The
Tuart Times
ISSUE 9: JANUARY 2015
The Laurie Humphreys Fund
What a Christmas! As we settle into the New Year with wonderful memories of some great events last year, people are still talking about the hugely successful Christmas party in December. For the first time, we had access to the huge common-room area behind Tuart Place and we are extremely grateful to Celia Garman and Notre Dame University for allowing us to use this space. The arrangement also provided access to a big kitchen and enabled Tuart Place to host a seated Christmas lunch for 120 people. Many thanks also to Grant from Notre Dame Security, who was extremely kind and helpful throughout the process.
With over 130 guests on the day, Maureen Briggs-Trewin turned out an amazing three-course Christmas feast with all the trimmings. A dedicated
band of helpers assisted Maureen with the huge task of preparing and serving the delicious food. Special thanks to Dave, Kath, Cevrina, Elizabeth, Maria Harries, Karen Wilson, Mary Power, and the lovely young people from Fremantle Challenger TAFE. Father Christmas (who looked suspiciously like a larger, hairier version of Mike Carroll) turned up after lunch
and drew the Raffle, which raised over $400. Thank you Michael McKiernan for donating the First Prize – a gorgeous cutlery set, won by Len and Jean Ogilvie. The Tuart Place Singers’ Christmas carols sounded really beautiful accompanied by Choir Leader Ginny Webb on ukulele and fellow musician Chris Clark on double bass. Thank you to our supporters who attended on the day: Melissa Parke MP, Federal Member for Fremantle;
Senator Rachel Siewert of the Australian Greens; Mayor of Cockburn Logan Howlett JP; Pippa Monger and Liz Brown from the Department for Child Protection & Family Support; Marilyn Rock from the Royal Commission; Gill Harrison of the WA Maritime Museum; Anglicare CEO Alan Carter; and Allison Leonard, a former FACT Board member and CFO of Anglicare. We were very pleased that Mrs Frankie Atkinson, widow of Laurie Humphreys, and Laurie’s brother Terry could join us on the day, and thanks for the great photos Frankie. A final thank you to the City of Fremantle for sponsoring the event, and to all those who came along and helped make it such a special day.
WHAT’S ON?
TUART PLACE
CONTACT DETAILS & OPENING HOURS
• Wednesday 11th February: Healing Opening Hours 24 High Street Childhood Pain with Christabel Chamarette Fremantle WA 6160 9.00am to 4.30pm 10am-12noon Phone (08) 6140-2380 Monday • Monday 16th February: WAGS (WA Freecall: 1800-619-795 Genealogical Society) 1 hour bookings for Wednesday Email admin@tuartplace.org family history/tracing 1-3pm Thursday Web: www.tuartplace.org • Wed 18th February: Pizza, short film & discussion 12 noon - 2.30pm • Monday 23rd February: Presentation of Free Information Tuart Place Research Project with Sue Bailey 1- 2.30pm Session: • Saturday 28th February: Sausage Sizzle Money Matters Bunnings O’Connor – all day. Did you know that new ‘deeming’ rules affecting the age • Wednesday 11th March: Two-part workshop: safeTALK is a half-day workshop that teaches how to were identify peopleon 1st July 2014, Thisand is atougher placeassetto write pension introduced Understanding Anger / Relaxation Techniques testing resources. limits came into effect on 1st below January 2015? at risk of(includes suicide and connect them with intervention template. 10am-2pm lunch) The Financial Counsellors’ Association WA (FCAWA) safeTALK’s proven, easy-to-follow steps are used around the world. When: of <date>, <time> • Monday 16th March: WAGS (WA offers free, confidential and independent information and Genealogical Society) 1 hour bookings for Where: <location> advocacy to die, help but people Most people thinking about suicide don’t actually want to theytake control of their own financial family tracing 1-3pm Cost: $X perbenefits participan situation. Financial counsellors can also help identify need help deciding to stay alive. You don’t need any prior training • Monday 16th March: Luck of the Irish Bingo Tofor. inquire or register, p and/or concessions you may be eligible to attend safeTALK—just 1-2.30pm (Lunch at 12 noon) a willingness to make a difference. ormore, emailcontact <X> Jan at If you would like to find out • Wed 18th March: Pizza, short film & Tuart Place, or call the Financial Counselling Helpline on: discussion 12 noon - 2.30pm 1800-007-007. You may also like to book in for the Financial www.livingworks.net | 403.209.0242 or 1.888.733.5484 (toll free) | info@livingworks.net • Wednesday 25th March: LivingWorks Counselling Information Session at Tuart Place from 1.00pm Safetalk Workshop 10am-2.30pm (includes -3.00pm on Monday 30th March 2015. lunch) • Monday 30th March: Financial Counselling Information Session 1-3pm (Lunch 12 noon) Livingworks safeTALK • Wednesday 1st April: Easter Crafternoon Suicide alertness for everyone with Sylvia Lunch 12noon, Workshop 1pm • Wednesday 8th April: Pizza, short film & discussion 12 noon - 2.30pm SafeTALK is a half-day workshop designed to increase suicide
among the general public.This Mostispeople at risk of safeTALK is a half-day workshop that teachesalertness how to identify people a place to write REGULAR EVENTS suicide signal their distress in some way to invite help. It’s easy at risk of suicide and connect them with intervention resources. below template. to overlook these to do about them or • Every Monday: proven, Singing group 10.30am-12 safeTALK’s easy-to-follow steps are used around thesignals world.or not know what When: <date>, <time> how to help. noon & the Big Monday Lunch at noon Where: <location> Participants • Every Wednesday: Susy’s about support Groupdon’t actually Most people thinking suicide want to die, butlearn theyto recognise when someone may have thoughts of suicide and respondCost: in ways$X thatper canparticipan link the 10.15am-12 need helpnoon deciding to stay alive. You don’t need any prior training distressed person with further help. To inquire or register, p • Every Thursday: Computers and IT with Kathyto make to attend safeTALK—just a willingness a difference. Book with Vicky to reserve your at the Livingworks orplace email <X> 12 noon -3pm SafeTALK workshop at Tuart Place on Wednesday 25th March from 10am to 2.30pm (includes lunch).
www.livingworks.net | 403.209.0242 or 1.888.733.5484 (toll free) | info@livingworks.net
Understanding & Dealing with Anger / Relaxation Techniques A two-part workshop with Susy Vaughan & Gordon Paton
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Anger is a normal human emotion which can be a helpful at the mercy of this powerful emotion. and healthy response in certain situations. This two-part workshop will be held at Tuart Place We’ve all felt it – from mild annoyance to a burning on Wednesday 11th March. The morning session will rage but when it gets out of control and hasn’t been safely give tips and information for understanding and managing expressed, it can become a problem and affect relationships anger, and the afternoon session will give participants an and overall quality of life. opportunity to practice some relaxation and de-stressing safeTALK is a half-day workshop that teaches how to identify people This is a place to write Understanding where it comes from and how to techniques. at itrisk suicide andcontrol connect with intervention resources. deal with canof give you more andthem help you feel less For bookings please contactbelow Vicky attemplate. Tuart Place.
safeTALK’s proven, easy-to-follow steps are used around the world.
When: <date>, <time> Where: <location>
Workshop: ‘Healing Childhood Pain’
What happens at Tuart Place? Tuart Place is the State Government funded service for former child migrants and Forgotten Australians in WA.
with Christabel Chamarette
Tuart Place provides individual counselling, support groups, social activities, volunteering opportunities, computer skills classes, visiting health services, family tracing, assistance to access records, and help in dealing with other agencies.
Christabel shares some simple ways of understanding childhood and adult feelings so we can help ourselves heal from childhood pain and increase our emotional wellbeing and personal growth. Wednesday 11th February 10am - 12 noon. Contact Vicky to reserve your place
Computers with Kathy If you’d like to get more ‘tech savvy’ with your computer or mobile phone, why not call in and see Kathy at our Computer Lab on a Thursday afternoon? Kathy can also help you with things like scanning photos and documents, using Skype, printing photos taken with a phone, and many other IT and computer skills. Either call ahead to set up a time with Kathy, or just come in to Tuart Place on any Thursday between 12 noon and 3.00pm.
Tuart Place Program Officer Kathy Bel-Bachir
Luck of the Irish Bingo Get in early for St Patrick’s Day this year and come along to Luck of the Irish Bingo at Tuart Place on Monday 16th March – the day before St Patrick’s Day! There will be lots of prizes and fun on the day, starting at 10.30am with an Irish singa-long with Ginny and the Tuart Place Singers; followed by a delicious (probably green) lunch at 12 noon, then ‘Luck of the Irish’ Bingo from 1.00pm – 3.00pm. Please call Vicky to reserve your place, and don’t forget to wear green on the day!
Who’s new at Tuart Place?
In the New Year Jan Newman joined Tuart Place as a Social Worker. She looks forward to supporting care leavers in their life challenges and possibilities, and to assisting in the operation of Tuart Place. Jan has Social Work experience in hospitals and with migrants, refugees and overseas students and this work taught her much about people’s resilience and resourcefulness. Jan’s voluntary work in the community has featured lots of family and local history research, leading in one instance to the creation of a ‘heritage garden’, and in another to the publication of “Wharf Rats and other Stories: 100 years of growing up in Fremantle”. It also led to volunteering at Tuart Place in 2013-14 with people who wanted to explore their family histories.
Jan enjoyed this experience and also the nature of Tuart Place as a safe and relaxed community place and is delighted to join the team now in a new role. In her personal time, Jan has always loved reading, travelling and during the winter months is obsessed with AFL footy, particularly the Dockers!
Jan Newman Social Worker
Jan is the new contact person at Tuart Place for information on Financial Counselling and Aged Care Services
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Virtual Museum Project One of the more exciting projects currently being developed is the ‘Tuart Place Virtual Museum’. Dr Debbi Rosser and Andrew Bowman-Bright are managing the early stages of this project, which builds on previous work identifying and gathering historical photographs and documents. Debbi and Andrew held a brainstorming session with Tuart Place participants in November 2014, and asked the question: “Is
the Virtual Museum a good idea, and if so, why?”. The group voted overwhelmingly in favour of the idea, for various reasons, and because participants will have a strong voice in this project, which is also designed to provide opportunities for skills training. Please let us know if you have any artefacts or photos that could by copied and used in the online Museum.
Constructing the first section of the flat-roof Tech School, Bindoon 1948. Thanks to Joe Norman for this photo
Remembering Bill Kennedy Bill Kennedy was 72 when he found out he had a sister. His mother had died in Belfast in 1941, when Bill was just five years old. Bill was taken into care, and six years later he was sent from Belfast to Australia as a child migrant. Bill’s sister Nancy was admitted to the St Joseph’s Baby Home, and was soon adopted by a local Belfast family. It was not until 2008 that Nancy, prompted by her children, began to search for records and discovered she had a brother. Maggie McSorley of the Family Care Society in Belfast contacted Pip, who found Bill in the phone book. He was living in Leeman, 300km north of Perth. This was the start of a wonderful connection between Bill and his sister Nancy and her family. Bill travelled to Ireland twice, and Nancy visited Australia with her son Andrew. When Nancy returned, Andrew stayed on and accepted a position as parish priest in Geraldton, while Bill continued to live in nearby Leeman. As Bill’s health declined, Andrew was able to get Bill into aged care at Nazareth House Geraldton, where he was well looked after. Bill and Nancy were both very keen for Bill to
migrate back to Belfast, and Andrew worked hard to make this happen. However Bill’s health continued to decline, and a range of serious health problems made it impossible for him to travel. Bill died on 4th June 2014. Andrew was bereft. We were all really sad that Bill had not been able to return to Belfast to be reunited with Nancy. Andrew conducted the funeral Mass for Bill in Geraldton, and, true to Bill’s wishes, he was cremated and Andrew took his ashes back to Ireland. We were very fond of Bill – he was a tough old bird, a straight-talker, and he had a kind heart. Sincere condolences to Nancy, Andrew and family. **If you knew of Bill or remember him from earlier years, please contact Tuart Place. Bill was at Tardun and Clontarf between 1947 and 1951.
History of Foster Care Project
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Dee Michell is a Forgotten Australian and researcher from the University of Adelaide. She is currently working (with Nell Musgrove of ACU) on a history of foster care in Australia. During 2015 Dee will be visiting Western Australia and is keen to speak with anyone who has experience of foster care. If you are over 18 and have, in the past, been placed in foster care, acted as a foster carer, lived in a family which included foster children, or worked in a foster care programme, and are willing to be involved in the study, please leave your details with Tuart Place staff or contact:
Dr Dee Michell Ph: 08 8313 3675 Email: dee.michell@adelaide.edu.au Discipline of Gender Studies & Social Sciences School of Social Sciences Faculty of Arts University of Adelaide North Terrace Adelaide 5005
End-of-Year Gathering 2014 This year’s annual picnic (our ninth!) coincided with the fifth anniversary of the national apology to Forgotten Australians and former child migrants, so there was plenty to celebrate at Waterford on 16th November 2014. A ‘VIP-free event’, the annual gathering at Waterford is always a relaxed occasion and a great chance for old friends to spend a carefree day picnicking in the sunshine. Joe Norman lent us a fantastic More than 80 ex-residents enjoyed collection of historic photos of Bindoon - a great addition to the the traditional sausage sizzle and fun of the Virtual Museum day. Thank you to everyone who helped:
to Maureen for her fantastic raffle – which raised over $200 for the Social Activity Group; to our expert chefs; and to Dennis McNerney for arranging the venue. Ron Love sends a special thank you to the Department of Social Services for ensuring the new apology badges arrived in good time. And a final thank you to Joe Norman for bringing along his historical photos of Bindoon. We hadn’t seen these images before, and they weren’t in any existing collections. Joe’s photos were scanned the next day and returned to him by registered post. We know how precious photos are and really appreciate it when people share them with others via our collection.
Social Activities Group: Bunnings Sausage Sizzle As many people know we now have a Social Activities Group up and running at Tuart Place, and on November 29 we held our first fundraising event. It was a sausage sizzle held at Bunnings O’Connor. For all involved it was a very busy day but on the other hand it was most enjoyable with fun and laughter too. We all looked just the part in our Tuart Place t-shirts - that bright green colour really did attract attention. Mind you that was our intention, and it
by Lyn McLaughlin
worked. On the day we used 35 kilos of onions, 650 rolls and sausages and a lot of drinks. It must have been a good product as we had a lot of people complementing us on the taste and how good the rolls were. Must say that made us feel good! Question is - where did we buy the sausages and rolls? It’ll remain our secret but many people commented on how good they were! To all the team, thanks for a great effort, you were outstanding, I enjoyed your company and can’t wait to see you on Saturday 28th February 2015, same place same time.
Congratulations Jenn! Heartiest congratulations to Jenny Aldrick on achieving her Diploma of Nursing in June 2014. Jenn is a Forgotten Australian and Vice Chairperson of the FACT Inc Board. Nursing has been a lifelong dream for Jenny, who says that before coming to Tuart Place and especially Susy’s support group, she
didn’t have the confidence and belief in herself to start the course. Nowadays Jenn is really ‘on a roll’, and is currently completing a graduate program in Enrolled Nursing at Hollywood Private Hospital, which she will finish in February 2015. Go Jenn! 5
Congratulations to the National Museum of Australia on the ‘Inside: Life Inside Children’s Homes and Institutions’ travelling exhibition, which was at the WA Maritime Museum in Fremantle from 15th March to 29th June 2014. The total number of visitors in WA was an impressive 14,943. Tuart Place’s significant involvement with the exhibition culminated in a very successful Q&A event hosted at the Museum on 22nd June. Aboriginal Elder Alf Taylor and Former Child Migrant Maureen Briggs-Trewin joined Forgotten Australians Ron Love and Jann McFarlane as panellists at the event.
At the Q&A Event Dr Ian MacLeod, Alf Taylor, Maureen Briggs-Trewin, Jann McFarlane, Ron Love, Gill Harrison
Do you receive ‘What’s On?’
At the INSIDE exhibition
Hughie McConnell, Paddy Cannon & Frankie White
Every two months our Program Officer Kathy Bel-Bachir produces a new ‘What’s On?’ flier, which is posted out in hard copy to 690 recipients in the Perth metro area, and sent by e-mail to a further 200+ recipients. ‘What’s On?’ is also available on the Tuart Place website. To join the postal mailing list for ‘What’s On?’, please contact Vicky at Reception.
Tuart Place Christmas Party 2014
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Castledare Oh God who made this golden land Set like a jewel in our Southern sea Oh teach us now to understand The sacred trust we owe to thee. Thou gave us herds and flocks of birds And many a winding streams Oh teach us now in hope of Castledare And radiant heart so pure. Oh lead us Oh lead us To guide our guardian land To love and guard our holy land Australia Australia.
Thanks to Paul Irvine for sending in this song he remembers singing as a young boy at Castledare. Our photo shows Paul with a group of fellow Old Boys at the 2014 Annual picnic. L-R Gerald, Dave, Peter, George & Paul
Tony Ryan writes: I received a number of calls and emails about the last photo I sent in to the Tuart Times. This photo taken at the (now demolished) handball courts might bring back some memories too. In the pic are (L-R) Freddy Burns, unsure, then Paul Tyrrell (dec), brother of Peter. Would that be a ‘Fag’ Paul has in his hand? Remember the lollies in the shape of
fags...nice and sweet. Does anyone remember the name of the lad standing in between Freddy and Paul? And here’s a teaser: who recalls the names of the horses at Clontarf 1950 to 1960? I can start with ‘Bubbles’. Tony Ryan tonyryan@midwest.com.au
An Ode to the St Joseph’s Girls We often talk about the hard times, so now let’s reflect on the fun times we made for ourselves. Welcome to the wide open space and olive trees. Come on girls, those olive trees are screaming for us to unload the olives off their branches, so let’s help by shaking those branches and start filling up the tins. Wow, we’re all going to get 5 shillings for the large tins we fill. Well, we did and we worked hard. But we didn’t get any money. What little devils we were! We started putting sand in the tins then covering it up with olives. We then took the tins down to the olive shed where they made the olive oil. Luckily the Italian men washed the olives before they put them into their machines that made the oil. Just imagine the look on their faces when sand was pouring out of the tins. We didn’t get another chance to show our handy work again as they kept an eye on us. But it was fun. Our open space was great. We would play Hide and Seek and Cowboys and
by Lilly O’Rourke
Indians. Gee, we were a noisy lot, screaming and laughing. There goes that darn bell again! The nun’s favourite saying was that we were up to no good and the idle hands were the Devil’s play thing. Our beds had thin kapok stuffing and when they got really thin we had to open them up and fill up the ones that were not too bad, and then sew them up by hand. What a mess! We had kapok in our hair, up our noses, over the floor, but we turned it into fun time. Later we ended up with new inner spring mattresses which was good. We lost our open space. Men came up and put a fence around which was to be our playground. While the men were making this the girls would sit on the back veranda singing “Don’t fence us in”. Swimming was great. Remember our woollen bathers, that itch? Then when we got new ones they were ‘bubble bathers’, as every time we go into the pool the bathers would swell up, and don’t forget sharing the pool with chooks and frogs. When we went swimming they would get the chooks out of the pool. We shared
the water with them. Remember Saturday afternoon matinees at the Wembley picture theatre? The owner would invite us girls to the movies and the man at the corner shop would give us a bag of lollies. Pinkie Hayes owned a Butchers shop in Wembley and he would come to St Joseph’s once a year at Christmas time. He supplied the meat and the BBQ and would cook for us girls. He even used to bring up a ferris wheel. So there were some good times. Well it’s good to hear after we left St Josephs, the children got education, a cooking lesson, dress making lessons and were taught real sports. Fun is what you make of mischief without hurting anyone. All you St Joseph’s girls, give yourself a standing ovation as you all rightly deserve, or we can play ‘Skilled’. If you have forgotten how to play, remember, you stack up tins and someone knocks them down and then who ever catches the ball has to see how many girls they can get out. Oh darn, there goes that bell again, playtime’s over. 7
Memories of Bridie Rush Thanks to everyone who responded to the request for help from Shaunagh Forth in the last Tuart Times. Shaunagh was seeking to learn more about the early life of her late mother, Bridget, fondly known as Bridie. There was a great response to Shaunagh’s request and at least one new photo emerged, sent in by Patrick Armstrong, whose beloved late wife Mary (nee Bradley) is second from the left in the back row of this group of child migrants from Northern Ireland Shaunagh was able to clearly identify her mum Bridget (back row, second from right), and her aunty Margaret (back row, far left). In the middle row are Margaret Ingram (nee Gallagher, first on left), and Margaret Gibson (nee McFadden, second on left). We also received a very nice letter from Margaret Gibson, and a more recent photo of Bridie Rush with friends. Commenting many friends have passed away, Margaret wrote: “I published lengthy articles in both the Derry Journal and The West Australian newspaper in 1997 – the 50th anniversary of our arrival in Australia. The sentiments I revealed then are as strong today: that too many would never hear the words ‘We are sorry’, nor like me would ever be
Vale Patrick Rush
reunited with siblings or other family. “That those who attend the Tuart Place gatherings and have support is great – it would also appear the team give their professional help with dedication. I hear from time to time about the good times. Maureen Colgan’s name is familiar – the girls speak highly of Maureen and her husband. I hadn’t seen Elsa Coupland since 1957, so it was lovely to see her photo. If I come across any more pictures of Bridie and her sister Maggie, I will send them on. Keep up the good work and thanks for keeping in touch”. Many thanks Margaret, and everyone who helped.
Patrick Rush was nine years old when he arrived in Australia from Northern Ireland with his three siblings, Bridget, John and Margaret. Patrick was sent to Clontarf, and lived there from 1947 to 1954. Patrick passed away on 4th June 2014, aged 77. He is sadly missed by friends and family. Our sincere condolences to Glenys and the family.
A return to St Joseph’s by Ann McVeigh
About 25 of The Girls got together for a mini reunion at the site of the former St Joseph’s Orphanage on 25th June 2014. The visit was organised by Maureen Colgan, who had been contacted by one of the women who went to St Joseph’s for old time sake and got quite upset to find out that it had been demolished in 1979. She had considered St Joseph’s her childhood home, and felt shocked that it was no longer there. She contacted Maureen Colgan because she knew that Maureen has been very helpful to child migrants over the years. During the visit we were told that the historical church on the site was originally built by the Benedictine monks, and is at last going to be restored. After we took a tour of the site, morning tea was provided, which was very much appreciated. 8
Can you help?
Do you receive Ron’s Gazette? Ron’s Gazette is a fantastic monthly newsletter created by Tuart Place participant Ron Love. The Gazette is published in hard copy for in-house circulation and is sent by e-mail to more than 200 recipients across Australia. Ron’s Gazette is also available on the Tuart Place website. If you would like to receive Ron’s Gazette by e-mail each month, please ask Vicky to add you to the distribution list.
Join us for an Easter Bunny ‘Crafternoon’ WITH SYLVIA STONEHOUSE 1.00 - 2.30pm Wednesday 1st April 2015 There’s always plenty of fun at Sylvia’s Art & Craft workshops and the participants produce some great decorations, such as
Sylvia’s Angels: Christmas 2013
last year’s Christmas Angels and this year’s Reindeers. Now with Easter on the way it’s time to get ready for Sylvia’s Easter Bunny-making ‘Crafternoon’! Join us for lunch at 12 noon on Wednesday 1st April, and stay for the workshop from 1.00-2.30pm.
McCloskey sisters reunited It was lovely to see Joan Tuff and Debbie Biscotto at Tuart Place when they visited their sister Mary Circenis in Perth in October 2014. Debbie travelled over from Sydney and Joan from England. The sisters enjoyed a lovely time together and Joan almost became a Tuart Place ‘regular’ during her extended stay. PHOTO: Taken during a previous visit to Perth (L-R) Marie Charles, Vera Fare, Debbie, Mary and Joan.
A wonderful visit to Perth by Dilys Budd On our visit to Perth last year my husband Bob and I accompanied by old friends, Marie Miller, Mary and Brian Smith and Nellie Garcia met up at Tuart Place with other St Joseph’s girls I hadn’t seen for many years - what a warm and friendly place!! I had previously been in contact with Philippa but meeting up with her and the rest of the friendly staff in person was great. The visit started off with morning tea, then the sing-a-long which included ‘The Leaving of Liverpool’. I hadn’t heard the song before but have now downloaded it on my computer. After lots and lots of chatter, reminiscing and laughter, it was lunch time. It was a lovely meal and of course more cups of tea and cakes. I know we all went home happy and well fed. There was a presentation by Marie Miller to Tuart Place of a Friendship quilt she had made. The quilt recognises the work of Tuart Place and the bonds of love and friendship that join everyone involved. We later visited the ‘Inside’ exhibition at the nearby Maritime Museum - a very moving experience. I even heard my voice on the phone - don’t quite remember when that happened! There were a few photos showing St Joseph’s, including quite a lot of the buildings that have been knocked
down – still they can’t take away our memories. Meeting up with old friends and our visit to Fremantle was the highlight of our visit to Perth and I would certainly hope we don’t leave it too long next time. I would also invite anyone who is visiting Canberra to pop in and see us, you’ll be very welcome. Dilys Budd
Dilys Budd, Marie Miller and Nellie Caldwell waiting for the train to Tuart Place. June 2014
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Royal Commission News knowmore assistance available to Tuart Place service users in 2015 The staff of knowmore legal service in Perth would like to wish everyone at Tuart Place a happy new year. We provide free, independent legal help to anyone engaging or considering engaging with the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. This includes attending at Tuart Place on a ‘by appointment’ basis. You can call us on 1800 605 762 to set up a time. Our mission is to help each person who comes to us to: • understand the powers and procedures of the Royal Commission; • understand the legal issues and legal options relevant to him or her; • feel supported in making an informed decision about what they want to do; and • be provided with support and assistance to tell their story or provide information to the Royal Commission if they choose to do so. We’ve now been operating from
our office in Perth for over 6 months. Over 80% of knowmore’s clients have been aged 45 years and over. As we’ve heard our clients’ stories, we’ve been building our understanding of the experience of those who were in institutional care and our knowledge of the institutions themselves. Even if you have told the story of your experience in an institution many times, doing so again may still be distressing and trigger painful memories. Our lawyers therefore operate with the assistance of a specialist social worker and an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Liaison Officer. Research suggests that older Australians who have suffered child abuse are four times more likely than their peers to be unhappy, even much later in life, and are more likely to have poor physical health (Draper et al, 2007). Of course it doesn’t have to be that way, particularly if support (such as that provided by Tuart Place) is available and good social connections are maintained.
Many of our clients have told us that going to the Royal Commission has been a useful step on their road to recovery from childhood trauma (it’s never too late to complete that journey!). Like most important steps in life, good preparation is key. knowmore is here to help with this. Some people may also wish to seek financial redress from the institution concerned or would like a previous financial agreement reviewed. This is a complex and difficult area of the law. Only some institutions have shown a willingness to cooperate. It can take substantial periods of time to resolve these claims. Nevertheless, knowmore can assist with initial advice about claims for redress. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Tuart Place and to meeting you in 2015.
An apology with a difference Ann Orifici is a former resident of the Salvation Army Girls’ Home in Cottesloe, and recently took part in a complaints process with the Salvation Army in regard to childhood abuse and neglect. When it came time for the apology meeting, Ann asked if it could be held at Tuart Place and requested Apology day gathering on 12-1-15: Ann introduces the Salvation that the Salvation Army representatives Army’s Territorial Commander to the people of Tuart Place be invited to our ‘Big Monday Lunch’ so they could meet other participants. Although she felt nervous other children had experienced while formerly in the care of on the day, Ann confidently introduced her guests - the Salvation Army. After lunch, Floyd delivered a detailed Commissioner Floyd Tidd (Commander of the Salvation and personal apology to Ann when they adjourned for a Army Southern Territory) and Trevor Walker (Director of more private meeting and discussion. Southern Territory Professional Standards) to the lunchtime Ann said she felt good about the meeting and gathering at Tuart Place, and talked powerfully about what wanted to help others by sharing her experience. She felt this occasion meant to her. that “if other people see that past providers are willing to Commissioner (“call me Floyd”) Tidd, who was fly across the country to give a personal and full apology dressed in civvies because Ann had requested that he to people who experienced harm in institutional care, then didn’t wear his uniform, responded to Ann’s comments and others may come forward and feel more hope that they will described his deep sense of shame for the harm Ann and be believed and their pain be acknowledged.” 10
Notice from the WA Professional Standards Office and welcome to Peter Stoyles Today, the Catholic Church in Perth and across Western Australia takes the issue of abuse very seriously, irrespective of when it might have occurred. The Catholic Church nationally has adopted a series of protocols and procedures set out in Towards Healing. These seek to address complaints from individuals or groups in relation to allegations of sexual, emotional and physical abuse made against clergy, religious and other paid and voluntary personnel of the Church. Every regional area of Australia has a specialist bureau established by the Catholic bishops and leaders of religious institutes of the Catholic Church in Australia to deal confidentially with the painful and delicate matters of abuse. This agency is called the Professional Standards Office. Peter Stoyles was recently appointed the new director of Western Australia’s Professional Standards Office (WAPSO) which serves the entire State and therefore covers the Archdiocese of Perth and the Dioceses of Bunbury, Geraldton and Broome. Peter takes up this role having had a long association with the Catholic Church. He works with a small team of dedicated people who are ready and waiting to listen to allegations with a compassionate and empathetic ear.
WAPSO enjoys a close relationship with Tuart Place in the essential work being undertaken to support people who bring complaints against members of the Catholic Church. Speaking of his position, Peter says: “I see it as a great privilege to try and help Mr Peter Stoyles people who bring complaints of Director, WAPSO abuse against members of the Catholic Church to the Professional Standards Office of WA to move towards a place of greater healing. I echo the words often spoken by the bishops and encourage anyone who might have been abused within the bounds of the Catholic Church to approach the Western Australia Professional Standards Office by calling 1800 072 930 or 08 9221 7762.” Western Australian Professional Standards Office 29 Victoria Square PERTH WA 6000
Free information session: Money Matters People receiving ‘ex-gratia’ lump-sum payments from past providers of institutional care are strongly encouraged to seek their own independent financial advice. Although ex-gratia payments are not considered taxable income, the money you receive may affect your eligibility for Homeswest accommodation, and/or the level of benefits you receive from Centrelink. New ‘deeming’ rules affecting the age pension were introduced by the Federal Government on 1st July 2014, while tougher asset-testing limits came into effect on 1st January 2015. The Financial Counsellors’ Association of WA (FCAWA) offers free, confidential and independent information, and
Northern Ireland Inquiry thanks Tuart Place With more than 81% of post-war child migrants being sent to WA orphanages, it is not surprising that Tuart Place has been very involved in supporting the work of the current Northern Ireland Historical Institutional Abuse Inquiry. In September 2014, HIAI Chairman Sir Anthony Hart publicly thanked Tuart Place, after earlier acknowledging the important contribution of our Report on the impacts and outcomes of child migration from Northern Ireland. The Tuart Place Report is available on our website at: http://www.tuartplace.org/index.php/northern-irelandinquiry
advocacy to help people take control of their own financial situation. Financial counsellors can also help you to identify payments and/or concessions you may not be receiving, for which you may be eligible. If you would like to find out more, contact Jan at Tuart Place, or call the Financial Counselling Helpline on: 1800-007-007. You may also like to book in for the Financial Counselling Information Session at Tuart Place from 1.003.00pm on Monday 30th March 2015. This session is open to anyone with questions about their finances.
Notice from the Anglican Dioceses of Perth, Bunbury and North West Australia The Anglican Church takes all complaints about child sexual abuse and the unlawful and improper treatment of children very seriously. If anyone in the community has any information concerning current or historical matters they are encouraged to make contact with Ms Tracie ChambersClark, Director of Professional Standards. Phone: 9425 7203 Email: tchambers-clark@perth.anglican.org 11
Thanks and farewell Carol Roper Carol Roper, Post Adoption and After Care Team Leader with the Catholic Children’s Society in Westminster England is retiring at the end of March 2015. Over the years Carol has helped many, many people to access records and information and has been an invaluable point of contact for Tuart Place. Carol writes: “I have been at CCS Westminster since 1998, working with adults who grew up in children’s homes previously run by the agency, people who were placed for adoption, and former child migrants
to Canada and Australia and their descendants. “When the Caritas project for child migrants who were sent by Nazareth House and other Orders closed, CCSW took over these records too. It has been a privilege to work with former child migrants in trying to achieve a greater understanding of their origins. The service will continue to be provided by my successor”. Best wishes for a wonderful retirement Carol, and many thanks for all your help over the years.
At CCS Westminster in 2011: (L-R) Siobhan Clemons (Fr Hudson’s) Carol Roper and Pip White
Can you help?
I am currently writing an online journal (and possible future book) tracing the early years of my late father Dirk (Derek) Kapiteyn (see http://fortytwomonths. blogspot.com.au/2014/02/vii-lost-boy.html) My father had a very troubled childhood and in the early 1960s he spent time at Riverbank Detention Centre and one year at Boys’ Town in Bindoon in 1960, aged 14. He was then a day student at Clontarf for one year in 1961 (aged 15, his final year of schooling).
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I would like to talk with anyone who may possibly remember my Dad, have any photos, or at least be able to give an insight into what life was like in these institutions at that time. I can be contacted on 0417091-619 or at joe@redroom.com.au. Joe Kapiteyn PHOTO: DEREK (DIRK) KAPITEYN
Free speech therapy clinic Communication for Everyday Living Program
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Have you had a stroke, a head injury or do you have a progressive neurological condition and subsequently have difficulty communicating? We may be able to help. The Communication for Everyday Living clinic at Joondalup Private Hospital is run by 3rd year speech pathology students from Edith Cowan University (ECU). Students work with a speech pathology clinical educator to deliver individually tailored rehabilitation programs. We provide a supportive environment for people to improve their communication following a neurological event. The sessions are free and participation in the program not only benefits clients but also contributes to the development of the future healthcare workforce. For further information or to make a booking please contact Abigail Lewis, Clinical Coordinator, Speech Pathology Department, School of Psychology and Social Science, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup WA 6027. Phone: 6304 5438 Email: abigail.lewis@ecu.edu.au
Honouring a Tuart Place Volunteer
Nazareth News
by Ron Love, Chairperson, FACT Inc.
with Bernadette Bowey-Hills Eileen Evert from Perth spent the first week of the New Year with Bernadette and Les in Geraldton – a great week of Celebrations. Bernadette’s Sister Liz was also here for the first month of the New Year, avoiding the cold winter in the UK. The warm weather and sunshine really agrees with her. Bernadette and Les are spending a week on the Murray Princess and some time in Adelaide in the middle of January. June had family for Christmas so her house was full of chatter and merriment. We wish everyone at Tuart Place A GREAT NEW YEAR 2015
Dave is one of the long-term participants who volunteers in a variety of ways to help make things more comfortable for others at Tuart Place. Dave’s ongoing dedication and hard work at Tuart Place for many who were in out-of-home care during childhood. Dave contributes his valuable time to whatever needs to be done: preparing for meals, BBQs, workshops, events, etc. A master of the dish-washing machine, Dave is dedicated to sharing his talents and skills as a part of the team effort that makes Tuart Place a wonderful place to enjoy with friends in a friendly, safe, family atmosphere. Dave is shown here with the donation box he painted and decorated for Tuart Place. On behalf of the FACT Inc, Board, the staff, volunteers and Participants of Tuart Place, thank you Dave.
Royal Commission Workshops Tuart Place hosted a number of sessions under the Royal Commission Support Services Training program in 2014. One of the highlights was the Lighthouse Institute training with Stephan Friedrich, who presented ‘Understanding Complex Trauma and Trauma Informed Practice’ and ‘Preventing Vicarious Trauma in the Workplace’ at Tuart Place in August. Peer mentors, volunteers, and participant leaders joined with Tuart Place staff for this full day of training.
Another very successful training session was presented by ASCA (Adults Surviving Child Abuse) at Tuart Place in June. The all-day workshop was facilitated by Mirna and Heather, and covered key areas in understanding childhood trauma, effects and coping mechanisms, and recovery. An important message is that Recovery is possible. Thank you to Anglicare WA’s Royal Commission Support Service for funding this event.
ASCA Workshop: Facilitators Heather & Mirna at Tuart Place
Happy 70th Mike Hogan Thanks to Gerald Reardon for sending in this photo of his brother Mike Hogan’s surprise 70th birthday party, celebrated with family and friends at Whiteman Park on 21st Nov 2014. Not surprisingly, Mike is the one wearing a yellow jumper that says ‘Hogan 70’! Michael’s son Travis and daughter Brooke are standing next to Mike, under the silver ‘70’ balloons. 13
Scotty finds more family! Peter Scott’s incredibly successful quest to locate birth family continues... While visiting his sister Kathy (on his mother’s side) in Toronto in September last year, Scotty
Catch of the day: Scotty’s dad Alex in 1979
was contacted by his brother Rick and sister Sharon (on his father’s side), and travelled to meet them in Lethbridge, Alberta. Scotty received a great welcome from the family in Alberta, who made him feel very at home, and arranged for him to meet other brothers and sisters. Scotty learned a lot about his dad, Alex Karpiuk, who died in 2001. Scotty says: “They took me to where he worked and other places, and I really got a sense of the man he was. They thought I looked at bit like him, which was great.”
Meeting family in Alberta: (L-R) Jim, Arlene, Scotty, Sharon, Janice
Thanks Donna Percy Thank you Donna Percy for your recent donations to Tuart Place, including furniture and mobility aids such as the electric ‘Gopher’ and a walking frame with wheels and a seat. We’ll make sure they go to a good home.
Sharon models the Gopher donated to Tuart Place. For expressions of interest in the Gopher and walking frame, contact Vicky at Reception.
End-of-Year Picnic 2014
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Tuart Place Service Evaluation Tuart Place is continually seeking to improve its services and regularly seeks input from participants. Feedback Fortnight, conducted in the second half of November 2014, resulted in 28 Forms being submitted by participants, with feedback being overwhelmingly positive. The first set of questions asked participants how they felt about themselves since using Tuart Place services – i.e. did they feel more confident, more at ease, more able to communicate with others, more socially connected, more able to find/ask for support and more hope for the future. There was an average of over 94% agreement with these statements with comments including, “I am learning”. “I am more confident to express the things I am sure of, still need to work on other things and my belief in myself”. “I am now able to talk about my experiences at Tuart”.
“Sometimes I do feel at ease but when I feel stressed I head back to Tuart Place for reassurance.” “Have (hope) now – didn’t before”. “For someone who didn’t know how to read and write – not doing too bad”. The second set of questions related to interaction with the staff and there was 100% agreement that participants felt they were treated with respect, that staff were friendly/approachable/listened well and gave adequate info. “Staff at TP always treat me with respect and encourage me to be proactive. “Staff I feel value my input”. “Always friendly and approachable but get very busy”. When asked what is the best thing about Tuart Place, ‘Non-judgmental’ was raised in one way or another by over one third of respondents. Comments included “feel safe” “no pressure” “accepting of everyone” “not judged” “non-aggressive environment” “freedom to speak or not” “I feel I actually count for something”.
Two thirds of respondents indicated that ‘no changes’ were required to the service when asked for changes and suggestions. Other suggestions included having more parking, opening more days and finding ways to “get the word to other people about TP”. 100% of respondents said they would recommend the service to others and in all cases the comments were sure and positive: “I’ve told lots of people”. “Not only recommend but bring others along”. “For sure”. “Already have”. If anyone would like a copy of the Feedback Form to complete or more information about the data reports, please contact Vicky or Susy.
Heal for Life - Feedback from Cevrina Each year Tuart Place sponsors places on the ‘Heal for Life’ retreats with funds from the Laurie Humphreys Fund. Cevrina was one of those who took up this opportunity in 2014, and she sent us the following feedback: “Thank You to those at Tuart Place who encouraged me to participate in the five day Heal for Life program held at Myalup Pines. A calming place surrounded by nature’s best, laughing kookaburra’s hiding in our famous south west trees, privacy and plenty of fresh air. The facilitator and helpers were also survivors of childhood trauma giving excellent support to anyone
needing it. I found the process a gentle way of connecting to my inner self (child) recognising feelings and releasing energy around those feelings, leaving me with a great technique to enable re-empowerment. Over-all there was huge support and respect from and for everyone who participated. Again many thanks for the wonderful opportunity”. Thanks for providing this great feedback Cevrina. The next 5-day Heal for Life retreat is scheduled for Sunday 8th March to Friday 13th March.
Our Vison is to offer safe, and supportive For morecaring information on Heal for Life: healing for survivors by Website: www.healforlifewa.com.au survivors of childhood Phone: 0439 973 285 abuse and trauma... Email: wa@healforlife.com.au
Forced Adoptions History Project The National Archives of Australia has launched the Forced Adoptions History Project, as part of a program to acknowledge the first anniversary of the Federal Government’s apology to people affected by former forced adoption policies and practices in Australia. The aim is to increase public awareness of the issues; identify and share experiences of forced adoptions; and provide information about how to access records. On 21 March 2015, the second anniversary of the national apology to those affected by former forced adoption
policies and practices, the National Archives of Australia will launch an exhibition about forced adoption practices. If you have been affected by forced adoptions, you may wish to contribute your experience. The website for this project is at: www. forcedadoptions.naa.gov.au 15
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Weekend away in Moore River Friday 10 April to Sunday 12 April 2015 The Tuart Place Social Activities Group is organising a weekend away at Tuppin House in Moore River (one hour’s drive from Perth). Tuppin House is group holiday accommodation overlooking Moore River, with shared or single rooms available. It has kitchen facilities and a deli close by. Some group meals will be organised. Bring your own bedding (sheets, blankets, pillows), snacks and drinks. Guests can stay for the whole weekend, overnight or just drop in for the day, it’s up to you. There’s plenty to do: beaching, barbecuing, fishing, kayaking, paddle boats, hiking, relaxing, golf, lawn bowls, table tennis, darts, playing cards/Bocce etc. Can you suggest more? The cost is yet to be confirmed, but it will be
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The beautiful Moore River Inlet discounted and partly funded by Social Activities Group fundraising. Bookings are essential, please see Kathy or Vicky.
The Staff at Tuart Place
Dr Philippa White Director
Susy Vaughan Senior Therapist
Kathy Bel-Bachir Program Officer
Vicky Fox Receptionist
Jan Newman Social Worker
Where is Tuart Place?
Counselling with Gordon Paton
Our Eco Policy
We are very fortunate to have psychotherapist Gordon Paton on board at Tuart Place. Gordon is a highly experienced psychotherapist, group facilitator and counsellor, and recently retired from the Harry Hunter Drug & Alcohol Residential Rehabilitation Centre, where he worked for 14 years. Gordon also has qualifications in Organisational and Clinical Transactional Analysis. Gordon volunteers his time at Tuart Place and is available for individual counselling sessions on Mondays. He also runs workshops and training (see information on page 2). To book an appointment with Gordon contact Vicky at Reception.
Tuart Place is located in the old Cleo’s Hotel at 24 High Street, in the West End of Fremantle, near the historic Roundhouse. There is no on-site parking, so some of our visitors park at South Beach and catch the Blue Central Area Transit (CAT) Bus, which stops close by in Phillimore Street, just after Cliff Street. If you are travelling on foot from Fremantle Train Station, Tuart Place is a five minute walk.
The Tuart Times is published by PK Print, a West Australian company certified by the Sustainable Green Print and Green Stamp Programs. These programs assist the printing industry to reduce waste and increase recycling. PK Print is certified for Level 2 in both Programs.