e-Newsletter March 2017

  Hi All,

For the latest news and information please see below.

Up- coming CQFLPN eventCentral Queensland Family Law Pathways Network & Relationships Australia proudly present: CQFLPN Clarissa Rayward workshop, Centacare, 16 Bolsover St – near North St.  9th June. FREE .Clarissa Rayward heads up BFLC and is an Accredited Specialist in Family Law. Clarissa has practiced exclusively in the area of family law since her admission to the profession in 2003. Clarissa brings to the firm a wealth of experience in all aspects of family and relationship law. With training in mediation and collaborative law, Clarissa offers a unique approach to family law matters focusing on out of Court resolution.

Clarissa also has extensive experience in appearing in both the Federal Circuit Court and Family Court in both children’s and property proceedings. Clarissa is also an Independent Children’s Lawyer and Separate Representative, representing children in complex Family Law and Child Protection Proceedings before the Courts. Clarissa has a deep passion for business and has grown BFLC from its inception in 2008 as a single practitioner firm to the multidisciplinary practice it is today. In 2015 Clarissa published her first book ‘Splitsville- How to separate, stay out of Court and stay friends’. Details to be advised ASAP. Contact sandypaton@bigpond.com

Women inmates share personal experience of domestic violence in short film: Nathan Morris: ABC Goldfields : 23 Feb Women inmates at a Western Australian prison have drawn on their personal experience of domestic violence to create a new short film."No one can tell a story about domestic violence unless you actually live through it yourself and survive. Well I call myself a survivor," said Jane, which is not her real name. She wrote and played one of the lead roles in a stop motion animation produced at the Eastern Goldfields Regional Prison (EGRP) at Kalgoorlie-Boulder.

For Jane, domestic violence coloured much of her life before she came to prison. "I grew up without a mum and dad, so my way of thinking was 'I'll put up with getting beaten, getting cheated on, because I wanted give my kids a mum and dad'," she

said. "I wanted them to have something that I didn't have growing up." The manager of the education unit at the prison, Kalindi Hartigan, said the project was one of the toughest they have worked on."We knew from the beginning that it was going to be a very difficult topic, it's probably the most emotionally charged topic that we've dealt with so far," she said. The women who made the film said that almost all of their fellow inmates had experienced domestic violence at some point in their lives."One hundred per cent of our class was personally affected," Ms Hartigan said. Production of the short film is part of the broader prison education program and the aim is to produce a community education resource. For this reason the film deliberately does not depict actual violence but instead focused on the psychological roots of the issue, along with educating young men and boys. To read the complete story and view the great short (8min) animated video made by these talented and insightful indigenous ladies, please click on ABC Goldfields

Busting the myths around information sharingQueensland Family and Child Commission (QFCC) has released an information sharing myth busting guide for child and family support professionals, highlighting key aspects of information sharing that are often overlooked or misunderstood. The fundamental goal of the guide is to know when to share information in the best interests of children, to protect their safety and well-being. To access the Guide please click on the links below.                   Information sharing - Myth busting guide (PDF, 102.99 KB) Information sharing - Myth busting guide (DOCX, 42.26 KB)

Almost 40,000 School Children Sought Homelessness Help Last Year: Ellie Cooper: Pro Bono: 20 MarchThe number of Australian school children seeking help from homelessness services has increased by more than 80 per cent over the past three years, according to new data analysis. In the lead up to Youth Homelessness Matters Day on 5 April, the Council to Homeless Persons analysed Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data. It found 39,155 children enrolled in preschool, and primary and secondary school presented at homelessness services last financial year. They were among the 279,000 people who sought help nationally. The Council to Homeless Persons, Victoria’s peak homelessness body, warned the situation would get worse if federal funding for public housing was cut in the May budget. There has been ongoing speculation that the federal government could scrap the National Affordable Housing Agreement because it has failed to improve affordable housing stocks or reduce homelessness. Jenny Smith, CEO of the Council to Homeless Persons, said students would be especially affected if the $1.3 billion agreement with the states, that provides 320,000 affordable homes, was lost. She said many families, including those with school children, were the occupants of social housing. “That $1.3 billion is working very hard to keep tens of thousands of vulnerable young people in stable housing with their families so that they can keep going to school,” Smith said. To read the complete article please click on Pro Bono

The why and how of a paternity test: Michael Lynch Family Lawyers: 6 MarchWho is the child’s father is not always something that is agreed upon.

DNA and evidence of parentage is important when a mother wants to register an application with the Child Support Agency (Department of Human Services (Child Support)) (“the CSA”). The CSA will refuse an application if a parent is not listed on the birth certificate (i.e. father) and therefore, parentage needs to be established.

A person is the child’s biological father if: they are named as the father on the birth certificate or adoption certificate they sign a statutory declaration (a legal document) saying they are the father the child was born during the marriage the child was born within 20 to 44 weeks of when the mother and father lived

together the court makes a declaration (finding) that a person is a child’s father and/or

that a person  is liable to pay child support for a child.

DNA testing is generally accepted as the most accurate method of proving or disproving parentage (i.e. if a man is the father of a child).Paternity testing involves a DNA sample being taken from the alleged father, mother and child to prove evidence that they are the alleged biological father of the child. The usual sample collected is a mouth swab, although other samples such as blood, can be used.While it is possible to order DNA test kits online, for legal proceedings testing must comply with the strict regulations outlined in the Family Law Act.To read the complete article please click on Michael Lynch Family Lawyers

Strong steps towards addressing financial hardshipFollowing ongoing advocacy from QCOSS and the community service sector, laws introduced recently will now offer debtors experiencing financial hardship alternative ways to reduce or pay off the amount they owe to the State Penalties Enforcement Registry (SPER). This includes undertaking financial counselling, community service, or relevant treatment for drug, alcohol or other issues. Alongside this change, 27 new financial resilience counsellors yesterday started work across Queensland as part of the Better Budgeting program.

Rockhampton strengthening communities through local solutions: Queensland GovernmentService providers in the Rockhampton and Fraser Coast areas have come together to scope and design projects that strengthen the capacity and capability of their local child and family support sector. The projects come through the Strengthening our Place initiative which is part of the QFCC's Strengthening our sector strategy.

From among the many projects proposed in late 2016, three have been chosen for direct support by the QFCC, Queensland Council of Social Services (QCOSS) and local advisory groups:

In Rockhampton, Family Voice – Families Being Heard focuses on valuing the voice of family and enabling families to better inform and influence service design, practice and policy.

On the Fraser Coast, Bringing and Keeping our Ghundus Home! focuses on local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people having a voice and keeping their kids out of the system or bringing them home.

Across both regions is a leadership development and mentoring project which will be co-designed and community led.

These projects received the broadest stakeholder support, and most closely align with the Strengthening our sector strategy.

Also see Queensland Family and Child Commission and the QCOSS website.

Child protection week grants open for applicationsOrganisations can now apply for up to $1000 to run activities during Child Protection Week in September or up to $5000 for collaborative efforts in regional areas. Applications close 19 May. Service InformationM y R a i n b o w S u p p o r t G r o u p (formerly True Colours) has not only changed its name but also extended the age range for young people who can participate. It now covers 12-25 year olds in the Rainbow community. The group catches up fortnightly on Thursdays from 3-4.30pm headspace Rockhampton. Light afternoon tea is provided. Contact Annette Dudley 4921 9800.

Women’s Domestic & Family Violence group.This group will run for 9 weeks, starting on Tuesday, 18th April, 2017 and finishing on 20th June, 2017. It will go for approximately 2 hours, starting at 10 a.m. and finishing around 12 p.m. The aim of the group is to inform women about domestic violence and the impacts it has on them and their children emotionally, physically and spiritually. The process will also facilitate and promote awareness and understanding of coping strategies and supports in the community that are available to families. Please phone either Deb or Laurene on 1300 364 277 to book your spot. Venue: Relationships Australia, 88 High Street, North Rockhampton.

Helem Yumba Cultural Competency Workshop 31 March, Helem Yumba, 10/99 Musgrave St. 9am-4pm. Cost $200. Cultural Competency Workshop explores with health and human service providers ways in which to effectively engage and facilitate positive outcomes for vulnerable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, particularly families. RSVP 29th March. Register 4921 3877 or admin@cqhealing.com.au;

Important information regarding Blue Card Services forms Blue Card Services advises that previous versions of their forms will not be accepted from 1st April 2017. To avoid processing delays, please ensure that you access the most recent form from their website. You can identify the most recent form if it states that it is valid for lodgement until 30th June 2017 (usually clearly stated in a box in the top right-hand corner of the front page of each form). For further information, please either visit the Blue Card Services website or phone on 1800 113 611 (free call from landlines) or 07 3211 6999.

NewsBeing mindful makes you less likely to screw up your relationship: Drake Baer: SBS – source –Science of Us: 21 Feb

It's been proven to help preschoolers, survivors of breast cancer and parents of kids with autism - now there's evidence to suggest that mindfulness can help salvage your love life, too. Mindfulness is so effective at helping preschoolers,  high schoolers , survivors of breast cancer, parents of kids with autism, and just about everybody else that it has inspired a counter-take or two. Now there’s evidence that dispositional mindfulness — or a tendency to attend to what you’re doing and feeling — can help your relationships, especially when they get rocky. In a study recently highlighted at PsyPost, University of Auckland researcher Holly Claire Dixon and a colleague recruited 72 people who were in romantic relationships averaging 30 months in length. The results amount to what the authors say is “the first evidence that greater present-centered awareness reduces rejection fears during daily conflict and attenuates destructive reactions when rejection concerns arise.” That’s big: It suggests that being more mindful can help stabilise you within the expected, inevitable, and, dare I say, healthy turbulence within relationships. (It should be noted, again, that this is a study of dispositional mindfulness, or noticing your internal and external world, which is different, though related, to an actual mindfulness practice. For a book-length survey, read Ellen Langer, the Harvard psychologist who drove the field. Or watch a talk of hers.) To read the complete article please click on SBS

Laws to keep violent suspects locked up could hurt women they're meant to protect: group. Felicity Caldwell: Brisbane Times: 13 MarchProposed laws to tackle domestic violence could instead harm the women they are intended to protect, an advocate group for women in the criminal justice system argues. The LNP has introduced a private member's bill to reverse the presumption of bail for an alleged offender charged with domestic violence-related offences, such as strangulation, assault and kidnapping. That means someone charged with a domestic violence-related offence would need to show why they should be released on bail, rather than prosecutors arguing why they should remain behind bars until being sentenced or found not guilty. The bill would allow offenders to be ordered to wear GPS trackers if granted bail and create a system to alert victims when the defendant applies for bail or receives parole. But an advocate for women's rights under the criminal justice system, Debbie Kilroy, said she did not support reversing the presumption of bail. Ms Kilroy, the chief executive of Sisters Inside, said women were increasingly being imprisoned for using physical violence against perpetrators of domestic violence. To read the complete article please click on Brisbane Times.

Calls for another judge as DV cases clog courts. Emmaline Stigwood: The Courier-Mail: 13th March A SURGE in domestic violence cases expected to hit District Courts across the state has prompted Queensland's chief judge to call for another judge to be appointed. Chief Judge Kerry O'Brien has asked the state government to appoint another judge to ensure there are enough to handle the influx on top of a rising criminal case load. In the court's 2015-16 annual report - provided to Attorney-General Yvette D'Ath in October but only made public recently - Judge O'Brien highlights criminal matters lodged with the District Court rose by 5.9 per cent in the last financial year and 6.1 per cent the year before. In total, 5879 defendants had cases before the courts over the 2015-16 period. "This has made the administration of the criminal lists more difficult and has placed increased strain upon the court's judicial resources," Judge O'Brien said. To read the complete article please click The Queensland Times

Tales of triumph over violence promote awareness: The Queensland Times: 17th MarchFASHION is not usually the first thing that comes to mind when discussing domestic violence, but for Springfield retailer Unga Folau Tupou it has proven a successful pathway to broaching the subject. Owner of upcycled designer fashion retailer, Floraison, and President of women's advocacy group, the Leniata Legacy Group, Mrs Tupou is passionate about creating awareness and is now promoting a book dedicated to the cause. Memoirs To My Younger Self is a compilation of stories compiled by Brisbane-based not-for-profit agency Diversity with Harmony. It is written by people affected by domestic violence in the hope of spreading awareness. "I was approached to get involved with the book because of my involvement in the Leniata Legacy Group, which advocates against domestic violence in the Pacific, especially Papua New Guinea,”Mrs Tupou said. "We're hoping to help people be aware and to know where to find help and to break that cycle, so I was asked if we could get women from our community to tell their stories,” she said. Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale is an advocate of the project.

Domestic violence laws: Alleged offenders have to prove why they should get bail: Gail Burke: ABC: 23 MarchAnyone charged with a serious domestic violence offence in Queensland will now have to prove why they should be granted bail and allowed back into the community before they face court. Queensland Parliament passed the Bail (Domestic Violence) and Another Act Amendment Bill 2017 in the early hours of this morning, which reverses the usual legal process where police and the prosecution would have to argue why a person should not be granted bail and kept in custody. The Opposition said the new laws also provided more safeguards for domestic violence victims, including provisions for courts to order alleged offenders to be fitted with GPS tracking devices as a bail condition, and urgent appeal rights for victims Opposition Leader Tim Nicholls, who introduced the legislation, said the changes provided more security for victims. The private member's bill came after Teresa Bradford was killed by her estranged husband inside her Gold Coast home in January. David Bradford had been released on bail for choking and bashing the mother of four, with his release catching Ms Bradford off guard. To read the complete article please click on ABC

Court Decisions of InterestFull CourtCartwright & Manolas [2017] FamCAFC 37 15 Mar 2017 NOTE: The period for seeking special leave to appeal to the High Court has not expired.FAMILY LAW – APPLICATION IN AN APPEAL – where mother sought leave to adduce further evidence and for appeal to proceed without transcript – where the evidence sought to be adduced did not satisfy requirements – where mother alleged her failure to file a transcript arose from her impecuniosity – where the trial judge had obtained a copy of the transcript – where the trial judge gave leave for counsel to uplift and read the transcript from the lower court file – where counsel for both parties considered it appropriate for the appeal judge to have reference to the transcript – application dismissed. FAMILY LAW – APPEAL – final parenting orders – where the central ground of appeal was the absence of adequate reasons – where the proceedings were confined to very narrow issues – formal reasons not required as trial judge’s

reasoning was sufficiently apparent from the transcripts – where the remaining grounds concerned issues of weight given to specific matters – where the trial judge was clearly guided by relevant considerations and the Objects and Principles of the Act – where there is no error in the attribution of weight – appeal dismissed. FAMILY LAW – COSTS – where mother was wholly unsuccessful but the appeal was not frivolous – where impecuniosity is not determinative of the question whether to order costs – where a costs order would add a further financial impost – no costs ordered.

First Instance JudgementsTeh & Muir and Anor [2017] FamCA 138 10 Mar 2017FAMILY LAW – PROPERTY – de facto relationship – final hearing – where applicant alleged a de facto relationship existed – where respondent denies a de facto relationship – where there is evidence that the parties lived under the same roof – where there were no observations of a commitment to a shared life – where conduct of applicant is inconsistent with a loving relationship – Held there was never a de facto relationship.FAMILY LAW – BINDING FINANCIAL AGREEMENT – where binding financial agreement prepared pursuant to section 90UC of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) – where applicant engaged in unconscionable conduct – where respondent suffered from dementia – where applicant engaged in conduct for her own financial advantage – Held binding financial agreement should be set aside.

Hampton & Heath and Ors [2017] FamCA 132 08 Mar 2017FAMILY LAW – CHILDREN – Best Interests of the children – Where there is a risk of harm to the children in the care of each parent – Where there are allegations of family violence – Where the first respondent father perpetrated family violence – Where there are concerns regarding the mental health of the first respondent father – Where there are concerns regarding the drug use of the parties – Where the second respondent father has been convicted of assaulting one of the children – Where each of the parties has a criminal record – Where the mother was abused as a child – Where the mother identifies as Aboriginal – Where there are concerns about the mother’s ability to cope with four children – Where the youngest child lives with the paternal uncle – Where the sibling relationships are significant – Where there are concerns about the capacity of each parent to meet the needs of the children – Where there is an unacceptable risk of harm to the children in the care of each parent – Where the children should have a connection to their Aboriginal heritage – Where the Department of Family and Community Services is to have sole parental responsibility for the children – Where the children spend time with the mother – Where the child spends time with the second respondent father – Where the children spend time with the first respondent father.

ResourcesWebinars.Supporting young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds: Good practice and measuring settlement outcomes. Nadine Liddy, Heather Stewart and John De Maio This webinar brought together research, policy and practice perspectives to discuss how to best support young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds. This webinar was held on 23 March 2017 A recording of this webinar, including slides and

a transcript, will be published soon. Please subscribe to the CFCA newsletter to receive a notification when these resources are available.

Innovative methods for studying children’s everyday life: DR. Tiina Lämsä10.00-11.15am (AEDT) Friday 31 March 2017 In this seminar, Dr Lämsä will discuss the process of the data collection methods and methodological possibilities, tools and choices for studying children’s daily lives in institutional settings. Register Here  Exploring placement stabilityOn 16 February, the Queensland Family and Child Commision hosted a Research in the Round event that explored aspects of placement stability for children in out-of-home care. Summaries of the presentations are available on QFCC's website. Research in the Round events showcase the work of Australian researchers who focus on vulnerable children and families and explore the implications of current research evidence for policy makers and practitioners. Register for the next event in May PublicationsAIFS releases report on family violence prevention programs in Indigenous communities Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) has released the report Family violence prevention programs in Indigenous communities as part of the Closing the Gap initiative. The report considers the context of family violence in Indigenous Australian communities, and investigates the effectiveness of current violence prevention programs in place. The report identifies the principles behind successful programs, such as a holistic contextualised approach, community ownership of program development and local cultural appropriateness of programs, as well as what doesn't work and what further research is required. You can read the full report here. 

Violence against women in CALD communitiesThe Department of Social Services (DSS) has released Violence against women in CALD communities aimed at understanding and reducing the rates of violence against women in culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. This report summarises the outcomes of a project focusing on the primary prevention of violence against women in CALD communities. Based on community consultation and research, it identifies issues that need to be considered when working with CALD communities to prevent violence against women and recommends future actions for consideration. Read the full report here.

Events, Training and Meeting Date ClaimersBetween e-Newsletters you can find regularly updated Events, Training and Meeting information at http://www.qldfamilylawnet.org.au/networks/central-queensland Events and trainingOngoing - Official NDIS Calendar of events The Queensland Government Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services has developed an NDIS events calendar. This calendar provides information for people with disability, families and carers, service providers, businesses and the general community about upcoming events and activities related to the NDIS. Events shown in the

calendar are not necessarily sponsored or endorsed by the Queensland Government. See the Events Calendar

Range of FREE Dementia programs from Alzheimers Australia between 21st March and 8th June. Contact 1800 588 699 qld.services@alzheimers.org.au

Early Booking Encouraged Event cinema for the Australian feature film “Broke” on Monday May 8th 2017 at 6:30 pm. Bellow you will find the event link to purchase your tickets of $20, it is a feature film that was filmed in Gladstone and tells the true story of a football player who became addicted to gambling and how his life changed. There is a promo on the link too. Please pass on to your list of who would like to attend. https://tickets.demand.film/event/1597

From 27th MarchASIST Wednesday 29th & Thursday 30th March, Community Health Building, Room 3, Cnr Cambridge and Bolsover Sts, 8.30 – 4.30pm Cost:$150.00 per participant (including catering) . For more information and to enroll please contact Nicole.Cooper@health.qld.gov.au or phone 49205700

National Playgroup Week – FREE Messie Play Day for Families 29 th March, Botanic Gardens, Spencer St. 9am-11am

Helem Yumba Cultural Competency Workshop 31 March, Helem Yumba, 10/99 Musgrave St. 9am-4pm. Cost $200. Cultural Competency Workshop explores with health and human service providers ways in which to effectively engage and facilitate positive outcomes for vulnerable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, particularly families. RSVP 29th March. Register 4921 3877 or admin@cqhealing.com.au;

headspace & PCYC Rockhampton are holding a touch football and fun activity day for National Youth Week 017! Saturday 1

st April 9AM – 4PM Cyril Connell Fields, Reaney

Street, North Rockhampton. For nomination forms email: pjmarsh@headspacerockhampton.com.au . Nomination is free. Teams must have male and female players. Players must be 8 years or older to participate. Maximum of 20 teams Nominations close Friday 24th March 2017

MT MORGAN. FREE 2 Day Circle of Security Workshop. 5 & 6 April, The Hub, 63 Morgan St, Mt Morgan. Circle of Security focuses on how parent/child relationships can be strengthened. It teaches new ways to understand children’s needs and behaviours and how to respond to each other. For more information please contact Girls Time Out (GTO) 4922 7236

INDIGENOUS CULTURAL AWARENESS TRAINING DAY 9:00 am to 4:00 pm WEDNESDAY 12 April. FRENCHVILLE SPORTS CLUB, Clifton Street. COST: $187 PER PERSON INCLUDING GST. MORNING TEA & LUNCH will be provided, as well as TEA & COFFEE For bookings contact Wade Mann on 0429 395 840 orEmail: wademann64@hotmail.com

Women’s Domestic & Family Violence group, Relationships Australia, 88 High Street, North Rockhampton. This group will run for 9 weeks, starting on Tuesday, 18th April, 2017 and finishing on 20th June, 2017. It will go for approximately 2 hours, starting at 10 a.m. and finishing around 12 p.m. The aim of the group is to inform women about domestic violence and the impacts it has on them and their children emotionally, physically

and spiritually. The process will also facilitate and promote awareness and understanding of coping strategies and supports in the community that are available to families. Please phone either Deb or Laurene on 1300 364 277 to book your spot.

Autism/Asperger’s Training Sensory Detective Workshop for teachers, health professionals and families. Frenchville Sports Club, 105 Clifton St. 20 April 9am-4pm. Cost $145 early bird $165 full. Register online at https://www.stickytickets.com.au/46066 Contact for more information support@aspiechild.com.au or Nelle 5481 2754 DATE CLAIMER Mates Training Workshop 21 April Rockhampton . Program to inspire leadership through the provision tools and strategies, empowering family and community members to feel confident in addressing abusive and harmful behaviour. Further information and detail particular to each event will follow.  All queries to be directed to rockhamptonadmin@raq.org.au

The Smith Family is offering free training in its early numeracy program, Let’s Count: Session 1. Wednesday 3rd May 9.30am – 2.30pm Let’s Count is a two part course aimed at Early Years Educators, and is designed to improve the numeracy skills of children aged 3-5 years. The professional development sessions will give you practical skills to assist parents to explore and provoke numeracy learning potential in everyday routines and young children’s play. The sessions will also be an opportunity to share knowledge with your peers in a friendly, professional environment. Places are limited so book to secure your spot today! For more information and to register please visit Eventbrite Register Here!

For more details please contact:Dianne Holloway Dianne.Holloway@thesmithfamily.com.au 0481 905 240orJane Carpenter Jane.Carpenter@thesmithfamily.com.au (07) 3115 6226

2017  HEY YOUth Summit Thursday, 4 May Police & Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) Stapleton Park, North Rockhampton. Registration commences at 9.00am for a 9.40am start – 2.30pm. Contact 4913 1500 or keppel@parliament.qld.gov.auMental Health First Aid is a 12 hour (over 2 days) this course teaches adults how to assist other adults who are experiencing a mental health crisis or developing a mental health problem. 4th & 5th April, North st Annex, 9am – 4.30pm Cost $200. . Full attendance at this course is required to fulfil the requirements set out by Mental Health First Aid Australia. Registration must received a minimum of 2 weeks prior to training date. Email – training@coordinatedsupport.com.au 

Rockhampton is hosting a movie night at Event cinema for the Australian feature film “Broke” on Monday May 8th 2017 at 6:30 pm. Bellow you will find the event link to purchase your tickets of $20, it is a feature film that was filmed in Gladstone and tells the true story of a football player who became addicted to gambling and how his life changed. There is a promo on the link too. https://tickets.demand.film/event/1597

2 week intensive children’s group POPPERS 6 – 9 year olds. POPPERS aims to support children in their experience of parental separation, conflict and change in their family situation. STARTS: 4.4.2017 FINISHES: 11.04.2017 TIME: 9.30am -11.30am Relationships Australia, 88 High Street Making friends. Art and craft. Having fun. Coming up with good ideas. Learning new stuff. Sharing morning tea. Street. Making friends. Art and craft. Having fun. Coming up with good ideas. Light lunch. Contact 1300 364 277

2 week intensive children’s group POP STARS 10 – 12 year olds. POP STARS aims to support children in their experience of parental separation, conflict and change in their family situation. STARTS: 4.4.2017 FINISHES: 11.04.2017 TIME: 11.45am -1.45pm Relationships Australia, 88 High Street. Making friends. Art and craft. Having fun. Coming up with good ideas. Light lunch. Contact 1300 364 277

YEPPOON. Triple P Parenting Seminar for the parents/carers of children up to 3yrs.: The Power of Positive Parenting. CentacareCQ, 5/15 James St – cnr. Mary St. May 8th. 9am – 11am. FREE .Delivered by CentacareCQ. To register, please call 1300 523 985

CQMA’s Taste of the World Festival – International Cuisine.13th May 10am – 4.30pm. Rockhampton Showgrounds, New Exhibition Road, Wandal. For further information please contact 0438 751 974 or cqma_inc@hotmail.com

White Ribbon Silhouette Tour – Community Awareness strategy to rally community around the importance to take action for the safety of our women and children. All queries to be directed to rockhamptonadmin@raq.org.au

13th May 201714th May 201715th May 2017

Rockhampton Yeppoon Mt Morgan

YEPPOON. Triple P Parenting Seminar for the parents/carers of children up to 3yrs.: Raising Confident, Competent Children. CentacareCQ, 5/15 James St – cnr. Mary St. May 15. 9.am – 11 am. FREE. Delivered by CentacareCQ. To register, please call 1300 523 985

What is it all About? Managing mental health issues, grief and loss? 17 May 9am-4pm. The Empire Hotel Conference Centre, Victoria Parade. Registration $265 full – before April 24th $210. Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea included. Presenters: Paul Tyler and Paula Ryan. This workshop is designed for people working in mental health, youth, disability, palliative care and aged care sectors. For more information call 0490 033 945.

Community Auslan I – Rockhampton Term 2 – 2017 Sat 20/05 - Sun 21/05 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Course Duration 2 Days. Course Type Auslan I Full Fee $185.00 Concession $165.00 Auslan I is designed to build on the skills and knowledge learnt in the Auslan Introduction course. This course has a pre-requisite of completion of Auslan Introduction or prior Auslan experience. You will learn more about grammatical structure and the culture of the Deaf community. . For more information please contact Jenny Simpson 4927 9409; M: 0474 764 889 : e: Jenny.Simpson@deafsq.org.auw: www.deafservicesqld.org.au

African Day Festival, Bauhinia House, cnr. Berserker & High St. 20 May 4pm – 10.30pm Non-members $20: Members $15: 12-16yrs $5: Under –FREE. For tickets and more information Lawrence 0438170588 or Rumbie 0410206626

DATECLAIMER. Exploring the short and long term impacts of Non-Lethal Strangulation. 18 May 1.30pm – 4.00pm Rockhampton. A panel of health and human services practioners sharing insight into experiencing the abusive practice of non-lethal strangulation. Further information and detail particular to each event will follow.  All queries to be directed to rockhamptonadmin@raq.org.au

Triple P Parenting Seminar for the parents/carers of children up to 3yrs.: Raising Resilient Children. . CentacareCQ, 5/15 James St – cnr. Mary St. May 22. 9.am – 11am. FREE. Delivered by CentacareCQ. To register, please call 1300 523 985

DATECLAIMER: Domestic and Family Violence - Working with Children in a Family Context Practice Techniques 7 June, Rockhampton. Experiential learning in responding a child’s experience of Domestic and Family Violence. Further information and detail particular to each event will follow.  All queries to be directed to rockhamptonadmin@raq.org.au

CQFLPN Clarissa Rayward workshop, 16 Bolsover St – near North St. 9th June 2017. FREE .Clarissa Rayward heads up BFLC and is an Accredited Specialist in Family Law. Clarissa has practiced exclusively in the area of family law since her admission to the profession in 2003. Clarissa brings to the firm a wealth of experience in all aspects of family and relationship law. With training in mediation and collaborative law, Clarissa offers a unique approach to family law matters focusing on out of Court resolution. Clarissa also has extensive experience in appearing in both the Federal Circuit Court and Family Court in both children’s and property proceedings. Clarissa is also an Independent Children’s Lawyer and Separate Representative, representing children in complex Family Law and Child Protection Proceedings before the Courts. Clarissa has a deep passion for business and has grown BFLC from its inception in 2008 as a single practitioner firm to the multidisciplinary practice it is today. In 2015 Clarissa published her first book ‘Splitsville- How to separate, stay out of Court and stay friends’. Details to be advised ASAP. Contact sandypaton@bigpond.com

The Smith Family is offering free training in its early numeracy program, Let’s Count: Session 1. Wednesday 14th June 9.30am – 2.30pm Let’s Count is a two part course aimed at Early Years Educators, and is designed to improve the numeracy skills of children aged 3-5 years. The professional development sessions will give you practical skills to assist parents to explore and provoke numeracy learning potential in everyday routines and young children’s play. The sessions will also be an opportunity to share knowledge with your peers in a friendly, professional environment. Places are limited so book to secure your spot today! For more information and to register please visit Eventbrite Register Here!

For more details please contact:Dianne Holloway Dianne.Holloway@thesmithfamily.com.au 0481 905 240orJane Carpenter Jane.Carpenter@thesmithfamily.com.au (07) 3115 6226

ASIST Wednesday 21st & Thursday 22nd June , Community Health Building, Room 3, Cnr Cambridge and Bolsover Sts, 8.30 – 4.30pm Cost:$150.00 per participant (including catering) . For more information and to enroll please contact Nicole.Cooper@health.qld.gov.au or phone 49205700

DATECLAIMER. DFV in Same Sex Relationships Practice Techniques, 18 July, Rockhampton. Experiential learning in responding to Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual Transgender and Intersex experience of Domestic and Family Violence. Further information and detail particular to each event will follow.  All queries to be directed to rockhamptonadmin@raq.org.au

Regular MeetingsPLEASE CONFIRM MEETING DETAILS WITH THE LISTED CONTACT BEFORE ATTENDING.

Alcoholics Anonymous: Alcoholics Anonymous is a worldwide fellowship of men and women who help each other to maintain sobriety and who offer to share their recovery experience freely with other who have a drinking problem. The program AA suggests consists basically of “Twelve Steps” 

designed for personal recovery from alcoholism …. The only requirement to be an AA member is the DESIRE to stop drinking.

AA for Women. Every Monday 6.45pm -7.45pm Community Health Building, Cnr Bolsover & Cambridge St. Come along and find out what a Women’s AA meeting is really like, for yourself. Contact Andrea 0422257030 / 49279116 

Rockhampton - Monday 8:00pm, Open meeting, St Vincent's Church Hall, Cnr Meade & Herbert Sts. ID Meeting (formerly Ch 6 Motor Cycle Group) Rockhampton ID Group

Rockhampton - Wednesday 8:00pm Open meeting, St Mary's Hall, 155 Nobbs St. Rockhampton

Rockhampton - Saturday 6:00pm Open meeting , 25 George Street, Rockhampton Request as the host is a Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitations Centre, you must be sober and not intoxicated to enter. Message Stick Meeting Group

Rockhampton West - Sunday 8:00pm, Steps meeting, St Vincent's Church Cnr Meade & Herbert Sts, Rockhampton West Open Meeting.

Yeppoon. AA Meeting - Friday 7:30pm Open meeting. Workshop Room B, Community Development Centre, 78 John St, Yeppoon

Yeppoon - Sunday 9:00am – 10.30am Open meeting Workshop C (d'stairs), Comm Dvlpmnt Ctr. 78 John Street Yeppoon Open Spiritual Concepts meeting. Yeppoon Spiritual Concepts Group

Yeppoon - Sunday 7:30pm Big Book study Workshop Room B, Community Development Centre, 78 John St. Yeppoon Open Big Book Study

Alzheimer’s Association Carer’s Support Group, Rockhampton. First Wednesday of each month 10am -12pm , ( except May 11th) Rockhampton Dementia Support Centre, 238 Richardson Road. Contact: 4928 1926 or email qld.rockhampton@alzheimers.org.au DEMENTIA HELPLINE 1800 100 500

ARAFMI – for friends and loved ones of people with mental illness - meets at Anglicare Musgrave St office in North Rockhampton from 12:30-3pm – starting January 27th.  For more information contact Margaret from our Counselling and Family Support Services team on 4930 1500

Big Treble Jams – fortnightly on Tuesdays 3pm -5pm from October 4th at headspace– a music group for young people aged 12-25 interested in music and socializing with other young people. Bring and instrument and come and jam. No instrument – go anyway.

CCDA Committee meeting 2nd Monday of the month starting 10am at Centacare Bolsover St. No meeting in January.  Open to interested observers. RSVP to Secretary Carmel Marshall at carmelm@centacare.net. Strategic cross sector issues will be discussed.

Coffee and Auslan at Bella Via Café, Dean Street, Frenchville ,10am second and fourth Wednesday 10am (starting 11th January). Want to learn Auslan and meet new people. Come along and have coffee – all welcome. Contact Jenny.Simpson@deafsq.org.au or 0474 764 889; or, just come along – no appointment needed.

CQ Mental Health Interagency Stakeholder Meetings (formally Local Network Groups LNG’s)

Monthly meetings:

Banana Shire – 1st Monday – 12pm to 2pm at Biloela Hospital

Rockhampton – 2nd Tuesday – 2.30pm to 4.30pm at Community Health on the corner of Bolsover and Cambridge Street Capricorn Coast – 2nd Wednesday – 9.30am to 10.30am at Capricorn Coast HospitalGladstone – 2nd Thursday – 1pm to 3pm at Gladstone Mental HealthCentral Highlands – 4th Tuesday – 10.30am to 12pm at Anglicare – Emerald Office

Contact – Susie Cameron susan.cameron@health.qld.gov.au 4920 5500 or 0447 511 927

CQ Community Suicide Prevention Network monthly meetings.  For more information please contact Susan Ryan on 0400 658 125 or email the Network on cqcspn@gmail.com

Deaf and Hard of Hearing community – Community Access every Friday, 9.30am - 12pm. Contact Jenny for more information on Jenny.Simpson@deafsq.org.au or 0474 764 889;

DV Network Meeting. Last Wednesday of the month, 10 am – February to November. Rotating venues. Community of Practice model. All welcome. For more information or to be on the meeting reminder list please contact Laurene Carswell on lcarswell@raq.org.au

Grow – mental health and personal growthGrow meetings are based on the learned experience of people who have come through significant mental and emotional challenges to a healthier and happier life. They provide acceptance, encouragement, friendship, inspiration and mutual support for participants.

Some of the problems Grow has helped people to manage are depression, anxiety, relationship breakdown, isolation, grief, compulsions and diagnosed mental illnesses. People using the program describe a more connected, meaningful and happier life with greater resilience (emotional muscle) to meet life’s challenges.

CQ Grow meetings:ROCKHAMPTON: Every Tuesday from 1pm to 3pm and every Thursday from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at Community Health (Room 3), 82-86 Bolsover St. RockhamptonYEPPOON. Every Wednesday at 6.30 in John St Community Centre Yeppoon.EMERALD: Every Thursday 7.30pm to 9.30 pm at the Neighbourhood Centre, 17 Yamala St, Emerald.GLADSTONE: Every Friday 10am tom 12pm at Anglicare, 50 Young St Gladstone.

Please ring 0408 577 403 or 0413 449 008 for any further information.Visit the website www.grow.org.au

Mental Health Carer’s Support Group, CYMHS Conference Room (Opposite Inpatient), Quarry St. Wednesday November 9th 2016 5.30 to 7.30 pm Free. Light Snacks, Tea/Coffee provided. RSVP: Lester Weston (Consumer Carer Consultant) on P: 07 4920 5500 or E: lester.weston@health.qld.gov.au

M y R a i n b o w S u p p o r t G r o u p is a group for young people aged 12-25 in the Rainbow community. The group catches up fortnightly on Thursdays from 3-4.30pm headspace Rockhampton. Light afternoon tea is provided. Contact Annette Dudley 4921 9800

Nara Non meeting –Twelve step programme to support families and friends of those who are addicted to narcotics every Tuesday night at 6.30pm at Community Health in

Bolsover street; use Cambridge Street Entrance. If you would like any further information, my contact is Lynn Graham mob: 0419732735.

Narcotics Anonymous Meetings Rockhampton:           Wednesday nights  |   6pm  |  GumBi GumBi Rehabilitation Centre, 25 George Street Rockhampton

Rockhampton Friday lunchtime I 12.30 I Walali Neighbour Centre, 14b Cambridge Street

Yeppoon:                    Monday nights  | 7.30pm  |  Room C, Community Centre 80 John Street Yeppoon

Emu Park Thursday nights. L 8.30pm l 42 Richard Street Emu Park Wheelchair access: Open Meeting (support people and non addicts can attend)

If you have any questions or queries or would like any further information please done hesitate to ask.

Local Phone No:         0478 497 237 National  Line:   1300 652 820Website:    www.na.org.au

Nar-Anon For families and FriendsEvery Tuesday night from 6.30pm. Community Health Building, Corner of Cambridge and Bolsover Sts: Cambridge St entrance., Enquiries: Lynn 0419732735Or call (02) 8004 1214 email: serenity@naranon.com.au www.naranon.com.au

Peach Tree Parents. Tuesdays 10am -12noon. Serenity House, 15 Newton Avenue, Yeppoon. Early parenting is one of the most difficult times in anyone’s life. Peach Tree Parents provides an environment of understanding, acceptance and support. Parents are encourage to attend meetings however, the degree of participation is optional. Support groups don’t appeal to everyone. Sometimes just listening to others is extremely helpful. Babies and partners are welcome. Tea, coffee and morning tea are provided. For further information please contact the co-ordinator on 0487 756 633 or email groups@peachtree.org.au

PTSD Support Group -  Walali Neighbourhood Centre & Australian Red Cross PHaMs. The groups are a closed, confidential group to support men and women who identify with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder under the guidance of psychologist Mandy Dexter. The groups are held on each Monday afternoon from 3:30 - 5pm, with the men's and women's groups on alternate weeks. Meetings are at the Walali Neighbour Centre, 14b Cambridge Street Rockhampton. Call 4922 0020 to enquire.

Rockhampton Bipolar Fellowship Support Group. Meetings held at the Community Health Centre via Cambridge street entrance. Time 7pm to 8 30pm on the third Tuesday each month. A member will be on the door until 7pm. Tea, coffee, and biscuits provided, gold coin donation if able to. Casual dress and casual thinking. You will not be under any pressure to speak to the members and every word will be confidential, what is said in the room stays in the room. Contact : bruce.edward1@optusnet.com.au Ph : 0419 715 345. One on one counseling with 40yrs lived experience can be arranged and one off group meetings can be arranged.

Rockhampton Community Access & Equity Reference Group For further information please contact  Bob Muir on 4936 8563: Mobile: 0457 102 707:  E-mail: Bob.Muir@rrc.qld.gov.au

Rockhampton Interagency meetings at Rockhampton Regional Library, 2pm - 4pm: Dates not set for 2017 Rockhampton Interagency is an Open/General Cross-Sector Interagency Network in the Rockhampton Area which aims to support each other and to enhance the delivery of services across the spectrum of community needs. For further information please contact Bob Muir on 4936 8563: Mobile: 0457 102 707:  E-mail: Bob.Muir@rrc.qld.gov.au

Rockhampton Mental Health Interagency Community of Practice (MHICOP). Third Thursday of the month. 10am – 12pm. Relationships Australia Cnr Berserker and High Sts. Open to professionals, people with the lived experience of mental health challenges, carers, and all those interested in improving mental health support and awareness. For more information please contact Aaron Kenney on 4926 9726 or akenney@raq.org.au

Rockhampton NAIDOC Committee members would like to welcome you all to the NAIDOC meetings at the Rockhampton Children & Family Centre behind Berserker State School. These meeting are held fortnightly at 10am with the next meeting being on Thursday 10th March 2016. New and fresh idea's that will help make this year's NAIDOC Week Celebrations something to remember, would be welcome.  If you require any further information please contact l: rocky.naidoc@gmail.com or the NAIDOC hotline : 0456 864 633

RYIN: The Rockhampton Youth Interagency Network (RYIN) meetings are now held on the first Tuesday of the month. CQU – Yaamba Road Campus, Building 35 (opposite Australia Post and next to coffee shop) 9.00am to 10.00am Chairperson – Jo Peace Secretary – Kylie O’Donnell : Kylie.O’DONNELL@det.qld.gov.au

SALT - School to Adult Life Transition Group occurring, 4th Wednesday of the month at 189 Musgrave Street Nth Rockhampton (across from Centrelink). 3.30pm – 4.30pmRole of the Group: The School to Adult Life Transition Committee will:

Bring people together from across the sectors to discuss and find solutions to related issues for young people with a disability transitioning into further education or employment. This includes: information sharing & networking, identifing gaps – seek opportunities – partnerships - seeking opportunities

Stakeholders in the education, training and employment sectors; disability, mental health and community sectors, government representatives, parents, carers and young people with disability – all welcome to attend.  Refreshments will be available.

Contact Julie Irwin:  4932-8000 /4932-8010 :M 0407 226 147: Julie.Irwin@communitysolutions.org.au

Salvation Army, 131 Park St, Nth Rockhampton.FIRST STEP RECOVERY PROGRAMS : The Salvation Army’s First Step Recovery Program seeks to provide education, intervention, support, and care to people with addiction, and also their family and support network.  Our aim is to improve the awareness of the issues experienced by people with addiction, also helping families, so that they are all able to work towards recovery and empowerment. We will focus on what addiction really is, and how you can understand it better. How addiction affects your behavior, and how you make decision. Learn coping skills to help you move forward in your future life. And when you are ready, provide ways for you to volunteer, and support others on their journey.

TUESDAY NIGHT RECOVERY PROGRAM The Tuesday night First Step recovery program is for people who are taking the step to move away from their addiction and want to learn how to do that. This group uses The Salvation Army Bridge program which incorporates the AA 12 steps. We want to support and encourage you through this difficult time. You can come to this group at any time.

First Step Recovery is at 5.30 – 8.00pm on Tuesday night

SEE CHANGESee Change is a 6 week, facilitated, small group for families whose lives have been impacted by Drug and Alcohol issues, and/or Mental Health Issues.

This group operates for 6 weeks each term, either morning or evening for around 2 hours.

Thursday 20th April - Thursday 25th May. The Salvation Army, 131 Park St Park Avenue

10.00am—12.00 noon

Please call 49235600 OR email jenny.wayman@aue.salvationarmy.org as spaces are limited in this group.

VERY IMPORTANT FAMILIES (VIF’S ) VIF’s is a monthly support group for families and supporters who have completed the See Change program, and would like further support.

VIP’s is on the 1st Monday of every month from 5.30 – 7.00pm.

FAMILY SUPPORT GROUPFamily Support group is a monthly group that is open to all family, and those who support people with addiction. It is a group that will help you learn to understand yourself, and your loved one better, and support and encourage you in this journey.

The Family Support Group is on the 3rd Monday of every month from 5.30 – 7.00pm. 

If you are interested in any of these groups please call 07 4923 5600 for more information.

Some groups have a set number so please call for an interview to save you a space.

Time out for carers: Carers Qld, 1/83 West Street, Starting Fri 15 April, 10am – 12 noon. Free. . Rockhampton Carers Qld is starting a support group for Carers who currently care for someone living with mental illness ( a family member, friend or neighbour). Morning tea provided There will also be a range of social events coming up over the next few months. For more information or to R.S.V.P contact Pauline on 49214486

YEPPOON. Alcoholics Anonymous: Alcoholics Anonymous is a worldwide fellowship of men and women who help each other to maintain sobriety and who offer to share their recovery experience freely with other who have a drinking problem. The program AA suggests consists basically of “Twelve Steps” designed for personal recovery from alcoholism …. The only requirement to be an AA member is the DESIRE to stop drinking.

AA Meeting Yeppoon - Friday 7:30pm Open meeting. Workshop Room B, Community Development Centre, 78 John St, Yeppoon

Yeppoon - Sunday 9:00am Open meeting Workshop C (d'stairs), Comm Dvlpmnt Ctr. 78 John Street Yeppoon Open Spiritual Concepts meeting. Yeppoon Spiritual Concepts Group

Yeppoon - Sunday 7:30pm Big Book study Workshop Room B, Community Development Centre, 78 John St. Yeppoon Open Big Book Study

YEPPOON Alzheimer’s Association of Qld. Capricorn Coast Carer’s Support Group, Capricorn Coast Hospital and Health Service, 8 Hoskyn Drive, Hidden Valley, Yeppoon: first Tuesday of each month 1.00pm – 3pm Contact information: Phone 4928 1926 Email qld.rockhampton@alzheimers.org.au

YEPPOON: Capricorn Coast Interagency Network Meeting, The Cap Coast Interagency Network Meetings are held quarterly – the next meeting is Wednesday  9 November 20162pm – 3.30pm  Venue:  Capricorn Coast PCYC Leadership Development Centre (old Sport & Recreation Centre) 170 Matthew Flinders Drive Cooee Bay

2017 Meeting DatesWednesdays 8 February, 10 May, 9 August, 8 November 2017

Contact: Sue Hamilton PH:  07 4913 3840.  Sue.Hamilton@ livingstone.qld.gov.au

YEPPOON. Capricorn Coast Type 2 Diabetes Support Group. A support group for people with Type 2 Diabetes and their carers. Second Saturday of the month at 10am from Feb to Nov. Capricrn Coast Hospital and Health Service, 8 Hoskyn Dr. Yeppoon. For more information please contact Lisa White on 0417 537 408.

YEPPOON. Carers’ Support Group, First Tuesday of each month. 1pm -3pm Capricorn Coast Hospital and Health Service, 8 Hoskin Drive, Hidden Valley – for carers and people living with memory loss. This monthly group is designed to support and assist with feelings experienced by carers and people living with memory loss.. Phone 4928 1926 or email qld.rockhampton@alzheimers.og.au. DEMENTIA HELPLINE 1800 100 500

YEPPOON: The  bi- monthly meeting of the Capricorn Coast Community Access Group will be held in the meeting room at the Capricorn Coast Hospital on Hoskyn Drive, Yeppoon at 10.00 am. First 2017 meeting Friday, 3rd February. This will be an Annual General Meeting. For more information please contact Ray Thompson on raynoels@bigpond.net.au

YEPPOON. The Deaf and Hard of Hearing community is invited to The Coffee Club, Anzac Parade, Main Beach, every Thursday 2pm onwards. Contact Jenny.Simpson@deafsq.org.au or 0474 764 889; or, just come along – no appointment needed.

YEPPOON. The Deaf and Hard of Hearing community – Community Access every Friday, 2pm onwards, Community Centre (Main Building – Visiting Services Room) 80 John St. Yeppoon. Contact Jenny.Simpson@deafsq.org.au or 0474 764 889; or, just come along

YEPPOON. Livingstone Community Centre (CC) User Group Meeting: Meetings are held every  2 months at the CC Garage 80 Johns St. Everyone Welcome. Share Ideas for the CC,. Provide Feedback,  Plan CC Events. For more information including the next date please phone: 4913 3840

YEPPOON. Narcotics Anonymous. Mondays Workshop Room C, Community Centre, 80 John St. Call 0478 497 237 – before attending meeting.

YEPPOON. WHO – Women Helping Others – Fun, Friendship & ConnectednessEncouraging women who would love to live a heart-centred life to join us for a monthly gathering at Searenity House. Therapists from the house, along with guest speakers will share with you the tools to live your life more peacefully. Some of the offerings available:

Aromatherapy; Reflexology; Personal Development; Creative Art; Yoga, Meditation.1st Monday of the month; Searenity House, 15 Newton Avenue, YEPPOON. 10am-11.30am. Cost $5pp. To register your interest, please contact Marianne on 0417719657

BILOELA for Banana Shire: CQ Mental Health Interagency Stakeholder Meetings (formally Local Network Groups LNG’s). Monthly meetings: 1st Monday – 12pm to 2pm at Biloela HospitalContact – Susie Cameron susan.cameron@health.qld.gov.au 4920 5500 or 0447 511 927

 BILOELA.: Colour Me Calm is a group finding resilience, mindfulness and fun through colouring.  Baptist Church from 9:30-11am – from February 8th, morning tea provided and transport available.  Contact Trish or Hannah on 4992 2421

MOURA. Moura Interagency Network Meeting. For further information please contact Debbie Palmes on dpalmes@anglicarecq.org.au or 0428 712 387. Meetings are usually held 2nd Monday of the second month.

GLADSTONE: Alcoholics Anonymous: Alcoholics Anonymous is a worldwide fellowship of men and women who help each other to maintain sobriety and who offer to share their recovery experience freely with other who have a drinking problem. The program AA suggests consists basically of “Twelve Steps” designed for personal recovery from alcoholism …. The only requirement to be an AA member is the DESIRE to stop drinking.

Gladstone - Monday 12:00pm Open meeting Star of the Sea Church Hall Cnr Goondoon & Herbert St Gladstone Open ID

Gladstone - Wednesday 7:00pm Steps meeting Star of the Sea Church Hall Cnr Goondoon & Herbert St Gladstone

Gladstone - Thursday 12:00pm Open meeting Star of the Sea Church Hall Cnr Goondoon & Herbert St Gladstone Open ID

Gladstone - Tuesday 7:00pm Open meeting Neighbourhood Centre 105 Toolooa St Gladstone Gladstone Group

Gladstone - Sunday 10:00am Spiritual concept meeting Neighbourhood Centre 105 Toolooa St Gladstone

Gladstone - Friday 7:00pm Neighbourhood Centre 105 Toolooa St Gladstone

GLADSTONE: Interagency Meeting, third Wednesday of the month, 11am, Community Advisory Service, 142 Goondoon St.  Contact Andrea on 4976 6358

GLADSTONE: CQ Mental Health Interagency Stakeholder Meetings (formally Local Network Groups LNG’s). Monthly meetings: 2nd Thursday – 1pm to 3pm at Gladstone Mental Health

Contact – Susie Cameron susan.cameron@health.qld.gov.au 4920 5500 or 0447 511 927

EMERALD Interagency meeting, 2nd Tuesday of every second month 9am. -11am. . Supper Room – Emerald Town Hall  14 February 2017 - 9am-11am 11 April 2017 - 9am-11am 13 June 2017 - 9am-11am15 August 2017 - 9am-11am (date changed from 8/8) 10 October 2017 - 9am-11am12 December 2017 - 9am-11amFor more information please contact Kirsty Appleton  on KAppleton@chrc.qld.gov.au or 4980 634

EMERALD. Every Tuesday and Thursday, Emerald: Women's mutual support group meets at the Emerald Pottery Club from 9am for a morning of creativity and craft, social support and looking after ourselves and each other.  Newcomers welcome: for more information contact Anglicare on 4982 4062

EMERALD. Every Thursday, Emerald: Men's mutual support group meets at the AnglicareCQ office in School Lane to get out of the house, get to know each other, and do some practical work in a friendly, welcoming environment.  Newcomers welcome: for more information contact Anglicare on 4982 4062

EMERALD – FOR Central Highlands. CQ Mental Health Interagency Stakeholder Meetings (formally Local Network Groups LNG’s). 4th Tuesday – 10.30am to 12pm at Anglicare – Emerald Office. Contact – Susie Cameron susan.cameron@health.qld.gov.au 4920 5500 or 0447 511 927

 Sandy Paton     FacilitatorPh: 07 4939 4504Mb: 0407 178 597