Editorial - November 2007

Margaret Shaddock Sunshine Coast Book Launch

Twelve months ago Margaret Shaddock applied to Maroochy Regional Arts Development Fund RADF for the first time. She applied in the best way that a poet/artist could, her application included a poem that said just what she wanted to achieve with the publication of Ripples. On the 26th October Ripples with illustrations by the artist was launched; the room was packed, the buzz extraordinary, among the invited guests were RADF chairperson Counsellor Jenny McKay and Member for Nicklin, Peter Wellington. While Ripples was at heart written to reach out to a section of the community that are frequently forgotten and pushed to the margins, the book and the author reach out to the rest of us with compassion and generosity in the hope that we will understand and respond more positively to those experiencing mental health issues.

Access Arts is proud to have played a small part in this project and now have a signed copy of Ripples in our library. To all those including Jo Van Bilson, Adult Mental Health and Tim Malivoire, printer, who have worked with Margaret to bring this project to fruition, congratulations!

Speaking of ripples, this month's newsletter will make waves with its exciting content! This month's must read article is the summary of the fantastic ideas that came out of the two focus groups that were held recently in order to gain suggestions from our members for our 2008 program. Also included is a Creative Respite Options update, staff training report, visual arts news and interesting accounts from members and staff on recent Access Arts and wider community events.

Enjoy!

Ross Barber Executive Director Access Arts

Results from the 2008 member focus groups

Access Arts recently held two member focus groups on October 27th and 31st in order to receive ideas for the 2008 program as well as feedback on 2007's programs, services and workshops. These focus groups also sought feedback on the proposed program changes for 2008, which in summary are:

• Access Arts offers a number of services in 2008 which will provide a wider range of opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in the arts as part of the broader community. These will include:

• Developing workshops in partnership with a number of service organisations at times and venues which meet the needs of their members.

• These workshops may also be offered to Access Arts' members if the organisation is agreeable.

• Provision of support for individuals and small groups to attend workshops in the community.

• Consultancy services to assist arts organisations in the broader community to ensure that they are accessible to people with disabilities.

• Community workshops based at Access Arts where we provide a venue and artists can submit workshop proposals to us. These are open to the whole community or may be specifically targeted at a particular group depending on needs. We have been successfully running these over the past few years, but will broaden their scope to target particular art forms, EG writing and visual arts where we know there is strong interest from the membership.

Feedback from members on the above changes was very positive with members expressing that this model will bring more community members into workshops and broaden their arts experience.

Below is a summary of the two focus groups, which Access Arts will now use to inform the development of the 2008 program. Obviously it will be impossible to implement all the ideas this year, but we thank those who attended for providing us with an exciting creative melting pot to get things started.

During the focus groups members shared some insightful feedback on the 2007 program:

• Need to have more workshops on weekends

• Need to have more drum making workshops

• Wheelchair dancing needs to have a bigger space. Wheelchair dancing also needs to happen every week with a performance for Open Day/Sunset Sounds

• More workshops should lead to a performance

• Need to get out and about more with Sound Circles- e.g. go to the park

• The Brisbane Sound Circles room acoustics are shocking and outside noise is often distracting.

• Need to run more acting and performance workshops

• Need to run more group activities. Workshops should join together to get different perspectives and have collaborative performances.

• General timing and transport is an issue for most members present

• Some of the workshops are too big - especially Sound Circles

• Should have a BBQ after Sound Circles.

• Good experience at Sound Circles

• All workshops are good

• Visual arts workshops are good but they would be better if they went for more days during the week.

During the focus groups members also had PLENTY of new ideas including:

• Graffiti and rap workshops (Graffiti workshops would focus on legal graffiti in a public space)

• Casual social groups to just have a chat and a coffee (this could then lead into a storytelling group- not necessarily written but oral storytelling and sharing)

• Mask making workshops

• Movie nights and Movie making workshops

• 'Behind the scenes' excursions- visit different arts venues and experience professional rehearsals/see artists at work/what happens backstage.

• Dancing workshops and dancing competition (including ballroom, belly and contemporary dance)

• Photographic workshops

• Character development workshop/ performing skits/ performing arts workshop

• Talent extravaganza/ showcase performances

• Pottery and Clay modelling workshops

• Drawing workshops

• Collage workshops

• Filmmaking workshops (same time as digital storytelling workshops)

• Song writing workshops

• Busking/members provide entertainment during Farmer's markets and other performances at mainstream events

• Healthy lifestyle workshops for artists

• Scriptwriting workshops/groups

• Circus and gymnastics

• Stage craft workshop- learning how to use the stage effectively

• Set up of performance equipment- stage hand workshop

• Body art/ face painting/creative face makeup

• Workshops with children/young people- members facilitate school holiday workshops

• Jewellery making workshops

• Junior Sound Circles group

• Partner with the Powerhouse- AAI provide kids workshops while parents go to Powerhouse events and performances

• Cookery workshops/ food as art

• More exhibitions- at cafés and restaurant chains- e.g. Coffee Club

• Peer support and networking groups- not just workshops.

• Afternoon/evening art studio groups during the week

• Animation- drawing and clay

• Paper making and Paper Mache workshops

• Take visual arts into schools- members to facilitate

• Mould making workshops

• Create a Sensory Installation piece

If you have any further feedback or ideas please feel free to call Sally at Access Arts on (07) 3358 6200 or 1300 663 651 for regional callers. Alternatively, please email your suggestions to sally@accessarts.org.au. We'd love to hear from you!

More families to receive 'Creative Respite' through Access Arts' program

Through continued funding support from Life Without Barriers, Access Arts' successful program Creative Respite Options is now able to deliver high quality creative and flexible respite and leisure activities to an additional 5 families in need (especially those with a high level of need during the holiday period).

Although the role of a carer can be a rewarding and stimulating experience, Access Arts recognises that ageing carers have been caring for their loved one for a long time without dedicated time to themselves. The opportunity to have time out to put their feet up or participate in a creative activity can help carers care better, and last the distance.

Creative Respite Options provides not just time away from the caring role but also respite which:

• Addresses the whole family's needs

• Supports the development of life skills of people experiencing disability.

• Creates the opportunity to participate in the creative, cultural and social areas of life for both carers and the person being cared for.

• promotes the valued status of people experiencing disability and plans for the future through professional skills development

• Recognises the type of respite needed is up to the family (whether this is supported quality family time or both parties wish to spend time apart, either having a rest or enjoying a creative activity of their choice)

Some feedback from families currently receiving respite includes:

'I've never heard of anyone doing this before.' Mother, 68 years

'It's opening a new world' Mother, 68 years

One of the highlights has been 'to see my daughter achieve beyond what we thought possible'. Father, 72 years

'We have felt so supported and encouraged. We have loved participating.' Mother, 70 years

'It's great to do things with people my own age' Daughter, 36 years

In order to be eligible carers must be over 65 years old (those with an Indigenous background, 50 years and over), and supporting their child with a disability. Families must also live in the Greater Brisbane Region. If you would like to participate please call Sally at Access Arts on (07) 3358 6200 or email sally@accessarts.org.au to find out more and arrange a time for a consultation.

If your family is eligible for Creative Respite Options then please come along to the Creative Respite Options Christmas BBQ!

The afternoon will include FREE fun for the WHOLE family with:

• Tasty food

• Visual Arts display (including work from Creative Respite participants)

• Performances by Access Arts artists

• Information on Access Arts Inc.'s programs and workshops for 2008

• Information on Creative Respite Options

• An opportunity to meet other families and share experiences.

When: Saturday, 8th December from 4-6pm

Where: We will meet at Access Arts (Brisbane Powerhouse, Level 1 Stores Building 119 Lamington St, New Farm) and then head over to New Farm Park

Cost: Free!

If you require transport please let Access Arts know. For catering purposes please RSVP by Friday November 30th by calling Access Arts on 3358 6200 or emailing Sally at sally@accessarts.org.au

Nalingu Day Respite Zillmere Melbourne Cup Event

Nalingu Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Day Respite Centre was initially established in 1994. Nalingu, an Aboriginal term that means 'You and Me', provides services for both the Indigenous and non-Indigenous community (including the elderly and people with special needs or living with a disability) within the northern suburbs of Brisbane, it is located at 96 Handford Road, Zillmere.

Each year a Melbourne Cup Function is held at the centre and staff and clients from other Respite Centres in the greater Brisbane region are invited to attend, this year Waminda Respite Centre at Ningi were invited to share the day and activities with us.

To make the day special it was decided to include an extensive healthy menu plan that included the best of fresh produce for snacks and the main meal but the Centre's monies for food provision did not extend to additional activities such as this function, enter Access Arts. Access Arts provided $300 funding and their generosity allowed us to purchase food and beverage items that met the standards of a healthy eating program, including fresh juices, salads, fruits, and organic chicken and other meat products.

Forty-one people attended the function and EVERYONE commented on the quality and quantity of the menu. Activities included running the traditional sweeps, lucky door prizes and other fun and games designed for our elderly client groups. A fantastic day was had by all and the function would not have been as successful without the assistance of Access Arts.

On behalf of the staff and clients of both Nalingu and Waminda Respite Centres I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Access Arts for their involvement.

- Garry Sloane (Coordinator, Nalingu Day Respite)

A Kinda 'Yi Old Shakespeare Benefit Eve

On the evening of November 4, 2007, popular Access Arts' supported groups Actors anonymous and the community choir were invited to perform at a benefit evening. The evening was dedicated to raising funds for the Queensland Down Syndrome Association's Ambassadors fund and the Voice Bloom Fund. The night was held at the Figtree Pocket State School and looked back on William Shakespeare and the Middle Ages.

Voice bloom is a project which assists people who experience disability to develop self-confidence and communication skills using a theatre and performance approach. The fund is designed for people to involve themselves in events from which they otherwise would be excluded, such as the voice bloom workshops.

Both performances were thoroughly enjoyed by the audience. The choir graced everybody with their songs, Actors anonymous with their spontaneity. The night flowed well and the atmosphere was highly-charged.

Thanks go to all of our participants from Actors Anonymous and the community choir. Both groups are improving all the time. Thanks also should go to the staff, Hayley Kitchener and Darren Nufer, for their assistance.

- Alyssa Maughan and Damian Stewart

Two Access Arts Brisbane Outsider Artists head to AART.BOXX at the Sydney Opera House.

AART.BOXX, a partnership between Accessible Arts NSW and the Sydney Opera House has been developed to act as a national exhibition platform for emerging artists experiencing a disability under the age of 25. Artists Peter Hughes and Alexandra Crombie-Van Ewyk will be attending the opening of the exhibition with Jasmin Jacobson, Visual Arts Coordinator on the 20th November 2007.

While for Alexandra this is a first time professional exhibition, Peter has a range of successful international and national exhibitions behind him and will be speaking at the AART.BOXX Opening. Access Arts believes in creating opportunities and supporting artists to exhibit in and attend exhibitions of this significance. It is an important part of the ongoing Access Arts Queensland visual arts professional development program.

- Jasmin Jacobson (Visual Arts Coordinator)

BOA visit to the Qld Art Gallery and GoMA, South Bank

On Monday 15th October the BOA members visited the Qld Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art for the day. A range of exhibitions were on display including: an installation exhibition by the German abstract painter Katharina Grosse and the Xstrata Coal Emerging Indigenous Art Award 2007. It was a great day.

Comments from BOA members

'I really liked the Katharina Grosse Picture Park installation. I also really liked the installation piece of the photographs of all the different sunsets.'
Alex Crombie Van-Ewyk.

'I liked the Gallery of Modern Art and looking at the paintings.'
Peter Hughes.

'I liked seeing the different art works. I liked the Katharina Grosse's installation piece. Seeing different artwork gives you inspiration for your own work.'
Belinda Peel

'I had a good day.'
Michael Mulvey

'I enjoyed seeing the Indigenous exhibition and how the artists used contemporary materials, while still exploring concepts that are unique to Indigenous culture.'
Andrew Coote

'I liked the Indigenous paintings and the colours that were used. I also liked the ferry trip to the gallery.'
Andrew Pemberton

Ted and Darren's Movieworld Adventure

On the 31st of October Ted and Darren went down to Warner Bros. Movie World for a 'Halloween Extravaganza' with support from Access Arts' Creative Respite Options program. They began the day with a morning tea of spooky cupcakes and beverages, heading down to the Coomera Motor Inn, where they would stay. After unpacking, they travelled to pick up a BP roadhouse lunch, returned so Ted could have a brief swim (it was a bit cold!), then they watched some DVD's. Next, they ordered their dinner for later, and then it was time to prepare for their big night out at Movie World!! Ted dressed up as Professor Dumbledore, and made quite a stir at both the Motor Inn and the fun park- plenty of paparazzi taking photos- some even remembered him dressed as a policeman years ago- ah, it's that star quality Ted, it never fades....He went to the Harry Potter shop, saw the famous train that arrives from London, played a horse racing game, watched the Scooby Doo Show, and received a kiss from a lovely lady to boot!! It was then time to go back to the motel and eat dinner and go to bed; which they did- bumping into the Adams Family on the way, of course! In the morning- 5.00am to be exact!-they headed home to Ted's place in Zillmere, with wonderful memories, and a T-shirt each!! It was a great night- especially Ted's random kiss'you old smooth talker you!!!

- Karen Lee Roberts (Membership Services Officer) and Darren Nufer (Creative Respite Options Support Worker)

It's not who you know it's WHAT you know!

This section is dedicated to informing members about their rights as a member of Access Arts. This month Access Arts News highlights the Copyright Policy.

Definition:
Copyright is an exclusive legal right granted to a person to make, re-produce, sell and control pieces of their work regardless of its physical form. Copyright officially protects the Patent, Exclusive Rights, or Ownership of their Work. It protects the particular form, way or manner in which an idea or information is expressed. Copyright may subsist in a wide range of creative or artistic forms or "works", including but not limited to literary works, movies, musical works, sound recordings, paintings, photographs, software, and industrial designs (Copyright Act 1968).

Purpose:
To ensure that the Copyright of work produced by Members of Access Arts Inc. within Access Arts programs and projects is upheld and protected.

Aims:

• To value the person.

• To value the persons work.

• To give an individual/group recognition and responsibility for their own work.

Policy:

• The copyright of works shall remain the property of the person.

• The copyright of group work will be negotiated with each of the group members. Providing the group agree, the copyright of group work can remain the property of Access Arts Inc

• At Access Arts Inc. we recognise an Artist's copyright in all art forms. If using artworks for promotional material, Access Arts reserves the right to reproduce work undertaken within in our programs and projects without a fee being paid to the artist or group. Access Arts must have the Artist sign a Media Consent Form for this purpose.

• Access Arts Inc. will not officially apply for copyright on any work produced within Access Arts' programs and projects but may assist a Member to apply for copyright on his or her own work for release into the public marketplace.

If you have any questions or suggestions regarding this policy or any others please contact Angela at Access Arts by calling 3358 6200 (1300 663 651 local call cost for regional callers) or emailing angela@accessarts.org.au.

Mental Health First Aid Staff Training Report:

Over two Tuesdays, October 16 and 23, Access Arts staff, volunteers and members of the Day Services Program for artists with disabilities to train as Sound Circles facilitators attended Mental Health First Aid training. The training is designed to give people information on various mental health disorders and how they can be of the most assistance to people who are experiencing a mental health crisis. Some of the disorders which were discussed included anxiety, depression, psychosis and substance misuse. We also briefly discussed what should be done when a person is feeling suicidal.

The general feeling from people in the group was that there was lively discussion, and that people felt better informed about resources available to both the person giving the first-aid and the person receiving it.

Should you wish to find out further information about the course please contact enLightened Consultants on 3206 8921. If you would like to find out more about Access Arts' Mental Health Policy please go to: http://www.accessarts.org.au/quality_assurance/mental_health_policy.htm.

Mental health Action plans are also available to all members and staff who wish to disclose a mental illness and set out a plan to be carried out should they become unwell at Access Arts. To fill out a Mental Health Action Plan, please call Access Arts on (07) 3358 6200 and speak with any staff member you feel comfortable with.

- Alyssa Maughan (Volunteer)

Sunset Sounds October

On a clear Brisbane night the sweet sounds of music floated over the river from the Rooftop Terrace at the Brisbane Powerhouse. It was the 5th of October and we were all lucky to be exposed to the musical talents of some of our members from near and far.

There was a great mix of entertainment for all tastes and it was kick started by Hedy and Pat doing some beautiful Armenian dancing. It was wonderful to watch Hedy move in her handmade costume accompanied by her husband Pat on the drums. This insight into another culture brought learning and entertainment from across the sea.

Chrissy Uhana treated us to some beautiful original music from her multi-media show Global Garbage as well as a song about Satan. Although Chrissy was concerned that the title suggested that it would be a scary song, the crowd's reaction was very positive on a song that was essentially quite beautiful. If you would like to know more about Chrissy and her show, Global Garbage, you can visit her website www.myspace.com/globalgarbage.

We were very fortunate to have Jenny Noske, a member from Cairns, who was only in Brisbane for a short time, join us and sing some of her favourite cover songs. We were also lucky to be treated to one of her band's original numbers. Jenny's band sings cosmic music and for many of us it was an introduction to a new style. Jenny did a wonderful job and we thank her for taking the time to join us. While in Brisbane, Jenny also had the opportunity for some vocal coaching provided by Access Arts.

The last two performers were well known to many Access Arts members. Firstly Jodi Johnston sang some great Aussie tunes that had the audience singing along. Although it had been a long time since Jodi had sung in front of an audience, she was wonderful and brought a smile to many faces.

Finally the night ended with a treat and a tease. Peter Vance treated us to some of the songs that helped him become Brisbane's Senior Superstar. His beautiful voice spoke to all and the strip tease sure caused some excitement with the ladies in the crowd. His rendition of Wind Beneath My Wings was truly touching and with Peter dedicating this song to Access Arts for all the support that he has received, there were some tears in the corners of many eyes.

The night was a great success. There was plenty of good company, good food, entertainment, and of course a fantastic MC (which was me!). Access Arts would like to thank everyone who helped out either on the night or behind the scenes and we would like to invite everyone to the next Sunset Sounds where you will be very fortunate to see some fantastic talent from our own backyard.

-Jodi Ball (Student Placement)

End of the Road

Well after four months, the time has come to say goodbye - but not for long. I have been doing my practical placement at Access Arts as part of my Human Services degree at QUT. This is basically the end of my studies and I am very pleased to know that I will soon be using all that I have learnt in a practical way. I have learnt quite a few things that were unexpected and enlightening while I have been here and they include...

1. Working with Access Arts members to unlock their creativity has had some moments of pure pleasure.

2. I HATE quality assurance document formatting.

3. Talent can be found everywhere.

4. Sunshine Coast Sound Circles is much better than Brisbane Sound Circles - (just kidding they are both wonderful, but Brisbane doesn't have me co-facilitating so it must run a close second).

5. Sleep is NOT over-rated, working 7 days a week will definitely make you tired. And finally I have learnt that -

6. I love Access Arts and hope to be involved here, in some way, for a long time to come.

It has been a great learning experience for me and I have discovered many things about myself and my abilities. I would like to thank everyone who has helped me during this time, including the members who I have met and worked with. A special thanks to Majella for her guidance at Sound Circles and to Emma for her wonderful supervision. Have no fear, you will see me again as I am still working with the Sound Circles group in Nambour until the end of term, and with any luck I will be working with Access Arts again in the future.

- Jodi Ball (Student Placement)

Sound Circles Facilitator Profile: Jeannie Elliot

1. Q: When did you become a Sound Circles facilitator?
Under the autumn greens this year, at the Sun-shining Coast.

2. Q: What made you decide to become a Sound Circles facilitator?
The respect in action I'd seen at the Sunshine Coast Sound Circles that Majella Jacobson facilitates, and my belief that any person has some musical expression that is possible. And it's about fun shared!

3. Q: What is your background in the arts?
Passionate adventures through my years of work in community cultural development, and as a volunteer, a singer, a beginner percussionist & group facilitator at festivals & workshops.

4. Q: What is your favourite food?
Cannot choose 1 alone! Aromatic avocados, succulent mangoes & Black Forest cake.

5. Q: What is your favourite movie?
Can't choose between these! 'Amandla!-A Revolution in 4 part Harmonies' and 'City of Angels'

6. Q: What is your favourite song?
'Treat your Mama with Respect '('Mama' meaning Mother Earth) By the John Butler Trio.

7. Q: What is your favourite book?
Anything by Leunig or by Ben Okri.

8. Q: What is your star sign?
Sun sign= Scorpio; Moon sign = Gemini.

9. Q: If you were sent to a desert island, what would you take with you?
An I-Pod that never runs out; a guitarist or Oud player; multi-coloured paper & pens; Picnic basket full of foods & waters that magically never empties; a pigeon to carry my messages to friends & family; the address of a Sea-Plane for when I want to leave the Island. A furry friend if the island does not have any e.g. Lemurs or friendly monkeys.

10. Q: Where do you see yourself in ten years time?
Sharing food & weird coloured drinks; amongst musical & welcoming people still; flying for free whenever I need to talk to a friend or work colleague. In a world that exchanges food & treasures more often than uses money or last century's credit cards.

11. Q: What is your philosophy in life?
Slow down my breath to cope with life's inevitable challenges;
If its fun shared (without drugs) then it's probably very healthy for me;
Kindness given and received with strangers is a precious gift;
Greed is a dangerous (and fashionable) addiction.

Member Profile: Andy Coote

1. Q: When did you become a member of AAI?
September or October of 2007

2. Q: What made you decide to become a member of AAI?
As an Artist I believed that AAI would be of some assistance in furthering my creativity.

3. Q: What area(s) of the arts are you interested in?
Visual Arts and music mainly endeavours

4. Q: What is your favourite food?
Egg and bacon Pizza (Aussie)

5. Q: What is your favourite movie?
Donnie Darko

6. Q: What is your favourite song?
No One is to Blame by Howard Jones

7. Q: If you were sent to a desert island, what would you take with you?
I would bring some music and the means to play it and listen to it.

8. Q: Where do you see yourself in ten years time?
Hopefully as a successful Fine Artist

9. Q: What is your philosophy in life?
Always try to maintain a sense of humour

What's On:

Marisa Allen Debut Poetry Book

For all of those poetry buffs out there, do we have a read for you!! Marisa Allen has just published an extensive range of works entitled 'Fire In The Head', and my, does it evoke one'- stimulating, thought provoking, and touching on the soul, this is one anthology which leaves an impact on both heart and mind. We congratulate Marisa on her success in publication, and hope that through this others can share in the journey that has lead her to write such gripping verse.

To order copies, please e-mail Marisa at hummingbirdwater99@yahoo.com.au.

States of Mind

A new production by Fusion Theatre company in Melbourne.

When:Monday the 3rd of December at 12pm & 7pm
Wednesday the 5th of December at 12pm & 7pm
Performance time approximately 2 hours including an interval of 20 minutes.

Where:Chandler Secondary College Theatre
28 Isaac Road
Keysborough Melbourne

Cost:Tickets $7 on sale at the door.
Bookings can be made on 0411 052 389
The venue is Wheelchair Accessible, and Carers accompanying their client enter free. Visually impaired people who wish to attend can contact Larry Boyd on 0411 052 389 to make seating/access arrangements.

Part 1: In the Beginning Part 2: The Ascent of Man Part 3: Mind Games

The development of intelligence has seen humankind ascend too magnificent heights of brilliance and descent into unspeakable evil. As society in the new millennium tries to make sense of this contradiction, a group of actors grapples with the issues this presents for people with disabilities.

Trapped in an imaginative space, possible the minds of the audience, the group are forced to act out many misconceptions that communities have about people with disability.

Show Ponies Wanted:

Theatre maker and artists, the time of flying under the radar is over, it's time to bust out your best work and step into the spotlight! BF08 under the radar, Brisbane Festival's 10 day fringe, needs a programme!

WE WANT

• New or young works
• Experimental, absurd and random masterpieces
• Amazing artists
• Brave, adventurous, innovative and anarchic productions
• Thespians wanting to make a statement about anything from aardvarks to zealots
• Artists and organizations struggling for recognition
• The different and debatable
• A whole lotta cool things for Brisbane audiences to discover

WE DON'T WANT

• Soap star wannabe's
• Classic pieces performed in a classic way inducing classic boredom
• People seeking instant fame and fortune

Basically, if you are a performance artist seeking a stage and an opportunity, are not afraid of some hard work and the chance to be showcased amongst some of the worlds best artists, we want to know about you!

Applications close at 5pm Friday, 7th December 2007. So get your arts into gear and check out the website for details and an application form from www.brisbanefestival.com.au Or drop us a line at www.myspace.com/bf08utr or undertheradar@brisbanefestival.com.au.

LAUNCH OF REMIX COLLECTIVE FILM

Arts and Health Program, Princess Alexandra Hospital Mental Health Service

Monday 19 November 10 for 10:30 am

Queensland Performing Arts Complex, Studio 2 - entry via Cremorne Theatre

RSVP: Helicon - ph 3411 8655 or helicondance@optusnet.com.au.

You are all invited to attend the Launch of the film outcome of the latest REMIX Collective Arts and Health Project. The film - 'What you see if only half of what there is....' - has been created through the collaboration between local Brisbane film artist Suzon Fuks, consumers of our Mental Health Service and Helicon cpr.

The REMIX Collective project gives cultural expression and place to this marginalised group, valuing their cultural contribution to the broader community. The production of the art work allows for a new and unique form of communication, breaking down barriers of isolation and stigma. The work will become a meeting place between the artists and their communities.

The film 'What you see is only half of what there is' is a fine example of quality artistic work

We look forward to you joining us to launch this important milestone in the development of Arts and Health Projects in Queensland.

REMIX Collective are a group of artists who have come together to make art, share a journey of recovery and strive to find new ways of expressing themselves through their work.

REMIX Collective grew out of REMIX, an Arts and Health Research partnership project between the Princess Alexandra Hospital Mental Health Service and Access Arts.

Premier's Multicultural Photographic Awards - 'New Beginnings'

Snap to it! For your chance to win $25,000. The Awards are open to all Queenslanders. Categories are Open, School, Professional and Digital Image Manipulation. Entries close 14 November. Visit www.photographicawards.qld.gov.au or contact 07 3224 5690 for guidelines kit.

Brisbane Paralympic Talent Search

Date: Saturday 10 November 2007
Registration: 9.00am
Time: 9.30am - 2.00pm
Where: Hibiscus Sports Complex
90-98 Klumpp Road
Upper Mt Gravatt

Do you have a physical disability or vision impairment?

Have you even considered it?

If you have answered yes to any of these questions, you should come along!

The Australian Paralympic Committee will be conducting sporting tests to help identify future Paralymic athletes. Some of the sports that will be targeted are athletics, cycling, swimming, wheelchair basketball, football and boccia.

For further information and for a registration form contact:

Alison Mosely
Phone: (07) 3253 3333
Email: alisonm@sportingwheelies.org.au
Web: www.paralympic.org.au

Mobile Attendant Care Service is expanding and looking for new service users to access the 'Flexi Shift' commencing in late October.

WHAT IS THE FLEXI SHIFT?

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

• HACC eligible
• Live in the area in which MACS operates - the inner Northern suburbs of Brisbane
• Have a physical disability
• Have the ability to direct and monitor attendants work
• Be less than 65 years of age

For more information or to apply for support from MACS contact Sharon, Adam or Anthea on:

Office: 3356 8808
Email: macs@macsinc.org.au.

Unlikely Travellers is showing soon!

It's about people who struggle to overcome things that most of us take for granted. People whose love and passion for life is infectious. People who are as flawed and hopeful and ambitious and human as we all are.

This 3 part series is coming to ABC on:

Monday November 19th at 8pm
Monday November 26th at 8pm
Monday December 3rd at 8pm

Share the journey of a lifetime with 6 unique individuals. Identify with them, share in their happiness and their struggles. It's an entertaining, engaging and inspiring journey that will touch even the most hardened of viewers.

Unlikely Travellers has received great reviews and has been nominated for a 2007 Inside Film Award. Don't miss your chance to see this powerful documentary.

Help us to raise community awareness about disability by forwarding this information to family and friends.

In Memory of a Tree- Alicia Jones

Tackling themes of identity and forms of knowledge in contemporary society, Brisbane-based Indigenous artist Alicia Jones will reside inside the exhibition window in kuril dhagun from November 5-30.

The live installation titled In Memory of a Tree is an interactive performance into her Tasmanian Aboriginal heritage and features special guests from the local community. Alicia has been the Artist in Residence in kuril dhagun since August as part of her undergraduate studies at QUT Performance Studies.

Questioning the construction of identity in contemporary society, Alicia actively explores the past and present in order to create a future of understanding and compassion for the (interactive) viewer.

What is the Peer Bridging Program?

The Brook RED Centre based at Highgate Hill is a peer support based, friendly and safe place for people with a lived experience of mental illness.

The Peer Bridging program is a new initiative of The Brook RED Centre. The program provides a range of groups and activities for people to participate at both The Brook RED Centre and at other places in the community.

The Peer Bridging Program provides unique access to working with one of the Peer Support Workers employed at the Brook RED Centre. Peer Support Workers all know what it is like to live with a mental illness as they have all experienced first hand a mental health concern. A Peer Support worker has the job of working with you to develop a mutually supportive relationship. That means that the Peer Support Worker will share, learn and grow with you.

If interested call 3846 4209 and ask to talk about it.

Friday Night Jam Sessions

Budding Musicians Wanted!

If you know any muso's who enjoy a good jam session, then they could be enjoying themselves AND helping a good cause.

FSG have a group of young guys who are keen to start a regular Friday night jam session but we need at least 2 (two) musicians who would be willing to keep the misic going.

The jam sessions will be held between 7 and 9 pm in the Gold Coast Region. If you're interested in 'Volunteering' please email FSG at kyleeb@fsg.org.au or kimw@fsg.org.au.

Extra Support

FSG is also inviting at least 2 trained support workers to volunteer their time. They'd love to hear from anyone you know who is willing to become a Community Connector and help out. As you know, all training, including Certificate 111 in Community Services is provided for free. FSG to supply the pizza and the venue!