Annual Report 2014 - 2015

Annual Report 

2014-2015

OUR PURPOSE 

• To provide Peer support, Trauma and Early Crisis Intervention, 

practical assistance, empathy, compassion and understanding to 

victims of:- 

• Homicide 

• Manslaughter 

• Vehicular Manslaughter 

• To continue to foster and encourage awareness for the needs of 

homicide victims whilst promoting education and reform. 

• To continue to promote and develop our primary vehicles which 

are:- 

• Our volunteer program that introduces people who have 

experienced the loss of a loved one to others who have also 

experienced a loss 

• Our fundraising arm Daisy Chain Foundation 

• Our education and awareness campaigns including One Punch 

Can Kill and Walk with Me 

VISION 

The Queensland Homicide Victims’ Support Group will continue to be the 

leading Queensland based group in the promotion and provision of 

meaningful peer support to those who have lost a loved one or have been 

a witness to homicide and in bringing awareness and education to the 

wider community. 

1 Annual Report 2014-2015

OUR CORE VALUES 

We are committed to treating all people with dignity, respect and confidentiality. 

We recognise and value contributions from all our members towards the 

achievement of our objectives. 

Integrity 

Clients, staff, volunteers and stakeholders can expect honest and accountable 

actions that uphold their rights. 

QHVSG continues to demonstrate this by: 

• Ensuring staff and volunteers are responsible for their decisions and actions 

• Maintaining privacy and confidentiality 

• Being committed to continuous improvement via education and research 

• Welcoming feedback 

• Addressing service delivery concerns from members 

• Acting in accordance with legal obligations 

• Planning for the organisation’s viability and future 

Diversity 

QHVSG recognises the wide-range of individuals who contribute to our 

organisation and the community. 

We are conscious of providing a non-discriminatory and culturally sensitive 

service that is timely in its response. 

Respect 

We value each other’s stories, experiences, thoughts and ideas and strive at all 

times to treat one another with dignity and respect in the provision of peer group 

services, development of staff, and valuable relationships with our generous 

volunteers. 


Table of Contents 

QHVSG Team 

President’s Foreword 

GM Report 

Established in 1995 

Achievements 

Those in Support 

Board of Management 

Supporting Families 

Informing the Community 

Our Team of Volunteers 

Our Valued Partners 

Treasurer’s Report 

Queensland Homicide Victims’ 

Support Group 

Tel: 07 38574744 

Email: admin@qhvsg.org.au 

Web: www.qhvsg.org.au 

PO Box 292 

Lutwyche Queensland 4030 

AUSTRALIA 


QHVSG Team 

Board of Management 

2014- 2015 

Valued Staff 

President 

Vice President 

Secretary 

Treasurer 

Debbie Lawler 

Helen Wallace 

Geoff Sheldon 

Marie Newell 

General Manager 

Ross Thompson 

Senior Family Support Coordinator 

Paula Starmer 

Board Members 

• Vicky Blackburn 

• Doug Elsmore 

• Monique Ferrario 

• Scott Furlong 

• Tina Good 

• Sherrie Meyer 

• Leanne Pullen 

• Kim Lewin (Resigned) 

• Ilaria Legge (Resigned) 

Family Support Coordinators 

Berni Palings 

Soraya Seklaoui 

Elaine Henderson 

Ellie Kelly 

Deborah Taylor 

Finance Officer 

Robin Christmas 

Volunteer Coordinator/Administration 

Leanne Murfitt 

Subcommittees 

Legislative and Law Review: 

QHVSG participates in legislative evaluation 

and reform by working to improve 

circumstances for victims of homicide. 

Fundraising and Events: 

To help expand the opportunities and services 

offered by QHVSG. The fundraising committee 

is responsible for developing programs that 

supplement government funding. 

Media and PR: 

To provide information and comments 

supporting the purpose and integrity of the 

Organization. 

Education: 

To assist the victims of homicide in the education 

process; regarding their rights and how they may 

obtain or source information in support of their 

rights. QHVSG is also involved in community 

education to promote awareness of the 

organisation. 

Support & Regional Development: 

To improve and develop regional peer support 

through Queensland for all members 

Finance: 

The committee’s task is to manage and audit the 

movement of funds in accordance with the 

budget and the service agreement obligations. 


Foreword – President 

Debbie Lawler 

been an honour to have served our members in 

this way. I have met so many wonderful people 

over this time and shed many tears with my 

peers. I have served with many like-minded, 

committed and passionate people over the 

years and the past year has been no exception. 

The year 2014 to 2015 was a big year in the 

history of our organisation, being our 20 th 

Anniversary year. 

It was a year of hard work and achievements 

and we welcomed 599 new family members to 

our group. There were 56 precious lives stolen. 

At the 2014 Annual General Meeting (AGM), a 

full Board was nominated – 11 very committed 

colleagues – Helen Wallace (Vice-President), 

Geoff Sheldon (Secretary), Marie Newell 

(Treasurer) and general members, Vicky 

Blackburn, Doug Elsmore, Monique Ferrario, 

Scott Furlong, Ilaria Legge, Kim Lewin, Sherrie 

Meyer and Leanne Pullen. Throughout the year, 

Kim and Ilaria resigned from their positions and 

we thank them for being a part of the team and 

for their input. In July, we welcomed back to 

the Board (Secretary in 2012-2013), Tina Good. 

We have continued to work closely alongside 

the Queensland Police Service with the 

Homicide Squad continuing “nonstop” until they 

have found the perpetrators. As a result, we 

have supported and cared for over 2885 family 

members. 

I take this opportunity to thank the Attorney- 

General’s Department and Victim Assist 

Queensland for their continued funding support 

and their support in attending our annual 

events as well. Without the funding, our 

organisation would not be able to give the 

support to the thousands of people who rely on 

our specialist services. These not only being 

Queensland members, but to all our members 

throughout Australia and overseas. 

I have now served as a member of the Board for 

ten years, half of the life of the organisation, 

with eight of them being as President. It has 

At this time, I also want to make special 

mention of our General Manager, Ross 

Thompson who once again, has worked far and 

beyond and as continued to work in his usual 

quiet, yet zealous ways, to ensure that QHVSG 

continues to grow from strength to strength 

ensuring that our organisation remains a force 


to be reckoned with in the community in 

offering the unique assistance required to 

victims of homicide. Ross’s passion and care for 

the organisation, our members and the greater 

community, continues to be second to none. 

Ross also continues to be a very well respected 

community leader in government and amongst 

our stakeholders. 

We are continuing to further the message of 

“One Punch Can Kill ” (OPCK). We continue to 

work with Queensland AFL Masters and have 

written and submitted a business case to 

government for funding. Our school and 

university presentations are ongoing. 

Our partnership with the Queensland Police 

Service continues to grow and strengthen and 

our Patron, Commissioner Ian Stewart has just 

announced that the OPCK decal sticker will be 

affixed to all the marked police vehicles, 

particularly vehicles used by District Crime 

Prevention Coordinators, Volunteers in Policing 

and Police Liaison Officers. This is wonderful 

news and a testament to our organisation’s 

desire to be a part of crime prevention with the 

result of a stemming the continuous number of 

senseless acts of violence in our communities. 

The Board, with the inception of the Support and 

Regional Development Committee, the Family 

Support Co-ordinators and volunteers throughout 

the State has seen the regional areas continue to 

increase in the number of members attending 

support meetings, our Memorial Services and 

Awareness Days. The Gold Coast group held a 

very successful ‘Walk for Support’ with over 100 

members and community members participating. 

Brisbane then held its inaugural ‘Walk for 

Support’ later in the year and this will lead to 

more regional areas following suit. 

Our drive for the development of the regions, the 

development of the team leader training and 

further volunteer training will continue along 

with running more events for members to join in 

and be a part of. 

Our staff remains committed to the work of 

QHVSG and the support of our members. Ross 

has certainly been blessed with a great team of 

people who have developed into a very cohesive 

and hardworking team. They have proved, time 

and time again, that nothing is too much when it 

comes to supporting our members. The staff are 

continually working on finding better ways to 

achieve our goals and one major goal is for our 


volunteer base is increase and for the training to 

be developed. The Board will be working with 

the staff over the coming year to bring this goal 

to fruition. 

I also make special mention of our office support 

staff – Robin Christmas, our Finance Officer and 

Leanne Murfitt, our Volunteer/Trainer Coordinator, 

for their continued efforts in their very 

important roles. We also have many student 

volunteers who assist our staff with the very 

important task of keeping in regular contact with 

our members. As you can appreciate, there are 

so many people who we assist, that our staff 

cannot make contact with as many of our 

members as they would like in their limited 

hours. Our volunteers help share the load and 

are able to give that invaluable time and a 

listening ear to our members. 

Ross Thompson and I also proudly represented 

our organisation at the Police Memorial Services 

in September. 

Memorial Days were held throughout the State 

in September 2014. They were very well 

attended, and as always, were beautiful services 

in memory of our loved ones. We welcomed 

Commissioner Ian Stewart to our Brisbane 

service and thank him for his time and kind 

words on a day where he had two other events 

to attend. 

The Commissioner’s support of our organisation 

is very strong as the Commissioner always 

ensures that if he can’t attend our events that a 

representative is always there and ready to 

speak. The strength of this support was made 

very evident when the Commissioner hosted a 

special event to celebrate our 20 years as an 

organisation at Police Headquarters. I take this 

opportunity to thank the Commissioner and the 

QPS members for this and their ongoing 

support. In gratitude for his continued support 

and his dedication to his role as our Patron, we 

presented the Commissioner with an Honorary 

Life Membership at this event. 

Awareness Days were held throughout the 

State. In Brisbane this year, we had many 

speakers supporting us, members speaking and 

giving of themselves to share their stories of 

their loss and why we need our organisation to 

keep them going. Once again, the shoe display 

drew in the passers-by to ask questions and 

even sign up for volunteering. 

We had members from Crosstown Artists who 

performed several poems from the play 


“Slammed” which is a compilation of short 

stories performed on stage by young actors 

about youth violence. It is a very full on 

production and speaks volumes to the needs of 

the community to do something about the 

youth violence that is so apparent in our 

community. The full production “Slammed” was 

presented at the Powerhouse in Brisbane in 

mid-2015. The play was passionate and 

powerful. There are plans for further plays to be 

written and for “Slammed” to be presented in 

other regional areas. 

I take this opportunity to thank all of our 

wonderful corporate sponsors who continue to 

offer both financial and professional support to 

our organisation. 

• AFL Masters 

• Australian Health & Safety 

Supplies 

• Best Signs 

• Gambling Community Benefit 

Fund 

• Ipswich City Council 

• Kedron-Wavell Services Club 

• Macrossan & Amiet Solicitors 

Charitable Foundation 

• McInnes Wilson Lawyers 

• Metropolitan Funerals 

• Queensland Police Service 

• Studio Culture 

• The Daniel Morcombe Foundation 

• Victim Assist Queensland 

I would like to encourage as many of you as 

possible to become involved in our organisation 

and meet more of your peers throughout the 

year at our events and also at your local peer 

support meetings. 

2016 is gearing up to be another year of continual 

improvement in governance areas, relationships 

with sponsors, government and stakeholders, 

development of the OPCK campaign and more 

involvement and events for our members in 

Brisbane and the regions. Our new Strategic Plan 

for 2016 to 2020 will be written and I am looking 

forward to the next chapter in the life of QHVSG. 

It is with some sadness that I acknowledge I am 

writing my last President’s Foreword at this time. 

However, my time as President has been (8 

Years) and look forward to supporting and 

assisting the new President. 

I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and 

New Year with family and friends. 

With warmest regards 

Debbie Lawler 

President 

I make special mention of the wonderful team of 

Board members that I have had the honour of 

serving alongside during 2014-2015. At the 2014 

AGM, we said good-bye to one board member 

and welcomed six new ones. It has been a 

wonderful year of joining together, and working 

towards, a better organisation for our members 

and greater awareness in the community. 


General Manager – Report 

Ross Thompson 

I wish to congratulate the outgoing Board of 

Management for their devoted hard work and their 

contribution over the last twelve months, achieving 

enormous goals for the organisation. 

Over the last 12 months the organisation has 

exceeded its own goals within the state and has 

also been recognized nationally for its outstanding 

achievements. 

There is not much that Debbie has left out in her 

comprehensive report for the year and rather than 

repeat what she has said, I will keep my report 

brief. I would, however, like to reiterate my 

heartfelt gratitude for those in our team who make 

the organisation as successful as it is. 

We have been very successful in gaining the 

support of government with the introduction of the 

new One Punch Laws: "Unlawful Attack 

Occasioning Death" last year. Sadly, the tragic loss 

of two AFL stars Wayne Dover and Bruce Steensen 

to one punch has had a lot to do with the change, 

and to the way the public has responded to such 

violence. Not only has this been the major push to 

change the laws in this state but it has also given us 

the inspiration to revamp the OPCK logo and the 

campaign to a new high with a current FaceBook 

membership of over 33,000 along with many new 

products at our online store. 

We are presently in talks with the current 

government to have the OPCK logos placed on 

Police Vehicles as mentioned by the President 

Debbie Lawler 

For those who have not yet been to the new web 

sites for QHVSG, Daisy Chain Foundation and the 

One Punch Can Kill (http://qhvsg.org.au/ ) I urge 

you to do so. These sites are of the utmost quality 

and provide a lot of information for all, particularly 

for families that have lost a loved one to violence. 

We are endeavouring to keep these sites as up to 

date as possible with the aim not only of providing 

general information, but also details of current 

projects or events within the organisation. 

We welcome Deborah Taylor as a Family Support 

Coordinator for the South Eastern Region (to help in 

Paula’s absence). Deborah had been helping us out 

for some time in the capacity as student and 

volunteer prior to taking on the position of Family 

Support Coordinator. I am sure that she will fill the 

gap left by Paula and we all wish her the best in her 

new role. 

Established in 1995 … 

…since five families learnt of each other’s 

anguish through a newspaper article, the 

Queensland Homicide Victims’ Support Group 

(QHVSG) continues to be the sole provider of 

peer support services to families affected by 

homicide in Queensland and celebrating our 

20 th year. 

Through ongoing partnership with the 

Queensland Police Service, QHVSG is referred 

to families within 48 hours of the homicide 

occurring; ensuring families have access to 

support, guidance and reassurance. QHVSG 

works with the Police to organize crime scene 

cleanup and other matters, allowing the 

families to focus on more pressing issues such 

as counselling, spending time with family, and 

organizing the funeral of their loved one. 


Over the years that follow, QHVSG 

encourages families to keep in touch with the 

group through a free call number, so we can 

provide support, information and advice to 

families on a range of issues including helping 

families understand the legal proceedings 

and their right to participate in this. 

Often families experience a range of setbacks 

after the homicide of a loved one. The 

pressure and strain placed on families has a 

significant impact on an individual’s coping 

ability, their mental alertness, concentration 

and memory are all affected. 

Traumatic grief also has an incredible impact 

on a person’s physical health and can lead to 

ongoing minor ailments, or even more 

serious health complications. 

victims of homicide, advancements in the 

area of law reform can, and do occur. 

QHVSG prides itself on being one of 

Queensland’s strongest advocates for victims 

of violence, through our ability to work 

collaboratively with stakeholders, media and 

the judiciary. 

Our strength and capacity to achieve our 

goals relies directly on the level of volunteer 

input received, particularly from victims of 

homicide. We encourage active involvement 

from our members in shaping QHVSG’s 

direction and operations. 

The QHVSG plays a role in the minimization 

of this, through the provision of a 24 hour 

crisis line, home visits, support meetings and 

facilitating peer support interactions 

between families/individuals. 

Perhaps the most unique part of 

bereavement by homicide is the experience 

of navigating the legal system during times of 

great stress. Families are faced with having 

to interpret the many occurrences within the 

criminal justice system, and an incredible 

sense of disempowerment that comes from 

relinquishing control of perhaps the greatest 

tragedy of one’s life. 

Again, QHVSG advocates daily for families 

ensuring that our members have access to 

accurate and timely information regarding 

the prosecution of their loved one’s 

perpetrator, and encouraging them to 

participate in the few areas available, such as 

writing of Victim 

Impact Statements and submissions in 

relation to parole applications. 

Whilst QHVSG is not considered a lobby 

group, through continuing to raise 

community and stakeholder awareness 

regarding the systemic challenges facing 


Achievements 

Statistical data for 2014-2015 

Number of hours spent providing 

information, advice and referral 

Number of hours of needs 

assessment and case management 

provided 

Number of hours of mutual support 

and self-help provided 

Number of hours providing volunteer 

development and placement 

Number of hours of community 

education provided 

Number of hours of professional 

training provided 

Total number of clients who received 

personal support 

1943 

3492 

4948 

912 

404 

516 

2773 

Number of new clients who received 

personal support 

697 

Number of active case/support plans 2885 

Number of new case/support plans 1086 

Number of case/support plans closed 73 

Number of Aboriginal and Torres 

Strait Islander clients 

81 

Number of Culturally and 

linguistically diverse clients 

Number of contacts (who did not 

become a client) 

Number of volunteers who received 

support 

Number of participants who received 

community education 

Number of participants who received 

professional training 

Policy Development 

20 

176 

51 

10018 

In 2014-2015, we have continued updating 

policies and have completed the task of having 

current and acceptable policies. 

The development of policies as outlined in the 

“recommendations” will enhance the 

relationship between Government and the 

community sector and provide the basis for 

practical support to ensure that our Non- 

Government Organisation is able to function as 

effectively and efficiently as possible. All 

20 

policies are incorporated in a manual for 

members to view. 

Team Leaders 

Our focus continued, as it did in 2013-2014, on 

building local support hubs throughout the 

State. The development and nurturing of these 

hubs by volunteers is critical in the support of 

victims. These groups also help in covering 

QHVSG’s three areas of support, education and 

reform. 

To support our Team Leaders in their role, 

QHVSG is constantly looking at ways of 

improving service delivery. Such strategies 

include utilizing technology to reduce staff 

workload; thereby making communication 

easier, and providing external access to head 

office resources. 

Committees 

There has been some very good work 

undertaken by the various committees which 

has led to new initiatives in awareness, 

education and fundraising. Programs included 

QHVSG, “Schoolies” Awareness and ‘One 

Punch Can Kill’ Campaign, new web sites etc. 

The continuing goal for 2015/16 is to 

strengthen the committees through the 

provision of operational guidelines and 

additional members to share the load. 

Message from the Board of Management 

QHVSG staff and Board of Management can 

not provide the support, fundraising, training 

and education necessary to manage the 

organisation on their own. It is through the 

generous time and effort of many volunteers 

that QHVSG is able to ensure that our 

members’ needs are met. Thanks to so many 

for generously donating their personal time to 

share the load. 


Those in Support 

Paula Starmer 

Deborah Taylor 

In October I was fortunate to be appointed as a 

Family Support Coordinator with QHVSG. It is has 

been an incredible privilege to join the team. 

Having completed my work placement last year I 

continued to volunteer my counselling support 

through 2015 developing and consolidating 

ongoing relationships with member families. It is 

a truly humbling experience engaging and 

supporting members as they navigate their very 

personal journey of grief and recovery after 

homicide. 

In Paula’s absence I am honoured to report the 

key highlights of the Southeastern region for 

2014/15. The annual 2014 Memorial Day was 

held once again at the Albion Baptist Church. It 

was a beautiful service attended by over 150 

members providing an opportunity for family, 

friends and community to share special 

memories and pay tribute to their loved ones. 

The service culminated with the symbolic release 

of butterflies and morning tea. If there is enough 

support and interest in the future it would be 

wonderful to see a similar memorial service 

arranged for the Gold Coast. 

In May 2015, our Homicide Awareness Days 

were held in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast 

which also included a Walk for Support as part of 

their program. Both events attracted 

outstanding support from government 

departments, non-government agencies, the 

Queensland Police Service and Victim Assist 

Queensland. The success of these events would 

not be possible without the passionate 

commitment and ongoing support of our 

Brisbane and Gold Coast members who underpin 

our ongoing efforts to highlight homicide 

awareness. The Gold Coast team is hoping to 

make Walk for Support a regular feature in 

coming years. 

This year has seen the continuation of the 

QHVSG volunteer and student placement 

program, which provided ongoing training and 

supervision ensuring a high quality service to our 

members during and after the trial. Under the 

guidance and mentorship of Paula and the team, 

students have gained valuable experience 

developing counseling skills, providing court 

support and gaining a deeper understanding of 

the unique nature of homicide grief experienced 

by members. 

QHVSG involvement in the Police Academy 

Detective Training Phase III has continued to play 

a vital role in supporting member families whose 

experiences with the Queensland Police Service 

are conveyed to detectives. Paula was also 

involved in delivering community awareness 

presentations throughout the year, and has 

continued her work with the Support and 

Regional Development Review Committee, 

which aims to strengthen collaboration and 

service delivery in remote and regional areas. 

It is important to acknowledge the exceptional 

contribution of our team leaders Gillian Croke 

(Brisbane) and Monique Ferrario (Gold Coast) 

whose ongoing commitment to member families 

plays a vital role in QHVSG. We are deeply 

grateful for their engagement and leadership at 

peer support meetings, after-hours phone 

support, court support and participation in 

Awareness Days. 

Monique and her amazing team have also 

dedicated their time and energy promoting 

QHVSG by organising numerous fundraising 

BBQ’s with the support of Bunnings, Harvey 

Norman and Hot Tomato Radio 102.9. In 

addition to her team leadership, we congratulate 

Monique for accepting a seat on the Board of 

Management for 2015. Final mention goes to 

Ivan Smerdon, who has continued to offer valued 

peer support by generously hosting informal 

gatherings for old and new members. 


Berni Palings 

best example of this being Awareness Day at 

For me as family support coordinator the past 

year saw some very positive developments in a 

few ways. 

Several members of our Caboolture peer 

support group have had their trials with guilty 

verdicts and felt they could move forward with 

their lives now that the trial was in the past. 

They felt they no longer needed the support 

group. Another member knew that there 

would not ever be a trial to see justice for her 

loved one, but she had very happy events in 

her life that brought her in a place of doing 

very well. As a result the Caboolture group has 

been shrinking, and we saw its meetings go 

from monthly to bi-monthly. 

We then decided to combine the Caboolture 

peer support group with the Maroochydore 

peer support group, the first combined 

meeting being the Christmas lunch we had a 

few days ago. I have many members in both 

areas and the Christmas lunch proved the 

perfect transition to the combined group we 

will have from 2015 onwards. We had the 

opportunity to discuss how we wanted this 

group to move forward, and I have good hopes 

that the peer support group that will grow 

from this lunch will be a coherent, safe and 

compassionate one. February 2015 will see the 

first “real” peer support group meeting take 

place. 

Kawana Shopping World, where we had also 

been last year. We received great support 

from contingents of the Sunshine Coast District 

Crime Prevention Unit, SCOPE (Sunshine Coast 

Outreach Prevention and Education) – 

Resource Development, Domestic and Family 

Violence Service, and Crime Stoppers, as well 

as Brian Beck from Mental Illness Fellowship 

Queensland. Several members came out in 

support of QHVSG, selling butterflies, talking to 

the public, and catching up with each other 

and with me. 

I would like to thank my team leaders at the 

Sunshine Coast, Cheryl Thorpe and Peter Lane, 

for their dedication to the peer support group 

meetings. They have been facilitating the 

group alternately with passion and 

compassion. We will continue to be a great fit! 

It has been sad that this year, too, many new 

members joined our group. As we often hear 

people say, it is a group no one would ever 

expect or wish to be a part of, but once they 

do it is my aim to be with them every step of 

the way as well as I can. It is so humbling to 

see that bond and trust grow, and to have 

them share their story with me and allow me 

to walk part of their journey with them. Once 

people feel they are in a safe space they feel 

they can share and through this they can start 

to heal and it is my aim for 2015 to continue to 

provide that safe space for my members old 

and new. 

Another very positive development is the great 

relationships that have been forged further 

with the community of the Sunshine Coast, the 


Soraya Seklaoui 

inspiration to make contributions in other areas 

of my life.” 

Awareness Days were held in Mackay and 

Rockhampton this year. It is always a great 

opportunity to engage with the community 

about the ripple effect of homicide and we 

actually engaged a wonderful new volunteer in 

Mackay through our Awareness Stall. 

QHVSG members in the Central region 

overwhelmingly receive remote support; with 

limited visits by a Family Support Worker to 

members outside the Sunshine Coast (Central 

region covers Eastern Queensland from Ayr 

down to Caboolture). Therefore peer support is 

vital in these areas. 

We are extremely fortunate to have wonderful 

team leaders in Linda and Billie Jean Watson, 

covering the Gladstone and Rockhampton area. 

They provide peer support over the phone and at 

home visits and Billie Jean was very well received 

at Tannum Sands High Schools where she gave a 

number of One Punch Can Kill presentations on 

behalf of QHVSG. 

Mackay members also value their peer support 

very highly. We have dedicated Board Members 

in Vicki Blackburn and Leanne Pullen who both 

regularly host and attend the Mackay support 

meetings. The meetings have been a wonderful 

source of support and strength for the families 

who have attended over the last year. One 

member writes of the meetings “I mourn the loss 

of my daughter and feel the pain, but the pain is 

eased a little by the knowledge that, if none of 

this had happened, I wouldn’t have met these 

good people, I wouldn’t have been inspired by 

their courage, their fortitude and their example 

and I wouldn’t have been driven to use that 

Memorial Days were held in Mackay and 

Gladstone this year. A number of families 

attended each service and it was so wonderful, 

as usual, to be able to have these families come 

together and remember their loved ones in a 

beautiful setting. I feel very privileged to be in a 

position where I can support these lovely people 

during such difficult times and to be able to bring 

families together who in turn, build such 

supportive relationships with each other based 

on their mutual understanding. 

In the next year, I hope to continue to build peer 

support and volunteers in the Central region. 

There are a number of members coming up to 

trial next year who do not have access to any 

formal court support from QHVSG or other 

agencies. I aim to encourage and support current 

Team Leaders and volunteers and persevere with 

networking to be able to build stronger formal 

support frameworks for our members in addition 

to the wonderful support that peer support 

brings. 

Gladstone Memorial Day 2015 


Elaine Henderson 

locations like the Toowoomba, and to help them at 

this most difficult part of their journey. 

Last year, members John and Joanne Lasker, coupled 

with their business True Blue Towing, hosted a cent 

sale to raise funds for QHVSG and this year they are 

again hosting a similar event. John, Joanne and their 

small team of workers put a great deal of time and 

effort into this day, and it is looking like becoming a 

Toowoomba annual event. On behalf of QHVSG, I 

would like to thank John and Joanne and the 

Toowoomba community in general for supporting 

this event each year. 

My third year in my role as a Family Support 

Coordinator at QHVSG has been an exceptionally 

busy year. Sadly there was a marked increase of 

homicides in Queensland for the 2014/15 period, and 

it appears that this trend is continuing as we 

approach 2016. In our southern region we have had 

several new families join our group and my heart 

goes out to these new members as well as those who 

have been with us for some time now as Christmas 

approaches. 

This year both our Awareness Day and Memorial Day 

in Toowoomba were again well attended, and I would 

like to thank those members who helped out on 

these days, as well as Philip and Jane at Hiram Philp 

who again worked tirelessly to make the Memorial 

Day as special as it was. In place of a formal support 

group for our members in Toowoomba this year, I 

have offered more personal support in the form of 

regular home visits and this appears to be working 

well. Given the value of peer support however, I will 

also continue to aspire towards recommencing 

formal support groups for this region next year. 

I would like to take this opportunity to personally 

thank our long term volunteer Owen Pontin for his 

ongoing dedication to supporting members during 

the court process in Toowoomba. Owen has worked 

tirelessly, most recently in a trial of long duration, 

assisting families above and beyond what was 

required of him. It is with Owen’s generosity, and 

that of his co-volunteer Diane Lynch, that our group 

can be there to provide support to our members in 

In 2014/15, the support group for the 

Ipswich/Springfield region has continued to prosper. 

Each time I leave this group after our monthly 

meetings I am always touched by the incredible 

difference that peer support makes for our members. 

This group has almost become a ‘second family’ for 

some of its attendees, and wraps its arms around 

them as support. I believe it is a testament to those 

who attend this group that make it as helpful as it is 

and so I would like to express a huge thank you to 

those who attend, both members and team leaders. 

Thank you particularly to member Kerry Oestreich for 

helping as team leader for this group, and for 

sourcing our venue in Springfield. I would also like to 

formally acknowledge the contribution of volunteer 

Jonathon Willis, as his presence as a co-facilitator has 

certainly helped the group run well. In 2016, we are 

naturally looking to continue this group, although 

there may be a venue change – moving the meeting 

place closer to the Ipswich town centre. 

On a personal note, this year has again afforded me 

opportunity to share in the heartfelt journey of our 

members and I continue to feel privileged to be in the 

position that I am. People outside of the office often 

tell me that my work must be difficult or hard to 

endure personally. Indeed this is very true, for each 

time I hear the pain of the loss as new families join 

our group I wish that I had the power to take that 

pain away, or the words that would make a 

difference. I know however, that I do not hold such 

power. All I can do is simply share the journey and 

hope with all my heart that this sharing will somehow 

lighten the burden for those I support. 


I look forward to continuing to develop and improve 

my role in support for the members that QHVSG 

supports throughout 2016 and beyond. 

Ellie Kelly 

Awareness Day 2014 

Our annual Awareness Days for the QLD 

Northern Region was demonstrated in both 

Cairns and Townsville. Both days proved 

successful and were chosen in the highest 

possible foot traffic areas. With the assistance of 

member Chris Spehr and her dedicated work 

colleagues, individually handmade flowers of 

‘Little acts of kindnesses’ with an attached card 

identifying our cause was handed out to the 

general public - prompting questions and 

discussions. It was wonderful to see more 

participating QHVSG members partake in this 

event. 

Memorial Service 2015 

Our Cairns Memorial service held at the Botanic 

Gardens paved the way for the welcoming and 

inclusion of both our Aboriginal and Torres Strait 

Islander families, newly mourning the loss of 

their loved ones. This has been the first time in 

the QHVSGs history of the Northern Region to 

have so many indigenous members come 

together to join with our community as one, and 

share in their grief and support. This has 

prompted the Northern Region to incorporate 

inclusive and identified cultural considerations, 

and growing our culturally appropriate support 

service for our future Memorial Services. 

Peer Support Meetings 

During this time, families between the Townsville and 

Cairns Region have attended the QHSVG regular Peer 

Support Meetings. The meetings have provided a safe 

place for families to talk about their loss and 

experiences with other families who are facing similar 

experiences. Through this, the development of a 

‘suggestion booklet’ - full of ideas designed to help 

individuals cope with their grief and day to day living 

is also underway. Much brainstorming has crossed 

the table to include the many different ways 

individuals express their grief – but most importantly, 

how we can find individualised methods of release 

for each and every person. This was due a number of 

our family members acting responsively to triggers 

and circumstances that bring about bouts of 

depression, anxiety or escalated sadness. Many of 

our family members were unable to articulate their 

methods - or simply didn’t have one to focus on in 

preparation toward minimising additional stresses of 

expected (or unexpected )triggers. 

Cultural training 

The Northern branch of QHVSG has participated 

in the ever increasing knowledge of our 

indigenous communities and how best to 

support our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 

families through their grieving process. In 

addition to the attended Indigenous Training 

Programs held in both Brisbane and Cairns, the 

development of new networks has now been 

established for further cultural direction and 

guidance here in the North. This has not only 

enhanced the quality of our service, but provided 

an opened door for many of our members who 

are increasingly feeling more comfortable with 

joining our much needed group. 

One Punch Can Kill Campaign in the 

North – Word of mouth has developed over the 

past 12 months in and around the High Schools 

and Colleges of the Northern Region regarding 

the QHVSG’s General Manager Ross Thompson’s 

previous presentations held on the O PCK 

campaign. As a result, the North again has been 

included in the end of year school curriculum in a 

combined effort to educate our young people on 

the dangers of violence and its devastating 

affects. 

Network Meetings – Participation in the 

growing and strengthening of our networks and 


stakeholders is a continuous and important 

aspect toward supporting our families and their 

individual concerns. The Northern Region is 

currently participating in a sub group of Cairns 

Case Management in conjunction with Victims 

Assist QLD and other relevant stakeholders. 

This group aims to develop and strengthen 

referral systems and address specific court 

support requirements for court users. The group 

will be addressing specific court support needs 

and services, particularly pertaining to those who 

live remotely or have specific cultural needs or 

requirements when attending court. 

New Families & Court Outcomes 

This past year, the Northern Region has 

experienced an additional nineteen new 

homicides in which eighty new individuals have 

been contacted. Of this, twenty five of our new 

members reside in either New Zealand or 

interstate. Court proceedings during the last 12 

months has also resulted in the conviction of 

four offenders, one of which plead guilty to 

murder, one found guilty of murder, and two 

pleas of manslaughter. 

. 

Robin Christmas 

Queensland Homicide Victims Support Group 

in giving back to the group as well as providing 

the financial expertise needed to manage the 

finances of this organisation. 

I have over 50 years of accounting experience 

in a variety of workplaces. These include 

banking for 10 years, a chartered accountants 

office, an oil company, a motor vehicle 

company, a wine and spirit company, hotel 

management, fruit and vegetable grocery 

chain accounting, and bookkeeping for other 

charitable organisations, kindergartens and 

school sports associations. 

The role of financial reporting has changed so 

much in recent years with government 

wanting more in terms of accountability and 

reconciliation for funds received. There are the 

inevitable applications for funding and grants 

which take much of our time. Also there is the 

need to report to the members through the 

Board of Management and in the Annual 

Report. 

Finally, I would personally like to express my 

thanks to those who support the organisation 

through financial membership, donations and 

by fundraising. 

Leanne Murfitt 

It has been a privilege to serve as the Finance 

Officer again this year. I am now in my tenth 

year with the organization. I am an accountant 

by profession and also the father of a victim of 

homicide (Nicola) killed in 1994. My wife Cay 

was one of the original foundation members 

when the Group started in 1995. I have the 

rare opportunity to be able to make a 

contribution to the management of 

This past year has brought us many new 

challenges and I am so grateful for the 

assistance from our committed professional 

team and our volunteers 

who graciously give their 


time to support our members at our many 

special events i.e. Awareness Day, Memorial 

Day, Court Support and After Hours Telephone 

Support. 

I have had the pleasure to have trained our 

many students and volunteers this year, our 

volunteers and students who dedicate time to 

train in the office to learn more about our 

organisation, our IT systems and court support. 

Our volunteers and students help make QHVSG 

the organisation that it is today. 

Our wonderful team supports families in the 

Supreme and Magistrates Courts of Brisbane, 

Toowoomba, Gold Coast, Cairns and Mackay etc. 

During this past year, we have shared the 

journey with many families, our primary purpose 

being to support our members through this 

trying time. This year we have had many 

successful outcomes. Our members have 

graciously allowed me, our volunteers and 

students to walk with them in a part of their life 

changing journey. The strength and courage of 

our members never ceases to amaze me. 

This compassionate team make my role as 

Volunteer Coordinator satisfying and gratifying. 

Our office is filled with love and laughter and I 

feel privileged to work with a committed team 

of professionals who are passionate about 

caring and empowering others. 

My goals for 2016 will incorporate facilitating 

training for new volunteers/students and 

supporting our wonderful team. I feel 

honoured to be part of this caring 

compassionate team and look forward to 

future challenges. 


Current Board of Management 

Debbie Lawler-President 

Helen Wallace Vice- President 

Geoff Sheldon-Secretary 

Marie Newell- Treasurer 

Vicki Blackburn Douglas Elsmore Monique Ferrario 


Scott Furlong 

Tina Good 

Sherrie Meyer 

Leanne Pullen 

Ilaria Legge (Resigned) 

Kim Lewin (Resigned) 


Supporting Families 

The Queensland Homicide Victims’ 

Support Group’s primary focus is and will 

always remain the support of families 

bereaved by homicide. 

Who Are We Representing? 

Over the years as we build relationships 

with our families, we are often called upon 

to support and advocate for families within 

a range of contexts including, Centrelink, 

Housing Commission, Department of 

Communities for custodial and family court 

matters, child protection and solicitors for 

Wills and estate matters. 

QHVSG recognizes that many people are 

affected from each new homicide, and that 

it’s not only the immediate family who 

suffer. 

Because of this, QHVSG’s Mission Statement 

outlines our support to anyone who 

identifies as having lost a loved one to 

homicide. This often includes extended 

family, friends, colleagues and/or neighbors. 

In the 2014-2015 financial year, QHVSG 

sadly welcomed 599 new members through 

our doors. 

Geographic Distribution 

Monitoring where families reside, and the 

evolving patterns, helps QHVSG identify 

areas of service growth including location of 

support group meetings. 

Following a homicide we will often see 

families’ emotional health and financial 

security spiral down as the full impact of 

the trauma and grief is realized and other 

daily matters are left unattended. It is at 

this time our relationship with the family 

assist with support and practical 

information in the many needy areas such 

as; employment, finance, mental and 

physical health, family structure and 

support, friendships and peer groups, 

housing and an individual’s general ability 

to cope with the daily pressures of life. 

Phone Support 

Relationships 

Whilst the QHVSG’s focus is on homiciderelated 

issues, the reality is that homicide is 

rarely the sole issue affecting families. 

QHVSG’s free-call twenty-four hour phone 

support service is by far, the most utilized 

by families. Families who are grieving, 

experiencing crisis, in need of referrals, 

seeking advice, or simply a shoulder to cry 

on, can call anytime of the day or evening, 

and trust they are speaking to a trained 

staff member or volunteer of whom most 

have experienced the anguish of homicide 

themselves. 


Court Support 

This has been a very busy year for the 

Court Support Volunteers with 281 

episodes of care. Our members are 

supported emotionally throughout the 

legal mine-field which comes as a result of 

homicide. Whilst we do not offer legal 

advice, we are there for our members 

when they are required to give evidence or 

sitting with them throughout the trial 

offering support and an easy ear for 

listening. Throughout the past year, we 

have supported many families throughout 

trials. Trials do not, unfortunately, go the 

way wished for by some of our members 

and it can be an extremely emotional time. 

Our Court support volunteers are from 

across the state. Special mention must go 

to Ellie Kelly in Far North QLD, Owen Pontin 

in Toowoomba and Monique Ferrario from 

the Gold Coast. Additionally, in the 

metropolitan area, People like Gillian Croke 

have given many days of their time to our 

members. Also assisting in court support 

have been several of our Practicum 

students who have availed themselves of 

the opportunity to learn about the legal 

process and also connect with our 

members. Several of the students have 

reported feeling that after spending time in 

court they have a new appreciation of 

some of what our members experience and 

as a result of this have further developed 

their communication skills. 

Support Group Meetings 

The essence of ‘peer support’ is 

encapsulated in the unique experience of 

QHVSG’s support group meetings. 

Enabling families to come together to 

meet, share views and experiences, and 

help guide each other through the rocky 

path ahead. Many of our families state 

that simply meeting another person who 

has lost a loved one, offers great comfort in 

knowing that they are not alone. 

This year has seen a growth in new support 

meetings in Cairns, Springfield, Caboolture, 

Maroochydore and Mackay. While the 

Gold Coast grows from strength to strength 

and Toowoomba continues to flourish. 

Outreach Visits 

It is always our aim, where possible, to meet 

with the newly bereaved family in their 

home, and to provide an insight into our 

group, helping to personalise future 

telephone support calls made by our team 

following the initial home visit. 

Following the devastation of homicide, many 

families are in dire need of practical 

information regarding what is ahead, their 

rights concerning the investigation and the 

media, and put simply, a helping hand, 

someone to share their pain and their grief. 

Memorial Services 

QHVSG’s successful annual Memorial 

Services held though out Queensland, again 

offered a unique opportunity for families to 

come together, meet others who have 

experienced the anguish of homicide, and 

share stories, information and suggestions 

on their healing experience and recover. 


help foster a greater appreciation and 

empathy for our families. 

Presentations 

One Punch Can Kill 61 

Training Sessions 9 

QHVSG Awareness 

Lectures 

11 

Detective Training 2 

Brisbane Memorial Service 

News-Link 

QHVSG’s Bi-monthly newsletter, News- 

Link, provides a regular contact for QHVSG 

families, particularly those in rural areas 

where the opportunities of direct contact 

with our group are limited. News-Link 

offers a chance for families to share their 

experiences, insights and journeys, to offer 

help, write personal and emotional tributes 

to loved ones, and to offer encouragement 

to other families. The electronic version of 

News-Link has helped with cost saving, 

saving the environment, and allowing 

families to receive our newsletter in colour 

format. 

Informing the Community 

An important component of QHVSG is 

community education, which involves 

informing and engaging the community, 

service providers and stakeholders on 

relevant issues. The individual accounts and 

experiences of our families bring a personal 

element to homicide, encouraging the 

community to think outside statistics and 

community considered norms, and consider 

the trauma families suffer after the impact of 

lethal violence on those left behind. 

QHVSG continues to work in the community 

to dispel the myths around homicide, and 

Awareness Day 2015 

Detective Training 

QHVSG continued to guest present at the 

Oxley Academy Phase III Detective Training 

attending three sessions, educating 

Detectives in the role of the QHVSG, the 

importance of referring families to our 

service, and informing detectives on how to 

work more effectively and relate to families 

in the long term. 

Police Academy, Oxley 


Community Presentations 

This year, QHVSG continued to attend 

community speaking engagements with 

schools, students, stakeholders and other 

community members. The issues 

surrounding violence and homicide and the 

service that QHVSG provides are the key 

notes in all presentations. 

different people throughout the state who 

have been affected by one punch deaths and 

statistic. 

‘One Punch Can Kill’ 

The DVD runs for an hour. Ross talks from a 

victim’s perspective. The presentation 

finishes with a song recorded by Phillip 

Halipilias just 4 days before he was killed in a 

similar situation. Phillip was twenty years old 

at the time. This presentation is very 

relevant to today’s youth and is mainly 

aimed at Years 10, 11, 12 students. 

This campaign began in 2009 as a result of 

the death of a young man, Matthew Stanley, 

at a party where he was punched and 

knocked to the ground and kicked. He was 

15 years of age when he died. 

Ross Thompson, General Manager, QHVSG, 

will visit schools, on invitation, to present a 

video and talk to students about the 

campaign itself and highlight the issues to 

the youth of today with the aim of educating 

them in self-control. 

Ross presents a fifteen minute video of a 

young girl’s 16th birthday party. The major 

scenarios covered in the video address 

drugs, alcohol, sexual abuse, a person while 

drunk and being hit by a motor vehicle. 

From that, the video leads into statistics and 

memorials of people who have been killed 

through the One Punch situation. The slide 

show, as part of the DVD, focuses on 

QHVSG continues to be asked to comment 

publicly on a range of issues concerning 

homicide, violence and justice. Whilst QHVSG 

is selective about which issues we as an 

organisation comment on publicly, during the 

2014-2015 year, the group commented on the 

following topics: 

• The role of QHVSG 

• Murder defenses’ 

• ‘One Punch Can Kill’ campaign 

• Violence in general 

• Youth violence 


Our Team of Volunteers 

An organisation such as Queensland Homicide Victims’ Support Group could not function without the 

dedicated volunteers who give freely of their time in a variety of ways. To the very talented 

administration volunteers, give assistance with document preparation, anniversary letters and assist in 

a huge way with answering the phones to the outgoing phone support, court support volunteers and 

after-hours phone support, we say a huge thank you. 

Our Volunteers 

QHVSG wishes to acknowledge the following volunteers; 

Gillian Croke (Volunteer of the Year 2008) 

Debbie Lawler (Volunteer of the Year 2009) 

Owen Pontin (Volunteer of the Year 2010) 

Leanne Albury (Volunteer of the Year 2011) 

Diane and Ivan Smerdon (Volunteer of the 

Year 2012) 

Monique Ferrario (Volunteer of the Year 

2013) 

Kerry Oestreich (Volunteer of the Year 2014) 

Dianne Stackelberg (Volunteer of the Year 

2015) 

REPORT ON VOLUNTEERS 

Members 56.4% 

Volunteers 37.4% 

Students 6.2% 

Members 

Fran Dempsey–after hours support 

Gillian Croke-after hours support, 

support group, training of 

students/volunteers in court, court 

support 

Trischelle Coutts-after hours support 

Vicky Heppenstall -admin, fundraising 

Vicki Blackburn – Board, support groups 

Leanne Pullen- Board, support groups 

Debbie Lawler- President 

Helen Wallace – Vice President 

Sherrie Meyer – Board, after hours 

phone support 

Julie Waters – BBQ 

Monique Ferrario – Team Leader 

Gai Ferrario – BBQ, support group 

Linda Watson – Team Leader 

Billie Jean Watson – support groups 

Kristy Augustin – BBQ, fundraising 

Fiona Robinsen – support groups 

Margy Mc Donald – Butterflies 

Kerry Oestreich – Team Leader, support 

group and Butterflies 

Julie Hand – Butterflies 

Peter Lane-Team Leader 

Cheryl Thorpe-Team Leader 

Michelle Symonds-BBQ 

Ivan Smerdon-BBQ 

Dianne Lynch – Court support 

Toowoomba 

Arnold Symonds – support groups 

Doug Elsmore – Board 

Ilaria Legge- Board, BBQ 


Volunteers – Non Victim 

Catherine Anderson – phone support, 

admin 

Shruti Hutchison – once a month phone 

and court support 

Ted Sanders-after hours phone support 

Geraldene Provoft -after hours phone 

support 

Jonathan Wills – support group 

Val Currie-admin (7years) 

Dianne Stackelberg – admin (over 7 

years) 

Scott Furlong- Board 

Geoff Sheldon-Board Secretary 

Dianne Lynch – Court support 

Toowoomba 

Arnold Symonds – support groups 

Doug Elsmore – Board 

Marie Newell-Board 

Melissa Ryan -research 

Lillian Greenup – court support 

Owen Pontin – court support 

Erica Erasmus – court support 

Amanda Obst – after hours telephone 

support 

Students – short term stay only (6 months) 

Ashley Strong (TAFE) – court support, 

phone support, admin. 

Ghassani Swaryandini (UQ) – court 

support, phone support, admin 

Alden Clarke (TAFE) – court support, 


Stacey Hall (TAFE) – court support, phone 

support, admin. 

Roger Reilly (TAFE) – court support, 


Nick Yu (UQ) - court support, phone 

support, admin. 

Belinda Cronje (Griffith Uni) - court 

support, phone support, admin. 

Rebecca Eunson (ACAP)- court support, 


Maria Springer(ACU)- court support, 



Our Valued Partners 

The work of the Queensland Homicide Victims’ Support Group is made possible only through the 

support of a small number of agencies and supporters. In 2013-2014, we would like to extend thanks 

to the following: 

AFL Masters 

The Game of AFL Masters (AFLM) provides the opportunity for players 35 

years and over to enjoy the game of Aussie Rules Football in a safe, 

supportive and fun environment. 

Australian Health & Safety Supplies 

We are a family owned and operated company selling a range 

of health and safety supplies located in Underwood, 

Brisbane QLD. Service to our customers is proven by quick 

and efficient supply. 

Best Signs 

Best Signs have been in Queensland for over 10 years 

and we are committed to quality 

The Daniel Morcombe Foundation 

For supporting child victims 

Gambling Community Benefit Fund 

For providing funding for the technology to deliver 

regional support 

Ipswich City Council 

The Council sets the vision and strategic direction for 

the City and is also responsible for setting the Council's 

organisational structure. 

Kedron-Wavell Services Club 

Kedron-Wavell Services Club - ‘supporting the community 

that supports us.’. 


McInnes Wilson 

McInnes Wilson Lawyers is one of the largest 

Queensland-based law firms, ranked among the 

top 100 privately-owned companies in the state. 

Macrossan & Amiet Solicitors Charitable Foundation 

Macrossan & Amiet are proud to have established the Charitable 

Foundation and to continue to support the Charitable Foundation by 

meeting all administrative expenses. The Charitable Foundation has 

provided great support to the people of Mackay and surrounding 

districts and we encourage our clients to support it. 

Metropolitan funerals 

Whoever you are, we’ll do it your way 

Queensland Police Service 

QPS vision is to help make Queensland a safe and 

secure place to live, visit and do business. 

Studio Culture 

We’re Studio Culture, and our only job is to help our 

clients succeed online. We work hard at making your 

story be heard above everyone else’s in this highly 

cluttered online environment. 

Top Gun Conveyancing 

Top Gun Conveyancing provides conveyancing services in 

Brisbane and all other areas in Queensland. 

Victim Assist Queensland 

Victim Assist Queensland focuses on assisting the 

recovery of victims of crime who have been injured 

as a result of an act of violence. 


Financial Report, 2014/15 

Robin Christmas, as part time Finance Officer, has been able to provide the 

Treasurer, the Board of Management, and the General Manager with up to 

date financial information for this financial year. The group has completed 

another very busy year, with an overall operating surplus of $678.24 after 

allowing for depreciation of $25,667. 

The small positive result reflects the tight budget in operating costs for the 

financial year and also the necessity for raising our own funds, outside of 

our Government grants. 

Income and Expenditure for the year ended 

30th June 2015 

Total Income $711,988.24 

Funding income $494,516.00 

Derived from Queensland Department of Justice and Attorney-General grant of $372,516 paid 

half yearly. The increase over last year was due to indexation paid. 

However, this does not cover the full increase in our award wages and expenses. 

We also received funding by DOJ for Peer Support Program of $122,000 paid half yearly and 

not indexed. 

OPCK Funding and income $150,785.84 

Derived from one off grant $150,000 from Premier’s Dept. and $785.84 in sales 

Group Income $66,686.40 

Made up of bank interest $7291.53, donations $5506.11, fundraising $53788.82, 

memberships $4010.85, loss on disposal and sale of assets ($3960.91), 

Total Expenses $711,310.00 

Funding Expenses $515,929.49 

Funding expenses increased on last year by $18,304.61 but is offset by Capital Grants and 

Group Income of $66,446.40 This resulted in our surplus of $438.24 

Most expenses have been kept under control this year but it is difficult to compare this year 

with the previous year due to new funding, resulting in an increase in overheads and wages. 

OPCK Funding Expenses $148,815.82 

Made up of Capital costs $4069.09 Consultancy $100,000 Wages costs $10,949.28 

Travel costs $1163.05 Fees and purchases $13,634.40 Deferred Income $19000 

Group Expenses $ 46,564.69 

Made up of funded expenses $7548.81, member payments $630, fundraising expenses 

$10860.76, new website $480, promotions and memorials $10860.76, volunteer costs 

$643.66 and group wages for toil $16338.21. 

Group Summary:- 

Total Income 

Total Expenses 

Surplus 

$711,988.24 

$711,310.00 

$ 678.24 

All figures are net of GST – All reports are based on accrual accounting. 


ASSETS 

Petty Cash on hand 

$ 300.00 

Rental Bond Authority 

$ 1,620.00 

BOQ General Account 

$ 3,155.63 

ING Investment Account 

Balance Sheet as at 30th June 2015 

Deposits for banking $ 583.50 

Accounts Receivable $ 1561.11 

Prepayments $ 204.55 

BOQ Group Account $ 100.00 

BOQ Web Account $98,656.73 

BOQ Term Deposit $10,000.00 

$ 58,967.23 

Cash reserves are set aside for capital replacements, staff award increases and staff wage 

entitlement provisions. All general banking is conducted with Bank of Queensland and surplus 

funds are kept in the ING Investment Account and Bank of Queensland Web Account and a 

Term Deposit to maximize interest earned, currently at 2.25% for ING and 2.00% for BOQ and 

3months Term Deposit 2.70% 

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 

FIXED ASSETS 

$174,148.75 

Vehicles, Furniture, Plant & Equipment 

During the year purchases of new assets amounted to $11,528.08 including – 

NQ Chair, desk NQ, Banners OPCK, BBQ, Esky, Cabinet, Marquee, USB Backups. $2,368.20. 

Assets funded by DOJ for Peer Support Program $9,159.88 

NON CURRENT ASSETS $ 72,406.22 

TOTAL ASSETS $245,554.97 

TOTAL LIABILITIES $167,115.43 

Made up of current liabilities- accounts payable $15,192.45, petty cash $265.75, 

employee entitlements $85,032.28, Group Income deferred $20,145 

Tax refund payable –GST and PAYE ($4,735.36) 

Long term liabilities - motor vehicle loans - ANZ $28,778.64 St George $22,306.67 

NET ASSETS (Members Funds) $ 80,439.54 

Report for Operating Year 2014/15 

Costs associated with the ongoing function of QHVSG increase annually and leave us with the continuing 

problem of finding extra funding. It is unfortunate for us to have to acknowledge that shortfall of funding 

is a limiting factor in the services that we provide to our members and the community, in that we cannot 

provide full time employment to all our staff. This places added pressure on the organization in 

maintaining support services and does not allow for any expansion in this area. There is no doubt that 

demands for our services increases each year, and as a consequence, additional staff hours and more 

administration costs also increase. Therefore, we need to seriously address fundraising, and/or seek 

continued government funding. To this end, the input of suggestions from all concerned members, staff, 

and other interested people will be welcomed to ensure this deserving organization can continue the 

work it was set up to perform. 

There can also be no doubting the organization has come a long way since 1995, when it was created by 

founding members in Townsville. It was self-funded in the beginning, and on 27 th of April 1998, QHVSG 

became a partly funded organization. 

A special thanks to our current funding body- Queensland Government Department of Justice and 

Attorney General – Victims Assist Queensland. 

For the Hon. Treasurer 


PO Box 292 

Lutwyche Queensland 4030 

Telephone 07 3857 4744 

Fax 07 3857 4766 

admin@qhvsg.org.au 

Published 29 th November 2014

Annual Report 2014 - 2015

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