Welcome to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Services (ATSIS) Government Coordination newsletter.

The Learning Earning Active Places (LEAP) strategy is up and running across the state and the regions have been holding launches to celebrate. It’s great to see local communities getting on board with this strategy, and we’re sure to see lots of positive stories coming out of the various local initiatives.

Although the excitement of NAIDOC is behind us now, across the state there have been a range of highly successful events. In Cherbourg, a group of proud youngsters have been inducted as Cherbourg’s first Junior Rangers (see page 6). In Mapoon, residents have been ‘doing the right thing’ with a clean up day to beautify the town (see page 8).

The third Cairns Indigenous Art Fair was well attended again this year, with an outstanding program that saw more than 13,000 visitors pour through the gates. Other events from around the state included a Teddy Bears Picnic at St Joseph’s School, Mount Isa for Child Protection Week and a series of meetings attended by Queensland Health Director-General, Dr Tony O’Connell, in Yarrabah.

Last month, the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service said goodbye to Uncle Norm Clarke, who has retired. You can read a little about Uncle Norm’s ground-breaking career on page 5, and I’m sure all of you that know and have worked with Uncle Norm over the years join me in wishing him all the very best for his retirement.

Remember, we’re always on the lookout for a good yarn so if you’ve got one to share, let me know.

Ron Weatherall Deputy Director-General Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Services Department of Communities

Government Coordination newsletter Issue 66: 27 October 2011

Contents Calendar – 2 Features LEAP launches in regional areas–2 Uncle Norm Clarke retires from Queensland Fire and Rescue Service–5 Queensland Health Director-General visits Yarrabah–5 Junior rangers inducted in Cherbourg–6 CIAF 2011 attracts crowds and buyers–7 Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council encourage residents to Do The Right Thing–8 St Joseph’s Primary School Child Protection Week event–8 QATSIF funding supports 848 students–9 deadly stories feature Heather Rice–10 Events and opportunities black&write! Writing fellowships open–10 Indigenous Business Australia scholarships–10 News and media releases in brief–11 Contacts–12

QFRS Commissioner Lee Johnson presents Uncle Norm with his Diligent and Ethical Service Medal. See story on page 5.

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Information correct at time of publication. Liaising with Directors, Government Coordination, in the communities ensures the best outcomes for your visits and events. A list of contacts is included on the last page of this newsletter.

October/November/December 31 October Coen FRC conference sitting

1-3 November Aurukun FRC conference sitting

2 November Barcaldine Negotiation Table

8-9 November Wujal Wujal Ministerial Indigenous Roundtable

8-9 November Hope Vale FRC conference sitting

15-17 November Aurukun FRC conference sitting

17-18 November Aurukun Government Champion visit

22-23 November Hope Vale FRC conference sitting

23 November St George Negotiation Table

24 November Mossman Gorge FRC conference sitting

28 November Coen FRC conference sitting

29 November-1 December

Aurukun FRC conference sitting

Late November tbc

Cherbourg Negotiation Table

Late November tbc

Woorabinda Negotiation Table

6-7 December Hope Vale FRC conference sitting

8 December Mornington Island Government Champion visit

8 December Mossman Gorge FRC conference sitting

9 December Doomadgee Government Champion visit

13-15 December Aurukun FRC conference sitting

If you are planning events, consultations or visits to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in remote communities that may be of interest to the people involved in service delivery to these communities, please email gcnews@communities.qld.gov.au for inclusion in this calendar.

LEAP launches in regional areas The Learning Earning Active Places (LEAP) strategy aims to ‘close the gap’ in Indigenous disadvantage in urban and regional areas of Queensland by improving access to education, employment, health and housing opportunities. Recently, regional centres have held launches for the LEAP strategy to promote awareness of the strategy and encourage involvement.

Cairns LEAP launch

Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, the Honourable Curtis Pitt MP, launched the Learning Earning Active Places (LEAP) strategy on Thursday 15th September 2011 at the Cairns International Tennis Centre.

The function was organised by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Services (ATSIS) and attended by representatives from Cairns, Innisfail and Gordonvale Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, Australian and Queensland Government agencies, non-government organisations and corporate partners.

The launch coincided with the Pro Tour event and an Indigenous Tennis Day at the Cairns International Tennis Centre. Minister Pitt was able to spend a few minutes hitting a tennis ball across the net to some of the students from Cairns West, Parramatta, Balaclava and Babinda State Schools and Bentley Park College, who attended on the day.

Minister Pitt acknowledged the Traditional Owners of the land, the Gimwuy Walabura Yidinji people south

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Minister Pitt with students and staff from Cairns West State School at the LEAP launch.

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of Cairns and the Yirrigandji people to the north of Cairns. He spoke of the need to address Indigenous disadvantage in the cities and towns of Queensland and the ambition of government to close the gap.

He spoke of the priority areas of the strategy such as employment, health, education, housing, sport, community care and early childhood development.

The Minister shared morning tea with invited guests and was able to further discuss the key areas of the LEAP strategy.

LEAP launch Rockhampton

Activities and programs to help 'close the gap' for Central Queensland's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth and adults are being encouraged under the Learning Earning Active Places strategy.

During Rockhampton’s LEAP launch on 13 September at Central Queensland University, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, the Honourable Curtis Pitt MP, said funding of $128,570 was available for groups in Central Queensland to support closing the gap in communities.

"The funding is available under the new LEAP strategy which focuses on 20 actions across government to close the gap in areas such as employment, health, education, housing, sport, community care and early childhood development," Mr Pitt said.

The LEAP priorities for Central Queensland communities (including Maryborough, Hervey Bay, Eidsvold, Barcaldine and Mount Morgan) are:

Early childhood: Promote the benefits of early childhood education.

Economic participation: Enhance business and employment opportunities by working in partnership with the corporate sector and improve the literacy and numeracy skills of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have been involved in the criminal justice system.

Health: Increase participation in sport and recreation activities.

Safe communities: Increase the number of people accessing services through the Police Citizens Youth Club.

Governance and leadership: Address the existing barriers preventing the delivery of outreach services to smaller regional areas.

Groups interested in funding for programs to help close the gap in Central Queensland should contact the regional office of the Department of Communities on 07 4938 4690.

LEAP launch Townsville

Community members and government partners gathered at the Townsville Cultural Centre on Friday 16 September for the official launch of the Learning Earning Active Places strategy in Townsville.

Dallas Henaway and Roy Bob soaked up the atmosphere at the Rockhampton LEAP Launch.

deadly stories Ambassador and Mr NAIDOC 2011 Dylan Mann received a certificate of recognition for his support at the Rockhampton LEAP Launch.

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Minister for Disability Services, Mental Health and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, the Honourable Curtis Pitt MP, was present at the event to

speak to the community members about the LEAP strategy and how it will work in the local community.

“It is a place-based strategy, acknowledging that the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living here in Townsville and surrounds are different to the needs of people living in remote communities and LEAP reflects those differences,” Minister Pitt said.

"A 'one size fits all' approach will not close the gap.”

The highlight of the Townsville launch was the presentation of 10 local deadly stories role models who are each making a significant contribution to the community.

The deadly stories role models for Townsville are:

Velma Gara: a well-known media personality who has worked extensively across local TV, radio and print media, both Indigenous and mainstream. She is also a former WNBL player and is currently working for PASS Australia to inspire and assist young people in pursuing education and training opportunities.

Abraham Saylor: the owner of a successful counselling business, and most recently he has been running a boxing program for young people through the local PCYC. He hopes to expand this into the future into a multi-sports club.

Heather Rice: a mother of five children, Heather has built herself a successful career following her passion for training and education. She is currently working as the Indigenous Programs Coordinator at Tec-NQ and is motivating and supporting young Indigenous people to complete their trade training and secure apprenticeships.

Luke Duffy: a health worker who apart from making a difference for Indigenous people in the health sector, also assists community organisations with cultural support for prisoners who are transitioning back into the community and their families.

Michelle Deshong: a former public servant, Michelle changed careers to help inspire and help Indigenous people achieve their dreams and make a valuable contribution to the community. She is now working to raise awareness of women's rights and advocacy and supporting women to move into leadership roles.

Rick Garcia: a Youth Support Coordinator with Queensland Youth Services, he has dedicated most of his professional career to helping Indigenous young people to be proud of their culture and motivate them to succeed in education, training and employment.

Latara Saltner: an Indigenous Captain at Kirwan State High School. As part of her role as a leader in the school community, she is working hard to help her peers see the value in education. Latara was the youth keynote speaker at the recent Indigenous Education Forum.

Danny Anau: currently working with PASS Australia, Danny is helping young people succeed in training and education through his passion for sport. In the future Danny wants to take all of the skills and

Townsville’s deadly stories role models (back, from left) Latara Saltner, Michelle Deshong, Luke Duffy, Velma Gara and Rick Garcia (Front from left) Heather Rice, Abraham Saylor, Janeese Henaway and Danny Anau.

(l-r) Barb Grey, Sam Savage, Michelle Deshong, Jacqui Bramwell, Mary Retallack and Mary Reynes from the Australian Rural Leadership Program celebrating the announcement of Michelle Deshong as one of the deadly stories role models for Townsville.

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knowledge he has learned through his education back to help his home island community in the Torres Strait.

Janeese Henaway: through her role at the Townsville City Council, Janeese is helping the local Indigenous community to discover their lost family histories, increase their use of library resources and inspire them about lifelong learning. Janeese also creates engaging and comfortable events for Indigenous participants by drawing on the expertise of community Elders.

Clinton Conway: a Year 12 student at Kirwan State High School. In his role as an Indigenous Captain at Kirwan State High School, he is helping to motivate other young Indigenous people to set themselves up for successful futures through education. He is a keen sportsman and has represented North Queensland and the state in rugby league and touch football.

Uncle Norm Clarke retires from Queensland Fire and Rescue Service Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) Indigenous Liaison Officer and Station Officer, Uncle Norm Clarke, was the first Indigenous Australian firefighter to graduate with QFRS.

Uncle Norm graduated on 27 September 1976 so it is fitting that he chose to retire 35 years later with his last day on the 27 September 2011.

Uncle Norm Clarke on his father's side is a Kanolu man from Blackwater; on his mother's side, he is from the Gunggari People around Mitchell and south-west Queensland. Throughout his remarkable career with QFRS, Uncle Norm has passionately worked as a trainer and workshop facilitator, and promoting the fire services

as a career option for Indigenous peoples. Last August we saw the first female Indigenous Australian firefighter graduate with QFRS.

In 2002 Uncle Norm was awarded an Australian Day Achievement Medal for services to Indigenous communities. In addition, he was honoured with an Australian Fire Service Medal in the 2004 Queen's Birthday Honours List in recognition of his continuing contribution to increasing the fire safety organisational and community capacity of Indigenous communities. At his retirement morning tea, the QFRS Commissioner Lee Johnson presented Uncle Norm with the Commissioner's Certificate of Appreciation; Diligent and Ethical Service Medal; and the QFRS Presentation Plaque.

As a well-known Aboriginal Elder passionate about improving the many issues Indigenous people face today, Uncle Norm has always quietly gone about his business, working tirelessly with many different organisations and communities. He is a well known workshop facilitator and trainer, delivering Nationally Accredited training courses to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Uncle Norm is a Presiding Indigenous Representative on the adult and children's Murri Court and is a member of various advisory groups, including the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Council since 2008; and was recently appointed as a member on the Board for Project 10% (Reducing Imprisonment. Improving Lives). He is also very passionate about and committed to the issue of Indigenous driver licensing, and works with the Queensland Police Service who have trained him to issue Learner's Licenses to Indigenous Australians.

Before he joined the fire service, Uncle Norm was a renowned full back for Valleys Diehards Rugby League Club, where he played in several A Grade premierships, winning in three of these. Today his sporting interests are golf and pool, and hopefully his retirement will see him take more time out to enjoy these pursuits.

All the best during your retirement, Uncle Norm.

Queensland Health Director-General visits Yarrabah Queensland Health Director-General Dr Tony O’Connell, interim Government Champion for Yarrabah, visited the community on 18 August to attend the Yarrabah Men’s Health Forum and meet with Yarrabah Mayor Percy Neal, CEO Leon Yeatman and PricewaterhouseCooper (PwC)

Senior Staff of Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (l-r): Frank Stemm, Wayne Halverson, Uncle Norm, Commissioner Lee Johnson, John Cawcutt, Ron Kidner, Mark Roche and Ron James.

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Cherbourg’s Junior Police Rangers proudly show off their certificates.

(l-r) Haylene Grogan, Roger McComiskie, Mayor Percy Neal and Dr Tony O‘Connell at the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council Chambers.

Partner Roger McComiskie to progress economic development planning. Dr O’Connell later met with the Yarrabah Youth Advisory Council and then the Gurriny Yealamucka Health Service CEO David Baird, Chair Drew Danger, Board member Bishop Malcolm, and Cairns and Hinterland Health Service District CEO Julie Hartley-Jones.

In the meeting with Mayor Neal, CEO Yeatman and Mr McComiskie, Dr O’Connell facilitated discussions regarding a business model for the Yarrabah community. The proposed model is being developed to suit the needs of the Yarrabah community, establishing a platform for the development of a number of viable businesses and will allow for ownership of the company by the community. While PwC are the first to admit that developing a business model in a discrete community is a challenge, the proposed business model was accepted with some confidence by those present. There is much work to be done to work out the details of such a model while maximising and maintaining community engagement in its development and community ownership of it.

When Dr O’Connell met with the Youth Advisory Council (funded by the Government Champion) the professional approach of the group was evident and their powerpoint presentation of their activities was impressive. It is clear that the Youth Advisory Council’s role in engaging with Yarrabah’s young people (of whom there are many) and channelling youth issues to the appropriate forums to have them addressed will go a long way towards making life for young people in Yarrabah safer and healthier.

Junior rangers inducted in Cherbourg Story by Sergeant Kaye Rowley, North Coast Regional Cross Cultural Liaison, and Lucy Emlyn-Jones, Media and Public Affairs Branch, Queensland Police Service

In a small Indigenous community in the North Coast Region, 26 children in neatly pressed uniforms stand silent, focussed and ram-rod straight—a rare sight among any group of high spirited youngsters.

Watched intently by a strong contingent of Elders, dignitaries, parents and townsfolk, the group responds as one to commands to stand at attention, left dress and stand at ease. Uniforms are inspected, certificates are issued, and finally, the youngsters fall out by the left to cheers from the crowd, tossing their hats into the air like the proudest recruits ever inducted.

This historic scene took place at Cherbourg in July, as the QPS welcomed the first intake of Cherbourg Junior Police Rangers. The program aims to create positive role models and instil a sense of community spirit and pride in participants.

Currently, three Australian police services undertake junior police ranger programs—the Northern Territory Junior Police Rangers, West Australian Cadets and South Australian Blue Light Rangers. These programs were developed to combat a perceived drop in civic mindedness among youth and are offered to students 12-18 years.

While the Cherbourg program upholds the foundational values, it has been tailored to its unique circumstances. Developed in partnership with the

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QPS, local schools and the Queensland Early Intervention Pilot Project, the program targets Indigenous students aged 10-13 years, and the focus incorporates an awareness of Aboriginal culture. Students receive personal development training from members of both the community and emergency services organisations to enhance practical life skills, leadership and teamwork.

Sergeant Scott Prendergast, Cherbourg’s Officer-in-Charge, visited West Australia and Northern Territory to observe their programs firsthand. He said it became clear the program could be successfully adapted for the youth of Cherbourg to the benefit of the entire community.

“We are hoping this program will be a positive engagement for the youth, and will help the QPS build stronger bonds with the children, the community and key stakeholders,” Sergeant Prendergast said.

The Cherbourg Junior Rangers meet weekly for two hours to engage in activities designed to boost self esteem and knowledge of their Indigenous heritage. A typical afternoon may be filled with bush craft and survival training or study of Aboriginal food, art or dance traditions.

Senior Constable Luke Veldman, Police Ranger Coordinator, said the rangers were eager to attend the meeting each week.

“They look forward to learning different skills from the Elders of the town and are also excited about perfecting their drill,” Senior Constable Veldman said.

“This sort of thing has never happened before and we hope the experience will be positive for both the participants and for Cherbourg.”

Sandra Morgan, Chairperson of the Cherbourg Ration Shed Museum, said the program provided a unique opportunity for the town’s young people.

“When we were young, we didn’t have the opportunities the youth have today. We hope the rangers can learn more about our culture, respect themselves and the community, and become role models for other youth.”

The Cherbourg Junior Police Rangers program will continue indefinitely if evaluations show members are displaying role model qualities and improved school attendance and continue to enjoy the experience.

CIAF 2011 attracts crowds and buyers Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) provides a gathering place for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists to sell their work, network, share and learn.

This year’s event, held from 19-21 August, was a vibrant, exciting three-day celebration of Queensland’s rich and diverse Indigenous culture.

CIAF’s new waterfront home at the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal proved a success with artists, exhibitors, sponsors and visitors alike. More than 13,000 visitors poured through the gates to view artworks from more than 150 Queensland Indigenous artists, generating $580,000 in sales.

CIAF 2011 boasted vibrant performances from the Mornington Island Dancers and the Arpaka Dancers from Moa Island in the Torres Strait, healthy debate at the CIAF Symposium and proppa NOW forum and a children’s program full of free, fun and very creative activities.

CIAF has also proved a successful hub for Indigenous professional art development. Forums on theatre, dance, music and production were co-funded by Arts Queensland and the Australia Council for the Arts.

A dedicated employer of Indigenous staff, in 2011 CIAF placed 12 Indigenous employees in a range of roles form the Artistic Director to administration.

This year’s event produced fantastic sales outcomes with the Queensland Art Gallery and Queensland Museum making important acquisitions. Lockhart River artist Irene Namok sold every piece and the

Alick Tipoti, one of the many artists featured at this year’s Cairns Indigenous Art Fair.

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intricate delicately detailed work of printmakers Joel Sam and Brian Robinson were in high demand.

Under the guidance of Artistic Director Avril Quaill, the CIAF team is already winding up for CIAF 2012. General Manager Alison Copley is calling for submissions from dance groups and musicians to perform in next year’s event. For more information, visit www.ciaf.com.au.

Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council encourage residents to Do The Right Thing Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council held their first community clean up day on Wednesday 14 September to educate and encourage litter reduction throughout the community.

The clean up day was attended by 60 members of the community including members of Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council, Community Enterprises Australia, Apunipima Cape York Health Council, Queensland Health Mapoon Primary Health Care Centre and representatives from the Department of Communities Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Services. One hundred and fifty bags of rubbish were collected from the Mapoon Airstrip, the main town centre and the Cullen Point beach front and camping ground.

Funded through a partnership between Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council and the Australian Food and Grocery Council’s Packaging Stewardship Forum (PSF), the community clean up day is one part a wider town beautification and litter reduction project being implemented through the PSF developed Clean Up Book, a self-help guide for communities on how to reduce litter and increase recycling.

As part of the project, the PSF also provided new waste and recycling bins to the local school, general store, health clinic and council offices carrying new Do The Right Thing, Use The Right Bin signage as part of Council’s community education and litter awareness program.

Mapoon Aboriginal Council Deputy CEO, Natalie Barney, was excited about the outcome of the ‘clean up day’ and the enthusiasm of the community in their cleanup efforts.

“The event was a great way to get the community thinking about how they directly contribute to appearance of the community. We have always been proud of our community and everyone enjoyed seeing the great result.”

Other sponsors included Department of Communities Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Services for wristbands and water bottles, Apunipima Cape York Health Council for sunscreen and water bottles filled with iced water for all volunteers, Queensland Health provided first aid kits whilst Rio Tinto Alcan provided broad brimmed hats for children.

St Joseph’s Primary School Child Protection Week event Mt Isa Child Safety staff, along with members of Queensland Police Service and staff members from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Services (ATSIS), promoted Child Protection Week when they attended the Teddy Bears’ Picnic at St Joseph’s School, Mt Isa on Friday 9 September.

The Child Safety Services team delivered presentations about child safety

Members of the Mapoon community and the Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council gather around the new Do the Right Thing sign after the successful clean-up day.

(l-r) Rekha Maharaj and Kate Eales at the Child Protection Week event at St Joseph’s School, Mt Isa.

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to the school community, which were very much appreciated by the parents and children alike. The team also showed their support by purchasing “Buddy Bears”. Buddy Bears is an essential program the school runs for children in grades 4 and in prep. All the prep kids receive a buddy bear each and of course they love them!

During the day, children participated in activities, including marking out the shape of a hand representing the five people in their life who can help them feel safe. The children were also asked to wear red in memory of Daniel Morcombe and to support the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.

The Mt Isa Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Services team provided the fruit for the picnic for everyone to enjoy. It was great to see support from so many services, making the day a great success and ensuring the important message of child protection and safety was shared with the children of St Josephs.

For more information about Child Protection Week go to www.childprotectionweek.org.au.

QATSIF funding supports 848 students As part of the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation’s (QATSIF) third funding round, 476 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Year 11 and 12 students across Queensland have been approved for scholarships totalling over $1.6 million to assist them in completing their senior secondary school education. This now takes the number of participating schools in Queensland to 88, with 848 approved scholarship recipients.

The QATSIF Queensland Certificate of Education Scholarship Support 2012 program will continue to provide a two-year funding package to students from 75 Queensland schools. This represents a significant increase on the initial 17 schools from Round One in 2009.

Here is what some of the Round 2 Scholarship recipients have to say about the QATSIF scholarships:

“As an Indigenous student, I would like to thank you very much for giving me the opportunity of this scholarship. This has helped me and has made a difference personally in my life and in my education.” Roderick Mabo, St Mary’s Catholic College, 2011

“There are many new opportunities here that I have found, one of which is the barrister work experience that I will be taking part in from next term.” Jayde Hagan, Clayfield College, 2011

“I am now doing vocational education courses in Photography and Community Recreation. The scholarship has allowed me to buy text books. My mentor helps me to get organised and motivates me. I feel confident and in control.” Claudia Moodunuthi, Clayfield College, 2011

In announcing this third round of QATSIF QCE Scholarships, Professor Shannon said that QATSIF had chosen to continue its working relationships with the Government, Catholic and Independent Sectors of education as well as with the Commonwealth Department of Education and Workplace Relations and the Queensland Indigenous Education Consultative Committee.

“We congratulate schools for the work you are doing to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young peoples, not only with respect to completion of their Queensland Certificate of Education but also in taking initiatives that create pathways to future employment through industry training and extra-curricular learning. It is clearly evident that with schools and QATSIF working together, there is a significant amount of progress being made with students and in schools and communities that can lead to more optimism about future outcomes for our students.

I am personally familiar with the 2011 applications from schools. I applaud schools ensuring that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students are expected and encouraged to participate fully in school life and where significant school initiatives match students with opportunities to attain their goals beyond Year 12. Schools remain potentially significantly fertile ground for genuine reconciliation and cultural awareness especially in all students, families, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and the wider community.”

QATSIF is an independent public foundation established in November 2008 to provide a secure funding source for improved educational outcomes for Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young peoples.

QATSIF’s initial funding is provided from interest earned from both the Queensland Government’s former Aborigines’ Welfare Fund and the Queensland Government’s Indigenous Wages and Savings Reparations Scheme. The QATSIF Board of Advice also actively promotes support for its programs to the business community and welcomes ongoing philanthropic support for investing in the

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Heather Rice, one of Townsville’s deadly stories local ambassadors.

education of the next generation of Indigenous Australians.

For more information about QATSIF, go to www.qatsif.org.au.

The deadly stories campaign celebrates the many achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and their communities across Queensland. This issue, we’re featuring Heather Rice’s deadly story:

Heather Rice Heather Rice's story has been one of constant change, growth and self-discovery.

In her 54 years, Heather has gone through many ups and downs in her personal and professional life, but her steely determination and strength of character quickly become an inspiration to everyone who meets her.

Heather is the proud mother of five and grandmother of six and lists raising her children and grandchildren as her biggest achievement.

Her professional journey has taken her through a vast array of careers including cleaning, retail, gardening and hospitality.

But in the past few years, it's been her desire to help young people in their quest to successful futures that has been her driving force.

"I've always had a passion for helping youth in the community," she said.

"And I think it's very important to let young people know that education and employment are the way to a successful and more enjoyable life."

After working as a teacher's aide at Kirwan State High School, Heather took on the role as Indigenous Liaison Officer and then Indigenous Programs Coordinator with Tec-NQ, helping young Indigenous people finish their senior school studies and secure an apprenticeship.

"I believe that if we really want to bridge the gap for our young people we really need to start at home and make sure we give them the support and encouragement they need to finish their studies and strive for their goals," she said.

"I want to be part of that solution."

You can read more deadly stories, or upload your own deadly story, at www.deadlystories.qld.gov.au.

black&write! Indigenous Writing Fellowships Entries are now open for the 2012 kuril dhagun Indigenous Writing Fellowships, part of the black&write! Indigenous Writing and Editing Project. There are two Fellowships on offer, each worth $10,000. Entries close 31 January 2012.

The fellowships are open to all writers (published and unpublished) of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent. A Confirmation of Aboriginality form from the community you identify with is required.

black&write! is a national project and the first of its kind in Australia. It was developed to foster a significant Indigenous writing community.

For more information, including entry forms, go to www.slq.qld.gov.au/whats-on/awards/blackwrite/fellowships.

IBA Scholarship Fund 2012 Round open The Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) Scholarship Fund 2012 Round is now open.

The IBA Scholarship Fund provides financial support to enable mature-age Indigenous students to complete nationally recognised tertiary qualifications, and attain skills and knowledge that will enhance their community’s future economic and financial development.

The fund provides recipients with financial support covering day-to-day study expenses, which may include course fees, communication costs, child care, transport and textbooks.

For more information, go to www.iba.gov.au/corporate/iba-scholarship-fund/.

Events and opportunities

deadly stories feature: Heather Rice

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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Council welcomes new member

A new advisor to help close the gap on Indigenous disadvantage has been appointed to the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Council. www.cabinet.qld.gov.au/MMS/StatementDisplaySingle.aspx?id=77015

New Indigenous action plan for Ipswich

A new Indigenous Children and Family Centre will be up and running in Ipswich from 2012. www.cabinet.qld.gov.au/MMS/StatementDisplaySingle.aspx?id=77145

$685,000 to preserve Cape York languages and culture

Acting Premier Andrew Fraser announced more than $685,000 in Queensland Government funding to continue special education, language and cultural programs at the Cape York Aboriginal Australian Academy. www.cabinet.qld.gov.au/MMS/StatementDisplaySingle.aspx?id=77154

Brisbane student wins first NRL Learn. Earn. Legend! Community Award

Holly Wilson from Bundamba State Secondary College in Queensland was awarded the inaugural 2011 Young Indigenous Learn. Earn. Legend! Award at the 2011 National Rugby League One Community Awards.

www.deewr.gov.au/Ministers/Arbib/Media/Releases/Pages/Article_110927_131345.aspx

Breakthrough funding to boost success of Indigenous musicians

Emerging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander musicians and bands are invited to apply for up to $25,000 in funding to help boost their music careers and expose their music to new audiences.

www.minister.regional.gov.au/sc/releases/2011/september/sc111_2011.aspx

Editorial information

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Services newsletter welcomes your feedback and story suggestions. Email the editor at gcnews@communities.qld.gov.au

News and media in brief

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Contacts

Department of Communities

Ron Weatherall Deputy Director-General, ATSIS 3235 9495

Clare O’Connor Executive Director, Policy & Performance, Brisbane 3224 2518

Wayne Briscoe Executive Director, Partnerships & Coordination, Brisbane 3836 0547

Helena Wright Executive Director, Indigenous Reforms & Strategy, Brisbane 3406 7979

Allen Cunneen Executive Director, Remote Indigenous Land and Infrastructure Program Office, Cairns 4057 3860

Paul Fitzpatrick Regional Director, ATSIS, Far North Queensland Region 4039 8821 or 0408 774 952

Greg Anderson Regional Director, ATSIS, North Queensland Region 4799 7780 or 0428 114 302

Trevor Crawford Manager, ATSIS, Mt Isa 4747 2033 or 0467 787 350

Peter Buckland Director, ATSIS, North Queensland Region (Mackay) 4967 4423 or 0438 768 269

Manny Hegarty Regional Director, ATSIS, Central Queensland Region 41259398 or 0413 530 197

Clowry Kennell Principal Project Officer, ATSIS, Cherbourg 4169 5928 or 0437 823 657

Derek Willie A/Principal Project Officer, ATSIS, Woorabinda 4938 4679 (Rockhampton), 4925 9022 (Woorabinda) or 0419 650 386

Graham White Regional Director, ATSIS, North Coast Region 5490 1060 or 0428 103 126

Brad Saunders Regional Director, ATSIS, South West Region 3432 7206 or 0400 001 092

Lawrence Swann Regional Director, ATSIS, Brisbane Region 3274 9973 or 0403 368 922

Wally Tallis Regional Director, ATSIS, South East Region 3380 6650 or 0407 759 045

Paul Loney Manager, Torres Strait Islands and Northern Peninsula Area 4083 1001 or 0439 875 624

Kerry-Anne Hogan A/Government Coordination Officer, ATSIS, Aurukun (welfare reform) 4083 4000 or 0438 168 349

Norm Ferguson A/Director Government Coordination, ATSIS, (Western Cape York), Mapoon, Weipa, Napranum

4047 5794 or 0427 166 510

Anthony Penrith Director Government Coordination, ATSIS, Lockhart River, Yarrabah & Urban and Regional Strategy

4039 8814 or 0427 116 626

Fran Maddern Manager, Cooktown District Office (including Wujal Wujal and Laura) 4082 2125 or 0427 160 643

Norm Ferguson Director Government Coordination (Kowanyama, Mona Mona, Pormpuraaw) 4047 5794 or 0427 166 510

Phil Peachey Director Government Coordination, ATSIS, Palm Island 4799 7671 or 0427 800 892

Paul Garrahy Director, Government Coordination Regional Operations Centre (Doomadgee & Mornington Island)

4747 3053 or 0467 740 237

Family Responsibilities Commission

David Glasgow Commissioner 4057 3870

Tammy Sovenyhazi Registrar 4057 3870

Sharon Newcomb Principal Case Manager 4057 3870

Amy Barden Acting Mossman Gorge Local Coordinator and Active Family Pathways Support Officer

4057 3870 or 0419 647 948

Michael Miller Hope Vale Local Coordinator 4060 9153 or 0438 195 342

Dellis Gledhill Aurukun Local Coordinator 4060 6185 or 0428 985 106

Karen Gibson Mossman Gorge Local Coordinator 4098 1908 or 0409 647 068

Brenden Joinbee Active Family Pathways Support Officer 4057 3870 or 0408 482 026

Claudine Wiesner Active Family Pathways Support Officer 4057 3870 or 0407 780 141