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Link-Up (Qld) ABORIGINAL CORPORATION NEWSLETTER What you’ll find inside this issue: Z Introducing Music Therapy Workshops Z Message from the CEO Z Christmas Celebrations Z Client Christmas Party Z Confirmation of Aboriginality Z 5th Anniversary of Apology Plans Z Cape York Wellbeing Project Z National Stolen Generations Alliance Z From the Board Z Kingaroy Reunion Letter Z Link-Up (Qld) Publications Z New Link-Up (Qld) Office in Mt Isa opening soon Z Support Group Z Mareeba Healing Camp photos Volume 4 November 2012 - January 2013 Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander readers are warned that this newsleer may contain images of deceased persons. The Mareeba Healing Camp was held at the Genazzano Centre in Yungaburra from the 19th-22nd November 2012. This venue proved to be most suitable for catering to our Social Emotional Wellbeing clients taking in consideration the sensitivities of their grief and loss and also ensuring a safe, peaceful and stress-free environment to meet their needs. The camp was attended by participants from Mareeba, Cairns, Yarrabah, the Tablelands and Pormpuraaw. Clients were treated to three days of pampering with facilitators running hair salons, beauty therapies, massage, Men’s and Women’s yarning circles, fishing, spear making, music, arts & crafts, symbol healing and relaxation activities. Traditional cooking in the form of a Kupmuri of assorted meats and vegetables was a delicious highlight of the camp activities. Clients strongly believe that these healing camps make positive contributions to their healing journeys. They enjoy meeting new people and finding lost relatives amongst the groups and the quiet, calming environment away from the stresses of their lives. A lot of clients commented on the sense of unity they felt at the camp through connection and gathering together. “Best two days ever without the pressure of society, didn’t liſt a finger, pampered and full relaxed almost felt guilty for it. NOT” - Ursula Tyson (More photos of the Mareeba Healing Camp on Page 19) Mareeba Healing Camp Spear making acvity

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Page 1: Link-UpLink-Upd284f45nftegze.cloudfront.net/casual/link-upnews-nov-jan-13-web.pdf · Link-Up’s services and programs are intended to address the social, emotional and spiritual

Link-Up (Qld) ABORIGINAL CORPORATIONLink-Up (Qld) ABORIGINAL CORPORATION

NEWSLETTERWhat you’ll find inside this issue:

Z Introducing Music Therapy Workshops

Z Message from the CEO

Z Christmas Celebrations

Z Client Christmas Party

Z Confirmation of Aboriginality

Z 5th Anniversary of Apology Plans

Z Cape York Wellbeing Project

Z National Stolen Generations Alliance

Z From the Board

Z Kingaroy Reunion Letter

Z Link-Up (Qld) Publications

Z New Link-Up (Qld) Office in Mt Isa opening soon

Z Support Group

Z Mareeba Healing Camp photos

Volume 4 November 2012 - January 2013

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander readers are warned that this newsletter may contain images of

deceased persons.

The Mareeba Healing Camp was held at the Genazzano Centre in Yungaburra from the 19th-22nd November 2012. This venue proved to be most suitable for catering to our Social Emotional Wellbeing clients taking in consideration the sensitivities of their grief and loss and also ensuring a safe, peaceful and stress-free environment to meet their needs.

The camp was attended by participants from Mareeba, Cairns, Yarrabah, the Tablelands and Pormpuraaw. Clients were treated to three days of pampering with facilitators running hair salons, beauty therapies, massage, Men’s and Women’s yarning circles, fishing, spear making, music, arts & crafts, symbol healing and relaxation activities. Traditional cooking in the form of a Kupmuri of assorted meats and vegetables was a delicious highlight of the camp activities.

Clients strongly believe that these healing camps make positive contributions to their healing journeys. They enjoy meeting new people and finding lost relatives amongst the groups and the quiet, calming environment away from the stresses of their lives. A lot of clients commented on the sense of unity they felt at the camp through connection and gathering together.

“Best two days ever without the pressure of society, didn’t lift a finger, pampered and full relaxed almost felt guilty for it. NOT”

- Ursula Tyson

(More photos of the Mareeba Healing Camp on Page 19)

Mareeba Healing Camp

Spear making activity

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Introducing Music Therapy Workshops

Link-Up (Qld) Healing Camps as well as other events such as the Link-Up (Qld) Support Groups aim for an environment where healing is viewed as a spiritual process that encourages additiction recovery, therapeutic change and cultural renewal.

The Music Therapy workshops aim to deliver an opportunity for Stolen Generations members, 50 years and over, to learn about their culture and relate their stories through a different media. Music Therapy workshops will be run by Les Collins, Music Co ordinator and a Musician/Music Composer. New forms of cultural expression can emerge from Stolen Generations people re-establishing a new identity that may include experiences and

exposure to different cultural contexts.

The workshops will explore with Stolen Generations members how their ideas develop to a song, the style of music, provide rehearsals with musicians and finally a recording. They will run for the duration of the Healing Camps. There will be approximately 30 Stolen Generations members attending Healing Camps and those with musical abilities, the writers, singers and musicians will be encouraged to participate. Link-Up (Qld) will introduce the Music Program on the 31st January at the Support Group’s Monthly Morning Tea for clients.

Link-Up (Qld) are seeking people who have an understanding of, and empathy for the experiences of members of the Stolen Generations, musicianship especially piano and can operate recording equipment, musical hardware and audio software applications to assist in facilitation with Les. Drop your CV into our office or send it to:

ATTENTION: Les Collins Link-Up (Qld) Aboriginal Corporation PO Box 3229 South Brisbane Q 4101

Facilitator Singer/Songwriter Les Collins

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Z Message from the CEO Welcome Board, staff and clients to 2013.

We hope everyone had a great Christmas and New Year and we look forward to assisting our clients and communities throughout the following year and beyond.

Along with our core business of reuniting Stolen Generations members with their families, culture, communities and country, we have in place community and client based plans for the year ahead. Our first big event is the 5th Anniversary of the Apology at ACPA on the 15th February. We are pleased and honoured

to have the Hon. Kevin Rudd as a special guest for this event.

We are also excited about the development of a Music Therapy program to be utilised with our healing camps and support group Link Up (Qld) CEO Sheryl Sandy gatherings.

In May, we have our annual free Sorry Day Breakfast in Orleigh Park and Healing Camps at Kindilan’s from the 11th May and in Woorabinda from the 25th May. Link-Up (Qld) intends to be represented at the Laura Festival taking place from the 15th June. We are elated to be involved with the 50 Year Anniversary of Mapoon on the 19th September. This will be one of the major drawcards for the Link-Up (Qld) year.

Another major event for us from 7th July will be attending NAIDOC festivities at Ipswich, Koobara Kindergarten, Eidsvold, the Youth Detention Centre and the Family Day at Musgrave Park.

The Board and staff of Link-Up (Qld) are looking forward to this years activities. It will see us out visiting communities and serving our clients, doing reunions, camps and activities including the introduction of the Music Therapy program.

The other project that we are very proud of is our coffee book “Respectful Designs”, which will be launched at our 5th Apology Commemoration on the 15th February 2013.

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The annual Link-Up (Qld) Clients Christmas Party was held on Friday 14th December 2012 at the Link-Up (Qld) offices in Woolloongabba, Brisbane. It was a wonderful opportunity to catch-up with clients past and present, and for old friends to be reunited. It was also a great chance to partake in a sumptuous festive feast of chicken, roast beef, ham, roast vegetables, salads, pavlova and Xmas pudding.

Link-Up (Qld) Board Chair Sam Watson attended, as did other Board members Willie Prince, Susie Klein and Bronwyn Fredericks. Link-Up (Qld) CEO Sheryl Sandy gave a speech of thanks and good wishes for the festive season ahead and for 2013.

As you can see in the smiles on the faces in the photos below, a great time was had by all who attended.

Clients Christmas Party

The Link-Up (Qld) Christmas Staff Party was held at the Brisbane office on the 21st December in the festively decorated Board Room. Staff and Board members Willie Prince and Sam Watson with wife Cathy celebrated Christmas before shutting down the Link-Up office for the Christmas break.

Staff Christmas Party

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Link-Up (Qld) can now provide Confirmation of Aboriginality for those requiring this service.

Your Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander heritage is something that is personal and you do not need a ‘letter of confirmation’ to identify as an Indigenous person. However you may be asked to provide a confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander form or letter when applying for Indigenous-specific services or programs such as services provided by Link-Up (Qld), Grants (such as Indigenous housing loans, research and study grants), University courses (with specific positions for Indigenous students), Centrelink and housing assistance (Indigenous-specific), Employment (Indigenous identified positions) and School programs for Indigenous students.

The criteria for confirmation of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander heritage that are accepted by Link-Up (Qld) are being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, identifying as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, being accepted as such by the community in which you live, or formerly lived and that you are known by the Board or staff of Link-Up (Qld) or research undertaken by Link-Up (Qld) staff confirms a clients Aboriginality and evidence is provided to the Board (attach Caseworker, Counsellor or researcher research information).

Link-Up’s services and programs are intended to address the social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing Indigenous people often face as the result of past removal policies and inadequate educational, employment and health services. Requesting a certificate of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander heritage from applicants helps to make sure that this intention is honoured. Family members and known community members can complete the Confirmation of Aboriginality and/or Torres Strait Islander Decent form and return to Link-Up (Qld).

Link-Up (Qld) will undertake research for prospective clients displaced from family or heritage, to try and establish their Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage. If this can be achieved, then evidence of their heritage will be provided on the template and brought before the Link-Up (Qld) Board of Directors. The Board will approve the conformation of Aboriginality with the company seal at the earliest Board meeting or sooner if required.

Confirmation of Aboriginality

Social and Emotional Wellbeing Counsellor Llewellyn Williams, has resigned to take up a position in Melbourne as the Indigenous Development Manager for Transfield Services. She will be responsible for advising Transfield Services on Indigenous issues, particularly in the areas of increased employment opportunities and development of greater understanding and knowledge around Indigenous issues. A key part of Llewellyn’s role will be assisting site operations to building stronger relationships with local Indigenous communities where they are currently working.

We’d like to thank Llewellyn for her services to Link-Up (Qld) and wish her every success in her future endeavours.

Leaving Staff

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Link-Up (Qld) will be hosting a day on the 15th February 2013 at the Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts (ACPA), in honour of the 5th Anniversary celebrations of the Federal Government’s Apology to the Stolen Generations.

The Hon. Kevin Rudd will be a special guest at the event that commemorates his heartfelt address to the nation, saying “Sorry” for all the wrongs committed to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people under the policies and practices of past governments.

Les Collins, the Meeanjin and Songlines Choirs and the ACPA students will perform. Messages will be given from Sam Watson, Norm Sheehan and the Elders about what the Apology means.

5th Anniversary of the Apology Plans

The Hon. Kevin Rudd meeting LUQ staff in 2011

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Cape York Wellbeing ProjectThe Cape York Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social and Emotional Well being project was developed as a means of gaining an understanding and a joint response to the social and emotional well-being (SEWB) needs of the people in remote Cape York and Torres Strait Islander communities.

The project will endeavour to map and build on the social and emotional well-being needs in the communities based on their responses and the responses of key agencies who provide SEWB services to their communities. In consultation with communities Link-Up (Qld) hopes this approach will create stronger relationships and develop partnerships between identified SEWB services and the people of Cape York and Torres Strait. The project aims to develop consistency between SEWB service providers in the Cape York/ Torres Strait region.

In adherence with Aboriginal protocol, the project scope will examine:

1. Where and how effective the existing funding from the Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA) SEWB services are;2. Are the existing SEWB services useful for Stolen Generation clients;3. What and where do the gaps exist in current SEWB service provision;4. How could Link-Up Qld improve the existing SEWB models and services; and5. What would Link-Up Qld‘s chosen service delivery model look like.

We would like to welcome Leone Malamoo, who will be undertaking this fixed term project due for completion in April 2013. Leone will be working with Link-Up (Qld)’s Townsville SEWB Counsellor, Maxine Bell on client priority areas in the Cape.

Leone Malamoo Project Officer

Maxine Bell SEWB Counsellor/Project Officer

The Stolen Generations Education BookThis work is an effective resource that can be used by teachers, counsellors and community members to gain a good understanding of the history of Aboriginal child removals in Queensland and the effects this history has had

on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their communities.

We present this book as a gift to Stolen Generations members and their families and communities in the belief that it will become a source of healing knowledge for all communities.

The Stolen Generations Education Kit book can be purchased through Link-Up (Qld) for $25.00

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National Stolen Generations AllianceThe National Stolen Generations Alliance (NSGA) acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we share our lives, care for our families, communities and country to create the best possible future for all our children for the generations to come. We honour the Elders, especially Stolen Generations survivors who came before us. It is their strength and spirit that makes our work possible. It is in their memory we dedicate our efforts.

The National Stolen Generations Alliance was formed with three basic principles as the foundations for its work - Truth, Justice and Healing. The NSGA believes that all Australians can respect these principles and many have committed themselves to honour these principles in some way already. Convincing our Federal Government that a national Apology should be given is one example. Saying Sorry to Stolen Generations survivors and their families has been widely acknowledged as one of our first steps as a nation towards healing our past and ensuring a better future for all Australians. The National Stolen Generations Alliance looks forward to taking the next steps with all Australians who wish to walk with us. The NSGA believes that many of the needs and concerns of Stolen Generation survivors and their families still need to be addressed. All of these issues are covered by the principles of Truth, Justice, and Healing included in the 54 recommendations in the Bringing Them Home Report. There are still many stories and truths to be told, justice that needs to be delivered wholeheartedly by our nation, and healing of hearts and spirits. These are our next steps as a nation and these principles guide our way. We welcome all who want to learn more about these issues and the need for truth, justice and healing. If you would like to learn more about what is happening and get involved we encourage you to contact us. Help our nation to face its truths, heal its spirit and move forward with pride.

Sam Watson, Link-Up (Qld) Board Chairman has been appointed the National Secretary for NSGA along withLink-Up (Qld) CEO Sheryl Sandy as the Qld Indigenous Affiliate and Link-Up (Qld) Services DeliveryDirector, Shirley Watters as the Qld Non-Indigenous Affiliate.

Sam Watson National Secretary NSGA

Sheryl Sandy Qld Indigenous Affiliate NSGA

Shirley Watters Qld Non Indigenous Affiliate NSGA

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From the Board

The Link-Up (Qld) Aboriginal Corporation Board of Directors consist of: Sam Watson (Chairman); Helen Akee; Bernie Singleton; Bronwyn Fredericks; Willie Prince; and Susie Klein.Board Meeting schedules for 2013 are as follows, but could be subject to change due to circumstances arising.

We are seeking “expressions of interest” for a Board member in the Mt Isa area. Contact Link-Up (Qld) on FREECALL 1800 200 855

DATE LOCATION DATE LOCATION13th February 2013 Brisbane 18th July 2013 Phone Hookup21st March 2013 Phone Hookup 16th August 2013 Phone Hookup19th April 2013 Phone Hookup 19th September 2013 Phone Hookup16th May 2013 Phone Hookup 18th October 2013 Phone Hookup21st June 2013 Phone Hookup 18th November 2013 Brisbane

The AGM was held on the 19th November 2012 at the Link-Up (Qld) Brisbane office and was attended by staff and Board Directors. Sam Watson opened the meeting, acknowledging the Jagera and Turrubul people and explaining that Woolloongabba means “rushing waters”. The previous AGM minutes were confirmed and noted that Key Focus Points were achieved as in the Art Initiative, The Education Kit and Cherbourg Women’s Support Group to name a few.

Sam Watson, in his Chairman’s Report, stated that the organisation continued to impress him and acknowledged the productivity and excellent outcomes across the State through the achievements and work ethos of all Link-Up (Qld) staff. He noted that when he first came onboard with the organisation, they were only achieving one or two reunions per year but in the last twelve months, 319 people had been reunited.

The Financial Report audits confirmed that the financial accounts were handled properly and all “tests” had been passed.The existing Board members were deemed re-elected and it was identified that two vacancies for the Board exist, one in Brisbane and the other in north west Queensland.

Chairman of the Board, Sam Watson

SamWatson

HelenAkee

Bernie Singleton

Bronwyn Fredericks

WilliePrince

SusieKlein

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“My fondest memories growing up were sitting down and listening to all the stories of my Dad’s childhood. The funny ones where he would continually get bucked off his stubborn horse on the farm he grew up on or finding an apricot tree and eating so many that he can’t even look at one now, right down to the saddest memory he had of being taken away from his parents with his brothers and sisters when he was 5 years old.

Through all the memories my Dad Clive had, the one’s he wished for the most were the ones he thought he would never gain. The memories of his real blood family, his roots, his culture, his story.

After many years of searching he was introduced to the team at Link Up. After speaking with Aunty Ruthie and giving her all the information he had, she and the team at Link Up found a living relative; Dad’s real blood Aunty Joan was alive and well and living a mere four hours away in the peanut capital Kingaroy. He was elated by the happy news and shortly

after we started our journey with Aunty Margaret to guide us.We started out early for our road trip to Kingaroy from the Woolloongabba Link Up office. Dad was so excited, I could see him trying to contain himself, he wasn’t doing a very good job at it though!

The drive was lovely, a perfect day with some beautiful country to see and take pictures of. Dad and Aunty Margaret yarned all the way up whilst I sat in the back enjoying the scenery and their stories.

We arrived in Kingaroy around lunchtime and quickly settled in to our accommodation for our

three day stay. We were met there by Uncle Errol and Ronala from Cherbourg who were fantastic emotional and counselling support for both Dad and myself. Aunty Margaret, Uncle Errol and Ronala took us to the local shopping centre where we finally met Dad’s Aunty Joan and her daughter and Dad’s cousin Wendy. The meeting was joyous and Aunty Joan and Dad launched into family discussion almost immediately. The first day went quick and was over too soon for Aunty Joan’s liking!

The next day started early as per Aunty Joan’s instructions so as to spend as much time together as possible. We spent the morning together at Aunty’s house where Dad learned a lot about his family history as well as seeing photos of Aunties and Uncles and members of the Moran family tree.

(continued on Page 11)

Kingaroy Reunion

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Link Up (Qld) Publications

RESPECTFUL DESIGNS book launchLink-Up (Qld) coffee-table book will be launched on 15th February 2013.

In Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community contexts, rather than producing data and devising new solutions, 'Respectful Design' works to bring peoples together, establish grassroots level engagement and enable the cultural reconnections that generate resilient futures. This work is bottom up engagement with populations attempting to recover from generational trauma conducted in partnership with Link-Up (Qld).

Link-Up (Qld) is dedicated to redressing the cultural, social and individual harm done to Aboriginal peoples by policies of forced relocation and forced child removal. In these wounded life spaces 'Respectful Design' attempts to generate a safe place where people can engage freely as groups through culturally affirming and comfortable processes. In this safe place, groups and individuals can publically demonstrate their connections and also privately express their own reconnection and renewal through their images and the stories they share.

The book will be available through Link-Up (Qld) for $30.00.

Lunch was a BBQ in the park put on by Link Up with all the trimmings. There we met a lot of other family members, Aunty Joan’s children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. It was wonderful.We spent the afternoon driving around seeing the sights of Kingaroy followed by dinner at Aunty’s house.The third morning was spent having coffee and some last minute photos before we headed back home to Brisbane.

Through this journey, I got the privilege to watch my Father go through not only an emotional journey but also a spiritual journey to find roots that for so many years just swayed in the wind. To reconnect to something he thought would never be found. A lot was learnt and found on our journey. Dad learnt so much about his Father and Mother, family health history and family stories which are invaluable, but most importantly I think is what he found; family, roots, a big piece of the puzzle, the realisation of inherited traits and Home. I could see his spirit soar during this journey, a part of him come alive that was almost lost and through this I too have awoken a piece of my heart I never knew was there. Without the team from Link Up, Aunty Margaret, Ronala and Uncle Errol, none of this would ever of been possible. To gain a wonderful Aunty and numerous cousins who welcomed us with open arms and open hearts means more to us than I can ever express.

A million thank yous to you all. Dad now has family, some roots, pieces of his culture and the beginnings of his beautiful story.”

Much LoveKimberley (Brown)

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New Mt Isa Link Up Office to be openedWe are looking to expand our connectivity and contact to the north and south western Gulf areas of the State by establishing a Link-Up (Qld) office in Mount Isa. We will be advertising for two positions within the office, an Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) Counsellor Team Leader and an SEWB Counsellor. We are also seeking expressions of interest for a local person to sit on our Board of Directors.

Link-Up (Qld) is an organisation committed to the principles and philosophies of community control as the best practice model for improving the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Link-Up (Qld) supports the healing journeys of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have been separated from their families and communities through forced removal, adoption, fostering and institutionalisation. We deliver professional, culturally sensitive and confidential research, reunion and cultural wellbeing services.

The Link-Up (Qld) SEWB Counsellor/Mount Isa Team Leader and SEWB Counsellor will focus on supporting the social and emotional wellbeing needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults who may also be seeking to reunite with their families, culture, communities and country. The role involves providing support around issues of grief, loss and trauma resulting from removal.

The Team Leader role also involves leading a small, highly motivated team charged with the responsibility to establish and deliver outreach social and emotional wellbeing counselling and support services across north western, the Gulf and south western Queensland. These areas cover from Burketown to Birdsville, Camooweal to Julia Creek, including Mornington Island.

Link-Up (Qld) CEO Sheryl Sandy and Business Manager, Shane Newbery will be visiting Mount Isa in early February to seek out premises and make arrangements for our expansion.

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SEWB Counsellor/Team LeaderMount Isa

This position will close on 28 February

Applicants are welcome to apply for one or both positions

For further information contact Shirley Watters on (07) 3034 8444 or email

[email protected]

SEWB CounsellorMount Isa

This position will close on 28 February

Applicants are welcome to apply for one or both positions

For further information contact Shirley Watters on (07) 3034 8444 or email

[email protected]

STILL BRINGING THEM HOME STILL BRINGING THEM HOME

Link Up (Qld) Employment Vacancies

Link-Up (Qld) Aboriginal Corporationis seeking “expressions of interest” in the Mt Isa area

for a person to sit on our Board of Directors.

For more information please contact our CEO on (07) 3034 8444 or

FREECALL: 1800 200 855

gweller
Typewritten Text
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SUPPORT GROUP STOLEN GENERATIONS CLIENTS

MORNING TEA

Welcome31 January

28 February

29 March

26 April

31 May

28 June

26 July

30 August

27 September

25 October

29 November

VENUE:Link-Up (Qld) Aboriginal Corporation 5 Reid Street Woolloongabba Q (opposite the Chalk Hotel)

CONTACT: Tel: (07) 3034 8444 or FREECALL: 1800 200 855Email: [email protected]

Our Support Group Morning Teas are continuing on the last Thursday of the month commencing from 31st January at 10.00am.

Come along for a cuppa and some cake and share some stories, meet old and new friends, Link-Up (Qld) staff

or just join in with the activities.We will be introducing our Music and Art Programs.

Contact Link-Up (Qld) on FREECALL: 1800 200 855

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How can we help?Well known and much loved Elder, Aunty Ettie Gleeson passed away on Sunday, 13th January 2013 and will be sadly missed by her family, friends, community and Link-Up (Qld) staff.

Aunty Ettie was a product of the Cherbourg Women’s Dormitory system and an establishing influence for a number of Aboriginal organisations in Brisbane. We will all miss you Aunty.

Sorry Business

Z 15th February 2013 5th Anniversary of the Apology at ACPA

Z 11 – 12th May 2013 Kindilan Healing Camp at Kindilan Reserve

Z 25 - 26th May 2013 Woorabinda Healing Camp, Woorabinda

Z May 2013 Sorry Day Breakfast, Orleigh Park (to be confirmed)

Z 15th June 2013 Laura Festival, Laura NQ

Z 7th July 2013 NAIDOC Week at various locations

Z 19th September 2013 50 Year Anniversary of Mapoon

Z 18th November 2013 Annual General Meeting at LUQ Brisbane office

Upcoming Events

� Assistance in location of family members

� Financially assisted reunions � Counselling and support before,

during and after your reunion � Privacy, trust and confidentiality � Referrals to other agencies (i.e.

family trees or missing person � Run healing activities such as

camps, support groups, art and craft workshops

� Provide sessions at educational institutions

� Run community events e.g. Sorry Day, Apology Anniversary etc.

� Confirmation of Aboriginality

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Become a Link Up (Qld) MemberIt is being involved with an organisation that provides a culturally appropriate and sensitive

service to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It also presents a voice for our people in major forums relating to issues and concerns of our clients and community in general such as

NAIDOC, National Sorry Day & Reconciliation and other significant issues and concerns.

The benefits of membership include the ability to utilise your own skills, talents and expertise as a volunteer, receive updates and bi-monthly newsletters, voting at general elections, being a part

of the solution in terms of righting the wrongs and having your say in the way Link-Up (Qld) operates.

(Fill out the form on the following page and send it back to us)

Want to make a Donation to Link Up (Qld)?

“All donations, great and small, make a difference in supporting our organisation to continue the work we do with members of the Stolen Generations still searching for their family. We trully appreciate your generosity.”

- Sheryl Sandy CEO Link-Up (Qld)

If you are interested in supporting Link-Up (Qld), all donations are tax deductible and can be made to:

Account Name: Link-Up (Qld) Aboriginal Corporation ABN: 36 073 956 496Banking Institution: WestpacBSB: 034 013 Account Number: 277 709

Please send all cheques to PO Box 3229, South Brisbane Queensland 4101

For more information, please call our office on 1800 200 855

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Membership.docx S:/Common/LUQ Key Documents/Link-Up Membership Application Form

Membership Application

Full Name Of Applicant: ………………………………………………………………

Address: ……………………………………………………………………………….

Suburb:…………………………………………………………Postcode:…………….

Telephones: (H)……………………(W)…………………….Mob…………………….

Date Of Birth: ………………………Email: …………………………………………

Would you be available to assist Link-Up on a voluntary basis? YES NO

What skills can you bring to the Organisation? ..………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………..

Please state the reason why you would like to become a member of Link-Up (Qld):

…………………………………………………………………………………………..

Is Proof of Aboriginality document enclosed as required? YES NOIf NO, please contact your local Aboriginal organisation to confirm your Proof of Aboriginality.

Signature Of Applicant:………………………………………………………………...Date: …………………..

Please return this form with your supporting documents to: LUQ Membership Application,

PO Box 3229, South Brisbane, Q 4101

Link-Up (Qld) Aboriginal Corporation is a registered Body Corporate under the Aboriginals Councils and Associations Act of 1976.

For Office Use Only:

Membership Authorised Not Authorised by the Governing Committee.

Chairperson:…………………………………………………… Date: ………………...

ACTION REQUIRED: Send letter of Acceptance Rejection

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Please complete the flipside of this Link-Up (Qld) Aboriginal Corporation Membership form and return it to:

Link-Up (Qld) Memberships Link-Up (Qld) Aboriginal Corporation

PO Box 3229 South Brisbane Q 4101

or drop the form into:

Link-Up (Qld) Aboriginal Corporation 3 - 5 Reid Street Woolloongabba Q 4102

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Mareeba Healing Camp Photos

The Mareeba Healing Camp was a joint venture by Link-Up (Qld) Aboriginal Corporation and the Mulungu Wellbeing Clinic, Mareeba

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DISCLAIMER: Whilst every effort has been made to respect cultural traditions, Indigenous readers are advised that this publication may contain images of people who are deceased.

Contact Details:

Link-Up (Qld) Aboriginal Corporation Link-Up (Qld) Aboriginal Corporation Cairns PO Box 3229 South Brisbane Q 4101 18 Scott Street Parramatta Park5 Reid Street Woolloongabba Q 4102 Cairns NQ 4870Email: [email protected] Phone: 07 4041 7403URL: http://www.link-upqld.org.au Fax: 07 4027 9665Phone: 07 3034 8444 Fax: 07 3217 3458 Link-Up (Qld) Aboriginal Corporation Townsville Unit 21 / 184 - 186 Vickers Road North Condon Q 4815 FREECALL: 1800 200 855 Fax: 07 3217 3458

Still Bringing Them Home

Got an interesting story to share? Email us at: [email protected]

• Link Up is a FREE service

• We offer support before, during and after your family reunion

• We respect your privacy and treat all information confidentially

• Link-Up (Qld) runs a range of healing activities: camps, support groups, art, craft and music workshops

• We offer cultural renewal activities and support return to country

• Confirmation of Aboriginality

Quick Facts:About Link Up (Qld) - Our Mission

Link-Up (Qld) exists to enhance the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by reuniting those over the age of eighteen years who have experienced enforced separation from their families and communities through adoption, fostering, removal and institutionalisation. We will provide our service in a sensitive, confidential and culturally appropriate manner and use all available resources to assist those looking to find their family of origin.

Link-Up (Qld) Aboriginal Corporation Caseworkers and Counsellors are experienced individuals who can assist in reuniting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families. We vare able to facilitate workshops, provide information sessions at Universities, Schools, Conferences, Government Depatments and Community Organisations. We also provide a referral service to the appropriate organisation or Government Department.