Annual Report 2012 - Lifeline Darling Downs

Lifeline Darling Downs & South West Queensland Ltd 2012 Annual Report
St George Elders Group Capacity Building
by Alan Dean, Manager Federal Funding & Other Programs
The funding has been provided for a part-time coordinator to help the elders contribute to the
closing of the GAP in areas of justice, education and health. Also to explore the possibility of
incorporation
The Team
The first coordinator was Jean Troutman. Adam Osborne took over this position late
last year
Achievements
The Elders have been in a vast range of dealings within the community such as liaising
with the local police to diffuse tensions within the community, working with youth within
the three local schools (St Patrick's School, St George State Primary School and St
George State High School) as mentors and cultural supports, as well as intervention to
problems. After considerable discussion with one of the school Principals, the Elders
are aiming to build relationships with children and youth to assist them in building their
identity.
The Elders attend the St George State High School on a weekly basis to share their
knowledge and history with the Indigenous Studies Class. There are usually three
Elders and up to twenty-one students in attendance.
The Elders have worked collaboratively with the PaCE Program to oversee the
Aboriginal Language Syllabus rolled out to its first stage within the local State Primary
School.
The Elders have also made many appearances within the community to do "Welcome to
Country" for local forums, schools and community activities.
The Elders have been instrumental in ensuring that Murri Court has been well
supported.
Adam was successful in gaining funding for NAIDOC celebrations. This involved the
Elders and their grandchildren attending a bush tucker walk, cultural tour and camp
oven meals on the banks of the Wallam River in Bollon a small town to the south west of
St George. The menu included traditional ingredients.
five ladies are in attendance and they work together to put art and craft items together.
Most recently the ladies have made ninety dilly bags at the request of a worker at Carbal
Medical Centre in Toowoomba. On other occasions beading and painting has also been
enjoyed.
The Elders were invited to attend a morning tea at the local National Australia Bank to
celebrate Reconciliation. This morning tea was attended by eleven Elders and had
coverage in the local newspaper the Balonne Beacon.
Challenges
The biggest challenge is funding to keep this important group sustainable.
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