DRUG ARM Australasia Annual Report 2008-2009

DRUG ARM 

ANNUAL 

REPORT 

2008-2009

RUG ARM 

Our Vision 

To be recognised as a key provider of 

quality alcohol and other drug prevention, 

treatment, harm minimisation and support 

services. 

Our Mission 

Equipping people to make a positive change 

through working with clients to provide 

prevention, treatment, harm minimisation 

and support services. 

Our Commitment 

The Board and members commit 

themselves under God to the purpose of 

relieving the suffering, trauma and social 

costs caused either directly or indirectly 

by: alcohol and other drug use; and nonmedical 

use of other drugs; by carrying out 

the objects of the Company. 

Our Values 

The worth of each individual 

Each individual who has contact with the 

organisation is to be treated with respect and 

dignity based upon our Christian principles 

of caring and supporting individuals. 

The enhancement of skills, 

opportunities, knowledge, personal 

growth and safety of individuals 

The organisation provides opportunities 

for clients, volunteers and staff members to 

undertake training and skills development 

processes to increase the capacity of both 

the individuals and the organisation to 

better manage alcohol and other drug 

situations. DRUG ARM is committed to 

providing and promoting a safe and healthy 

workplace for clients, volunteers and staff 

members. 

Integrity and accountability 

The organisation is committed to 

achieving accountability in all aspects of 

program and service delivery including 

professionalism, financial and human 

resource management. 

Wise leadership based upon 

vision and innovation 

The organisation seeks to put research 

into action through new and innovative 

action learning programs and services in 

local communities to provide a practical 

application for research theories.


2009 and BEYOND 

Introducing the new directions for 2009 and beyond… 

Vision 

Reaching Out 

Reducing Harm 

Mission 

Engage, Encourage, Empower 

People and Communities 

Values 

• The worth of the individual 

• Leadership based upon vision and innovation 

• Credibility, integrity, accountability and excellence 

CONTENTS 

Chairman’s Report 2 

Executive Director’s Report 4 

About DRUG ARM Australasia 6 

Programs and Services Highlights 7 

South Australia 

New South Wales 

Queensland 

Programs and Services Statistics 12 

Outreach 

Treatment 

Centre for Addiction Research and Education (CARE) 14 

Marketing and Fundraising 19 

Corporate Services 23 

Financial Summary 

Toowoomba Opportunity Shop 

Directors 

Committees 

Acknowledgements 28 

Why do you come to the van? 

“I like the quietness and regularity 

– I enjoy it like a special occasion – 

to spoil myself.” 

HIGHLIGHTS 

2009 & BEYON 

Drug Arm Australasia Annual Report 2008-2009 

1

CHAIRMAN’S 

REPORT 

Dear drug arm Stakeholders, 

I am pleased to present the Annual 

Report as Chairman for the 2008-2009 

financial year. 

DRUG ARM Australasia (DRUG ARM) has 

successfully completed another year and 

despite the serious financial challenges 

faced, I am delighted to report that DRUG 

ARM has produced a small surplus for the 

year of $46,395. 

Governance of the organisation remains 

one of the key strategic areas for the 

Directors. During this financial year the 

Directors and Managers, assisted by an 

external consultant, reviewed and finalised 

the Strategic Plan. This was an extensive 

task that included reviewing the Vision, 

Mission and Values Statements. 

The Directors also undertook a review of 

the management and reporting systems. 

This particular review is in line with 

the organisation’s policy of continuous 

improvement in congruence with the work 

the organisation is currently undertaking 

to achieve an ISO9001:2008 quality 

accreditation for the next financial year. 

The Directors maintained the various 

Board and Committee structures to 

assist with the overall governance of the 

company. The Committees included the 

Executive Committee, the Finance and 

Audit Committee, the Risk Management 

and Compliance Committee, the Programs 

and Services Committee, the Clinical 

Governance Committee, the Remuneration 

Committee and the Nominations 

Committee. With only a small number of 

Directors, and the range of Committees, the 

Directors make a significant contribution 

to the overall effectiveness and efficiency 

of DRUG ARM. The Directors ensure that 

the Board and Committees all have current 

charters in place to assist with the overall 

governance of the company. 

As Chairman of the Board, I express 

my personal gratitude to all my fellow 

Directors for their dedicated ongoing 

commitment, with their time and energy 

and to acknowledge the real benefits that 

flow to DRUG ARM. My particular thanks 

to the Directors who chair the various 

committees, namely Mr Robert Cook 

(Finance and Audit Committee) and Mr 

David Watts (Programs Committee). 

The Directors were also committed to 

reviewing the Corporate Governance 

Framework while commencing work 

on developing and implementing a 

Clinical Governance Framework for the 

organisation. To assist the Board oversee 

these important issues, the Directors 

established a Clinical Governance Board 

Committee to work with Management 

during the development and drafting 

phases of the two frameworks. 

During the 2008-2009 year, the Directors 

continued their focus on accountability 

and transparency with the internal and 

external audit processes. These reviews 

ensure that the Directors are provided with 

detailed information upon which to base 

their decisions through effective control 

and monitoring strategies. 

During the year there was significant 

movement at Board level. Mr Peter 

Henderson stood down as Chairman 

after providing inspiring leadership 

for seven years. I am happy to report 

that Mr Henderson will retain his 

position as a Director and will continue 

active involvement, particularly with 

the Executive and Finance and Audit 

Committees. I am also delighted to report 

2

that Major Rodney Walters has been elected 

to the position of Vice-Chairman of the 

Board and will bring his vast organisational 

experience and knowledge to the role. 

Externally, DRUG ARM Australasia 

continues to enjoy beneficial partnerships 

with a number of government, nongovernment 

and corporate organisations. 

These partnerships make it possible for 

DRUG ARM to continue to provide the high 

quality and professional services clients 

have come to expect, when and where 

services are most needed. 

I acknowledge the continuing confidence 

shown to DRUG ARM by funding partners 

through their ongoing funding of numerous 

programs. I express our appreciation to the 

Queensland Health Alcohol Tobacco and 

Other Drugs Branch (ATODB), Australian 

Government Department of Health and 

Ageing (DoHA), Queensland Department 

of Communities and the South Australian 

Government Department of Health. I 

also acknowledge the numerous local 

government authorities in Queensland 

and South Australia, community trusts, 

corporate sponsors and a large number 

of individual donors for their continued 

support and generosity. 

I would also like to take this opportunity 

to acknowledge the ongoing commitment 

of key Government Ministers of the 

Commonwealth and the Queensland, 

New South Wales and South Australia 

governments for their ongoing confidence 

and support of DRUG ARM. 

In closing I would like to thank the 

management team, staff and volunteers and 

I extend our gratitude for their motivation 

and dedication. I also acknowledge the 

critical long term role the Executive 

Director, Dr Dennis Young, continues to 

play within DRUG ARM. 

On behalf of the Board, I thank all the 

members, donors, supporters, partners 

and others who continue to give so much to 

DRUG ARM. The Directors, management, 

staff and volunteers continue to work 

tirelessly to ensure that DRUG ARM 

continues to enable clients to improve the 

overall quality of their lives. 

Dr John Roulston AM 

Chairman 

HIGHLIGHTS 

REPORT 


3

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S 

REPORT 

To our Stakeholders, 

The 2008-2009 financial year was one 

of challenges and consolidation for the 

organisation. A number of challenges 

resulting from the global financial crisis 

directly affected DRUG ARM’s ability to 

generate income from fundraising and 

special event programs, whilst demand for 

programs and services increased. 

Despite the difficult position, DRUG ARM 

reports a small surplus of $46,395. This 

result is a credit to the Directors, managers 

and staff for their careful and professional 

financial management and control of DRUG 

ARM’s limited resources. 

During the year Chairman Mr Peter 

Henderson stood down, but the organisation 

is pleased that he has decided to remain 

as a Director. Mr Henderson served on 

the DRUG ARM Board and the Board of 

its parent organisation continually since 

1979. This is an outstanding contribution 

to DRUG ARM and Mr Henderson’s special 

knowledge and skills are appreciated by all 

Directors and managers. 

As Executive Director I am delighted with 

the election of Dr John Roulston AM to 

the position of Chairman. Dr Roulston 

has served for many years on the DRUG 

ARM Board and the parent company the 

Drug Awareness and Relief Foundation 

(Australia). To support Dr Roulston AM in 

his new role as Chairman is Major Rodney 

Walters who was elected as Vice-Chairman. 

Major Walters brings many years of 

experience to this position and I thank both 

Dr Roulston and Major Walters for accepting 

these positions and the organisation looks 

to the future with great expectations 

under their leadership. I also thank all of 

the Directors for the many hours of service 

they provide to DRUG ARM and for their 

ongoing commitment and contribution to 

the success of DRUG ARM. 

DRUG ARM continues to explore new and 

innovative interventions to support clients 

with complex and challenging needs. 

Through the ongoing financial support 

provided from the Australian Government 

Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA), 

work continues on improving responses 

with clients displaying co-morbid 

symptoms as well as clients experiencing 

harms associated with amphetamine use. 

During the year under review, DRUG ARM 

continues to pursue an ISO9001:2008 

quality accreditation. 

These new initiatives are ongoing 

examples of how management, staff and 

volunteers are working together to achieve 

better management and client processes 

and practices for DRUG ARM. A detailed 

summary of DRUG ARM’s programs and 

services for 2008-2009 follows later in 

this report. 

I acknowledge the commitment and 

dedication of the members of the 

management team who ably assisted, 

advised, supported and encouraged me in 

my role as Executive Director. I thank each 

of them for the tremendous contribution 

given to DRUG ARM during the 2008-2009 

financial year: 

4

Ms Heather Pitt 

Corporate Services Manager 

Ms Caroline Salom 

Director, Centre for Addiction Research and Education 

Ms Bianca Moerman 

National Programs Manager 

Mr Peter Wotherspoon 

National Fundraising Manager 

Ms Josephine Loth 

National Marketing and Communications Manager 

Ms Alison Muir 

National Administration Manager 

Ms Shannon Gibbs 

Queensland Treatment Manager 

Mr Ashley Edwards Queensland Outreach Manager (resigned 15/10/08) 

Ms Naomi Talamaivao 

New South Wales Outreach Manager 

Ms Jane Barr 

South Australia Treatment Manager 

Ms Sam Raven 

South Australia Outreach Manager 

Risk management remains a high priority I thank all of our volunteers, partner 

for both Directors and managers as the organisations, donors, staff, clients and 

organisation actively strives to manage Directors for their ongoing support and 

risk. Risk continues to be managed, encouragement. I especially thank Dr John 

identified and where possible reduced, Roulston AM and Mr Peter Henderson for 

without detriment to the organisation’s their leadership during the financial year. 

programs and service delivery. The focus 

of the organisation remains to provide The coming year is filled with great 

a safe workplace environment for staff, opportunity as the company continues to 

volunteers, clients and members of the improve the quality and delivery of overall 

public. The overall management of risk management, especially in the area of our 

within DRUG ARM involves the application programs and services to our clients. 

of risk management policies, strategies 

and action plans that are in place at 

Dr Dennis Young 

management level together with general 

HIGHLIGHTS 

oversight of risk provided by the Risk 

Management and Compliance Committee 

at Board level. 

Executive Director 


5

ABOUT DRUG ARM 

AUSTRALASIA 

elping 

DRUG ARM Australasia is a 

non-government, non-profit 

organisation committed to 

promoting a healthy lifestyle 

without the use of unnecessary 

drugs. 

DRUG ARM Australasia provides a 

vital outreach of compassion and care 

through education, awareness, prevention 

and support programs. Operating as a 

registered charity in New South Wales, 

Queensland and South Australia, DRUG 

ARM (Drug Awareness Rehabilitation and 

Management) has been providing support 

and caring services since 1933, with a 

history traceable to 1849. 

In the 2008-2009 financial year, DRUG 

ARM Australasia met and engaged with 

30,903 clients through 17 outreach 

services and 14 treatment programs in 

24 regions stretching across Australia. 

programs for clients with complex and 

challenging needs. 

Staff and volunteers provide quality 

support to clients on the streets, in 

people’s homes, in schools or through 

educating businesses and other 

community organisations. Dedicated and 

compassionate volunteers help 

thousands of people each year. Many of 

the young homeless people DRUG ARM 

provides assistance to are from difficult 

backgrounds and staff and volunteers are 

continually inspired by their efforts to 

make a positive change in their lives. 

Volunteers are DRUG ARM’s strength – 

there are over 300 volunteers supporting 

clients across the country. The majority 

of DRUG ARM outreach programs do not 

receive any government funding and rely 

heavily upon donations and fundraising 

to survive. 

6 

The organisation’s community work 

supports individuals and families who have 

been harmed by alcohol or drug use either 

directly or indirectly. Specialised programs 

consist of mobile outreach services, 

including a health outreach service for 

homeless people, together with specific 

youth support, education and treatment 

DRUG ARM has four major 

divisions: 

• National Programs Division 

• The Centre for Addiction Research and 

Education (CARE) 

• Marketing and Fundraising Division 

• Corporate Services Division.

DRUG ARM PROGRAMS AND SERVICES 

HIGHLIGHTS 


Outreach 

The Street Outreach Service (SOS) 

continues to be a major highlight of DRUG 

ARM’s service provision in South Australia. 

With rising concern in Australia about the 

incidents of binge drinking, particularly 

amongst young people, SOS programs 

are able to respond where the issues are 

occurring – on the streets, after hours, 

and when many other services are not 

available. 

The newest outreach service is in the 

Adelaide CBD, which brings the total 

number to seven vehicles. The service 

commenced operations in March of 2009, 

bringing a new set of challenges for both 

staff and volunteers, including a large 

homeless population, and increased 

contacts with Indigenous people. DRUG 

ARM has sought new partnerships and 

networking opportunities in response to 

these challenges, developing relationships 

with existing homeless services, and key 

Indigenous service providers. 

The South and South-Western SOS 

programs continued to provide support 

for young people in the region, as well as 

supporting events run by local councils. 

Support for youth events also occurred 

in the North and North-Eastern regions, 

with volunteers providing information and 

support to young people at skate, music, 

aerosol art, hip hop, open mic nights and 

other events. SOS also provided support for 

Police Blue Light events in several regions, 

providing information to both young people 

attending the events, and parents when 

they arrived to collect their children. 

Information stands are provided on a 

monthly basis in three Westfield Shopping 

Centres. This is a service unique to South 

Australia, and due to its great success, 

similar opportunities are being explored 

in other states. Through these stands, staff 

and volunteers are able to make contact 

with parents, grandparents, teachers and 

young people, providing information and 

support on drugs and alcohol, discussing 

ways of talking with teenagers, and 

answering frequently asked questions. 

HIGHLIGHTS 


7


HIGHLIGHTS 

Western SOS also expanded, seeking 

partnerships with agencies that are 

working with new arrivals and people 

from culturally and linguistically diverse 

backgrounds. This initiative was in 

response to a high number of families 

residing in the Western patrol region and 

has received positive responses from the 

community thus far. 

A highlight for both the Outreach and 

Treatment divisions was the opening 

of DRUG ARM’s new Northern Office in 

Hillbank. This new office allows the staff in 

the North to work collaboratively to provide 

essential services including the Northern 

and Gawler SOS programs and the new 

Northern CAFSS program, highlighted in 

the Treatment section below. 

Treatment 

The first highlight for Treatment programs 

in South Australia was the opening of 

Community And Family Support Services 

(CAFSS) North of Adelaide. This expansion 

was made possible with a successful grant 

from the Department of Health and Ageing 

Non-Government Treatment Grants 

Program (DoHA NGOTGP). 

Secondly, in November 2008 there was 

an official launch of DRUG ARM’s new 

Northern Regional Office in Hillbank. The 

opening was officiated by the Mayor of the 

City of Playford, Martin Lindsell, as well 

as Fran Lovell, Assistant State Manager 

Health Branch, South Australia State Office 

of Department of Health and Ageing. This 

event was attended by a number of local 

MPs and community members as well as 

the Executive Director, Dr Dennis Young, 

and National Programs Manager, Ms 

Bianca Moerman. 

The CAFSS program in the North has made 

an excellent start with a small but very 

dedicated team of seven volunteers and 

two staff, opening for three days per week 

whilst volunteer numbers build. 

The outreach work continues with weekly 

talks about the CAFSS program to clients 

at Joslin and Warinilla detoxification units. 

There are also fortnightly consultations at 

the Flinders Medical Centre (FMC) Liver 

Clinic. The FMC Social Work department 

regularly calls the Southern CAFSS team to 

make ward visits and speak with patients 

with AOD issues. The treatment teams also 

assist at information stands at the Westfield 

Shopping Centre, and Drug Action Week saw 

DRUG ARM’s involvement in community 

forums in both the North and the South. 

These events worked two-fold to: increase 

awareness and promotion of services; and 

attract new volunteers. 

Finally, the Get Set Program finished in 

December 2008 with 22 young people 

benefiting from the program. This included 

11 peer-mentors contributing to the success 

of the program. The Southern Outreach 

Youth Worker at Cove Youth Service worked 

in collaboration with the local high schools 

offering alcohol and other drug support 

and information to a group of disengaged 

students. This position has also conducted 

educational talks at local schools and TAFE 

and offered a brief support service for local 

young people in immediate need. Work 

also commenced on a social-norms project 

at Cove Youth Service. DRUG ARM South 

Australia wishes all our youth the best of 

luck as they continue to live a positive life 

without the misuse of drugs or alcohol. 

Queensland 

Outreach 

In 2008-2009 the outreach division had 

four Street Outreach Services (SOS) 

operating in Queensland, as well as the 

Mobile Outreach Support and Health 

8

Program by Integrated Teams (MOSHPIT). 

DRUG ARM’s Street Outreach Service is 

a mobile patrol that engages individuals 

on the street who are experiencing harm 

associated with alcohol and other drug 

use issues. Highlights from the outreach 

team included the participation in a range 

of fundraising events. These included the 

Ipswich Book Affair, a Brisbane Lions AFL 

game during Healthy High week to collect 

donations, participation at the Big City 

Barbecue, Jazz in the Vineyard and Charity 

Golf Day, and presentations at a number of 

service clubs, including the Rotary Club 

of Redcliffe. 

HIGHLIGHTS 

One highlight during the year was the 

donation of a fantastic barbecue trailer 

their ongoing partnership in reaching out 

to the community. 

for use during MOSHPIT patrols. Funded 

by the Department of Communities, the 

trailer is a fully equipped barbecue station 

Schoolies Week continues to be a stand-out 

achievement for SOS on the Queensland 

that includes storage facilities, wash calendar. DRUG ARM’s Recharge Zone 

basins and running water. MOSHPIT is now 

able to host a barbecue at the Aspley Alfa 

Accommodation Centre to assist residents 

to interact and increase social skills and 

also to allow the residents to engage with 

health services, and plans are in place to 

extend the service to other locations. This 

service was made possible thanks to the 

Lions Club of Bunya. 

operated for 10 nights at the Schoolies 

event in 2008, with fourteen volunteers and 

five staff who clocked up 454 hours. Over 

40,000 drinks were given out, and DRUG 

ARM’s free temporary tattoos were a great 

hit. 40% of young people volunteers had 

contact with required physical support for 

alcohol or other drug issues. DRUG ARM’s 

presence and awareness at the event has 

grown over the past years and valuable 

There are nine joint partners involved with partnerships with other agencies have been 

MOSHPIT: Centrelink, Spiritus, Homeless 

HIGHLIGHTS 

Health Outreach Team (Queensland 

Health), Footprints in Brisbane Inc, Mater 

Mothers Hospital, QuIHN, Brisbane City 

Council, Inala Indigenous Health, and 

DRUG ARM, and we thank each of them for 

developed. The Recharge Zone is a vital 

service to the young people who attend the 

Week, with many young people returning 

to the Recharge Zone to thank volunteers 

for their presence and assistance. 


9


HIGHLIGHTS 

Another program highlight in Queensland 

was Get Set. Get Set is a youth focused 

program that aims to bring together young 

people who are at risk, to encourage and 

support them in building strategies to 

develop proactive measures within their 

communities. In 2008-2009 the Get Set 

project came to a close. In the last six 

months of operation volunteers worked 

with 327 clients, assisting the young 

people with projects such as team building 

at camps, video production, and music and 

drama workshops. 

Treatment 

Treatment programs in Queensland 

continued to assist clients and their 

families to address drug or alcohol issues, 

equipping them through case management 

to make better choices. Programs include: 

Community and Family Support Service 

(CAFSS), Queensland Illicit Drug Diversion 

Initiative (QIDDI), QMERIT AfterCare, 

Alcohol and Other Drug Clinical Workers, 

Diversion Programs, Goondiwindi Alcohol 

And Drug Support Service (GAADSS), 

Getting It Together, Family Assistance 

Drug Support (FADS), and Family Support 

Programs. 

The QIDDI program continues to be a standout 

treatment program offered by DRUG 

ARM in Queensland. The program offers 

support, provides intervention options and 

refers people who have personal problems 

relating to their drug use to specific service 

providers. Areas currently serviced 

by QIDDI include: Brisbane, Ipswich, 

Mackay, Sunshine Coast, Goondiwindi 

and Inglewood and surrounds. In 2008- 

2009 QIDDI had 945 clients engage in the 

service, with 1,005 referrals. The referral 

pathway to the program is via court and 

police diversion, which on average is evenly 

split between the two pathways. 

Getting It Together (GIT) works with young 

people through intensive case management 

to assist them with employment, education 

and training, recovery from and avoid 

reoccurrence of crises, provide personal 

support, increase self esteem, improve 

life skills, develop leadership skills, and 

improve links between young people, their 

families, friends and community where 

appropriate. 

In conjunction with intensive case 

management, GIT also engages young 

people through afternoon activities. 

Activities include: playing sport; arts and 

craft; and taking the young people to PCYC 

to utilise the weights room. GIT also holds 

regular girls groups, aiming to increase 

self esteem and confidence of young girls in 

the Boggabilla and Toomelah communities 

with wonderful successes. 


Outreach 

Highlights for DRUG ARM New South Wales 

are numerous. Firstly, the Sutherland 

Street Outreach Service (SOS) received a 

long awaited new van. This new van will 

ensure the service maintains a presence 

on the streets in the region and continues 

to assist those in need. Another highlight 

for this region was the nomination of 

Sutherland volunteer coordinator, Sue 

Bergquist, for the Prime Ministers Awards 

for her involvement and volunteer work over 

the last thirteen years with DRUG ARM. 

10

A second major highlight for New South 

Wales was Newcastle SOS’s increase of 

volunteers, allowing the service to extend 

patrols and make contact with many more 

people on the streets. The service was also 

approached by the New South Wales Police 

Finally, Western Sydney SOS continues to 

provide a vital service for the homeless 

and those affected with mental health 

issues compacted by alcohol and drug 

use. In April, the Rotary 

Club of Liverpool West 

Service to undertake an additional patrol on and DRUG ARM held 

Thursday nights at Charlestown Shopping the annual Circus 

Mall. This partnership has been operating Spectacular, attracting 

from early 2009 and has had a remarkable 

impact since the patrols commenced, 

over 800 people each 

show. Volunteers and the 

with the public and centre management fundraising coordinator 

praising SOS presence in the mall for their 

engagement with young people. 

assisted over the four day 

event which was held at 

the Liverpool Catholic 

In the region of Wollongong, SOS has had 

a great year of building networks with 

Shellharbour City Council, Wollongong 

Club. Another Circus with 

the Leukemia Foundation 

was held in September 

Community Drug Action Team and Darcy which also generated 

House services. Earlier in the year a joint 

venture was discussed between Warilla 

Police and Wollongong SOS for a four month 

pilot project consisting of monthly visits to 

local hot spots (eg. Bellambi Skate Park), 

and hosting a sausage sizzle with the aim 

of talking to young people about binge 

drinking and illicit drug use. 

much needed awareness 

of the organisation, and raised over $50,000 

for services. Each Circus performance 

attracted hundreds of people, made up 

of families, carers, school groups, and 

disadvantaged and special needs children 

who had been offered the tickets free of 

charge, thanks to the support of wonderful 

local businesses. It was a fantastic day out 

On 14 March 2009 Wollongong SOS held for all involved. 

a fete to raise awareness in the local 

community about DRUG ARM services. 

The event also raised $500.00 which was 

a tremendous effort by the volunteers 

involved. Wollongong’s SOS Coordinator 

also participated in local events such as 

the Lakeside Festival and the Toyota Car 

Fair to promote and profile the outreach 

program in Wollongong. 

Treatment 

One major milestone in the New South Wales 

treatment division was the transition from 

using the name Drug Awareness Response 

Teams (DART) to the new National program 

name of CAFSS in August 2008. CAFSS 

in New South Wales continued to do well 

during the financial year, despite having no 

funding for the project. With the change in 

Northern Beaches SOS had another great 

year making close to 2,000 contacts with 

young people, which can be attributed 

to employing a SOS Coordinator in the 

name, DRUG ARM expanded their areas of 

service to include regions covering the local 

government areas of: Fairfield, Bankstown, 

Liverpool, Parramatta and Blacktown. 

region. The primary goal in the region was 

to support young people and provide vital 

information and referrals around binge 

drinking which proved to be very successful. 

The CAFSS program has received great 

feedback from the Fairfield Community 

Mental Health Team which is now referring 

Local Mayors from Warringah, Manly and 

HIGHLIGHTS 

the local member from Pittwater Council 

joined the van as visitors one evening and 

gained first hand experience of the work 

DRUG ARM undertakes and how vital the 

service is to the community. 

to the CAFSS program regularly. New 

interests from other non-government 

organisations and Government agencies 

are more prominent since the change, 

providing the team with a diverse range of 

clients entering the service. 


11


HIGHLIGHTS 

Due to the area expansion and client 

extension, there has been a marked 

increase in interest from the community to 

get involved in volunteering. This includes 

students who have become dedicated 

volunteers with the CAFSS program after a 

student placement. The DART program had 

approximately 10 volunteers on average 

where the program is now working in a 

larger team of 20 or more. 

Home visits also began during 2008-2009, 

where client sessions are completed at the 

client’s home or at a mutual agreed location 

where the client feels most comfortable. 

The CAFSS team also provided phone 

support to the community by providing 

the caller with referrals and options and 

then following up at a later date. There was 

a high demand for the program with 863 

appointments booked during this period. 

Volunteers 

The best way to find yourself, is to lose 

yourself in the service of others. 

Mahatma Ghandi 

DRUG ARM’s volunteers are the heart and 

soul of outreach and treatment programs 

across Australia. Volunteers play a unique 

role and DRUG ARM thanks them greatly and 

applauds their commitment, time and energy. 

Volunteers 2008-2009 

NUMBER 

HOURS 


Outreach 

116 3,453 

Queensland Outreach 158 3,685 


Outreach 

384 1226 

Schoolies 27 505 

Get Set 3 108 

Treatment Programs 158 22360 

Toowoomba 

Opportunity Shop 

15 6668 

TOTAL 861 38005 

“Thank you for making us feel so welcome. 

I thoroughly enjoyed my morning 

and was very impressed with the 

warmth and enthusiasm of every person 

I met. I have already been recommending 

to my clients that they consider 

DRUG ARM as a preferred charity!” 

Catherine, corporate volunteer. 

PROGRAM STATISTICS 

During 2008-2009 a total of 18,945 

outreach and 11,958 treatment contacts 

were made. A summary of the demographics 

of these clients showed that: 

OUTREACH STATISTICS 2008-2009 

Outreach Services 

50% were aged 22-39; 60% are male; 79% 

are Australian citizens; and the drugs 

identified by clients as their primary drug 

are (in order) Alcohol and Cannabis, both 

at 28%, followed by Amphetamines (21%). 

NSW SA QLD TOTAL 2008-09 

Number of patrols 149 405 311 865 

Number of client contacts 3,579 6,619 7,488 17,686 

Number of drugs observed 2,102 628 1,422 4,152 

Number of alcohol 

observed 

1,444 1,982 1,177 4,603 

Referrals given 392 2,777 393 3,562 

Number of volunteers 384 116 158 658 

Volunteer hours 1,226 3,453 3,685 8,364 

Number of students 0 6 0 6 

12

Get Set Youth Peer Leadership 

Program (Logan) 

Number of client contacts 327 

Number of drugs observed 29 

Number of alcohol observed 14 

Referrals given 25 

Number of volunteers 3 

Volunteer hours 108 

Students 0 

Student hours 0 

Getting It Together (GIT) 

Number of client contacts 932 

Number of drugs observed 14 

Number of alcohol observed 7 

Referrals given 17 

Number of volunteers 5 

Volunteer hours 96 

Students 0 

Student hours 0 

Schoolies Week 

QLD Schoolies 

SA Schoolies 

Number of patrols 10 nights 3 nights 

Number of client contacts 40,000 drinks given out 415 drinks given out 

Number of drugs observed Approx 40% Approx 20% 

Number of alcohol observed Approx 80% Approx 80% 

Referrals given - information 1,500 

Referrals given - supports 150 97* 

Number of volunteers - outreach 14 13 

Number of volunteers - research 14 

Volunteer hours - outreach 316 189 

Volunteer hours - research 115 

* SA teams do not have a set location for Schoolies and primarily provide emergency transport. 

TREATMENT 

Treatment Program Totals 

NSW SA QLD TOTAL 2008-09 TOTAL 2007-08 

New clients 103 138 1,302 1,543 785 

Exited clients 100 102 1,023 1,225 826 

Total number of client contacts 639 982 9,332 10,953 6,234 

Client referrals 138 484 2,334 2,956 2,442 

Number of program volunteers 21 41 96 158 212 

Number of students 9 10 34 53 13 

Total volunteer hours 2,730 3,854 15,776 22,360 4,786 

Number of volunteer 

Training sessions 

Queensland Illicit Drugs Diversion Initiative (QIDDI) 

2 3 12 17 8 

TOTAL 2008-09 TOTAL 2007-08 

Total referrals 1,005 1,082 

Number of clients who attended 945 860 

Total ongoing sessions 28 106 

Client referrals to other services 220 311 

Total client contact hours 1,750 2,363 

HIGHLIGHTS 


13


CARE 

The Centre for Addiction 

Research & Education (CARE) 

is a national division of DRUG 

ARM and provides support to 

all programs and staff across 

Australia. 

CARE expanded its scope of activity and 

staff significantly in 2008-2009. A second 

Improved Services (organisational capacity 

building) project was introduced to address 

the needs of amphetamine-type substance 

(ATS) users alongside the Dual Diagnosis 

project. Education and Training expanded 

with new staff in the New South Wales and 

South Australian state offices; Prevention 

programs increased coverage of Brisbane 

North and added Brisbane South and Gold 

Coast. Core areas of Research, Evaluation 

and the Resource Centre continued at 

strength. 

CARE has again worked closely with TAFEs 

and universities, hosting students from a 

broad range of faculties who have added 

considerable capacity to DRUG ARM’s 

activities. Students have come from: Metro 

South, Brisbane North and Southbank 

TAFEs, Griffith University, QUT, Charles 

Sturt University, University of the Sunshine 

Coast, Australian Catholic University, 

Monash University, University of Southern 

Queensland and University of Queensland. 

The students contributed over 2,300 hours 

to projects in all areas of the Division. 

Skilled volunteers also supported library, 

education and research work, contributing 

significant expertise and capacity to CARE 

projects. 

Project Highlights 

Evaluation Projects 

CARE continued to provide evaluation 

of DRUG ARM programs, assisting with 

funding requirements and providing 

feedback for program design and delivery. 

2008-2009 saw completion of evaluations 

for youth support Get Set programs in both 

Queensland and South Australia, and the 

WAYEC youth outreach support program 

in New South Wales. This work was again 

undertaken with the help of university 

interns. Brisbane City Council’s Homeless 

Connect event has now become a bi-annual 

event, with CARE contracted to provide 

evaluation and development support. The 

November 2008 and May 2009 events 

involved significant contribution from 

Diploma of AOD students from Metro South 

and Brisbane North Institutes of TAFE. 

Prevention Projects 

These positions, funded by Queensland 

Health, now work from Gympie at the 

north of the Sunshine Coast right down to 

the Queensland/New South Wales border, 

supporting community-level initiatives 

to reduce the harms of alcohol and 

other drugs. 

Safer Venues awards programs in the 

Fortitude Valley precinct and the Pine 

Rivers/Moreton Bay region supported 

safer practices in licensed venues. Further 

support for Liquor Industry Accord groups 

in all regions included research and action 

14

planning. This resulted in the development 

of the Managing Drug Affected Patrons 

(“Drugs in Pubs”) training workshops and 

the pilot roll-out in Pine Rivers of the No 

Kidding campaign to increase awareness 

of new legislation about secondary supply 

of alcohol to minors resulted. 

The team engaged with community and 

sporting groups to acquire funding for 

alcohol-free health promoting events 

and activities, notably the Youth Drink 

Safe Coalition on the Sunshine Coast, 

and worked with the Australian Drug 

Foundation (ADF)-funded Good Sports 

program. Support was also provided to the 

Sunshine Coast, Redcliffe and Deception 

Bay and Moreton Bay tobacco action 

groups. 

Improved Services: Dual Diagnosis 

and Amphetamine-Type-Stimulants 

These projects, both funded by the 

Commonwealth Department of Health 

and Ageing, have supported DRUG ARM 

to significantly develop its expertise and 

capacity to support clients with these 

issues. Working across the organisation, 

extensive staff training was facilitated 

by the new trainers. Treatment and 

interventions were reviewed, policy and 

procedures reworked to match, and a 

clinical governance framework developed 

to place the new developments in context. 

Referral networks and skills are being 

improved and a kit developed to assist 

with advocacy at all levels. A research 

project, in collaboration with QADREC at 

University of Queensland, into the mental 

health issues experienced by ATS clients, 

is also underway. 

As a part of each of these individual projects, 

continuous quality improvement loops 

and documentation have been developed. 

This enormous undertaking feeds into the 

organisation’s preparations to undertake 

HIGHLIGHTS 

its first ISO Accreditation. Achievement 

of this internationally recognised 

quality standard will be a landmark for 

DRUG ARM. 

Research Projects and 

Collaborations 

Queensland Alcohol & Drug Research & 

Education Centre (QADREC; UQ): Mental 

health issues in ATS using clients study 

(part of the ATS Improved Services 

project) 

QADREC (UQ): Data contributions to 

national ERDS (Ecstasy and Related 

Drugs) and IDRS (Injected Drug Research 

Studies). 

Schoolies Week Research 

During November 2008 CARE completed its 

10-year study of the drug- and risk-taking 

behaviour of young people celebrating 

at Schoolies Week on the Gold Coast. 

Responses now exceed 16,000 over 10 

years. Across all regions, alcohol remains 

the primary ‘drug of choice’. With growing 

national interest in this research and 

the emergence of similar events in other 

locations, data was also collected at South 

Australia’s Victor Harbor and Queensland’s 

Fraser Coast Schoolies events. Victoria’s 

Department of Human Services has 

contracted CARE to establish research 

and information collection systems for 

Schoolies celebrations at Lorne, Phillip 

Island and Mornington Peninsula in 2009. 

Education and Training 

With new CARE training staff in New South 

Wales and South Australia, DRUG ARM has 

been able to reach a broader audience. In 

addition to significantly expanding CARE’s 

ongoing work with schools, the division 

increased the number of university and TAFE 

students reached with training sessions. 

This is important as they are at least at as 

much risk as school students, and are often 

neglected as a drug education target. 

Skills development and training for the 

AOD and related sectors, including parents, 

was again a major focus during 2008-2009, 

increasing the community’s capacity to 

deal effectively with local issues. DRUG 

ARM’s own volunteer training courses 

were thoroughly overhauled to meet 


15


CARE 

changing program needs, and staff 

trained for delivery of these. Specialised 

workshops on drugs, intoxication and 

working effectively with young people 

were developed and delivered for other 

organisations including: 

• Scripture Union Trainee School Chaplains 

• Campbell Page Employment Services 

• Access Outreach Services 

• St Vincent de Paul 

• UQ Foundation College for recentlyarrived 

overseas students. 

Workplace drug issues were of increasing 

concern. Information and training 

workshops on managing workplace drug 

issues were developed for corporate clients 

including: 

• Tyco Water 

• Queensland Aluminium Ltd 

• Transfield Refineries 

• Bradken Rail Ltd 

• Australian Industry Group. 

16 

Education & Training 

Audience type Attendees 2007-08 

Totals 

Urban Regional Total 

Church awareness 116 41 157 20 

Community awareness 985 180 1,135 929 

Community education 467 190 

Community training 331 871 

School awareness 150 870 

School education 7,725 300 10,725 8,107 

Training school/uni/TAFE 470 329 

Training corporate 1,596 573 

Training volunteers 243 141 

Conference presentations 50 100 

Research 2,041 2,541 

Total 2008-2009 17,365 14,671

Education and Training Resources 

In collaboration with education students 

and professionals, CARE has continued to 

develop curriculum linked activity-based 

lesson kits and resources to assist teachers 

with AOD education. Matters of Substance, 

a DRUG ARM produced drug and alcohol 

booklet, as well as other resources such 

as drug and alcohol interactive kits and 

activities, have been very well received in 

schools and the resources will continue to 

be developed and updated. 

Resource Centre 

The Resource Centre supplies information 

and materials across Australia thanks to 

its extensive networks. With an increasing 

focus on electronic materials and remote 

access, use of some face to face services 

appears to have dropped. However, staff 

are aware of greatly increased use via web 

services; 3,591 of 8,130 catalogue access 

events were via the DRUG ARM website, 

with 24,739 people looking for resources 

(see also website report below). 

Efforts put into developing document 

delivery (journal articles/news) to make 

information more easily available to staff 

and volunteers in all regions shows results 

in the massive uptake of these services 

for professional development. Supply of 

print materials (fact sheets, brochures 

and program information) to the public 

continues, but by providing links to the 

website and information in electronic 

format, the Resource Centre has reduced 

its printing costs. 

As well as for external events, displays 

were developed for the following occasions: 

Library Lovers Day, Drug Action Week, 

Volunteers Day, International Women’s Day, 

Healthy High and NAIDOC Week. 

Resource Centre 

Contact type 

Total 

2008-09 

Total 

2007- 08 

Loans 619 892 

News articles supplied 112 514 

Journal articles supplied 1,343 420 

e-Information awareness sent 403 748 

New borrowers 91 155 

Acquisitions - new items catalogued 1,003 631 

OPAC (catalogue) usage 8,130 6,024 

Information requests (inc those requiring 

extensive search/synthesis) 

Materials supplied hard copy 

(brochures, fact sheets etc) 

622 513 

9,076 15,857 

HIGHLIGHTS 


17


CARE 

Website 

The DRUG ARM website has continued to 

be a prime means of sharing information 

with the wider public. Over the year, web 

pages have received 46,960 visitors, who 

have viewed 359,620 pages. The “top 25 

pages” viewed are shown below: 

Page name 

Views 

Home 46,960 

Resources - A to Z 24,739 

Programs - QLD 18,579 

Resources - Introduction 9,500 

Healthy High – Celebrities 9,486 

About Us - Employment 7,308 

Healthy High - Mocktails 7,100 

Resources - Factsheets 6,411 

Programs - SA 6,105 

Programs - Principles 5,904 

About Us 5,883 

Latest News 5,795 

Volunteer Training 5,720 

Contact Us 5,570 

Volunteer Programs 5,282 

Corporate Champions 5,232 

Programs – NSW/ACT 5,023 

Healthy High 4,922 

Get Involved 4,789 

Training 4,646 

Recent Events 4,533 

Training - Schools 4,197 

News Archive 3,771 

Catalogue 3,591 

Resources - Help 3,546 

Professional development 

and sharing expertise 

CARE staff members are expected to 

attend two professional development 

sessions each month to ensure currency of 

information and skills, and to share their 

learning with the organisation on return. 

2008-2009 professional development 

areas have included: 

• E-Portfolios and learning management 

• Indigenous health 

• Clinical supervision training, microcounselling 

skills, CBT, motivational 

interviewing, assessment of mental health 

• Alcohol and Other Drug issues in industry 

• Dual diagnosis, mental health 

promotion, drugs and mental health 

• Smoking cessation 

• Inter-cultural awareness and 

effectiveness – Indigenous, Samoan and 

Tongan, Islamic, GLBT 

• Community profiling, community 

governance, project management 

Committees 

CARE staff members contribute their 

expertise to other projects in the 

community, and have contributed to the 

following committees: 

• Amphetamine Precursors monitoring 

committee 

• Gold Coast Drug Council Best Practice 

in Research committee 

• Child & Youth Mental Health’s 

Information Forums and Dual Diagnosis 

steering committee 

• Yeaca Dhargo Indigenous Family AOD 

Support steering committee 

• Industry reference groups for Griffith 

University, MSIT Yeronga, Bremer and 

Southbank TAFEs 

• ADCA Workforce Development 

reference group 

• Australian Winter School Conference 

organising committee. 

18

MARKETING AND 

FUNDRAISING 

DRUG ARM’s programs and 

services rely on the support of the 

community to continue to provide 

clients with the best access to 

drug and alcohol information, 

support and education. The aim of 

the Marketing and Fundraising 

division is to both generate 

income for the organisation and 

bring people together to better 

understand the Vision of Reaching 

Out and Reducing Harm. 

The contributions that sponsors, partners, 

supporters, individuals and groups make 

to DRUG ARM gives the organisation the 

opportunity to provide: free outreach 

services to the homeless and those who are 

at-risk of homelessness; Free treatment 

programs for clients, including ongoing 

support and referrals; Educational 

resources for students, teachers and the 

community to educate and inform about 

alcohol and other drugs and making healthy, 

positive choices; and Vehicles, promotional 

items and electronic equipment that 

ensures staff and volunteers are the best 

equipped to support clients. 

Fundraising 

A large proportion of DRUG ARM’s 

fundraising income is generated through 

joint telemarketing partnerships with other 

charitable organisations. Sponsorship from 

the corporate community provides the 

opportunity for DRUG ARM to distribute 

tickets at no charge to disadvantaged 

children and families so they can enjoy a 

family day out. 

Events in 2008-2009 included Circus 

Spectaculars, Movie Days, and trips to the 

Zoo. DRUG ARM acknowledges Communitel 

Pty Ltd for their contributions, as well 

as the partnerships of the Leukaemia 

Foundation (New South Wales), scosa 

(South Australia), Variety – the Children’s 

Charity (Queensland), United Way (South 

HIGHLIGHTS 

FUNDRAISING 


19

MARKETING & 

FUNDRAISING 

Australia) and the Rotary Clubs of Toowong, 

Liverpool West and Adelaide West. 

DRUG ARM also generates funds through 

special events. These included Healthy 

High, the Brisbane Big City Barbecue, The 

Rotary Club of Hamilton and HSBC Charity 

Golf Day, Ipswich Book Affair, Jazz in the 

Vineyard, DRUG ARM’s Annual Public 

Meeting, Volunteer Week, Drug Action 

Week, local fairs and community days 

and others. 

Healthy High 

10 days; 2 weekends; 

zero alcohol. 

Hundreds of Australian’s 

joined the Healthy 

High challenge to 

give up alcohol from 

19-29 June 2009. Not 

only did participants 

give their liver a holiday, but they helped to 

raise over $26,000 for DRUG ARM’s Street 

Outreach Services. 

around reducing alcohol-related harm in 

communities. Binge drinking has become 

problematic and Healthy High is a positive 

and uplifting campaign to help bring about 

a change in attitude around the misuse 

of alcohol. Congratulations to everyone 

who took part, either as a participant or 

supporter. 

The Healthy High fundraising campaign 

has significantly increased the positive 

profile of DRUG ARM in the Australian 

community and the organisations role 

in encouraging young people to live a 

healthy lifestyle without the excessive use 

of alcohol. 

Special thanks to our 

major sponsors: 

Healthy High was first launched in 2008 

to raise the profile of DRUG ARM and to 

educate the wider community about the 

harm associated with excessive alcohol 

consumption, encouraging people to reduce 

their alcohol intake. 

Adult participants were encouraged to 

make a promise not to consume alcohol 

for a period of ten days from 19-29 June 

2009 (incorporating Drug Action Week). 

Registered participants sought sponsorship 

support from employers, friends and family 

and primarily raised funds online using 

Everyday Hero. Politicians and celebrities 

across Australia also got involved, helping 

to exceed financial targets, and most 

importantly generating conversations 

20

Brisbane Big City Barbecue 

Celebrate…Give…Engage 

Brisbane’s biggest barbecue was 

outstanding on Friday 17 October 2008. 

Increased ticket sales, publicity, revenue 

and profit was achieved through greater 

support from the corporate community, 

product suppliers, volunteers and patrons. 

A total of $90,000 was donated to the three 

charity beneficiaries: DRUG ARM, Guide 

Dogs Queensland and The Lord Mayor’s 

Community Trust. 

The Barbecue is an opportunity for the 

corporate community of Brisbane to come 

together for one cause – to celebrate, give 

and engage. Foundation Partners Wilson 

HTM Investment Group, Riparian Plaza and 

Brisbane City Council have been integral 

in driving the event, which has raised a 

staggering $220,000 over the last three 

years. Gold sponsors included Boardwalk 

Bar + Bistro, St George Margin Lending, 

KPMG and Clayton Utz. The day is staffed 

by volunteers from each of the partners 

and is a primary example of corporate 

social responsibility working wonders for 

the local community. 

Charity Golf Day 

The Rotary Club of Hamilton and HSBC 

Charity Golf Day was held on Friday 15 

August 2009. The annual event continues to 

be extremely popular with golf enthusiasts 

and social players alike, attracting a full 

course of players all keen to enjoy the day 

at one of Brisbane’s most premier golf clubs, 

Royal Queensland. A novelty Speed Cop 

brought a competitive feel to the course, 

with players keen to try and out-do major 

sporting stars to play the fastest swing. 

DRUG ARM is the major beneficiary of this 

event with funds supporting MOSHPIT. 

Entertainment and promotion play a large 

role in this event, and the Big City Barbecue 

has become a must-attend event for those 

working in the precinct. The entertainment 

line-up was the best yet with high profile 

Brisbane band Small Mercies leading a star 

cast of entertainers, including Francesca de 

Valence, Shift 1, Brazilian Touch Dancers, 

Element 1, Oz Strongman and Soul Peace. Ipswich Book Affair 

NOVA 106.9FM’s Michelle & Smallzy were The Ipswich Showground was turned 

the emcees for the day, engaging with the into a book lovers dream from Thursday 

crowd and keeping everyone entertained, 4 September through to Saturday 6 

whilst special guests Lord Mayor Campbell September when DRUG ARM hosted the 

Newman and the Lady Mayoress Lisa annual Ipswich Book Affair. More than 

Newman officially opened the event. 

40,000 books were up for grabs, and from 

only $1 each hundreds of attendees walked 

Brisbane has now stamped the barbecue as away with bags full of bargains. Over 650 

an annual day of celebration in the city’s 

HIGHLIGHTS 

calendar. It will return for a fourth year on 

Friday 16 October 2009. 

people attended over the three day event, 

helping to raise $11,000. Volunteers and 

staff sold over 50% of the stock which was a 


21

MARKETING & 

FUNDRAISING 

22 

great achievement and the largest number 

of books sold since the events inception 

in 2005. 

Volunteers were integral to the event, and 

special mention must be made to Elwyn 

Denman for coordinating the book sorting 

and Pauline Newton for her ongoing 

contribution. Thanks must also go out 

to all those who helped out prior to the Book 

Affair, at the event and also assisting with the 

packing up efforts. The event simply could 

not have gone ahead without their support. 

Special thanks to sponsors Paul Pisasale, 

Mayor of Ipswich, the Ipswich City Council, 

4BH and 4BC, Ipswich Girls Grammar 

School, New Hope Coal, Ipswich Day & 

Night Chemist, ANZ Bank and Thrifty. 

FUNDRAISING INCOME 2008-09 

Telemarketing $307,526.94 

Special Events $112,969.08 

Direct Mail $87,864.85 

Other Donations* $119,245.14 

Total income $627,606.00 

*Includes: corporate, individual, Church, 

workplace giving, bequests and online donations. 

Marketing 

The National Marketing and Fundraising 

Division was responsible for producing a 

number of publications during the financial 

year, including: Reaching Out bi-annual 

newsletter; Annual Report; Resource Centre 

alcohol and drug fact sheets; program flyers 

and fact sheets; new program brochures; the 

design and printing of Matters of Substance, 

and special event materials. 

Direct mail campaigns during 2008-2009 

included Membership, Tax and Christmas 

appeals, as well as the additional Christmas 

Card donations, Annual General Meeting 

appeal, and Reaching Out newsletter 

appeals. The division is pleased to report 

that all direct mail appeals during 

the financial year exceeded budget 

expectations, particularly the Christmas 

Appeal which raised $24,000, a marked 

increase from an average $15,000 in 

previous years. 

Media 

Partnering with the media to raise DRUG 

ARM’s profile is an important function of 

this division. Marketing and Fundraising, 

assisted by CARE and the Resource Centre, 

responded to and initiated a broad range of 

topics. Popular topics included: 

• Drug use statistics for local and 

national profiles 

• Schoolies Week and school drug education 

• Emerging drug trends such as ice and 

other amphetamine type substances 

• Young people’s alcohol consumption, 

binge drinking, responsible partying 

and alcohol marketing issues 

• Secondary supply of alcohol to minors 

and parent influence 

• Public figures and role modeling 

• Drug testing and drug misuse in the 

workplace 

• Indigenous health issues around alcohol 

and drug use 

• Drinking guidelines and health factors. 

Acknowledgement 

to all supporters 

DRUG ARM is indebted to the many Church, 

community and corporate organisations and 

individuals who have so loyally supported 

the continuing work of DRUG ARM around 

Australia. The National Marketing and 

Fundraising Division thanks all those who 

have assisted in making the task of raising 

funds so much easier. 

The year was extremely tough in relation 

to the country’s financial situation and 

fundraising will continue to be a challenge 

as it improves, however with the work being 

done by those associated with DRUG ARM, 

there is a great base to work with and for 

this the organisation says thank you. A list 

of major supporters can be found at the end 

of this report.

CORPORATE 

SERVICES 

SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITY 2008-2009 

INCOME 


$ 

2007-08 

$ 

Federal Government 1,124,958 623,497 

State Government 2,054,619 1,385,897 

Local Government 75,573 127,246 

Community Grants 111,086 217,830 

Fundraising 627,606 728,045 

Partnerships 379,694 409,883 

Sales Resources, Services 

and Interest 

1,009,646 680,699 

Donation - Parent Entity 838,511 847,214 

Total Income 6,221,694 5,020,311 

EXPENSES 


$ 

2007-08 

$ 

CARE 1,120,233 465,395 

Corporate Services 637,513 532,463 

Marketing and Fundraising 382,747 365,595 

New South Wales 441,438 368,381 

Queensland 2,889,590 2,623,984 

South Australia 703,779 660,757 

Total Expenses 6,175,300 5,016,575 

Surplus $46,394 $3,736 

HIGHLIGHTS 


23

CORPORATE 

SERVICES 

Toowoomba Second Hand 

Opportunity Shop 

The Toowoomba Second Hand Opportunity 

Shop continues to be a strong income 

stream for SOS in the region, recording 

another year of significant growth. 

The Shop is coordinated by long-term 

volunteer Anne Fraser, and is assisted by 

Paul Richardson and a wonderful team of 

dedicated and professional volunteers. 

The Marketing and Fundraising team are 

indebted to the many volunteers who give 

their time and are committed to helping 

their community. 

2008-2009 Toowoomba Second Hand 

Opportunity Shop Statement 

2008-09 2007-08 

Sales $51,507 $41,345 

After Expenses $32,837 $22,959 

Human Resources 

DRUG ARM Australasia staff numbered 

72 at 30 June 2009, including full time, 

part time and casual support staff. 

STAFFING 2008-2009 

LOCATION 

National 

Office 

Full 

Time 

Part 

Time 

Total 


15 11 26 

New South 

5 1 6 

Wales 

Queensland 18 11 29 

South 

3 8 11 

Australia 

TOTAL 41 31 72 

Directors 

Dr John Roulston AM, Chairman 

PhD, M. Educ. Admin., M Litt., B. Educ, 

Assoc. Educ., Cert.Teaching, FQIEA, FACEL, 

FACE, FAIM. 

Dr John Roulston AM is the Executive 

Director of The Association of Independent 

Schools of Queensland and a Past Moderator 

of the Queensland Synod of The Uniting 

Church in Australia. He has been involved 

with DRUG ARM since 1996, and has been 

Chair of the Drug Awareness and Relief 

Foundation (Australia) since 2009. Dr 

Roulston has also been active over several 

years in peak Drug Education committees 

established by the Australian Government 

and has over 20 years experience in working 

with non government associations. 

Major Rodney Walters, Vice Chairman 

Bachelor of Administrative Leadership 

(BAL), Preaching Certificate, Certificate IV 

Training & Assessment. 

Major Rodney Walters joined the Salvation 

Army in 1983 and has held numerous 

appointments in both NSW and Queensland, 

and as a Police Chaplain. In 1993 Rod was 

appointed to St. Petersburg, Russia, to 

work with Officers in the newly re-formed 

Salvation Army, returning to Sydney in 

2000 and Queensland in 2002. 

Mr Robert (Bob) Cook, Treasurer 

Mr Cook is a former Director of the IOR 

Friendly Society Ltd and Director IOR 

Community Care Pty Ltd. Prior to his 

retirement, Bob served as Chief Executive 

Officer, IOR Friendly Society (Queensland) 

Ltd from 1987 - 2002. He also served 

as a Director of the Australian Health 

Insurance Association and as a Director of 

HAMBS Pty Ltd. His previous experience 

was as an insurance broker from 1959 

- 1984 and during this period he served 

as the Queensland State Manager from 

1974 to 1984. 

Mr David Watts, Board Member 


BA. Dip. Applied Psychology, Grad Dip 

Public Health, Registered Psychologist 

SA APSAD 

Mr Watts has worked in the alcohol and 

other drug field in Tasmania and South 

Australia for thirty years. He is currently 

24

employed by Drug and Alcohol Services 

South Australia (DASSA) which is the main 

state government drug and alcohol service 

provider. As a registered psychologist he 

has worked with inpatient and outpatient 

services and has been involved in numerous 

programs including those provided to 

Aboriginal communities, industry and 

correctional services. Most recently his 

professional interests have turned to public 

health issues, particularly the prevention 

of alcohol related harm. 

Mr Peter Henderson, Board Member 

Queensland 

B.Bus, FCPA, Grad. Dip. Management, Grad. 

Dip. Applied Finance, FFin, Accountant 

Mr Henderson has been involved with 

DRUG ARM for over thirty years, having 

served in various positions on the Board, 

including Chairman. He is also on the 

Board of IOR Friendly Society Ltd. Peter 

owns an accounting practice and a financial 

planning firm and holds membership in 

several professional associations including 

CPA Australia. 

Ms Leonie Short, Board Member 

Queensland 

M. Health Planning, BA, Dip. Clinical 

Hypnotherapy, RDT, MAICD, AFCHSE 

Ms Short is a registered dental therapist 

whose academic and research career 

spans fifteen years. In 2001 she was the 

Federal Member for Ryan in the House 

of Representatives of the Parliament of 

Australia. She is currently a Senior Lecturer 

in the School of Dentistry and Oral Health of 

Griffith University on the Gold Coast. She is 

a Director of the Australian Dental Council, 

the SEARCH Foundation and a member of 

the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital 

Research Foundation. She is also active in 

Zonta International, the Country Women’s 

Association and Lions. 

Dr Joseph Debattista, Board Member 

HIGHLIGHTS 

Queensland 

BSc, MSc, PhD, Grad Dip T 

Dr Debattista has 20 years experience 

working within Queensland Health in the 

area of public health planning, coordination 

and promotion, community development 

and liaison and over 20 years experience 

working with government and community 

based health organisations. 

Ms Kathleen Gibbings, Board 

Member ACT 

Ms Gibbings’ qualifications include a 

Bachelor of Laws (1st class honours), 

Master of Laws, Executive Master of Public 

Administration, Graduate Certificate in 

Business (Human Resource Management), 

Solicitor of the Supreme Court of 

Queensland and High Court of Australia. 

Her experience includes Private legal 

practice; ministerial advisor and senior 

public servant. 

Dr Zhanming (Ming) Liang, Board 

Member 

Dr Liang holds a PhD in public health, 

a Master of Science in mental health, a 

Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of 

Surgery. She is a Fellow of the Australian 

College of Health Service Executives 

(AFACHSE) and is currently a lecturer 

in population health. Prior to retiring to 

take up further study and a university 

lectureship Ming held a number of positions 

within DRUG ARM Australasia including 

State Manager of DRUG ARM New South 

Wales. Her interests are in research and 

health. 

Dr Dennis Young, Secretary/Executive 

Director 

DHSM, MBA, Grad Dip of Teach (FET), B. 

Bus, AFAIM, AFACRS, MAICD 

Dr Young has been Executive Director and 

Superintendent of the Drug Awareness and 

Relief Foundation (Australia) since 1988. 

Since DRUG ARM Australasia’s beginnings 

in 2002 he has also been the Executive 

Director. Dennis is also a former member 

of the Queensland Parliament and served 

for seventeen years with the Queensland 

Police Service. 


25


COMMITTEES 


Northern Regional Committee 

Jane Barr, South Australia Treatment Manager, DRUG ARM 

Dennis Charland, Anglicare 

Glenn Clarke, SOS Coordinator, DRUG ARM 

Sgt Chris Gill, Elizabeth Drug Action Team 

Georgina James, Youth Development Officer, City of Playford 

Stephen Kemble-Jones, Headspace and DRUG ARM Volunteer 

Travis Renshaw, City of Playford 

David Tredrea, City of Gawler 

Southern Regional Committee 


Rachel Faulkner, Mission Australia 

Jan Hutchinson, Southern Mental Health 

Dr Duncan McFetridge MP, Member for Morphett 

Jeff Roberts, Volunteer Support Worker, DRUG ARM 

Brigid Tipping, Community Development Officer, City of Holdfast Bay 

Glen Millar, City of Holdfast Bay 

North Eastern Regional Committee 

Chad Buchanan, representative for Tom Kenyon MP, Member for Newland 

Alana Crump, Youth Development Officer, City of Tea Tree Gully 

Mike Flynn, DRUG ARM Volunteer 

Sgt Jo Mareolas, Holden Hill Drug Action Team 

Sam Raven, South Australia Outreach Manager, DRUG ARM 

Jeff Roberts, Volunteer Support Worker, DRUG ARM 

Western Regional Committee 

Diana Ciampa, City of Port Adelaide Enfield 

Glenn Clarke, SOS Coordinator, DRUG ARM 

Andy Gosling, SAPOL, Port Adelaide Drug Action Team 

Peter Hill, Housing Information and Referral Officer, APOSS 


Cr Helen Wright, City of Port Adelaide Enfield 

SA State Committee 

David Watts, DASSA 


Kelly Bramhill, Australian Institute of Management 

Jeff Hollands, Rotary Club of Edwardstown 

Martin Meredith, Engineer and Business Consultant 

Bianca Moerman, National Programs Manager, DRUG ARM 


Barry Squire, Department of Education and Children’s Services (retired) 

26


Wollongong Regional Committee 

Allan Cunningham, Volunteer, DRUG ARM 

Mike Greenwood, Dapto Anglican Church 

Tamar Jaffray, SOS Coordinator, DRUG ARM 

John Koster, Community Representative 

Naomi Talamaivao, New South Wales Outreach Manager, 


Northern Beaches Regional Committee 

Mike Kewley, Volunteer, DRUG ARM 

Ashley Saunders, Baptist Church 

Naomi Talamaivao, New South Wales Outreach Manager, DRUG ARM 

Rob Vanden Blink, Warringah Council 

Rosemary Wilson, SOS Coordinator, DRUG ARM 

Queensland 

Ipswich Regional Committee (RASN) 

Shane Addicott, Steps to Success, Ipswich City Council 

Booval Community Service Inc 

Phil Broderick, Bluecare 

Debbie Carnell, Ipswich City Council 

Edith Collins 

N. Coyne, Boystown 

Elwyn Denman, Unity Homes, Alcoholics Victorious 

Dianne Farrell, Queensland Health 

Cameron Francis, Queensland Health 

James Hoey, Queensland Health 

Christine Keane, Queensland Health 

Peter Keech, Department of Communities 

Ron Lambert, Footprints in the Park 

Zoe Locke 

Agnes Maskalans, Ipswich Mental Health Unit 

Vic May, OZCARE 

Carol Muraahi, Australian Red Cross HEI 

Gabrielle Payne, Corrective Services 

Travis Rablin, OZCARE 

John Rowe, Bendigo Bank 

Annette Schoone, Ipswich City Council 

Charlie Scott, St Peter Claver College 

Kathy Shepherd, ATODS 

Kristy Sosdike, Team leader, Ipswich Independent 

Youth Service 

Janette Sweedman, OZCARE 

Yvonne Teis, Ipswich Needle Syringe Program 

Gary Truloff, The Chat Room 

Roger Vaughan, Christian Community Care Network 

HIGHLIGHTS 

Armond von Stein, Office of Bernie Ripoll 

Paul Woodward, OZCARE 


27

Acknowledgement to 

SUPPORTERS 

DRUG ARM’s Vision of Reaching Out and Reducing Harm is proudly 

supported by many organisations and individuals within the community. 

DRUG ARM is very appreciative of the many incredible people who donate 

to the services each and every year - thank you for helping DRUG ARM to 

engage, encourage and empower people and communities. 

Listed below are a selection of DRUG ARM’s major contributors, supporters and grant bodies. 

Due to limited space, unfortunately not all organisations or individuals can be included but 

each and every donation is greatly appreciated. 

Government Grants 

• Australian Government - Department of Communities 

• Australian Government - Department of Families, Community Services and Indigenous 

Affairs 

• Australian Government - Department of Health and Ageing 

• Brisbane City Council 

• City of Campbelltown 

• City of Gawler 

• City of Onkaparinga 

• City of Playford 

• City of Port Adelaide Enfield 

• City of Salisbury 

• Government of New South Wales - Department of Community Services 

• Ipswich City Council 

• Moreton Bay Regional Council 

• Queensland Health 

• South Australia Health 

Community Grants AND Trusts 

• Government of South Australia - Community Benefit South Australia 

• IOR Group 

• Jupiter’s Casino Community Benefit Fund (Queensland) 

• Queensland Government Treasury – Gambling Community Benefit Fund 

• Queensland Government Treasury – Liquor Licensing Division 

• Wendy’s Foundation 

28 

Service Clubs AND Community Groups 

• Adelaide Chinese Lions Club 

• Dapto Anglican Church 

• Fairfield RSL 

• Goodna RSL 

• Lions Club of Bunya 

• Pittwater RSL 

• Reformed Christian Church, Wollongong 

• Rotary Club of Hamilton 

• Rotary Club of Mosman 

• Rotary Club of Stanthorpe Inc 

• Second Chance Opportunity Shop, New South Wales

Telefundraising Partnership Program 

• Communitel Pty Ltd 

• Leukaemia Foundation – New South Wales 

• Rotary Club of Adelaide West 

• Rotary Club of Liverpool West Inc 

• Rotary Club of Toowong 

• SCOSA – Spastic Centres of South Australia 

• United Way, South Australia 

• Variety Queensland 

Resource Centre NEW 

organisational memberS AND supporters include 

• 3D-ME 

• Alcohol & Drug Service (Queensland Health) 

• Boeing 

• Cairns Base Hospital 

• Cannon Hill Anglican College 

• Craigslea High School 

• Crime and Misconduct Commission 

• Department of Health (Western Australia) 

• Department of Justice and Attorney-General 

• Ethnic Communities Council Queensland 

• Forensic & Scientific Services (Queensland Health) 

• Griffith University Sports Programs 

• McCulloch Robertson Lawyers 

• Queensland Nurses Union 

• Queensland Police Services 

• Ramsay Health Care 

• Rockhampton Hospital 

• Spiritus Health Services 

• Tweed Hospital 

• Yangulla Centre Rural Health Training Unit (Rockhampton) 

SUPPORTORS 

HIGHLIGHTS 

Fortitude Valley Award Winners 2009 

Disclaimers 

1. Every effort has been made to ensure that this publication is free from error and/or omission at the 

date of printing. The authors, publisher, and any person involved in the preparation of the DRUG ARM 

Annual Report 2008-2009 take no responsibility for loss occasioned to any person or organisation 

acting or refraining from action as a result of information contained in the publication. 

2. To maintain privacy and ensure confidentiality for our clients, real names have not been used in case 

studies mentioned in the document. All other reference to names are accurate at time of printing. 


29

National Office 

24 Hamilton Place, Bowen Hills Qld 4006 

GPO Box 590, Brisbane Qld 4001 

Tel: (07) 3620 8811 Fax: (07) 3620 8812 

Email: drugarm@drugarm.com.au 

drugarm.com.au 

The Drug Arm 2009 Annual Report was printed using soy based ink and the 

paper is made from 100% recycled fibre with a minimum of 75% post consumer.

DRUG ARM Australasia Annual Report 2008-2009

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