yeung; step five, Joy Subramaniam.

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Good Works

Every March, Curves, the largest women’s fitness franchise in the world, runs a food collection drive.

Each gym chooses how to promote their collection and to whom the goods are donated.

This year, Curves West Ryde owner Linda Bryan decided to donate the proceeds of the collection to the St Vincent de Paul Society.

Linda has organized the drive since the opening of the gym three years ago, and encourages members to donate as much food as they can. Every year, she increases the donation goal and is delighted when the members surpass the even loftier goals year after year.

Upon donation, the food donations are weighed and a large chart is kept in the reception area of the gym to motivate members to continue to give.

“One member brought 17 kilos of food. She said that she could not imagine what it must feel like to be unable feed your family,” Linda said.

“I even heard members making bets about who could bring in the most kilos of food. The weighing aspect makes it fun and a great incentive.”

Curves members donate kilos, of groceries

St Vincent de Paul Society is acutely aware of the pressures faced by working families today. The new collective retail agreement, currently being voted on by employees in Vinnies Centres makes a firm commitment to family by providing attractive conditions to Vinnies’ Centres’ employees like 14 weeks paid maternity leave.

Unlike the commercial retail setting, Vinnies Centres employees and volunteers operate in a more varied and complex environment.

Vinnies’ Centres’ employees to vote on new collective retail agreement

Fully supported by the SDA Union, the agreement follows a period of consultation through employee surveys and negotiation with the union. Fourteen weeks maternity leave, a first for the charitable and community sector and the standard recommended by the ACTU, is provided to new mothers as well as two weeks paid paternity leave and one week unpaid grandparents leave. Improved pay rates and allowances are also provided in the agreement.

Voting on the agreement opened on 6th June and closes at 4pm on 20th June. All those eligible are encouraged to cast their vote. The agreement will be in force until 2011, and if accepted, will replace existing minimum award arrangements currently in operation.

For questions about voting, please contact the HR department of the State Council on (02) 9560 8666.

Members of the Centres Collective Agreement (2008) Consultative Committee, May 2008.

Linda Bryan, owner Curves, West Ryde

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VINNIES WORLD YOUTH 4 JUSTICE CONCERTVinnies will bring messages of justice, hope and compassion to the youth of the world on July 17th 2008 from 6pm following the arrival of Our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI at the Vinnies World Youth 4 Justice Concert. Taking place at Barangaroo in Sydney, the concert is open to all registered WYD08 Pilgrims.

Social Justice has been at the heart of the St Vincent de Paul Society for 175 years. Since its inception by 19 year old Frederic Ozanam, Vinnies has spoken up for those who cannot speak for themselves, to protect the rights of those who are helpless, God’s special people, the poorest of the poor.

The Vinnies World Youth 4 Justice Concert will feature artists including Rick Price, Chasing Bailey, Guy Mutto, the McClymonts, Mike McCarthy, Shane Fritsch, the Encore Vocal Group, Bianca Nati, Zumanity, the Presence and headliners Diesel and Vanessa Amorosi.

Through music, performances and video messages Vinnies will share the spirit and passion of social justice and inspire young people to take action and be part of the solution.

Six video messages will be introduced between artists highlighting issues including homelessness, isolation of migrants and refugees, children living in poverty, hunger, financial hardship and mental illness. The concert will invite young people to raise awareness of these serious issues and to become part of the solution through advocacy and volunteering.

For further information visit www.vinnies.org.au.

WYD 08

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VINNIESINTERNATIONAL YOUTH GATHERING

DATE: 16TH JULY 2008

TIME: 1 PM - 8 PM

VENUE: SYDNEY GRAMMAR SCHOOLOPPOSITE HYDE PARK (MUSEUM TRAIN STATION)

COST: FREE! THIS ONE IS ON VINNIES

If you are aged 16-35 and currently involved with

Vinnies REGISTER ON-LINE AT:www.vinnies.org.au/wyd/australia/register.shtml

COME AND BE A PART OF THE BIGGEST EVER GATHERING OF VINNIES YOUTH FROM AROUND THE WORLD!

PROGRAM:Presentations on what Vinnies Youth are doing around the world.

BBQ + coffee van

Sacred space for reflection

Activities and games

Inspiring liturgy + key note address

World Youth Day 2008 World Youth Day 2008 World Youth Day 2008 World Youth Day 2008 World Youth Day 2008

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World Youth Day 2008 World Youth Day 2008 World Youth Day 2008 World Youth Day 2008 World Youth Day 2008

Vinnies is part of a wider family of Vincentians, called the Vincentian Family. In the week before WYD Week, the Vincentian Family in Australia will be hosting a 4 day event in Bathurst for Youth aged 16-35, to share and celebrate our works, spirituality and communities.

FamVinWe already have Vincentian Youth groups registered from dozens of countries, including:

Philippines

Thailand

USA

Soloman Islands

Fiji

India

Canada

BrazilDate: 9-14 July 2008Venue: St Stanislaus College, BathurstTheme: Experience Family, Witness and Mission. Gods story and ours.Cost: See website for various registration options and prices.Registration: www.vincentianswyd.org.au

If you would like to join the Vinnies Youth NSW group to go to FamVin, please contact Jessica Pollard:

Welcoming Ceremony

Bush DanceReconciliation Service International FestivalInternational Festival

MassSheep and Cattle Drome

MassSheep and Cattle Drome

MassBush DanceThe Australian FAMVIN StoryBush DanceThe Australian FAMVIN Story

Sheep and Cattle DromeThe Australian FAMVIN Story

Sheep and Cattle DromeFocus on Blessed Frederic OzanamFocus on Blessed Frederic Ozanam

A Call to Action Guided Walk around Bathurst

MassSocial Outings

MassSocial OutingsSocial Outings

Focus on St Catherine Laboure

[email protected]

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Vinnies NSWPILGRIM GROUP

WYD 08

The Vinnies NSW WYD Pilgrim group is shaping up to be a diverse and committed gathering of young people who will proudly represent Vinnies at one of the world’s biggest events. The Pilgrims, many of which are showing their commitment by taking time off work or study, are split into two groups. The first will undertake a pilgrimage over two weeks starting with five days in Bathurst at the FAMVIN gathering before heading to Sydney for the WYD week long celebrations with group two. Following WYD, Vinnies Pilgrims will finish their life-changing experience with a two day retreat to reflect and discuss the series of events shared and enjoyed by all.

There is an exciting line-up of events planned for WYD including; a catechesis session each morning hosted by Bishops from around the world; the Festival of Faith, a daily gathering of youth for concerts, cultural sharing, workshops and exhibitions; the opening Mass on Tuesday 15th July, the Official Papal arrival on

Thursday 17th July at Barangaroo, Darling Harbour followed by the Vinnies World Youth 4 Justice concert from 6pm. Stations of the Cross throughout the CBD on Friday 18th July; a Pilgrimage walk to Randwick Racecourse on Saturday 19th July and the Papal Mass on Sunday 20th July.

Please, make sure young people in your Dioceses are part of the celebrations and encourage them to register as a WYD Pilgrim. Registration includes all meals, public transport around the city, accommodation and a space at Randwick for the Papal Mass. And young Pilgrims will be able to attend the Vinnies World Youth 4 Justice Concert on July 17th, which will speak out about social justice issues and encourage the youth of the world to be part of the solution.

For further information on joining the Vinnies Pilgrim Group contact Jessica Pollard (02) 9568 0255 or [email protected]

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This time it’s personal...Winter Appeal 2008

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The St Vincent de Paul Society officially launched the Winter Appeal entitled ‘This time it’s personal’ in May 2008. It

is difficult to put into words what it must be like to feed your children when the rent takes most of your income, or not to know where you will sleep tonight. That’s why this year we didn’t even try.

Over 100 disposable cameras were sent out to the people The Society assists every day in our work with the homeless, the marginalized and those living in poverty. We asked them to give us a snapshot of their lives.

The Society hopes that by seeing inside someone’s world, by getting to know them and their crises, the public will want to help them and people like them by making a donation to the Winter Appeal.

The end of the tax year on June 30th provides another opportunity to encourage your supporters to give generously and support the appeal. Take advantage of this key date to promote the appeal in your local community.

Winter Appeal 2008

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Winter Appeal 2008 Exhibition

This time

I stay here to stay dry. (Sean, 29)I stay here to stay dry. (Sean, 29)I stay here to stay dry. (Sean, 29)

A roof over my head. (Michael, 25)

The weekly shop. (Devin, 34) Where I’m staying. (Liz, 17)

it’s personal..

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This is where I live. (Tom, 37)

This is where I sleep. (Tom, 37)This is where I sleep.

(Tom, 37)This is where I sleep.

This is me. (Will, 34)This is me. (Will, 34) Where I eat dinner. Where I eat dinner. (Simon, 46)(Simon, 46)(Simon, 46)Vision(Simon, 46)Vision(Simon, 46)

Brekkie for the week. (Sonia, 32)

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You notice the difference as soon as you drive through the gates. The Jim da Silva Farm, on the outskirts of the picturesque southern costal town of Nowra, has a strange affect on those

lucky enough to visit; it’s transformative.

‘The Farm’ is one of thirty-seven services and facilities that, together, make up the St Vincent de Paul Society’s Matthew Talbot Homeless Services, yet this is where the formalities end.

Characteristic of the innovative and progressive model of care established by the Society in its almost 130 year history in Australia, many aspects of The Farm do not fit the stereotype of a homeless persons hostel. The first thing a visitor notices is the wide open space, a marked departure from the utilitarian weight of ‘premium space’ inner-city environments.

The roughly hewn exteriors of the mud brick buildings scattered around The Farm belie the ingenious engineering that lies beneath. The materials used to put the site together are as diverse as the people they house. In the decade since The Farm’s inception, mud bricks have been made on site by residents and people on ‘work for the dole’ programs or community service orders, other materials are donated or sourced from recycling facilities.

Manager, Steve Sweeney (pictured) says the building process has been a journey in more ways than one. He remembers the reaction of one troubled young man during construction who angrily took exception to a visitor before Steve hastily intervened. Months later, with construction complete, the young man in question was completely changed, approaching Steve in tears telling him of the pride he felt in being a part of such a worthwhile project.

Something about The Farm creates a feeling of shared responsibility, a feeling of ownership and belonging. It’s an environment in which ‘care’ is not a one-way transaction from staff to residents; The Farm has thoroughly broken that mold. Steve tells how the residents pulled

NOWRAFARM

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Walking back up towards the main building, a sprawling vegetable garden soaks in the sun on a slight incline. Taking much of its design from the Permaculture model of sustainable, eco-friendly gardening, this is more than your average ‘vegie patch’. Steve explains that a local volunteer works with groups of up to ten local people living with various mental illnesses, tending the garden and reaping a delectable range of rare and hearty produce.

together when one of the men passed away due to a long illness a few years ago. Having arranged for the man to have the medical support necessary to see out his last days at The Farm, in accordance with his wishes, his final night brought out the best in the other residents. The men set up his room exactly as he wished, with the man’s favourite music playing in the background.

They each took hourly shifts throughout the final night, sitting with their friend and sharing his last hours. His portrait now hangs in the common room.

As is typical of any rural property, chickens and a pig have the run of the lower grounds of The Farm. The pig is enormous. Steve comments how the sow spent its difficult pigletthood at a local school, as an apparent ‘midget’ breed. As is often the case, the miniature porcine had a mammoth growth spurt and suddenly found herself out of a home, until The Farm stepped in.

Many of the residents have mental health conditions. The Farm allows them the breathing space to engage these conditions in a safe and compassionate supported environment. The coping strategies many residents employ are as innovative as the flexible and caring ethos permeating The Farm in general. One resident “manages” his schizophrenia in an interesting manner, telling Steve that he only allows “the voices” to interrupt one hour of his day. “Between 6 and 7”, he explains, “I let them loose; the rest of the day, if they pipe up I just try and ignore them.” This spirit of humour and optimism flows through The Farm.

The challenges are considerable, yet the setting has the rigour to absorb and soften the harshest of life’s blows.Of the more than fifty residents who have spent time at The Farm, only three have represented as homeless. This is an outstanding success rate. Despite these positive outcomes, however, the crisis of homelessness continues unabated.

In discussing the possible causes of homelessness in the region, Steve says, many people arrive at Nowra, because it’s the last stop on the train from Sydney, simply “it’s the end of the line”. However, for the residents of The Farm, it’s without question, the first step of a new beginning.

They each took hourly shifts throughout the final night, sitting with their friend, and sharing his last hours.

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On a balmy night in early March, 350 people packed the Global Gallery in Sydney’s trendy Paddington, to see the work of seven men from the Matthew

Talbot Hostel in a photographic exhibition entitled Urban Lens.

The exhibition was the result of a 10-week photographic workshop run by artist and photographer, Megan Carmont, who is a volunteer at the Matthew Talbot Hostel, one of the Society’s Special Works.

Throughout the workshops, Megan and the men explored a number of city locations to encourage them to engage with each other and to find creative inspiration in their urban surroundings.

About 80 of the best contemporary photographs went on display at the Global Gallery. Proceeds from the sale of the artwork have gone into a savings account for each of the men, to help them get back on their

feet. A percentage of the income will be retained to give other homeless men the same opportunity to express themselves and improve their self-esteem and confidence in the future.

In discussing the program, Megan said; “The workshops gave the men the opportunity to engage with others in a positive communal environment while developing a skill, exploring their creative side and achieving a sense of hope, dignity and self-

empowerment. It gave them something positive to look forward to each week.”

“The men also gained valuable experience in running the exhibition and learning to work with the gallery, suppliers and supporters. It gave them ownership over the whole process.”

“The quality of the work was extremely high. The photos blew my mind.”

Barbara Ryan, President of Matthew Talbot Homeless Services and the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW, commended Megan and the men on the workshop and exhibition. “This is a fantastic initiative that demonstrates the power of recreation in breaking the cycle of homelessness,” she said.

“Through art, recreation and education programs across our homeless services, the St Vincent de Paul Society works to empower people who are disadvantaged to take control of their situation and

strengthen their sense of hope, confidence and self-worth.”

Several copies of each photo were sold during the exhibition.

“The quality of the work was extremely high. The photos blew my mind.”

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The exhibition was proudly supported by corporate sponsors, including; Global Gallery, ADCO Constructions, The Squad, White Lion Graphics and Frameshop.com.

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22 Winter 2008

Students thank Vinnies

Back in 1979, Cybelle Nguyen’s parents came to Australia as refugees from Vietnam. She grew up hearing stories of how they made a new life in a new land. It was a difficult process, but settling into a foreign country was made easier with the help of the St Vincent de Paul Society, which today continues to provide clothing, food and housing to refugees, who often arrive in Australia with nothing.

Cybelle, 21, is now the President of the Vietnamese Students Association of NSW. She, along with a committee of four others, wanted to thank Vinnies for its valued support of refugees, through a charity dinner.

Everyone was ecstatic when the dinner, held in March, sold out. “We were overwhelmed by the positive

Vietnamese community gives back

“My mum still has a parka that Vinnies gave her the day she arrived.”response, which helped us raise $35,100 for Vinnies,” Cybelle said.

The dinner, at Monte Carlo Restaurant in Fairfield was filled to capacity, with over 1000 attendees from Vietnamese and wider communities.

Recently, Cybelle was on hand with fellow committee member Tania Tu Phuong Huynh, 19, to present a

cheque to St Vincent de Paul Society Vice President Bev Kerr, and Geoff Barrett, the President of the Migrant and Refugees Advisory Committee.

“My parents were so grateful when they arrived here in 1979 to have the support Vinnies provided,” Cybelle said. “My mum still has a parka that Vinnies gave her the day she arrived.”

Vice President Bev Kerr praised the initiative of the students’ association in their fundraising efforts. “It’s just so wonderful that so many people came together to show their appreciation for Vinnies,” she said.

The money will help Vinnies continue its Migrant and Refugee programs and serve the needs of refugees when they come to Australia.

Geoff Barrett, President of the Migrant and Refugees Committee; Bev Kerr, Vice President, St Vincent de Paul Society, NSW; Tania Tu Phong Huynh, member of the Vietnamese Students Association; Cybelle Hao-Nhien Nguyen, President of the Vietnamese Students Association.

Committee President, Geoff Barrett, said he wanted to extend thanks to the students for their support.

“The dinner was a well-organised event, and it was very pleasing to see so many people from the Vietnamese community show their support,” Geoff said.

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Volunteers

Judy shows no signs of weariness. “I like the changes to the Centres which keep up with the times.” She notes that a lot of young people come into the Centres and really enjoy shopping at Vinnies.

Judy’s motivation to continue: “I enjoy the work and I enjoy the people!”

30 Yearsand still going strong...

Left to right: Margaret Hughes, volunteer; Judy Redman, celebrates 30 years of volunteering with Vinnies Centres; Sharon Raihman, Centre Manager.

“Come and try it and see how you feel.”“Come and try it and see how you feel. I have made many friends from my work with Vinnies over the years that I still keep in touch with.”

Judy says Vinnies make great places to volunteer because: “Just to be thanked and appreciated for a job well done is enough reward. It is great to serve the customers and see them come back. Sometimes the people we have assisted come back to say thank you and that means a lot too.”

In May, Judy Redman celebrated 30 years of volunteering in the St Vincent de Paul Society’s Centres. Judy began volunteering for the Society when her youngest son was in primary school. Currently, Judy works at the Vinnies Centre in Liverpool. Judy has had many roles as a volunteer. She managed the Bigg Street store in Liverpool with a friend. She has also worked in Cabramatta, Canley Heights and Mt Pritchard.

“I went wherever I was needed”. When asked what her service to the Society has meant to her she says with a smile, “I believe it has kept me well to have this volunteer work and I will continue as long as I can.” Judy particularly enjoys assisting people in need that visit the Vinnies looking for help.

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24 Winter 2008

is the leading cause of homelessness among Australian women.

Social usticeJ

Domestic violence is the leading cause of homelessness among Australian women. Figures compiled by the Australian Institute of Health and

Welfare reveal that over 32,700 or 33 per cent of the 100,200 women seeking housing assistance in 2004 were women escaping domestic violence. These numbers are astounding. When we consider that more than half of the estimated victims of domestic violence do not report the incident, it is clear we face an enormous challenge.

Well before the wider community acknowledged the issue, the St Vincent de Paul Society was helping victims of domestic violence. The formation of a women’s branch of the Society in Europe, as early as 1856, enabled Vincentians to directly assist women escaping domestic violence at a time when very few, if any, forms of help were available.

In NSW and the ACT today, the many women’s refuges and outreach services that comprise the Society’s Matthew Talbot Homeless Services, are offering hope to women in the midst of crisis. These varied services provide a range of vital assistance to women fleeing domestic violence, including: accommodation, assessment, counseling, referral, case management, education, skills training and child support.

Importantly, Matthew Talbot Homeless Services also provides the many levels of support required to keep women and their children together. Not only does this include support for women with young children, the Society is one of the few organizations in the inner city Sydney area willing to accommodate mothers with teenage boys. Considering teenagers

and children make up over a quarter of Australia’s homeless population, it is critical that they have access to the support services necessary to avert pathways into homelessness. Indeed, the majority of this country’s homeless youth cite violence in the home and family breakdown as the primary reasons for their homelessness.

In acknowledging how far we’ve come, the Society is also mindful of the need to constantly reexamine, adapt and improve its work with women and children escaping domestic violence. One of the major changes in the mainstream community’s attitude to domestic violence in the last few decades has been the rejection of blame and fault wrongly attributed to women experiencing domestic violence. Much of this change was precipitated by reforms to legislation relating to abuse in the home, yet changes of this nature can also be attributed to increased

levels of community awareness as to the realities of domestic violence. In discussing community awareness, it is crucial to begin by addressing the question: what is domestic violence?

When we hear the term domestic violence, we may think only of physical abuse. While physical abuse is without question domestic violence, a number of other behaviours also constitute domestic violence.

The threat of physical abuse is domestic violence. An array of actions on the part of a husband or

By Dr Andy Marks, Senior Research Officer

60 per cent of women who experienced domestic violence said theirchildren were present in the home during the violence.

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‘male partner’, sometimes referred to as ‘controlling behaviours’, are also forms of domestic violence.

The Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) defines a broad range of behavioural patterns as constituting domestic violence against women. The AIC deems that a woman is experiencing domestic violence if their partner: damages or destroys their property or possessions; engages in name calling; insults and put-downs; keeps track of their whereabouts; controls their finances; limits their contact with family and friends; and, expresses anger if they speak to other men.

Having established that domestic violence is not just about physical abuse, we can begin to understand its potentially far reaching impact. The AIC states that “violence against women directly affects the victims, their children, their families and friends, employers

60 per cent of women who experienced domestic violence said their

and co-workers. There can be far-reaching financial, social, health and psychological consequences.”

Domestic violence seriously erodes a woman’s self-esteem. One of the many challenges associated with domestic violence victims concerns rebuilding a survivor’s sense of self-belief and self-worth. In addition to contending with the physical scars, victims of domestic violence also struggle to cope with the emotional pain that accompanies all forms of abuse. The courage women display in addressing these issues is without peer. Despite the considerable

trauma they personally endure, most women in families forgo concerns for their own safety, placing the welfare of their children ahead of their own wellbeing. If we examine the effect domestic violence has on children, the reasons for this level of concern become apparent.

Of 340,000 participants in an Australian Bureau of Statistics survey of women who had experienced domestic violence, over 60 per cent said children were present in the home during the violence; 38 per cent reported that their children had witnessed the attack. The figure brings home the disturbing reality of domestic violence: not only does it wreck lives, it devastates families.

The DVIRC, an online domestic violence resource centre, reports: “Many children who witness family violence have been found to have higher levels of

behavioural and emotional problems than other children. Some children feel responsible for the violence. They may think they are making things easier for their mother by appearing to cope with the situation, by trying to be quieter...” One child commented, “Sometimes dad locks all the doors and hides the phone, so we can’t get out or talk to anyone”. This is the reality for many that the St Vincent de Paul Society assists.

If you are suffering from domestic violence, call 1800 200 526.

children were present in the home during the violence.

Contact: [email protected]

is the leading cause of homelessness among Australian women.

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26 Winter 2008

Vinnies in the media

Student Advertises Vinnies, Wins 2nd place in Competition Every year, Fairfax Community Newspapers run an advertising competition, aptly named, “Design An Ad”. Participating students choose a business, from a list of predetermined sponsors, and create an advertisement which they feel most effectively promotes the business.

Students have 8 weeks to design their Ad. Then, each of the advertisements is sent to the corresponding businesses who choose one Ad

which best depicts their business. The winner from each business is then sent to the overall judging committee.

The competition, which has been in existence for 16 years and was started by the Penrith City Star, has expanded over the years to feature 98 participating schools and 135 participating businesses this year.

This year, the second place winner, Alyssa Gratil, chose to advertise the St

Vincent de Paul Society’s Seven Hills Vinnies Centre.

Alyssa, who attends Mary Immaculate Primary school in Quakers Hill, choose to advertise Vinnies “because it involves people, rather than just objects,” she said.

“I was really suprised when I found out I won,” Alyssa said. Alyssa’s favorite subject in school is art, but she was still shocked to know that her skills outshone many other entrant’s.

The winners entries were published in the Blacktown City Sun.

Alyssa Gratil, above, 2nd place winner of the “Design An Ad” competition run by Fairfax Community Newspapers. Left, her advertisement for Vinnies Shops.

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Rural Task Force

There has been some recent, yet patchy, rain throughout the state provoking the hope that the drought might be breaking.

However, over 40% of NSW is still in drought.

If rural areas that have received rain get good follow up falls in the weeks and months ahead, they will only just begin the long road to recovery from the worst drought on record. However, it will not be an easy.

The recovery is expected to take 5-10 years for those farmers who have the courage to keep going.

To add to the hardship, the falls were so heavy in some areas, that valuable top soil and core breeding stock were washed away.

Unfortunately, even though patchy rains have brought reprieve to parts of some areas, whole areas now face the possibility of not having their Exceptional Circumstances (EC) status rolled over. If EC status is removed, drought assistance will gradually dry up.

We need to keep reminding the State and Federal Governments, that it does not rain money. Those who did not receive drought breaking falls, should not be lost or forgotten amongst those who did.

To help spread the message, that the St Vincent de Paul Society is here for the long haul, the Rural Task Force has produced brochures (pictured) and posters. The first brochure is aimed at those living in metropolitan areas, to promote what the Society is doing to help.

The second is aimed at drought-affected farming families. It explains what assistance is available and how to access it. The brochures and posters are available to conferences, Vinnies Centres and Parishes and may also be given to other service providers, including Drought Support Workers and Rural Financial Counsellors.

A poster promoting the Rural Task Force is also available to be put up in the Centres, Special Works, Council offices and parishes.

The Mate Helping Mate DVD continues to be well received. The DVD raises awareness of drought stress and depression in the farming community and looks at a simple, yet effective way, of helping farmers cope with the pressure of the drought.

For free copies of brochures, posters or the DVD, please contact John Gresser, Rural Task Force Coordinator on 02 9560 8666 or [email protected]

For more information contact:

or, The Rural Task Force02 9560 8666

[email protected]

The Rural

Task Forcea Special Work of

How can I help?The generous contributions the St Vincent de Paul Society and its Vinnies Centres receive from its donors and the local community support our ‘good works’ across NSW and the ACT including drought stricken areas.

Your continued support means we can keep working closely with drought affected communities and those areas that are recovering from the worst drought on record.

Help spread the word that rural NSW still needs support.

The drought continues in many areas, and even if it should break, it does not rain money. Recovery may take 5-10 years of good seasons, for those with the strength to carry on.

The St Vincent de Paul Society has helped to establish this simple but effective program that aims to break down social isolation and depression in rural communities.

The stress of the drought can often have dire consequences including suicide. A Mate Helping Mate gathering and a DVD gives farming men the opportunity to get together with other men in their communities to talk about and get help for these issues.

Mate Helping Mate We see.

We hear.

We help.

rurtask_broch_jan08_metropolitan.indd 2 24/04/2008 9:22:12 AM

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Growing Works

In our recruitment workshops, participants often ask if they are free to recruit members who are not Catholic. In order to clarify this, we cite the following from a letter written in 2007 by the St Vincent de Paul Society National President, John Meahan:

“Clause 6.4 of Part I of ‘The Rule’ allows for the Society to enroll ‘as members Christians of other confessions or people of other faiths who sincerely respect and accept the Society’s identity and its principles.’ National Council agrees that it is appropriate given The Rule’s call to ecumenism’ for the Society in Australia to embrace Clause 6.4.”

Who can be a member?

Volunteers from the Glen Innes Vinnies Centre took part in a Fashion Parade at the local hospital fete in March 2008 to raise Vinnies profile and encourage community involvement.

Left, young supporters, Amy Watson and Alicia Cubis and right, Centre volunteer Beryl Jorgensen

Remember to promote your volunteer vacancies on the Society’s website. Each month over 100 new people register online with the hope of volunteering for the St Vincent de Paul Society. We can help put them in touch with the Society’s services that need help by having your specific needs posted on our website. Please contact Kate Scholl to utilise this service.

Centres fashion parade

Have a story to share? Would you like your volunteer needs on our website? We’d love to hear from you.Contact Kate Scholl Volunteer Development Coordinator [email protected] Tel: (02) 9560 8666 Fax: (02) 9564 3622

Use Our Website

During a Taize gathering in 1995, Brother Roger, founder of the Taize community, an ecumenical monastic community, spoke to over 100,000 young people. He said, “We have come here to search or to go on searching through silence and prayer, to get in touch with our inner life. Christ always said, ‘Do not worry, give yourself.’”

A thought on the spirituality of volunteering from Spiritual Advisor Bill Johnston

Reflection Days have recently been held in 8 different locations across the Wagga Wagga Diocese, to promote spiritual and personal enrichment for all members and volunteers. Sister Kerrie Cusack led the days and encouraged participants to share together the gift of being part of the Vincentian family.

Wagga celebrates the Vincentian family

newsletter

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Sharing news from the Volunteer Development Advisory Committee (VDAC)

Paul Shiel from Dulwich Hill Parish in Sydney Archdiocese shares stories from their recent recruitment drive.

“We had an information event and let people in the parish know about it through bulletin announcements and a brief address after Mass. Our essential message was that we need more people to serve the needs of the local community and that everyone is welcome; come and hear more. Seven people attended the information meeting and we now have 4 new members, most of whom are under 40! It has been a great lift to our whole conference to have new people join us. Our members have been very encouraging and welcoming to the new people. I encourage all conferences to get the resources and support available from our Volunteer Development Coordinator and get recruitment underway!”

Everyone is Welcome!It’s Time to Grow workshops are being held across the state to support, enable and encourage local conferences to recruit new members. The five hour workshop invites members to share what they value about being in the Society and their hopes for the future while receiving practical assistance to make it happen. In workshops held so far, people have left energized and enthused and ready to use available resources to get recruitment underway.

Here are some of the comments from participants:• “A great day and one that I would recommend to others.”• “Thought-provoking, provided me with motivation to share with others.”• “I appreciated the opportunity to develop our own Conference recruitment plan.”• “A well researched and presented workshop.”

Recruitment WorkshopsParticipants and facilitators from the It’s Time to Grow workshop in the Parramatta Diocese on 29th March 2008.

A Recruitment Resource Kit is available for conferences ready to undertake recruitment. This does not replace the workshop, but is designed for conferences that may not have a workshop available in the near future and are ready to begin a recruitment program. Please contact Kate Scholl to receive a copy.

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Events

E n g i n e e r o f c h a r i t yB O O K L A U N C H

On the eve of the 175th anniversary of the St Vincent de Paul Society, a book, detailing the life of Charles Gordon O’Neill, the

founder of the Society in NSW and New Zealand, was launched in the historic surroundings of The Great Hall, at the University of Sydney.

As a harpist and flautist played Irish tunes, 250 guests observed drawings and diagrams from Charles’ life and discussed significant facts about his work including his concept of the Sydney Harbour Tunnel, which came to life many years later. The title, Captain Charles: Engineer of Charity, could not be more suitable as Charles was not only an exceptional engineer but also a very beneficent man.

The event proved to be a fitting celebration for a ten year labour of love by author Stephen Utick, and contributors Vince Dever and Paul Hennessy among others.

Master of Ceremonies Mike Bailey introduced the official proceedings for the night. Special guest speakers included Auxiliary Bishop of Sydney, Bishop Brady and John Fahey, Former Premier of NSW and Former Finance Minister of the Federal Government. Stephen Utick, author of the biography, gave his insight and thanks to contributors and led guests in commemorating the life of Charles Gordon O’Neill.

Left, John Fahey, Former Premier of NSW and Finance Minister of the Federal Government; Barbara Ryan, State President St Vincent de Paul Society NSW; Stephen Utick, author Captain Charles: Engineer of Charity; Vince Deaver, St Vincent de Paul Society researcher; Paul Hennessy, Resource Centre. Middle, Barbara Ryan. Right, Stephen Utick, author Captain Charles: Engineer of Charity. Below, University of Sydney Quadrangle.

For copies of the book, please visit any good book retailer or Catholic book shop.

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Thank you for your generosity. All gifts over $2 are tax deductable and a receipt will be sent to you.

Please return this coupon and your gift to the St Vincent de Paul Society.

The St Vincent de Paul Society follows the National Privacy Principles and keeps donors’ information private. If you do not wish your details to be used for future fundraising activities undertaken by the Society, please tick this box

$50 $30 $80 $100 $200 $500 OR $....................

Title: DR/MR/MRS/MS/MISS Name: ....................................................................................................................................

Address: .................................................................................................................................

Suburb: ................................................................... State: ................ Postcode: .................

Phone no: ...............................................................................................................................

Email: .....................................................................................................................................

My cheque or money order is enclosed and crossed ‘not negotiable’ and made payable to ‘St Vincent de Paul Society.’

OR Please debit my MasterCard Visa Amex

Name on card: ........................................................................ Expiry date:............./..............

Signature: ...............................................................................................................................

NEW SOUTH WALES PO Box 19, Petersham NSW 2049 Telephone: (02) 9560 8666

WO8VIS

WINTER APPEAL 2008Yes, I want to help people like Simon.

STZ0006 Press.indd 1 16/5/08 3:48:56 PM

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