Interelate - What's ON

Connecting Couples…keep the romance and passion alive
A three hour seminar on ways to learn keeping the romance and passion alive in relationships
Date: Feb 13th, 2008 Time: Wed 6pm to 9pm Cost: $20 person

Self Esteem & Communication…..a path of personal growth
This six week program focuses on communication, assertiveness and self-awareness skills
Date: Mar 5, 12, 19, 26 Apr 2, 9 Time: Wed 6pm to 9 p.m Cost: $60

Seasons for Growth – a grief and loss program for childrenAn 8 week program designed to educate and assist children through grief issues such as parents splitting up, death of someone close, changing homes, adapting to many other changes.
Date: Feb 20, 27 Mar 5, 12, 19, 26 Apr 2, 9 30 May 7, 14
Time: Wed 4.00pm to 5.00 p.m. Cost: No cost

Being a Dad….tips and hints for positive fathering
A three week course assisting fathers to become more effective parents and to acquire the skills necessary to build closer relationships with their children.
Date: May 21, 28 June 4 Time: Wed 6pm to 9 p.m. Cost: $30

Positive Parenting…developing skills to parent effectively
These three sessions of three hours duration each cover Positive Parenting, The Challenge of Disciplining Children and Ideas for Parenting Teens.
Date: Apr 30, May 7, 14 Time: Wed 6pm to 9 p.m. Cost: $30


Interrelate Family Centre
35 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour
For information and bookings phone
6651 1010

STARTTS 2008 Program

10 December 2007

To Whom It May Concern:

Re: STARTTS 2008 Autumn Women’s Program

STARTTS will be running a program of activities for women from March through to May in 2008. We would like to ask for feedback from women who have come from refugee backgrounds about what types of activities they would like to see provided under this program. Below are some of the ideas for activities that STARTTS are currently considering:

*Bus trips to Grafton and Dorrigo.

*Craft day, this could include a visit to the Beading Warehouse in Coffs Harbour.

*A day in the surf.

*Women’s pamper day.

These are simply suggestions, there is no obligation to participate in any of the above activities, however STARTTS wishes to give women some ideas about the possibilities.

We welcome suggestions from women about other possible activities they may wish to be involved in.

Please contact us at STARTTS on 66 509 195 or call into the office on the corner of Park Avenue and Earl Streets if you are interested in participating in the program or would just like to know more about what’s planned for 2008 generally.

We look forward to talking with you further.

Yours truly,

Lisa White and Denise Tunks
STARTTS Coffs Harbour.

Interagency Success Stories

Hi Everyone,

Just a brief reminder that at the last meeting of the year scheduled for Thursday 13/12/07, 10:30am at Council we will be having some short presentations from all of you on your success stories followed by morning tea and informal networking.

Therefore I need some of you to come forward and share with us your successes, it could be anything, a positive outcome for your service, a successful project or event or a new initiative you may have undertaken, anything you would like to share. I have had some responses but need a couple more willing volunteers.

Looking forward to hearing from some of you soon.

Regards

Kathy

Violence Against Women

The Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission (HREOC) wishes to focus public attention on the worldwide tragedy that International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, on November 25, represents.

HREOC President, John von Doussa QC, Human Rights Commissioner, Graeme Innes AM and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner, Tom Calma are once again White Ribbon Day Ambassadors.

"It is not only an international tragedy that we need to have a day to symbolise and draw attention to the prevalence of violence against women in all societies throughout the world," said Mr von Doussa. "But worse that we, as a nation, must take this day to reflect upon the fact that we consider Australia to be a sophisticated 21st century country, yet violence against women is one of our greatest social problems."

The Australian Bureau of Statistics Personal Safety Survey Australia (2005) found that over 400,000 men were perpetrators of violence against women and almost 1.3 million Australian women had experienced physical and sexual violence from a current or former partner since the age of 15.

"If this tragedy is to be stopped, men must unite with women to make it clear that violence against women is not acceptable in our society under any circumstances," Mr von Doussa said.

"The basic philosophy of human rights is that we should all live free from fear, harassment and discrimination," said Commissioner Innes. "The fact that so many Australian women live their lives with violence means that their human rights are being infringed upon, often on a daily basis. As a nation we need to stop on November 25 and think about why White Ribbon Day exists and look to what we, as individuals and a society, can do to change things for the better."

"Promotion needs to be backed up with action," said Commissioner Calma. "Support services, such as early intervention and prevention programs, and specialist family violence services, to which men and women can turn, are essential in combating this sort of violence and abuse in our society. Continued awareness and innovation, coupled with public and government support for such organisations and programs is absolutely essential, particularly in regard to Indigenous people and communities."

Sex Discrimination Commissioner, Elizabeth Broderick, said "I am particularly heartened by the cross-section and calibre of men who have chosen to be White Ribbon Day Ambassadors – it sends a powerful message to the Australian public. The greater the number of men who speak out as role models to say that violence against women is wrong and not to be tolerated, the greater the chance of combating the problem within our community. Freedom for women from discrimination, harassment and violence is one of the three main themes that I will be discussing with the Australian public during my ‘Listening Tour’, which commences the day after White Ribbon Day."

Position Vacant Coffs Harbour

Department of Health and Ageing
Closing date: Thursday, 22 November 2007NSW State OfficeOffice of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Branch, Indigenous Whole of Government and Mainstream Access Section
Job Title: Solution Broker
Job Type: Ongoing, Non-ongoing (Temporary), Full-time
Salary: $76,718 - $87,498
Location: Coffs Harbour & Dubbo NSW
Classification: Executive Level 1
Position No: Several Positions
Job Description Duties A key priority for the Department of Health and Ageing is to work toward improved health outcomes for Aboriginal peoples. As part of this role the Department has established Solution Broker positions to work with Indigenous Coordination Centres (ICCs) to contribute Health and Ageing expertise in developing whole of Government solutions to better address indigenous disadvantage.As a Solution Broker you will need to focus strategically, harness information and opportunities to explore innovative ideas, steer and implement change, develop relationships with internal and external stakeholders, negotiate persuasively and understand issues impacting on Aboriginal people.You will also represent and promote awareness of the Department’s policy and programs to the ICC, take a lead role in brokering innovative Whole of Government solutions to better meet the health and ageing needs of Aboriginal people, explore opportunities to improve program coordination, flexibility and access and cultivate productive relationships with other Government and non Government agencies and Aboriginal communities.Current drivers license, and the ability to travel within rural and remote areas is required. Notes All applicants must quote reference number 07-1169. Applications close 7pm EDST.This is a Full-time, non-ongoing position for a Specified TermOngoing and non-ongoing positions are available. The positions are not required to commence work until February 2008
About Department of Health and Ageing http://www.health.gov.au/The Department of Health and Ageing is focussed on achieving better health and active ageing for Australians. We need capable and motivated people working with us to make this happen. If you want to join our team, and can meet our job requirements, we invite you to apply for a position with us to build better health, better care and a better life for all Australians. Our selection process is now much simpler. The first step is a written application stating how you meet our core capabilities. If you are short listed, the final step is an interview including a short work sample test. Further information and application forms are available in our Application Kit, available online http://www.health.gov.au or by phoning the contact person for the job. Hearing or speech impaired applicants can obtain the election documents from the Department's TTY number (02) 6289 5945. We welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people from diverse backgrounds.
To Apply
Selection Documentation:
Linda Mere, 02 9263 3564, linda.mere@health.gov.au
Position Contact:
Peter Merrett, 02 9263 3561
Apply:
Effective People Pty Ltd Personnel and Recruitment Consultants PO Box 3907 Weston Creek ACT Australia 2611
Agency Recruitment Site:
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/wcms/publishing.nsf/Content/health-career-vacant.htm

Blokes Course

LIFE SKILLS FOR BLOKES COURSE

FREE ** FREE ** FREE ** FREE ** FREE

A nine–week course for blokes dealing in relationships, communication, anger and resentments, drugs and alcohol, sexuality, fathering and roles of men in today’s society.

WHEN: Commencing 18th October 2007

WHERE: Boambee East Community Centre
Bruce King Drive Boambee East
TIME: Thursday Nights at 7.00 PM
Book your spot by calling
The Neighbourhood House 66584655
Chuck Reimal 0422262825
Lloyd Francis 0412714516

A course for real men to learn to become
better blokes

Submission Writing

Arts Mid North Coast Inc

Grant Submission Writing Workshop
and Consultations
(for the Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca Areas)

25th October 2007
Are you planning to submit a State or Federal Arts funding application in 2007 – 2008
Submission Writing Workshop
9.30 – 12.30 - Thursday 25th October 2007
Learn the basics of Where are the Funds?
Overview and understanding of the submission process
Working up an application
How to increase the potential success of your application
Being clear about what it is you want to do
The Auspice
What type of submission is it?
Reading and understanding the guidelines
Talking over your proposal with a contact Officer
Deadlines
Researching related to your submission
Costing your proposal
Support for your submission
Presentation
Succinctness and Brevity
Follow-up support

Followed by Individual Consultations
Come and discuss your proposal with the Regional Arts Development Officer
Twenty Minute Consultations will be held in the Afternoon from 1.30 – 4.30
25th October at the Coffs Harbour Education Campus
Innovation Centre Board Room
CONSULTATIONS
Please book your time slot Prior to the day
For Bookings or Further Information Contact 02 66589400

Thankyou and have a great day

Russell Stockley
Arts Mid North Coast Inc
C/- Coffs Harbour Education Campus
Hogbin Drive
Coffs Harbour 2450
Ph: 02 66589400
Fax: 02 66589411
Email: russells@artsmidnorthcoast.org
Web: http://www.artsmidnorthcoast.org

African Immigration

Anti-Discrimination Board Statement on Decision to Suspend African Immigration

By the President of the Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW, Dr Stepan Kerkyasharian AM

30 years of the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act

The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Mr Andrews might have been surprised by the reaction to his announcement last week to put a halt to further arrivals of people from Africa . I am sure if he expected people from all walks of life and across the political spectrum to see racism in the decision he wouldn’t have made it and he wouldn’t have presented it the way he did.

Since the official end of the White Australia policy, Australia has prided itself on the non-discriminatory nature of its immigration policy. This year we celebrate 30 years of legislated recognition that we do not discriminate on grounds of race or other characteristics. Mr Andrews, by his comments has introduced a quantum shift in the assessment of potential migrants in that, instead of assessing the individual and individual’s suitability to settle in Australia, we should now assess someone by way of race or country of origin. That is something that has never been done by any of his predecessors from either side of politics since the demise of the White Australia policy.

In fact to do so would surely amount to racial discrimination, because it would fit a classic description of race being the determinant characteristic of a decision, in other words it is the race which is being assessed and not the individual.

Yet, Mr Andrews has apparently created new criteria for assessing who should come and who should not, based on race and country of origin.

What are his criteria for determining that any refugee of Sudanese origin, ipso facto, is not suitable to settle in Australia? We have over the last half century successfully integrated people from almost every conceivable cultural, linguistic, racial and religious background on earth. Of course there were teething problems. Of course each group produced its own crooks and thugs… and its own brilliant students, performers, entrepreneurs and sportspeople.

So, if the Government judges that this latest wave of new settlers is going to have more difficulty than any previous one there might be a reason other than the culture or race of the people themselves. Perhaps we did not serve these desperate people well. Perhaps the Department of Immigration was not well prepared to receive and settle people who had experienced the worst that mankind could tolerate?

Why did it decide to send them to so-called non-traditional settlement locations? Why did it not properly prepare those host communities that lacked the infrastructure and the tradition of settling refugees to receive the African arrivals? Why did it outsource the settlement task out of the bureaucracy and effectively removing it from the direct responsibility of Government?

Those questions should be answered in full before we introduce race as a criteria for choosing which refugees to accept. Surely as Australians we are accustomed to caring for those who, through no fault of their own, are destitute and homeless.

Mr Andrews has introduced a racial element that cannot but open the door to accusations of racial discrimination. All Australians, whatever their personal views, will feel the sting of those accusations from our international friends and rivals alike.

The international newsagency Reuters left its clients’ readers, listeners and viewers in no doubt about how they should interpret Mr Andrews decision when it said “Race looms ahead of Australian elections” inferring it pointed to a return of race politics as had been championed by Pauline Hanson a decade ago.

But more importantly it will harm us as a society. It attacks our community harmony and our notions of community harmony by sending signals that its fine to criticise anyone purely on the basis of their ethnic background, without any regard to the damage done to thousands of other law-abiding Australians of the same background. In 2007 that is something we simply don’t need especially in the year that we celebrate the 30 th anniversary of the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission and the establishment of the Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW.

Positions Locum Case Managers

Join a team that makes a difference
The organisation
Community Care Options has a proud 17 year record of providing case management and direct services to older people, people with a disability, people with Dementia and their carers, living in the Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca areas. Our services focus on the empowerment, dignity and independence of our clients and their support network. With over 80 employees, the Organisation provides services to more than 230 people through a range of programs, and operates out of 3 local offices. For more information about the organisation see www.cco.net.au


We have current casual vacancies for Locum Case Managers.
Professionals and final year university students are invited to apply to join our casual register of staff. These positions suit people who want flexible work arrangements, in a well-respected and professional organisation. Locum appointments are available on a casual and project basis. Successful applicants will demonstrate a strong commitment to our values, and will be rewarded with a supportive work environment, ongoing professional development. These positions are paid under Cat 3 of the SACS (NSW State) Award.



Applicants must address all selection criteria outlined below. For a confidential discussion about the positions, contact Nicole Jut on (02) 66502006. Applications to itsupport@cco.net.au or by mail to: The Human Resources Manager, Community Care Options, P.O. Box 1382 Coffs Harbour 2450.

Applications are accepted at any time, however we have immediate vacancies and so applicants are encouraged to submit their application at the earliest opportunity.

Our Programs are funded by the Australian and NSW Governments.
We are proud to be an EEO Employer.


MID NORTH COAST Community Care Options
~ Respect and value people as individuals
~ Strive to improve the quality of life of clients and carers
~ Are guided by an ethical framework
~ Operate in a professional way
~ Encourage creativity & initiative


Selection Criteria – Locum Case Manager

Demonstrated experience/skills:
1. Sensitivity towards people with disabilities, older people and their carers
2. Commitment to the rights of clients
3. Non-judgemental attitude
4. Degree in a people centred discipline or equivalent experience
5. Providing case management for people with complex needs
6. Assessing clients’ service needs
7. Understanding of, and commitment to EEO, OH&S and anti discrimination
8. Record keeping/report writing
9. Financial Management in a work context
10. Work effectively as part of a team
11. Work with minimum supervision
12. Excellent written and verbal communication
13. Confident computer user
14. Current unrestricted NSW Driver's license