Website: tribalwarrior.org
]]>Website: tribalwarrior.org
]]>Website: tribalwarrior.org
]]>Website: tribalwarrior.org
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BE THERE - WATERLOO GREENS 12PM TO 3PM - Saturday 23 February 2013
Six months ago, he started an original program “Family Day on the Block” to tackle the drug problems in his neighbourhood. Once a month, he knocks on the doors of people living in the worst areas of Redfern, invites them to a barbeque and concert, and asks them to stay off drugs and alcohol for the day.
“I get verbally abused every time. I heard some pretty good swear words during this program, mostly from women. And, I got a couple of real threats from drug dealers. They left notes under my house door,” he says.
The police know about it but Shane doesn’t want them to increase his protection.
“I don’t want to run behind the police. I’m not going to let these people intimidate me. That’s what they are trying to do, but it’s not going to work. I’m not looking for a fight or anything but, if I have to, I can defend myself very well.”
Phillips says he started Family Day for his children, and the next generation is worth the risk.
“My kids go outside to play and they see someone taking drugs in front of the house and another person dealing drugs across the street. That’s the image they grow up with and I want to change it.”
Phillips has promoted Family Day in a few media outlets such as SBS and local newspapers. He thinks the publicity could make those opposed to the program back off, though he seeks the media coverage for a different purpose.
“I want to send a message to the people who are now in jail for drug abuse or drug trafficking. I want to make them understand that, after they get out, they won’t be able to come back and do the same illegal things here. The Block has changed and it is still changing,” he says.
Yaara Bou Melhem, an SBS Video Journalist, has followed Shane Phillips on Family Day.
“I was shocked to see how normal it was for those people to see needles on the ground or to have somebody knocking on their door talking about drugs. Obviously, many locals want things to change but the people who benefit from the drug industry are not happy,” she says.
Brad Freeburn, from the Aboriginal Medical Services in Redfern, thinks Phillips is taking significant risks.
“Shane lives on the Block, he walks every day in front of the people he is fighting. He is risking his own safety but he doesn’t want to back off.”
Phillips says Family Day is different from all previous programs trialed in the area because it involves the entire community.
“We got everyone to participate. The police come to barbecue with us on that day; sometimes, they bring a power generator, so we can organise concerts and other activities. The artists sing for free, the doctors in the area provide us with refrigerators for drinks.”
Superintendent Luke Freudenstein from the Redfern Police Station in an interview with SBS said the program has significantly reduced drug-related criminal activity. “The figures are basically a third down on what we've had before, and I do believe days like [this] certainly contribute.”
Still, there are those who doubt the efficiency of such an initiative.
“Well, it is worth the try but, by itself, this program can’t really be successful,” says John Robinson, a doctor with a private practice in Redfern. “The police have to step in and cut off the drug supplies. You can’t tackle a huge drug problem by motivating people only.”
However, Shane Phillips defends his efforts.
“The police [are] running along with us, they are searching people every day and making raids in the worst areas. They put pressure on people. Besides, the message we are sending here is one of support. We don’t judge anybody. All we say is, if you need help, come to us, we will help you. This should encourage people to come forward.”
Brad Freeburn is also optimistic about the outcome of the program.
“I think we are going to see a domino effect – one person who is influenced by the program and then influences other people. It will take time, but it can’t do any harm.”
Source: www.reportage.uts.edu.au/news-detail.cfm?ItemId=15183
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Driving housing and employment
REDFERN WATERLOO Business Advice Service
Family Violence Taskforce Forum
Q & A with Rabbitohs’ Dave Tyrrell
Souths Cares continues to shine
Yaama students have recipe for success
Community Groups Supported by Eveleigh Markets in 2010
The Cupcake Princess of Eveleigh Market
Fun day out for the whole family
Supporting victims of domestic violence
Find out the latest from the Redfern Waterloo Authority:
The NSW Government has announced the establishment of the Sydney Metropolitan Development Authority (SMDA) to drive housing and employment opportunities in specific area serviced by public transport and infrastructure, and to build economies of urban centres.
The SMDA will assume RWA’s functions and use it as a model to benefit all of Sydney. As a priority, SMDA will focus on areas currently administered by RWA including North Eveleigh and Australian Technology Park.
CEO of the RWA, Roy Wakelin-King, will perform the role of Acting CEO of the SMDA and will sit on the interim Board.
Mr Wakelin-King has advised that the work of the RWA will continue as per the current plans, saying, “There have been many exciting developments in the Redfern-Waterloo community through urban renewal and the delivery of important human services and these will not stop.
“These include the upgrade to Redfern Station, the development of North Eveleigh, the implementation of the Built Environment Plan 2, the Aboriginal Employment Program and Human Services Reform.”
Minister for Planning Tony Kelly who announced the changes said: “It [SMDA] will undertake work much like the RWA has done in relation to the redevelopment of Redfern RSL where 84 units are being built right now, next to Redfern Station.
“Sydney will need 770,000 more homes and 760,000 jobs by 2036. These will need to be near transport and services. The SMDA will help plan and deliver that.”
The plans for the SMDA to better integrate land-use and transport planning, creating a more sustainable, affordable and liveable city are currently being developed.
The work on important initiatives in the Redfern-Waterloo area will continue.
Photo: Redfern-Waterloo will be a priority for the SMDA
2010 has been a year of significant development in the Redfern-Waterloo area. The opening of the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence, the new media facility at the Australian Technology Park and the Community Health Centre on Redfern Street all represent the realisation of the fantastic opportunities that are occurring in this area. These events demonstrate the capacity and vibrancy of the Redfern-Waterloo area and its community.
However, the work in Redfern-Waterloo continues in bringing about positive and lasting urban renewal. There remains much to be done and I am looking forward to continuing this work with the community in 2011.
As was announced by the NSW Government in September 2010, the Sydney Metropolitan Development Authority (SMDA) will soon be established. The purpose of the SMDA is to drive housing and employment opportunities in specific area serviced by public transport and infrastructure, and to build economies of urban centres.
As advised by the Government, the Redfern-Waterloo area will be one the first precincts of the SMDA. The work of the RWA will therefore continue in this important area of Sydney and the SMDA will look to build on the great work done by the RWA accordingly.
Key priorities will continue to be the implementation of the Built Environment Plan Stage 2, North Eveleigh and Redfern Station. The ongoing work for Human Services will continue with a focus being on creating sustainable pathways for human service delivery.
Training and education also continues to be a priority with Yaama Dhiyaan and Koori Job Ready courses equipping young Indigenous people with the skills they need to work in the hospitality and construction industries. Over 50 graduates have completed a course through RWA’s Education and Training Program this year.
The Pemulwuy Project for the revitalisation of The Block is being managed by the Aboriginal Housing Company (AHC) with a focus on Indigenous tradition and culture. The redevelopment of The Block represents a wonderful opportunity for the Aboriginal community, not only here in Redfern-Waterloo, but more broadly in NSW and Australia. It as an important symbol for the Aboriginal Community and we wish the AHC the very best for the successful implementation of this project.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families all the very best for the Christmas and the New Year and I look forward to continuing the important work in the Redfern-Waterloo area in 2011.
Roy Wakelin-King
Community News
Indigenous women are being given the opportunity to learn floristry skills as part of a free training course held at Flowers by Mercedes in Redfern.
Providing a fun and supportive learning environment, mentor Mercedes Sarmini has been teaching participants a wide range of floristry skills such as how to make bouquets and wreaths with a focus on native flowers.
“This course runs two days a week over 12 weeks,” explains Ms Sarmini. “All of the flowers and work experience is provided free of charge through Job Services Australia and it is Centrelink, AusStudy and ABStudy approved.”
Loretta, a Redfern local, recently completed the course. She said: “I heard about the course through my case worker. I have really enjoyed learning the different ways to create flowers and the arrangements.”
Natasha, another recent graduate, came from the hospitality industry but was looking for a new and rewarding challenge. “Floristry is so much more enjoyable and relaxing,” she explains.
Ms Sarmini has been overwhelmed by how quickly the students have picked up their floristry skills. “The girls are very talented and particularly love working with native flowers. I hope the course will give them the confidence to take on employment.”
To enrol or sponsor the program, please call 0414 986 490 or email workshops@flowersbymercedes.com.au .
Photo: Loretta (left) and Natasha (right) learn floristry skills from Teacher Mercedes Sarmini
Indigenous produce and cooking tips were showcased by Aunty Beryl, trainer at Yaama Dhiyaan, at the Terra Madre Slow Food Festival in Turin, Italy.
Aunty Beryl and her team of young hospitality trainees were excited about sharing the diversity of Indigenous food with a world-wide audience. There were 5000 other delegates from 130 countries discussing the principle of food that is good, clean and fair.
During her visit, Aunty Beryl was also given the special opportunity to visit the Vatican in Rome for the declaration of Mary MacKillop as a saint.
Photo: Aunty Beryl at the canonisation of Mary MacKillop in Rome
Redfern’s National Centre of Indigenous Excellence (NCIE) has received a substantial financial boost to support young Aboriginal people.
Through a strong partnership with the Redfern-Waterloo Authority, Premier and Minister for Redfern-Waterloo Kristina Keneally visited the centre to hand over the $500,000 cheque which will go towards supporting Indigenous sporting and artistic talent through social and cultural activities, workshops and support groups.
During her visit, Premier Keneally met with the Flying Boomerangs, 30 of Australia’s most promising Indigenous youth football players selected through the QANTAS AFL KickStart Camps who were based at the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence for a week. She also met with NCIE’s CEO Jason Glanville and Chair Sol Bellear.
“The agreement between the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence and Redfern-Waterloo Authority is a critical part of the ongoing urban renewal program in the local area,” said Mr Glanville.
“The $500,000 contribution from the Redfern-Waterloo Authority will assist in increasing services for all young people, in particular by providing career pathways for Aboriginal people across all levels of the Centre’s operations.”
For more information on NCIE please visit www.ncie.org.au.
Photo: From left: Jason Glanville, CEO, and Sol Bellear, Board Director, for National Centre of Indigenous Excellence, Kristina Keneally, NSW Premier and Minister for Redfern-Waterloo, AFL’s Michael O’Loughlin and the AFL Qantas KickStart team
The Redfern-Waterloo Chamber of Commerce is setting the groundwork for future growth with a new constitution and a new name – the South Sydney Business Chamber (SSBC) – to accurately describe its extended constituency.
The Chamber has been extended and now covers the geographical area defined: to the north by Cleveland Street to City Road; to the south by Gardeners Road; to the west by City Road and the boundary defined by Newtown Business Precinct Association (including Golden Grove, Wilson and Burren Streets); and to the east by South Dowling Street.
The Chamber aims to build a more broadly based and larger organisation offering a wide range of benefits to members and to represent the needs of business in the area. This includes an Alliance Partnership with NSW Business Chamber to provide SSBC members with access to support services, advice and networking benefits at no extra cost to the business.
“The purpose of the Chamber is to provide a forum to enable businesses in the area to connect and to exchange and develop views, perspectives and ideas,” says President Mary-Lynne Pidcock.
“We now have a good executive team but for continued growth we need sponsorship and funding to meet the objectives of the strategic plan. We are hoping to employ an Indigenous Executive Assistant in the near future.”
For more information please visit www.ssbusinesschamber.com.au .
Are you starting a new business or growing an existing business? Free Business Advice - Confidential professional advice. Bookings: Redfern-Waterloo Authority Ph: 02 9202 9100
The development application for the Pemulwuy Project to redevelop The Block with an emphasis on Indigenous tradition cultural values and spirituality includes a proposal for affordable housing and community facilities.
The Aboriginal Housing Company (AHC) is delivering the $65 million project and is working with residents and local government agencies throughout the development process.
Mick Mundine, CEO of the AHC, said this state significant project will create a brighter future for Redfern and a much brighter future for the children.
“Our vision is to create a safe and secure environment which will strengthen the community in the long term and combat the social disadvantage currently present in The Block.”
Photo: Building better opportunities and facilities at The Block
Improving service access for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) women who are victims of domestic violence was the focus of a forum run by RWA in October 2010.
Jenny Huxley, RWA’s Senior Project Manager, organised the forum for Redfern-Waterloo agencies and service providers around reducing the incidence of family violence, improving service quality for migrant communities, improving support for vulnerable people and building community capacity.
Key note speakers included Rukhshana Sarwar and Stephanie Phan from Migrant Women’s Speak Out and Chris Yuen, Principal Solicitor from the Immigration Advice and Rights Centre.
A panel discussion involved: Bill Yan from South Sydney Community Aid; Sian Popp, Redfern Police Domestic Violence Liaison Officer; Donna Polletti from Redfern Legal Centre’s Yellow Card Program; Tatiya Hardie from Sydney Women’s Domestic Violence Court Assistance Scheme; Susan Fowler from The Shop Women and Girls Centre; Aggie Hatata from Elsie Women’s Refuge; Maureen Hill from the Cleveland Centre; and Marie Mooney from Sydney City Family Relationship Centre.
Photo: Speakers at the RWA forum to improve services for CALD women who are victims of domestic violence.
A new Housing NSW development in Walker Street, Redfern is now ready and has been awarded a 5 Star Green Star Rating.
The new 106 dwellings comprise a mixture of one and two bedroom apartments and townhouses. The project is designed to reduce energy consumption with 45 per cent of water demand met by non-potable water.
Some of the design features include maximising natural light and ventilation, use of native plants, rainwater tanks and grey water recycling systems, and energy efficient building materials.
The local community was invited to attend a tour of the new development in November to see the top design features for themselves. Tenants have now moved in.
Photo: The sustainable redevelopment of Walker Street, Redfern
SOUTHS CARES
Rabbitohs player Dave Tyrrell isn’t only a star on the football pitch – he is also helping to mentor local children through the South Cares Program. We talk to Dave about how his community work is making a difference – and how eating lollies helps him prepare for a game.
When did you get involved with the South Cares Program?
I got involved in 2009 through the Teachers’ Aide program. We started going out to La Perouse Public School to work with the teachers and the kids and it’s been a rewarding experience every since.
Can you tell us more about the Teacher’s Aide Program?
We sit in the classroom with the students and help them answer the questions the teacher sets for their work. We try and keep the schoolwork away from football to help the kids concentrate on the work rather than footy.
What benefits does the program have for local children?
The kids get to work with us on their school work and they get to know us away from the footy field or their TV. A lot of kids see footballers as role models so they look up to us and use us to help them study and to become better students. We always try to set a good example for them to follow.
What has been the highlight of taking part in South Cares?
The highlight is definitely working with the kids. The children enjoy having the players there and we have the opportunity to encourage them to do their work and to explain to them why doing their school is important. It’s also good to give back to the community. They put so much passion and support into us on the field so it’s good to give them something back. It’s also fun. It keeps your feet on the ground.
What inspires you both on and off the field?
On the field I try my best to not let anyone down. We’re all working towards the same goal so we all play for each other. We all want to play and secure a position in the NRL side. Off the field my inspiration is the kids we work with and seeing them learn.
How do you settle your nerves before a game?
I eat jellybeans. I don’t know why it works, but it does. I love my lollies.
What do you like doing in your spare time to relax?
I like watching TV and playing on my Xbox. I also like to get out and have a hit of golf. I find it very relaxing.
What has been your football highlight so far this year?
The Tigers game at ANZ Stadium was awesome. It went to golden point extra time and we won after the final siren when Dylan Farrell scored his third try on debut. It was such a good team performance and it was great to be a part of it.
What makes the Redfern-Waterloo area special to you?
It is the home of the Rabbitohs, and at the Rabbitohs, I feel at home. We are all part of the Rabbitohs family. Our Club is located there including our training facilities so it is very much home for me in Sydney.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Hopefully I’ll still be playing for the Rabbitohs! I’m only 22 years of age so hopefully I’ll still be running around in the red and green in ten years time.
Congratulations to the whole Rabbitohs squad who has been awarded the Souths Cares Award for 2010.
Contributing over 1,200 hours to the community as part of the Souths Cares and NRL one Community programs throughout 2010, the entire squad won the award this year as all players contribute to Souths Cares’ programs throughout the year and it was impossible to single out one or two players for their efforts.
The team was presented with the award at the Red and Green Ball, the Rabbitohs annual fundraising event for South Cares, held at the Australian Technology Park in October 2010. Player Issac Luke took out the prestigious George Piggins Medal for the Club’s best and fairest player in 2010. Luke had a stellar season for the Rabbitohs, leading from the front throughout the entire season to win the Club’s top gong.
Photo: The annual Red and Green Ball raises funds for the South Cares Program
PROFILES
Wyanga Aboriginal Aged Care provides low level care for Aboriginal elders in the local community. CEO Millie Ingram explains more about its services and its vision to set up an aged care nursing home specifically for Aboriginal people.
Millie has been involved with Wyanga Aged Care for many years, starting on the Board of Directors, becoming Chair in 2003, and appointed CEO in 2005.
“We provide what is classified as low level care in our clients own home under Community Aged Care Packages (CACP),” explains Millie. “This includes such things as arranging home visits, transport, cleaning, excursions and activities. We also act as advocates if a client has an issue with telephone and utility companies and Centrelink.”
Wyanga’s vital care is provided to Aboriginal elders in the inner city area and La Perouse. Wyanga will also assist those within the metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council boundary on a needs basis.
“Since I started at Wyanga I have seen our client base increase from 10 to 50. We also have 23 people on home visiting and 10 people on a waiting list for services,” Millie says.
Offering three areas of care – CACP, home visiting and respite care – Millie has been working hard for the past three years on obtaining a much-needed culturally appropriate aged care residential facility for Aboriginal elders in need of high level care.
“There is no aged care facility offering high level care that caters for the needs of Aboriginal people. Families do not feel comfortable sending their elders in to mainstream nursing homes because of their feeling of isolation so they either stay at home or in a hospital unit.
“My vision is to provide a multi-purpose nursing home and palliative care that is culturally appropriate. We are currently investigating a suitable site for this and are putting together a management plan.”
Originally operating out of a poor-quality rented premises in Redfern, the Indigenous Land Corporation supplied funds for an administration centre, purchasing and renovating 35 Cope St in Redfern where the organisation continues to be based. Wyanga receives its funding from the Commonwealth Department of Health & Ageing and the State government through Ageing Disability and Home Care
“At Wyanga, many of our clients live in high rise buildings so the services we provide mean they are not socially isolated,” Millie says.
“It is really rewarding seeing the clients becoming involved in Wyanga itself and get so involved with the activities that we run. I hope to see the program increase.”
Photo: Millie Ingram, CEO of Wyanga Aboriginal Aged Care
RWA would
like to congratulate Patrick Russell, The Factory Community Coordinator, who
has retired after 10 years of service.
A get together was held in October 2010 at the Tudor Hotel in Redfern to recognise Patrick’s valued contribution to the Redfern and Waterloo community.
PROFILES
Celebrating 27 years with South Sydney Youth Services (SSYS), Director Shane Brown tells us how the organisation continues to help local young people and the exciting plans ahead including a new premises and arts centre.
“ I was the sole youth worker for five years when I started at SSYS,” says Shane Brown, now Director. “My role was hanging around the streets at night to assist young people.”
Shane has been instrumental in providing a much-needed support network for young people, children and families over the last 27 years. Shane’s commitment was recently recognised at a surprise party where over 130 members of the community attended to celebrate his achievements.
SSYS values working so closely with what Shane describes as a ‘generous and welcoming community’ and has enjoyed working closely with other community organisations such as The Factory Youth Service and The Settlement. Shane is also grateful for the funding SSYS receives from the federal, state and local government.
“The City of Sydney is funding the building of our new premises near Waterloo Oval and RWA is leasing a new space to us at North Eveleigh to run an arts social enterprise which we are really excited about,” says Shane.
The new SSYS headquarters will have high environmental standards and will include a roof top garden where young people can grow their own herbs and vegetables. The arts space will enable the mental health team to provide therapeutic art classes with the opportunity for local community artists to exhibit and sell their work.
There is 30 SSYS staff who provide a variety of services including mental health, Aboriginal counselling, juvenile justice programs and education programs. SSYS also has a partnership with South Sydney Community Transport that has generously donated the use of one of its vans for the street beat program.
“The van runs from 10pm to 3am and can pick up around 60 young people per night across the South Sydney area including Redfern, Marrickville and Canterbury,” explains Shane. “This reduces young people being perpetrators of crime or being victims.”
SSYS started operation in 1975 by a group of local Aboriginal mothers who were concerned about the welfare of teenagers in the local area. Since joining, one of Shane’s career highlights is working with 25 young people to get funding and approval from the Council for a new skate park. It took six years to get the go ahead but over 150 young people now use the park every day.
It was fantastic to see the young people directly involved in this project and its design – it was a monumental achievement, reflects Shane.
Moving forward, Shane’s vision for SSYS is to have at least half or more Aboriginal members on the SSYS Board. He would also like to expand on community projects that involve the local community.
But Shane recognises the challenges ahead.
With rising property prices, housing the homeless and poverty will be a significant hurdle,” he says. “It is a constant challenge identifying what services are needed and where the money is coming from.
However, with the new premises ready in March 2011 and with the new arts venture, Shane and his team are looking forward to providing extended services for young people, children and families in the Redfern-Waterloo community and beyond.
Photo: Director of SSYS Shane Brown at the site of the new SSYS premises that is currently being built
HERITAGE UPDATE
A 26-tonne heritage pivot crane along with a locomotive steam crane is on permanent display at Australian Technology Park to showcase the unique heritage of the Park and to beautify the space for tenants and visitors to enjoy.
The installation of the pivot crane at Innovation Plaza involved erecting the crane on to a plinth and was assembled as an interpretative reconstruction. The heritage steam crane was installed using the existing rail tracks at the old Eveleigh Rail yards site.
Heritage consultant Dr MacLaren North believes the pivot crane was installed in the Wheel Shop around 1917 and operated continuously from that time until its decommissioning in the 1980s. The steam crane is a rare example of a steam powered locomotive crane. Put into service in 1950 immediately prior to the demise of steam power on the New South Wales rail system, it was one of the last two locomotive cranes imported into New South Wales. The other identical steam crane is on display at the Powerhouse Museum.
To compliment the heritage pieces, the Innovation Plaza upgrade also includes the installation of seating made out of heritage beams, lighting and planter boxes.
Photo: The Heritage pivot crane at Innovation Plaza
The unique heritage of the old Eveleigh Rail Yards was captured at a special field day to share and record the history of the site and to shape RWA’s Eveleigh Heritage Interpretation Plan.
Taking place at Australian Technology Park on 30 october 2010, members of the rail yard community generously shared their memories as part of the community consultation.
Juliet Suich, RWA’s Heritage Coordinator, said: “It was a really memorable and important day with lots of tales about the history of the yards being professionally recorded.
“This information will be used for the Heritage Interpretation Plan to ensure that the history of this unique space is captured and shared with the community.”
Some of the tales told on the day included working as apprentices and providing buckets for the workers to clean themselves. The attendees also reflected on how hot it was working at the site during summer and the old rail songs that used to be sung.
Dave Matthews, who works as a heritage restorer, recognises the importance of the day saying, “These workers have some amazing skills and we need to learn about working on the site before all of this information is lost.”
Photo: Heritage Field Day participants share their memories
Every Saturday 8am-1pm. Come Celebrate Summer. An Undercover Marketplace Visit www.eveleighmarket.com.au for all details 243 Wilson St Darlingtoin
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
When Chevy Phillips enrolled in the Koori Job Ready Course, he wouldn’t have predicted that a couple of years later he would be employed as an apprentice carpenter and nominated as a finalist for Indigenous Apprentice of the Year.
“It was always my dream to become a carpenter,” says Chevy. “After completing the Koori Job Ready Course in 2008, RWA put me forward for an apprenticeship with Cubic Interiors and I am now in my second year of my carpentry apprenticeship. I have worked on several building sites such as the Media City building at Australian Technology Park and the University of NSW.
“I feel pretty proud that I was a finalist for the Indigenous Apprentice of the Year through the Group Training Association (GTA) NSW Awards. The event was held at the Four Seasons Hotel in the City in October and although I didn’t win, it was still good to be nominated.”
Chevy is currently working six days a week in the CBD on the construction of a new office block with 400 people on site.
“It is really busy but I am learning a lot,” explains Chevy. “The hardest thing is learning how to set up - the building is curved so there is a lot of work with lasers and we need to work to very specific guidelines.”
“My long term goal is to complete a builders degree and to become a fully trained foreman.”
By the way things are going, Chevy is well on his way to achieving his dream.
Through the Koori Job Ready Course, 113 of students have completed their certificate in construction since 2008, equipping them with the confidence and skills they need to work on a building site.
Photo: Koori Job Ready graduate Chevy Phillips was nominated for Indigenous Apprentice of the Year
Waterloo resident Brendan Carr is giving MasterChef a run for its money, showing off his cooking talents as an apprentice at the Sheraton Hotel, Darling Harbour.
Brendan recently completed a hospitality training course through Yaama Dhiyaan in Darlington, joining many other graduates who have found hospitality employment through the course.
“The first day I was pretty nervous but I am now feeling more confident,” Brendan said on his apprenticeship. “Everyone is really friendly and it’s a good team environment.
“In my first week I prepared a whole buffet by myself and have started preparing meals for room service. It has been pretty stressful but I just kept remembering the chef’s instructions.
“My ambition is to become a fully qualified chef and to travel the world.”
Brendan finished the Yaama Dhiyaan course in July 2010, starting his traineeship in October 2010.
Matt Pletersky, another recent graduate, has also found success, undertaking a traineeship at GG’s Café at CarriageWorks. He started his traineeship in April 2010 and is really enjoying it while also learning a lot.
Over 140 graduates have completed the Yaama Dhiyaan training course since 2006.
Photo: Brendan (left) and Matt (right): recent Yaama Dhiyaan graduates, now apprentice chefs
EVERLEIGH MARKET
Eveleigh Farmers’ Market not only brings fresh local produce to your doorstep – it’s also been helping many local communities throughout the year through fundraising and special events.
The annual Christmas Banner Competition this year has seen 12 local schools and youth organisations get into the festive spirit by designing Christmas banners to be displayedc at Eveleigh Market. The winners are announced on Saturday, 18 December 2010. The winner and people’s choice award winner each receive $1000 with the runner-up receiving $500.
Eveleigh Market has thrown its support behind other community events too including the Feed Sydney Campaign for OZ Harvest to help feed the homeless. Over $1,200 was raised. Oz Harvest will be running the Eveleigh Farmers’ Christmas Market Hamper raffle on Saturday 18 December 2010.
Photo: The Christmas banners from 2009 on display
Photo: Sydney City Farm holds a stall at Eveleigh Market
Being made redundant in finance eight years ago saw Carissa Lake, the Cupcake Princess, find her calling in the kitchen. As one of the first serious cupcake bakers in Sydney, the Cupcake Princess continues to delight kids and adults with her all natural cupcakes sold at Eveleigh Farmers’ Market every Saturday.
“I worked in finance and managed the testing of computerised trading systems here and internationally but I was made redundant,” explains Carissa. “It was when looking through a cookbook that the idea for The Cupcake Princess was born.”
Following a secret recipe that Carissa says she “won’t even share with my Grandmother”, Cupcake Princess caters to the demands of customers’ tastes using natural food colouring and offering gluten, egg and nut free options.
“It’s a real joy to see the children’s faces light up at the market when they see the cupcakes – they get so excited. It makes it really rewarding.”
Carissa runs The Cupcake Princess with her partner Andre who helps in the kitchen, is the face behind the Eveleigh Market stall, and is building their cupcake shop on Mitchell Road in Alexandria which is due to open next year.
Carissa can bake up to 4,000-5,000 cupcakes per week depending on the time of year and what events are taking place. It’s not uncommon for Carissa to bake throughout the night.
“I am proud that our cupcakes are not mass produced – they are all made from scratch, we use free range eggs, and our ingredients are all sourced in Australia so I know exactly what goes in to them. And I’m still not sick of eating them!”
Photo: The Cupcake Princess: Alexandria resident Carissa Lake
EVENTS ROUND-UP
If you haven’t been to the Family and Culture Day at The Block, Redfern, you don’t know what you are missing!
Family and Culture Day is a grassroots community oriented event that takes on the last Saturday of each month. The aim is to bring families back to The Block and to show off the incredible talent within the Redfern Indigenous community.
For the children there is a jumping castle, face painting and other entertainment. The Family and Culture Day is held on the last Saturday of each month so come along and enjoy a fun day out. For more details, please contact Shane Phillips at Tribal Warrior on 9699 3491.Photo: Family and Culture Day provides an opportunity for the whole community to get together for a fun day out
The community garden in James Street, Redfern and the revitalised Charles Kernan Reserve Streets in Darlington were officially opened on 30 October 2010.
James Street Reserve Community Garden is one of the City of Sydney’s network of 15 community gardens where local residents, many who don’t have gardens, work together, grow plants and meet their neighbours. The James Street Reserve community garden was initiated by a local group who continue to manage it, providing new garden beds for growing flowers, fruit and nut trees. Other community gardens are located in Alexandria, Newtown, Waterloo, Glebe, Pyrmont, Annandale and Woolloomooloo.
The revitalised Charles Kernan Reserve at the corner of Abercrombie and Shepherd Streets in Darlington has a community garden, new grass, seating and a drinking fountain with a dog bowl, new playground equipment, a nature play area for toddlers, and a basketball and netball hoop.
Photo: The gardener’s children plant a fruit tree to mark the official opening of the James Street Community Garden in Redfern
The Staying Home Leaving violence (SHLv) project has been announced with the Minister of Community Services Linda Burney invited to a morning tea in September 2010 to mark the launch at The Shop for Women and Girls in Waterloo.
Staying Home Leaving Violence (SHLV) is a specialised domestic violence program aimed at preventing women (and their children) from becoming homeless.
Susan Fowler from The Shop said: “SHLV will enable women affected by domestic violence to access stable accommodation, maintain support networks, and secure employment.
“Available to women in the Redfern area and integrated through key agencies, SHLV also includes risk assessment, safety planning and upgrading security in the victim’s home, court support, liaison with police and other services, referrals to legal advice and counselling and casework to address financial and other issues.”
ABOVE: From left: Minister of Community Services Linda Burney receives an artwork from The Shop’s Jodie Bromley and Susan Fowler to mark the launch of SHLV
GRANTS AND SPONSORSHIPS
An Augusta helicopter from the 723 Squadron landed at the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence to the delight of 400 school children as part of National Children’s Book Week.
‘The event’s focus was to encourage literacy and to make books accessible to everyone”, explains Sarah Garnett, founder of The Benjamin Andrew Footpath Library, who instigated the event with Captain Stefan King, HMAS Albatross Commanding Officer. With the theme “Connecting Communities”, the Book Week barbeque was held for children in the Redfern-Waterloo and Alexandria community.
RWA contributed $2,000 to the event.
Local residents were treated to a special lunch to celebrate the Asian Moon Festival in September 2010. Volunteer Mabel Chang cooked up some Asian fare with lots of plates being returned empty – a good sign that everyone enjoyed it!
The lunch was held at Waterloo Neighbourhood Centre with RWA sponsoring the event along with The Factory, City of Sydney Council, the Community Relations Commission, and the University of New South Wales Community Development Project.
Photo: Volunteer Mabel Chang prepares food for the Asian Moon Festival
The Redfern All Black’s Women’s team took out the Koori Knockout competition, beating off some fierce competition from eight other teams.
The Redfern All Black’s gave it their all, demonstrating true sportsmanship and dedication. The team, made up of 17 Indigenous women aged 16-27 years, received $4,000 in prize money. RWA contributed $1,350 for their uniforms. RWA’s Rohan Tobler and Wayne Gargan took part in the men’s Koori Knockout competition and were then selected to play in the Cairns All Black’s Carnival where they came in the top eight teams.
Photo: Success on the footy pitch: The Redfern All Black’s Women’s team
Local families were treated to a day of fun at Playground in the Park run by South Sydney Community Aid.
RWA contributed $5000 to the event held at Redfern Park in September where children under the age of five and their families participated in a variety of fun activities including pony rides, face painting, clowns, a jumping castle, a puppet show and more! Local resident Breda who attended with her daughter Sarah said: “We have been to a few now – they are really great.”
Playground in the Park is hoping to run more of these events in 2011.
Basketball competition at NCIE
RWA staff joined local basketball talent in the 3 on 3 basketball tournament held at the NCIE.
RWA’s Rohan Tobler, Wayne Dargan, Julie Dodd, Ryan Jackson and Anthony Constantinidis, plus Sarah Sheedy from My Gateway, made up the All Stars team to show their support. The competition was a great success with 16 teams taking part with prizes and a barbeque.
The monthly RWA Email Update informs you of the latest news, development news and events from around the vibrant Redfern-Waterloo area. To subscribe, email Natalie.kikken@rwa.nsw.gov.au with the word ‘Subscribe’ in the subject line.
RWA would like to wish you a safe and happy festive season and a prosperous New Year.
]]>She said her own priorities would include housing, public safety, lighting, better use of public space, and more recreational facilities. “There isn’t a swimming pool south of Cleveland Street while there’s five north of it. They promised the Southern Sydney Aquatic Centre four years ago, and they haven’t even decided on a site yet.”
She also called for a good quality, multi-purpose neighbourhood centre that could be a focus for the community.
She is a strong supporter of the stalled Pemulwuy Project for the redevelopment of the Block. “If it gets off the ground there would be a huge amount of Aboriginal employment in the area. We need the Pemulwuy Project to start, so that there is diverse Aboriginal residency; so that you’ve got public housing, key worker housing, and some private housing all in the one area.” She was optimistic about the project moving forward despite current difficulties.
The issue of carbon trading was raised, and local leader Shane Phillips stressed the importance of involving the Aboriginal community in the process. “It would be great if our people had an opportunity to help try and save the environment through ways that our people have been doing for thousands of years.”
Mr Phillips spoke for many at the meeting when he affirmed the importance of education: “Let the kids learn about their own identity, and their family’s identity, and the big picture, so that they can see the value of education and gain a sense of belonging, and a sense of worth.”
Source: South Sydney Herald August 2008 www.southsydneyherald.com.au
]]>Once a month, locals door-knock the neighbourhood, calling on all drug users and sellers to take a "day off" for what the community calls a Redfern family day. "This is us saying we've had enough," says organiser Shane Phillips.
James, not his real name, is one user. "I hate my life" he says. "I don't want my daughter growing up without a father." James says if Redfern doesn't change, its unlikely he will either.
Living Black video journalist Yaara Bou Melhem went along on the door-knock and found addicts and dealers who are desperately trying to find a different life.
TRANSCRIPT
Redfern has had its fair share of negative attention, not least of all for riots, drugs and violence. But the community here is fed-up and is taking matters into its own hands, by hosting drug-free family days each month. Video journalist Yaara Bou Melhem brings this report on a grassroots community campaign to clean up the streets of Redfern.
VOICEOVER: Redfern's family day event is kicking off in a just few hours time, and organisers are taking on the uncomfortable task of asking drug users and dealers to take the day off.
SHANE PHILIPS, BABANA MEN'S GROUP: So, basically, what we're doing, we hand these out, we go around, people take these. They don't always receive them nicely, but most people do, because they know they're not part of it.
VOICEOVER: Shane Phillips coordinates the event. He's going door-to-door, telling his neighbours there'll be no drinking or drug use, at least for today.
SHANE PHILLIPS: Family and culture day's on again today
MAN: Yeah, bro, yeah.
SHANE PHILLIPS: and as you know, it's alcohol-free and drug-free. Family Day is about reclaiming our community from substance abuse - the sale of substances, drug dealing, people drinking in the street.
VOICEOVER: Family days have been running for the past six months.
Well, it's great. It's a pity it's not every day. It's for these little ones.
VOICEOVER: But it hasn't always gone down well.
SHANE PHILLIPS: Most times what I do is go around, knock on a door, get abused - no, not all the time.
VOICEOVER: Shane says the community is reclaiming the streets of Redfern, to give children the healthy environment they deserve.
SHANE PHILIPS: The signal is we've had enough. We don't want it here. It's not part of our culture.
VOICEOVER: The Block is one of Australia's best-known urban Aboriginal communities, for all the wrong reasons. It's long been associated with crime and drug abuse.
BRAD FREEBURN, ABORIGINAL MEDICAL SERVICE: I really don't know where the turning point was. I really don't. All of a sudden it was like we had this major epidemic.
Brad Freeburn has been working with Redfern's addicts for more than 15 years.
BRAD FREEBURN: Redfern, you got Redfern station - that's pretty central, isn't it? You think about it, 'cause they could get their drugs, they'd get their needles, and they had somewhere to shoot up. And it was this trifecta effect.
VOICEOVER: Needles litter The Block in Redfern.
JOHN: This is the local shooting gallery, yeah. This is where they all shoot up. They shoot up in the corner, over the back, up the lane - you've got another two places round the back here where they do it.
John has been a heroin addict for almost 30 years and offers to show me around The Block.
JOHN: Got a couple of people having a nudge now - I call it a nudge, like a shot - won't be too specific. I'll take you over here, and I'll show you this other place where they do their business. We got kids here - kids play in this little part here, and we got 'em using behind this old van. Just watch yourself as you walk past it. As you can see, there's all paraphernalia here - fit packets and needles and spoons.
REPORTER: So kids play here?
JOHN: Kids play in that little street just behind us here.
VOICEOVER: John has overdosed twice on heroin. He's seeking help for his addiction and is currently on a methadone program. Like most of the people living in Redfern, John knows exactly where he can score.
JOHN: It's a couple of houses over the back - I won't mention any numbers or anything - couple of these houses over here, you can buy it over there.
This 23-year-old says he's speaking with Living Black because he's looking for help. James - not his real name - says there aren't many drugs he doesn't use.
'JAMES': Heroin, coke, speed, LSD, trips - anything to get high - a bit of dope, smoke a bit of weed. I can be more than what I am and I know I can be more than what I am. And I hate what I'm doing to myself.
VOICEOVER: James says he's been in and out of jail and hardly sees his 5-year-old daughter.
'JAMES': I don't want my daughter growing up without a father, if you know what I mean. I could have a shot tomorrow and OD and not come out of it, and I wouldn't want my daughter to say, "Oh, where's my daddy? Where's my dad?" And every night I cry over her.
VOICEOVER: Although James says he wants help, living in Redfern isn't making it very easy.
'JAMES': I dunno - just living in this environment brings a bad vibe to other people and me, myself and young boys and girls my age - it's not a good place to be at the time of growing up. I don't like what I'm doing, but that's the way of life.
BRAD FREEBURN: I feel sorry for families ringing up, going, "I want this bloke in a rehab," or "this girl in a rehab". I say, "Do they know you're ringing?" and they say "No." I say, "We can start it all happening, "but until they walk in the door, nothing's going to happen." That's what you got to tell 'em.
VOICEOVER: Community leader Mick Mundine wants to change Redfern's future.
MICK MUNDINE: That's the needle bus there, right? That's the children's playground, back over there, and this is Redfern Community Centre.
VOICEOVER: He says the needle exchange van is a honey-pot for drug users.
MICK MUNDINE, ABORIGINAL HOUSING COMPANY: Now I believe that needle bus is just destroying our children's mind. I mean, when they grow up they think, "Geez, it's normal to have a needle bus there, "it's normal to get a needle, "it's normal to go shoot up and buy drugs." We got to break that vicious cycle.
VOICEOVER: He's given the needle bus service an ultimatum - move it, or else.
MICK MUNDINE: I gave 'em 10 months. I said, "If the bus isn't out of the community in 10 months, "you'll be locking me up in jail"
VOICEOVER: The health service has justified its visible presence here in Redfern, saying it's one of Sydney's drug hot spots. It says tens of thousands of clean needles are handed out here every month.
PAUL HABER, SYDNEY SW HEALTH SERVICE: Unfortunately, although it's unpleasant at times, our obligation is to prevent outbreaks of HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C.
VOICEOVER: Drug use may be an ongoing problem in Redfern, but police say drug-related crime has dropped dramatically in the area over the past seven months.
SUPERINTENDENT LUKE FREUDENSTEIN, REDFERN POLICE: The figures are basically a third down on what we've had before, and I do believe days like the family day certainly contribute.
SHANE PHILLIPS: Seeing kids play around the place and enjoy being kids is enough for me. And for those fellas who are in the system, this is what it's about, this place now, The Block is about strength and unity and what we can do as a people.
Source: Living Black, SBS - http://news.sbs.com.au/livingblack/blockaid_563617
]]>Phillips called on Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to support one another. “We should spend at least 70 % of our time and energy on celebrating the positives, and only 30% on the negatives,” he lamented. “I’m so proud of Aboriginal peoples and what they’ve achieved. All of us have roles – performers, sportspeople, community workers. You are all community leaders,” he said.
The afternoon featured drumming, dancing, choirs, bands and musicians from all over the world. The Doudoumba Drums of Africa was a big hit with the audience. As was the country-styled Sharnee Fenwick Band. Fenwick won the Young Deadly of the Year in 2006 at the Opera House and has a song nominated for Song of the Year in 2007. ::.
Photo: Andrew Collis - The Sharnee Fenwick Band
Photo: Andrew Collis - The Doudoumba Drums of Africa
Source South Sydney Herald September 2007 - www.southsydneyherald.com.au ]]>