Encounter Magazine | October 2024 | Newcastle Anglican
BISHOP PETER’S MESSAGE
Breaking down barriers. What would your life be like if you didn’t have to keep secrets? What if you could be your full self in front of others?
WEAR IT PURPLE DAY
SAMARITANS EARLY HISTORY & VISION
Helping people through tough times. Samaritans is here for everyone. People are diverse and so are we.
Supporting an inclusive future for all. Thousands of schools, community organisations, universities and workplaces came together for Wear It Purple Day.
ANGLICAN CARE ACTIVITIES
Catch up on the latest from our Anglican Care facilities. From an Anglican Care-style Olympic Games to a special Father’s Day celebration: our residents have been busy!
Samaritans:
The story so far
1984
Samaritans established as a new entity by Ordinance at Newcastle Synod on 14 October.
First Samaritans op shop opens on site.
Samaritans receives Premier’s Award for Service During 2007 Flood.
Samaritans and headspace open a Maitland location to help young people experiencing a tough time.
Purchase of former Wickham Primary School and establishment of Samaritans Student Accommodation.
NDIS launch in Newcastle.
1990
Sale of St Alban’s Community Centre to fund the building known as Samaritans Information and Neighbourhood Centre (SINC) and new offices in Hamilton.
Coalfields Healthy Heartbeat opens in Cessnock.
Samaritans Central Office relocates to Warabrook.
Samaritans forms partnership with Diocese of Sri Lanka following the tsunami and sends over two shipping containers of donated goods to enable the diocese to better assist the homeless people.
Samaritans turns 30 and celebrates at West Leagues Club.
Expands services to women and families in Kempsey and Taree.
1,000 NDIS participants
Samaritans distributes over $300,000 to farming families affected by drought.
10th anniversary conference at Newcastle Grammar School.
Samaritans turns 20. Anniversary dinner organised by the Friends of Samaritans group.
Rural Young Minds (RYM) service opens to provide mental health and wellbeing support to young people in the Muswellbrook, Upper Hunter and Liverpool Plains local government areas.
Significant growth in disability services with the introduction of NSW Government’s 300 packages project.
Samaritans distributes $1.5 million to workers affected by BHP closure.
Samaritans takes over Christmas Lunch in the Park from Mission Australia. Receives generous community donations to sponsor Sudanese refugees moving to Newcastle.
Samaritans integrated with the ministry and corporate activity of the diocese, under the umbrella of Newcastle Anglican.
Samaritans and headspace open Cessnock location.
Samaritans and headspace Taree open a new building to support young people in the community.
Samaritans joins the NSW Disaster Response Plan with other NSW Anglicare agencies.
Samaritans celebrates 40 years of serving the community.
We currently have more than 700 staff, as well as additional shared services employees, and deliver over 100 programs and initiatives.
Bishop Peter
Breaking down barriers
There are all sorts of folk wisdom. Some of it true and some not! You might have heard the story about a stranger going up to a person on a street. The stranger whispers, “They know your secret” and the person gets very nervous. Many of us have secrets. It might be a romance we had we hope no one hears about. We may be wary about mistakes we made when we were younger. We hope no one asks about the tattoo we got covered up.
There is a story in the bible about a woman who gets talking with Jesus. She has gone to get water in the middle of the day. Women, in those days, weren’t supposed to talk with men. She was a different race and didn’t normally
mix with Jesus’ race. We never get to know her name. When the woman describes the conversation with Jesus to her friends she says, “He told me everything I have ever done.”
Perhaps Jesus is a bit like the stranger talking to the person on a street. But only a bit. They talk about her romantic and intimate life. Jesus says to her “you have had five husbands and the one you have now is not your husband.” Yet, in this conversation the woman doesn’t feel judged, denigrated or belittled. The woman recognises a kindness and holiness in Jesus’ conversation. What would it be like for you to have a meaningful and purposeful conversation about your secrets with someone who truly cared for
you? What would it be like if you shared some of the dark or difficult parts of your story but didn’t feel condemned or judged?
At a very early age we learn how to feel shame. We learn a rule that some things must be kept hidden. Shame can be used to coerce or control us. It can be used to silence us and harm us.
The woman in the story finds greater hope and acceptance when she can be fully herself and doesn’t need to hide away. We see that Jesus wants her to know freedom and hope. As the story goes on, she speaks about her experience with Jesus and others come to talk to him and learn from him.
In another story from the bible, we hear Jesus tell a crowd that has gathered “if you follow me, you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Secret keeping, whether it be our secrets or the secrets of others, can be very destructive. Often it leads to a web of lies and deceit. We make up stories to cover our tracks. We do not behave as our best selves. The alternative to secret keeping is truth telling. Truth telling is liberating. It builds hope and trust.
What would your life be like if you didn’t have to keep secrets? What if you could be your full self in front of others?
We don’t know the circumstances of the woman’s marriages, economic situation, or intimate life. Some scholars say she needed to get water in the middle of the day because she was regarded with suspicion.
What we do know is that Jesus broke down the barriers of exclusion she was facing. He treated her with dignity and respect. When feeling empowered and supported she found her voice. Her impact was celebrated by word over many generations until it was written as part of John’s Gospel. Jesus’ actions as a man were simple but life changing.
This story is a reminder to us all that we can break down the barriers that enslave and dehumanise others. We can act in simple, but profound ways, that make a difference.
I wish we knew the woman’s name. But we don’t. But we do know that she was a Samaritan. Like the story of the Good Samaritan, she was a rejected person who made a powerful difference.
As we think about our welfare and social justice work through the Samaritans, we remember this woman.
We remember that gracious acts of empowerment have a huge and positive impact. We seek to do the same.
+Peter
Diocesan Chief Executive John Barriga and Bishop Peter at Samaritans Emergency Relief Broadmeadow.
Samaritans is here for everyone.
People are diverse, and so are we.
Helping people through tough times
The beginning
Samaritans’ work began in 1984 to fulfill the social justice mission of the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle.
The foundation was created to provide benevolent relief to those suffering poverty or distress, such as sickness, disability, destitution, misfortune or helplessness.
The values of Samaritans are anchored in the Christian faith and embody the message of the Good Samaritan, which is to love your neighbour as yourself.
Samaritans exists to reach out and walk beside those in need. Like the Good Samaritan, every day our people respond with love to those in need.
Our footprint
As an organisation we grew significantly since the early 1980s, operating support services throughout Newcastle, the Hunter Valley, Central Coast and Mid-North Coast regions.
In 2012 our work spread to Mudgee in the Central Western NSW.
Our work
Samaritans supports people in their early years of life through our work in foster care, family support and preservation.
We are here to enrich and empower people’s lives through our disability support and mental health programs.
When people are in crisis due to experiences such as domestic violence and homelessness, Samaritans is there.
When hardship or loss means there’s not enough food to put on the table, Samaritans is there.
When people want to rebuild their lives, including those exiting prison and people with addictions, Samaritans is there.
Responding
to the domestic violence crisis
The statistics are alarming: a 37% increase in violence against women and a 50% rise in families without access to adequate housing.
Gandi Guthun Galbaan Wa Dhalayikurr (‘Shelter belonging to Women and Children’), known as Samaritans Kempsey Women’s Refuge, has been responding to the greater demand for its services over the past 12 months.
“The impact caused by the affordable housing crisis has forced more women and children to sleep rough or live in unconventional accommodation, such as cars or sheds,”
Samaritans Community Service Manager Jo Eddie says.
“There has been a staggering increase in the number of families who do not have the fundamental basic human right to access adequate housing.
“It’s a great feeling for the team when we support families to resettle safely into their own home.
“Placing the people we support at the centre of what we do, the women and children who come to stay at the Kempsey refuge are welcomed by qualified and supportive staff.”
Samaritans Kempsey staff inside the refuge.
Samaritans has made an important contribution to the Kempsey community for the past decade.
In 2014, Samaritans was successful with its Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) tender application to provide specialist homelessness support, including a domestic violence response for women and children.
The Kempsey refuge offers safe accommodation for up to four families at any given time, with the average stay being around three months.
Families are offered a room filled with home-like comforts and made up with vibrant, donated bedding.
Children and young people are greeted with ageappropriate toys, books or journals they can call their own.
All rooms have a dignity bag and resources to support women and children during their stay.
In 2017, Samaritans hosted a renaming ceremony for the refuge. Elders and community representatives were present when its name was changed to Gandi Guthun Galbaan Wa Dhalayikurr (‘Shelter belonging to Women and Children’) on Dunghutti land.
This was seen by many as an important step in giving back to the community and reinforcing the site as a safe place for women and children.
In 2022, the Kempsey Women’s Refuge was selected under a government-funded pilot program to deliver the Specialist Worker for Children and Young People (SWCYP).
“The program offers invaluable support. We have seen children and young people flourish when they join our wellbeing activities and especially when they re-engage with early learning centres and school,” Jo says.
“Each year, the children create the Kempsey Women’s Refuge Christmas cards that we share and respectfully extend our season’s greetings to our community partners and to local service providers.
“To date, more than 100 children and young people have received support from this service and the DCJ has extended funding until June 2026.”
Last year, a local artist also responded to the refuge’s request to create a mural.
A previously dull and uninviting hallway now represents joy, peace, and belonging.
The ongoing dedication and improvements made by Samaritans Kempsey team has led to deserved praise.
During a recent visit by an auditor from the Australian Service Excellence Standards (ASES), she described the refuge as the best she had ever seen due to its welcoming and therapeutic environment.
Long-serving case worker Lisa stands next to a Healing Hands banner, which was created for the annual Women’s Camp in 2017. The camp is attended by First Nations women from the Gumbaynggirr, Dunghutti, and Worimi communities.
Click here if you need help or would like to find out more about the refuge.
An undercover outdoor area creates a welcoming space for women and children.
ER offercentres relief
in tough times
Thousands of people and families in financial crisis have been able to find some emergency relief thanks to a vital Samaritans service.
Emergency Relief Coordinator Beth Hanna.
Since its inception, Samaritans has worked alongside local parishes and other organisations to deliver Emergency Relief (ER) to vulnerable members in the community.
The service helps people deal with their immediate situation in a way that maintains dignity and encourages self-reliance.
Food parcels, clothing, financial options and other support is offered to around 4,800 cases every year.
The Emergency Relief program operates at six centres: Broadmeadow, Toronto, Cessnock, Rutherford, Gorokan, and Taree.
Coordinator Beth Hanna says the centres are usually close to capacity and generally fill all available appointments.
“Samaritans has supported some of the most vulnerable people in our community for decades,” she says.
“Emergency Relief is also very well supported by many local parishes and organisations with donations of non-perishable food that ensures we can offer overnight food parcels to people unable to get an appointment.
“In the last financial year, we have distributed about $55,000 in overnight food parcels to people.”
Samaritans has six Intensive Support Workers who undertake all case interviews, while a handful of volunteers provide administrative support.
Cases are actively referred to other services within Samaritans network.
This includes financial counsellors, services that offer drug and alcohol programs or counselling for problem gamblers, and options for people with mental health issues or those who are homeless.
Samaritans Emergency Relief centres rely on donations from the local community.
A small donation can make a big difference. The centres are always looking for donations of nonperishable food and toiletry/cleaning items.
Over the past 15 years, we’ve provided support to more than 113,000 emergency relief cases. These cases could be an individual or family, so the true number of people supported through our centres is far in excess of what the data shows.
One of Samaritans Emergency Relief centres at Brunker Road, Broadmeadow.
Find out more about our Emergency Relief service, locations and ways you can donate here.
Op shops deliver compassion and integrity
for local community
Do you have some items you would like to donate?
Drop them off at Samaritans stores between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday. They are in need of clothing, kitchen items, linen and bric a brac.
Volunteers Debra Mizen, Margaret Pickett, Maryann Wilson, Sue Gill and Pamela Thexton at the Wallsend store.
They’ve been a place for people to find comfort, a sense of purpose, and to raise funds for vital services in the local community.
From the early days of Samaritans, the op shops have played an important role in supporting the charity’s crisis intervention programs by offering affordable shopping options for individuals and families.
Samaritans operates stores in Hamilton, Wallsend, and Mayfield.
The op shops recycle clothes, books, and other products. This benefits those who may be financially struggling and breathes new life into pre-loved items.
All money raised goes straight back into the community; locals helping locals.
Retail Supervisor Mandy Moore, who has worked at Samaritans for more than 15 years, says the op shops are a hub for people from all walks of life.
“I’m never going to say I’ve seen it all because tomorrow will bring something new,” she says.
“Our Hamilton store is close to a train station. People see the Samaritans sign and they come in because they need to catch a train, charge their phone, or they are short $2 for a train ticket. There are all sorts of reasons.”
The op shops ongoing success would not be
possible without volunteers, who help to sort donations and serve customers with a smile.
Volunteers are often able to develop new skills, build their resume, and make lasting friendships.
Mandy says it provides a chance to be a part of something positive and gives them a sense of purpose.
“Our volunteers come from all walks of life,” she says.
“Some of them are here because they’re retired and lonely and want to interact and reintegrate themselves back into the community.
“I’ve seen many of them flourish [by becoming volunteers].”
In a further sign of its commitment to the community, Samaritans recently doubled the size of its Wallsend store, allowing it to offer a better variety and bigger items such as bicycles and small furniture.
After serving locals for decades, Samaritans op shops continue to have a meaningful impact on people’s lives.
“We’re only a small local charity, we aren’t Australia-wide,” Mandy adds.
“It’s such a vital service to have. Everything is local – all the good stuff doesn’t go down to Sydney. This is where we stand alone.”
I’ve seen people come in who are lost to their day. Nothing is going right, they’re homeless, they feel overwhelmed by it all.
Just a simple thing like ‘here have a cup of tea and a biscuit’ and having someone look them in the eye and give them compassion is really important.
Are you interested in volunteering at our op shops? Click here for more information or to register your interest.
Proud history of helping the
Cessnock community
It’s a vital hub that has helped build connections and supported thousands of people in need for more than three decades.
Samaritans Information and Neighbourhood Centre (SINC), located in the heart of Cessnock, offers information, support, emergency assistance, and centre-based activities.
Over the years, SINC has worked alongside volunteers and workers in the Cessnock Emergency Relief (ER) Assistance Centre to facilitate food and Christmas toy donations.
Two other Samaritans services also operate at the centre – Coalfields Healthy Heartbeat, a program that assists people to live healthier lifestyles, and financial counselling.
Senior Worker Denise Crossley has been working at SINC for more than 15 years.
She is proud of its impact on the local community.
“We have made many community connections throughout the years. Several businesses, community groups and services have used our centre and donated food, toys and other items over time,” she says.
“I’m very proud of the Cessnock community. It has very kindly provided food and gifts for those who have been in crisis over these past 30 years. All items donated have remained in Cessnock to be given out to those in need throughout our local area.”
Apart from Samaritans, Carrie’s Place Domestic Violence and Homelessness Service and Maitland Corrections also operate at SINC.
The history of the hub began in 1993 when the former St Alban’s Community Centre was relocated and became the Cessnock Community Centre.
Four years later, its name was officially changed to Samaritans Information and Neighbourhood Centre.
In 2009, staff moved to a new space at the Cessnock Performing Arts building before relocating 10 years later to its current premises on Vincent Street.
Intensive Support Case Worker Peter Woolven and Senior Worker Denise Crossley at Samaritans Information and Neighbourhood Centre.
Learn more about SINC, and the vital services and support they provide here.
Promoting lifestyles healthy, active
Some habits can be hard to change but an education program is helping the Cessnock community to make healthier lifestyle choices.
Samaritans launched the Coalfields Healthy Heartbeat program in the early 1990s.
It is a health promotion and chronic disease prevention project for the Cessnock area, which is largely known for coal mining.
Project Coordinator Carlicia Chang says the program offers broad education for the community.
“It is funded by Hunter New England Health and provides resources on tobacco cessation and, more recently, vaping,” she says.
“I am a dietitian,, so I focus on healthy eating and physical activities.
“A lot of the work that I do is across different age groups. There is a walking group once a week in Cessnock, cooking classes at a Samaritans refuge in Newcastle, and I go to high schools
around the Cessnock area to promote healthy lifestyles to young people.
“We’ve collaborated with another service called CAPS [Child and Parenting Support] to educate parents about healthy eating for children and in a family context.
“Habits can be very hard to change but I feel like we’re making a positive impact by spreading the message.”
The program also includes a Healthier Oils initiative, which encourages local food outlets to transition from traditional cooking oils to healthier alternatives to help reduce the consumption of saturated and trans fats within the community.
A Healthy Budget Bites cookbook also shows how to eat well while saving time and money.
The guide is full of useful tips, including planning healthy meals, writing a shopping list, buying fruit and vegetables that are in season, and healthy lunchbox ideas.
the Coalfields Healthy Heartbeat program
Healthy Budget Bites cookbook today here.
Disability services helping people reach for the sky
Morisset Supported Independent Living (SIL) participants Stevie, Steven and Ian during an excursion to Fighterworld in Williamtown.
Stevie tried to mimic the noise of the jets as they took off.
He was enjoying a fun-filled day at Fighterworld in Williamtown alongside fellow participants Steven and Ian, as well as two Samaritans support staff.
They all had a great time exploring the museum’s old fighter planes and memorabilia.
The trip to Fighterworld was part of Samaritans Supported Independent Living (SIL) program, which allows people with a disability to gain independence within a welcoming environment while receiving compassionate support.
The SIL program is just one of several NDIS and disability services that are helping people achieve their dreams and engage with the community.
As a qualified provider of the NDIS, Samaritans works with individuals and their families to deliver quality care.
A therapy space at Woodrising for participants of Samaritans Therapy and Behaviour Support program
We focus on individual goals and provide the supports needed for people to live their best life
Samaritans NDIS Regional Manager Kim Turner says.
“Our NDIS team provides holistic, person-driven supports to people with disabilities in the Mid North Coast, Hunter, Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and Central Coast regions.
“We currently offer Individual Services, Community Group Programs, Supported Independent Living (SIL), and Coordination of Supports.”
Support is available for daily living, including household tasks and personal care, while social activities are flexible and tailored to suit participants needs or interests.
Popular activities include cooking classes, dancing and listening to local bands, and excursions to local events and landmarks. Samaritans has also responded to a significant demand for therapy-based services.
Its Therapy and Behaviour Support (TABS) team offers specialists in occupational therapy, speech pathology, psychology and behaviour support to children, young people, and adults.
The team accepts referrals from NDIS participants, those engaged in youth and justice programs, and private clients.
If you or a loved one is in need of assistance, or you would like to find out more about our Samaritans NDIS and disability support services, click here or call us on 1300 656 336.
Serving the community
A number of Samaritans services came together to serve the community at the annual Hunter Homeless Connect Day.
The event, which took place at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre last month, linked more than 2,000 people to vital services such as accommodation and housing providers, health and wellbeing, employment, and legal and financial assistance.
Samaritans was represented by staff from the Specialist Homelessness Service (SHS), Homeless Youth Assistance Program (HYAP), Recovery Point, Emergency Relief, ARAFMI Hunter Mental Health Carers, Child and Parenting Support (CAPS), and Financial Counselling
The teams were able to connect with people experiencing financial hardship and homelessness within a casual environment and shared the work Samaritans was doing in the local community.
The teams were pleased to hear so many positive comments from people who were either being assisted by Samaritans currently or had been in the past.
The Hunter Homeless Connect Day also gave team members, both new and old, an opportunity to network and meet with staff from other services in person.
This enabled them to brainstorm better ways they could support each other and make cross referrals more efficient. They also learned about new programs that services could utilise to support young people.
It was a great day out in the community, and Samaritans choice of activities led to staff being more engaging with those who came to the stalls.
The teams are looking forward to attending the event again in 2025.
For more information about the services and community support we provide, click here.
Samaritans staff at the Hunter Homeless Connect Day 2024.
Thank You
This is a mere snapshot of the way Samaritans has supported our local community over the last 40 years.
With more than 100 programs, there is simply no publication large enough to convey the scale of Samaritans’ impact over the past four decades.
Thank you to all Samaritans staff for your tireless efforts to improve the lives of those doing it tough.
We look forward to working with you, our local community, as we continue this vital support for many years to come.
(L-R) Bishop Peter Stuart, Executive Director Quality Risk and Safety Linda Wilson, Executive Director People and Culture Nicole Klasen and Diocesan Chief Executive John Barriga with board members Helen Murray and Mark Hedges at Newcastle City Hall.
at national conference in Newcastle Putting people first
More than 200 guests flocked to Newcastle City Hall in early September for the 2024 Anglicare Australia national conference.
The theme for the three-day event was ‘A Place for Everyone’, which aimed to capture the work and presence of Anglicare Australia in every community around the country.
Newcastle Anglican Director of Reconciliation Aunty Di Langham opened the conference.
The first keynote address came from Executive Director of The Australia Institute Dr Richard Denniss, who is also an author and public policy commentator.
Following his address, Dr Denniss joined Anglicare Australia Executive Director Kasy Chambers and journalist Fran Kelly in a panel discussion.
Newcastle Anglican Diocesan Chief Executive John Barriga then welcomed
guests to the city and shared insights about the organisation.
The afternoon was filled with a history of Anglicare Australia and a ‘Putting People First: Making Change Together’ panel discussion.
On day two, Professor Laurie Buys spoke about her work, which includes studying the real effects felt by older people resulting from changes in their physical, economic, and social life.
Bishop Peter Stuart then gave a keynote address on safeguarding children prior to presentations from Managing Director of Gidgee Group Sean Gordon and the Director of the Centre of Employment and Equity Bill Mitchell.
On day three, guests were treated to talks by Dr Vanessa Bowden, a lecturer in sociology at the University of Newcastle, and Hugh Mackay AO, who is a social researcher and bestselling author.
Apart from outstanding speakers, the national conference also included an awards ceremony and high-quality workshops and presentations.
Newcastle Anglican was proud to be part of another successful Anglicare Australia conference and looks forward to attending next year’s event.
Click here to discover more about Anglicare Australia and the national conference.
Rev. Canon Aunty Di Langham
From travelling in her beloved red caravan, ‘Elmo’, to the Foo Fighters and motorsport: Linda Wilson packs a lot into her spare time.
In this Q&A, Newcastle Anglican’s Executive Director Quality, Risk and Safety discusses some highlights with the organisation and her passions away from the office.
Q&A with Linda Wilson
Linda with her family
AQAQHow long have you worked at Newcastle Anglican? What do you do in your role?
I have enjoyed the Newcastle Anglican experience for 12 years and look forward to many more years to come.
My role is to keep our people, the people we support and Newcastle Anglican safe. I work to improve our understanding of risk and what safeguards control it. By managing risks and safety well, we can improve the quality of the services we provide.
Where did you work before you came here? Why did you choose Newcastle Anglican?
I began working for the Commonwealth Bank after university as a graduate. I managed various branches and then undertook roles in the regional offices including training, coaching, compliance and regional management. I spent 17 years with them.
With Newcastle Anglican, I first took on a part time management position which allowed me to spend time with my young children and still enjoy an active career.
QAQA
What are some of the highlights from your time here? What projects or initiatives are you currently working on?
The R3 project was a highlight. It was a lot of work with a great design and implementation team who worked to tailor the functionality to suit the various teams across the whole organisation. The system is now described as best practice by some of our regulators. We have all played a role in its success.
Currently, I am working closely with the operational teams in Residential Aged Care and Family and Community Services. It is enlightening to get closer to the work carried out in our services. I am inspired every day by our people who give themselves so generously to support others.
How do you spend your spare time outside of work? What are some of your interests/ hobbies?
I love to escape the day to day by spending time in other places in my red caravan named Elmo. I try to get away regularly on weekends and travel with family –my daughters Jade and Abigail and my husband Laurence – and friends when we can. I love to see live music. The bigger the rock concert, the better.
People who know me understand my deep passion for Foo Fighters and Bon Jovi. My other passion is for cars and motorsport. I follow Supercars and F1.
Linda’s red caravan Ëlmo
Supporting an inclusive
future for all
Thousands of schools, community organisations, universities and workplaces came together for Wear It Purple Day.
The annual event was launched in 2010 in response to global stories of real teenagers who had sadly taken their own lives following bullying and harassment due to a lack of acceptance of their sexuality or gender identity.
By wearing purple, Australians demonstrate to rainbow young people that they are celebrated and respected, acknowledging all have the right to be proud of who they are and who they are becoming.
Newcastle Anglican affirms all people are created equal. Our community is a place of inclusion and belonging for all persons. We encourage everyone to be their best self and protect their right to do so.
Watch Bishop Peter’s message about Wear It Purple Day and the importance of inclusion.
Educating others on the
value of diversity
AQDiversity Week took place at Manning Valley Anglican College (MVAC) last month.
We caught up with Year 11 student Isaac Wright from the MVAC Diversity Group (MDG).
Isaac shared the group’s recent activities and its evolution since its launch in 2023.
AQHow has MDG evolved over the past year? What were some of the activities that took place during Diversity Week at MVAC?
Definitely passion wise it has evolved so much more. We have more attendance; it is more widespread with more acknowledgement amongst students. People do want to put their hand up and contribute their own understanding on what we can do as a group.
What are the top goals for MDG?
The group’s top goals are to raise awareness and understanding. It’s important to educate those who don’t see the value in our differences or are simply not aware.
We believe understanding differences leads to a greater understanding of how we can work collaboratively, where we come from, and move forward together as a school community to let our light shine.
We want to work further and harder towards creating more events and supplying thought-provoking videos for students. We’ll also run workshops and lunchtime events where important discussion topics can take place, like what it means to be diverse and what it means to be different.
AQFor our Diversity Week, we took a different approach to Wear It Purple Day.
The group chose to supply purple ribbons and pins to run workshops during lunchtimes for students to create their own pin, bracelet or hair pin to wear. It was really important for us to make time to educate and hold meaningful conversations around where MDG is coming from and where we want to be in the future.
We also ran Fairy Floss Friday – purple, of course – which raised money for headspace.
Our early morning chalk art sessions with Mrs Bean provided a great time to reflect and come together as a community.
Our group is about respecting everyone’s opinion on diversity. It does not have rigid boundaries, apart from acceptance.
We thank Isaac and the MDG team. They are a positive force spreading a message of compassion, integrity, and courage. We are so thankful to have this initiative being backed and supported by the MVAC staff and Newcastle Anglican. It has provided a safe space for students to grow and flourish as true individuals.
At Scone Grammar School, students are given a range of leadership and wellbeing opportunities through local charity Where There’s A Will.
We – Sienna Johnson, Ben Officer, Hallie Croucher and Lachlan Hails –have all been on our leadership journeys from as early as Year 8.
Now, in Year 11, we are members of the Upper Hunter Youth Leadership team and have had several experiences that have enabled us to develop our skills and, ultimately, flourish and give back to our schools and the wider community.
Burn Bright
Students of the Upper Hunter are offered an opportunity to begin their leadership journey as early as Year 5 and then again from Year 8 through Where There’s A Will’s funded Burn Bright Leadership and Wellbeing programs.
For us, it was the true beginning of our leadership journeys. These events bring a range of schools together to allow for new connections and relationships to be built, through both local schools and the local community.
Helping young people to flourish
the process of the human’s inner saboteur and the stages of listening and understanding our sense of self. This Adelaide trip not only brought us together as a leadership team but helped us grow as individuals and taught us to draw on our individual strengths to reach a communal outcome.
Upper Hunter Student Leadership Summit
We learn about the characteristics of a positive leader and how to identify and build these skills.
The events follow a simple yet engaging program, allowing students to build the basis of our leadership skills and understanding.
National Student Leadership Summit
In Year 11, Where There’s A Will invites schools of the Upper Hunter to nominate a small number of students to form a Youth Leadership team.
We were fortunate enough to be selected from Scone Grammar School in 2024 after participating in a nomination process. This required us to propose our desires as leaders and a future initiative we would like to implement within our school.
This Youth Leadership team travelled to Adelaide to attend the National Youth Leadership Summit, which was a once in a lifetime opportunity for members of our community.
It was at this summit that we engaged with leadership at a new level. We learned about
This summit allowed us to use the connections we made at Adelaide to achieve a common goal and to share our leadership journey in a way that could benefit other people who are looking to follow a similar path.
As a team, we attempted to replicate what we had experienced in Adelaide to students in Year 9 and 10 from our community.
This summit encouraged us to draw on our strengths while working together as a team of young leaders to educate and come together as a group, while sharing our experiences with school communities within the Upper Hunter.
Scone Grammar School has given us multiple opportunities to promote our leadership journeys and grow as individuals, largely supported by the charity Where There’s A Will.
Many other students across various age groups get similar opportunities to grow and help our community both inside and outside of schools. This is something that we are extremely grateful for and, as a leadership team, we strive to make a difference and ultimately help all young people to flourish.
- Written by Sienna Johnson, Ben Officer, Hallie Croucher and Lachlan Hails
Making a difference
in style
Year 11’s passion project success
Lakes Grammar – An Anglican School’s Year 11 students have turned their passion for community engagement into action by running a school op shop as part of their annual project. Each year, students across all grades are encouraged to develop and run projects that connect them to life beyond the school gates, often in partnership with charities and
organisations close to their hearts.
For 2024, the Year 11 team chose to support Newcastle Anglican service agency Samaritans, an organisation dedicated to helping those in need in our local area.
Led by a dedicated group of students – Morgan J, Izzy M, Tatiana PC, Daniel P, Bella B, Maggie S, Hunter L, and Alie P – the passion project called upon the entire school community to donate unwanted clothing.
The result was a fantastic collection of more than 200 items, which the students carefully sorted, priced, and displayed for sale.
The op shop was a resounding success, raising $328. All unsold items were then donated to Samaritans at Lakes Anglican Church, ensuring every contribution made a positive impact.
The Year 11 team’s dedication to this passion project not only raised vital funds but also embodied the spirit of giving and community connection. It’s a wonderful example of how the students are learning to be compassionate, active citizens with a strong sense of social responsibility.
Well done to all involved – your efforts have made a real difference.
When reflecting on Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College’s relationship with Samaritans, one name immediately comes to mind: Reverend Jacqui Weston.
In recent times, the college chaplain has spearheaded partnerships with Samaritans, with the Giving Tree program being a significant highlight.
Each year, Reverend Jacqui leads this initiative, inspiring the student body to give generously and serve the community.
Christmas, a season embodying the spirit of giving, holds profound significance for communities and individuals alike. The essence of Christmas extends beyond the exchange of gifts; it is about the act of giving itself, which fosters connection, compassion, and a sense of community.
Giving during Christmas goes beyond material items — it includes offering time, attention, and care to those in need. This generosity creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to give and cultivating a culture of kindness. By giving, we not only help others but also enrich our own
lives through the joy and fulfilment of making a positive impact. This is particularly important during Christmas when many feel lonely or in need of support.
At Bishop Tyrrell, families contribute generously to the Samaritans Giving Tree each year. The college is proud of the impact it makes on those experiencing difficult times. Reverend Jacqui’s leadership, from Preschool to Year 12, is a shining example of service.
She epitomises service leadership throughout the year, but especially during Christmas. Service leaders like her lead by example, putting others’ needs before their own and inspiring our community to do the same.
The college’s ongoing relationship with Samaritans underscores the importance of giving and service leadership.
Together, we can build stronger, more compassionate communities, reminding us of our shared humanity and the power we have to make a difference in others’ lives.
Sharing hope
in an uncertain world
Hundreds of clergy and lay representatives gathered in Newcastle for Synod 2024.
Sometimes described as the Church’s “parliament”, Synod conducts its business on a model based on the Westminster parliamentary system, similar to that followed by Australia’s federal and state parliaments.
During Synod, a motion was unanimously passed for a campaign called Hope25.
Parishes are encouraged to start planning initiatives for the intentional season of sharing hope in Jesus, which is between Easter Sunday and Pentecost 2025.
Not sure where to start in your parish? Here are three ideas to consider:
Think about five people in your parish who could share their testimony about why they have hope in Jesus. You might use the sermon time in your Sunday service to interview these people and allow them to share their story.
Host a bible study like Alpha, Pilgrim, Christianity Explored or another resource that might suit your parish.
Plan a larger scale event that might incorporate the community and share what hope in Jesus means to those who might be less inclined to attend a church service.
Bishop Peter speaking at Synod 2024.
Coming together to honour Mothers Union
All Saints Nelson Bay enjoyed a wonderful celebration for the Nelson Bay Mothers Union (MU). Guests honoured Mary Sumner Day, who was the founder of Mothers’ Union Australia, and marked the 46th anniversary of the MU in Nelson Bay.
They also welcomed Reverend Michelle as a new member of the MU.
A few weeks earlier, more than 80 members – both past and present – attended the 100th anniversary of the Merewether Mothers Union branch.
Mothers Union Chaplain Nicole Baldwin and Diocesan President Elizabeth Bissaker were both present at the celebration, which was enjoyed by all.
Reverend Sally Malfroy gave a lovely thanksgiving service, while a number of members were recognised for their dedication over a long period of time.
Thank you to all involved for your support of the local community and commitment to ministry.
SRE team recognised for outstanding contribution
One of our Special Religious Education (SRE) teams, led by an Anglican Coordinator, recently received an award for ‘Outstanding Contribution by School Community Member’.
The team was recognised for exhibiting care, commitment and enthusiasm in presenting chapel lessons and for demonstrating exemplary professionalism and respect for all students.
Well done team.
Thanks for caring
Aged Care Employee Day was an opportunity to honour and recognise the dedication and hard work of our people.
Ahead of the day, Greg Piper MP visited Kilpatrick Court to join in the conversation and thank our wonderful, caring team.
Some of our residents at Bishop Tyrrell Place also shared their appreciation in this lovely video
There were more celebrations across our other Anglican Care facilities, including CA Brown and Warnervale Gardens.
To all of our Anglican Care staff: thank you for the positive impact you make every day to the lives of our residents.
Celebrating the Olympics
Our residents and staff got into the spirit of the 2024 Olympic Games by organising some fun activities.
Jesmond Grove hosted its own Olympic torch relay, while Mirrabooka Place had plenty of laughs with some basketball and racing games.
The Friendship Group, located on the Central Coast, competed in its own Friendship Games.
After plenty of banter and laughter, team Iceland won the gold medal, Togo took silver, and Mongolia claimed bronze.
The celebrations ended with a delicious barbecue that was enjoyed by all.
At East Lake Macquarie Dementia Service, participants enjoyed games and dancing before going home with a mini-Olympics trophy.
Father’s Day celebrations
Many of our residents enjoyed Father’s Day activities alongside family, friends and staff members.
At Kilpatrick Court, vintage vehicles sparkled in the morning sun as residents were treated to a Show and Shine event.
Over at East Lake Macquarie Dementia Service, participants ventured to Bunnings for a delicious morning tea and a building workshop. They also received lovely chocolate gift bags.
Tropical Vibe Aloha!
From some of our Anglican Care facilities. Music, delicious food and colourful outfits were on display to celebrate Hawaiian Day.
Tea-riffic
party
Kilpatrick Court residents and staff were thrilled to join a Mad Hatter Tea Party.
It was hosted by self-proclaimed Mad Hatter, resident Lucy, with a little help from the lifestyle team, Queen of Hearts, Alice, and the white rabbit.
Everyone had lots of fun throughout the afternoon.
For many families, Christmas is a time full of blessings, gifts, and special meals with loved ones.
But for some, this time of year can present emotional and financial stress.
For more than 20 years, generous donations to Samaritans Christmas Appeal have helped us provide families with crisis care programs, a safe place to stay, and emergency food supplies.
Gifts placed under our Giving Trees go directly to people we support through Samaritans services and to our Christmas lunch celebrations.
Our iconic Christmas lunches feed and provide companionship for almost 2,000 people each year.
These events are the only ones of their kind in the region. We couldn’t do it without the support of our community.
You can help those in need this Christmas through:
1. Christmas Sponsorships
2. Giving Trees
3. Corporate Donations
4. Personal Giving and other
Find out more about how you can help support those in need this Christmas go to our website or contact us at philanthropy@newcastleanglican.org.au
