Statements from the heart - RUFF SLEEPERS PETS GET SMOOTHER 'NAG NAG NAG' BEATS WERE NEAT - South Sydney Herald
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
RUFF SLEEPERS PETS GET SMOOTHER ‘NAG NAG NAG’ BEATS WERE NEAT
STORY PAGE 4 REVIEW PAGES 8-10
Number One Hundred and Eighty Nine ~ February 2020 Circulation 16,000 ~ First Published 2002
ALEXANDRIA | BEACONSFIELD | CHIPPENDALE | DARLINGTON | ERSKINEVILLE | EVELEIGH | GLEBE | NEWTOWN | PADDINGTON | POTTS POINT | REDFERN | ROSEBERY | SURRY HILLS | ULTIMO | WATERLOO | WOOLLOOMOOLOO | ZETLAND
Artist and activist Bruce Shillingsworth with vocal supporter at the Yabun festival on January 26. Uncle Bruce spoke passionately of Indigenous strength, wisdom and connection to country. Photo: Andrew Collis
Statements from the heart
ordering of things. The framers Both the framers of the
of the Uluru Statement express Statement from the Heart and
this hopeful vision with the Jesus invite others to form a
words: “With substantive committed community to embrace
FIRST PEOPLES Allan Murray, a Redfern light will shine in the darkness. constitutional change and their teaching. Aboriginal
man with Wiradjuri, Yorta Uluru symbolises the breaking structural reform, we believe this and Islander people invite all
WILLIAM W. EMILSEN Yorta and Gamilaroi ancestry, down of divisions between ancient sovereignty can shine Australians to “walk with’” or
and a proud supporter of the black and white, and black through as a fuller expression alongside them into “a better
AT the core of the Uluru Redfern All Blacks, says that and black. Galilee symbolises of Australia’s nationhood.” future” – into a new and better
Statement from the Heart there there is an “urgent need for a embracing people of all nations. Thirdly, there is an interesting Australia. They invite Australians
are three key elements: a call constitutionally enshrined First Uluru expresses Indigenous parallel between the Uluru to take any action possible to
for a First Nations voice to be Nations Voice as an important people’s conviction that they are Statement’s invitation to the move politicians and, when
enshrined in the Australian first step for First Nations Unity”. on the road to change. Galilee people of Australia to “listen” the time comes, to vote “yes”
Constitution; a Makarrata The Statement from the Heart expresses Matthew’s conviction and Jesus’ call for “repentance” to the referendum question
Commission to supervise has five thought-provoking themes that Jesus’ life is unfolding or turning around towards God. on the Voice to Parliament.
agreement making, or treaties; that have fascinating parallels with according to God’s plan. Both listening and repentance Surely, this is not too much to ask.
and, for the Makarrata Jesus’ keynote proclamation about Uluru is a reminder to all are doorways to change. For too Finally, the Statement from
Commission to oversee a the kingdom or reign of God at of us that we can find the long Aboriginal and Islander the Heart’s three-fold program of
process of truth-telling for the the beginning of his ministry heart of the nation. Galilee is people have not been listened Voice, Treaty and Truth-telling
nation. Or put simply in three in Galilee (Matthew 4:12-26). a reminder that God’s reign to. Professor Megan Davis to the nation echoes Jesus’
words: Voice, Treaty, Truth. The first is the power of of justice, righteousness and compares our governments programmatic activities of
place. In the Statement from peace will finally prevail. and Aboriginal and Islander preaching, teaching and healing –
The establishment of a First the Heart, Aboriginal leaders In the Statement from the people to ships passing each Jesus’ good news of the kingdom
Nations Voice in the Constitution is from right across the nation Heart there is a “spiritual notion” other in the night. There is, of God. Both have the potential
the priority reform for Indigenous gather at Uluru. In Matthew’s of sovereignty which, like the she says: “Only a signal and a to heal the nation and to bring
people. It is the key step forward. Gospel Jesus goes to Galilee. kingdom or reign of God in the distant voice in the darkness; / the Australian people together.
“A Voice”, writes Thomas Mayor, Uluru lies at the heart of Gospel, challenges Australia’s Only a look and a voice, / then It is the way forward. S
a Torres Strait Islander and Australia. The Sea of Galilee lies claim to sovereignty and differs darkness again and silence.”
author of Finding the Heart of at the very heart of ancient Israel. from most forms of earthly Listening is important. On January 26, the Rev. Dr William
the Nation, is “the first reform Uluru, from time immemorial, rule. Also, both the notion of Good listening is an act of Emilsen preached at South Sydney
because it will start to address … has been a sacred place that “ancient sovereignty” in the Uluru love. “Imaginative listening”, Uniting Church about the Uluru Statement
political disempowerment, setting evokes spiritual transformation. Statement and the reign of God or “heart listening”, as Rachel from the Heart. He also asked those
us on the path for the future Galilee is foretold by the prophet envisage hope, transformation, Perkins calls it, is showing present to add their signatures to the
reforms of Treaty and Truth.” Isaiah as the place where a great new relationships and a new respect, dreaming together. margins of a replica of the statement.
2 NEWS FEBRUARY 2020
ISSN 2652-4538
Climate change and inequality
PUBLISHER
South Sydney Uniting Church
Raglan Street, Waterloo.
The views expressed in this newspaper
are those of the author and the
article and are not necessarily the
views of the Uniting Church. URBAN DESIGN and wealthy. A striking example to move or make other necessary make environmentally sustainable
NEWS
of this is the recovery effort in adjustments to their living investments with smart urban
news@ssh.com.au ADAM ANTONELLI New Orleans following Hurricane circumstances. design in social housing estate
Phone Lyn 0400 008 338 Katrina in 2005 which proceeded Rather than addressing the renewals. These investments will
ADVERTISING AFTER a summer of much quicker in areas inhabited by realities of the climate crisis, decrease the financial burden of
adverts@ssh.com.au unprecedented bushfires, many wealthier, white populations than our political leaders are evading people on low incomes and reduce
Phone 0484 848 377
of us have directly or indirectly those that were largely poor and any real discussion of climate carbon emissions.
MAILING ADDRESS: felt the very real effects of climate black, despite these areas suffering change, deceptively claiming that By mandating landlords and
PO Box 3288
Redfern NSW 2016 change. With the consequences of the worst damage. the action needed will adversely developers to create carbon neutral
the collective failure of successive Although Australia enjoys a affect the economy. The truth is, homes and to increase energy
LETTERS
Please send letters and emails to: governments to address climate more egalitarian society than the a low-carbon economy provides and water efficiency standards
The South Sydney Herald. change more evident, it begs the United States, a 2019 report by the a major opportunity to unlock including solar and battery storage
Email: editor@ssh.com.au
Supply sender name and suburb. question, what are the social Climate Council found that without thousands of clean energy jobs in existing housing, people on low
Size: 150 words or less. consequences? Will climate curtailing CO2 emissions and both low- and high-skilled, attract incomes and renters will reduce
We may edit for legal or other reasons.
change affect everyone equally? making investments in resilience foreign investment and secure energy consumption and will
and adaptation, climate change business confidence. The urgency therefore have lower utility bills
FOUNDING EDITOR Climate change poses systemic economic risks and to address climate change offers and a greater ability to cope in
Trevor Davies (25.5.1956 – 14.6.2011)
disproportionately affects both financial instability. an opportunity to transform extreme weather. If we transferred
poorer countries and poorer groups With little increase in social our economy and society to the $5 billion per year in subsidies
MANAGING EDITOR
Marjorie Lewis-Jones within countries and exacerbates security and welfare such as become more equal, kind and going directly to the fossil fuel
ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITOR inequalities. Focusing on within- Newstart, due to apparent compassionate; to invest in industry and the $4.4 billion to
Andrew Collis country inequalities, a 2008 paper budgetary constraints, the public housing that is sustainable make Adani commercially viable,
NEWS EDITOR by the United Nations found economic consequences of and energy efficient, free public into clean energy projects, public
Lyn Turnbull
that climate change worsens climate change will only increase transport and social security. infrastructure and social security,
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Louisa Dyce disadvantaged groups within the upward trend of social and The government can improve the economic benefits would
EDUCATION a country as they are: more economic inequality within the lives of people immediately by overturn the status quo.
Melinda Kearns exposed to climate hazards; more Australia. Insurance premiums applying these principles to large As put by author and activist
ENVIRONMENT susceptible to damage caused by will become increasingly public housing redevelopments Naomi Klein, “if treated as a
Miriam Pepper
HUMAN AFFAIRS
climate hazards; less able to cope unaffordable for lower-income such as the Waterloo estate. true planetary emergency”
Brittany Johnson with and recover from damage. families living in areas exposed As one in four Australian climate change could “become a
FAITH While these within-country to current and emerging hazards households live in private rental galvanising force for humanity,
Dorothy McRae-McMahon or public housing, and do not leaving us all not just safer from
inequalities are more striking such as flooding, bushfires and
HEALTH
Megan Weier
in poorer developing countries, coastal inundation, which are more have the rights to make capital extreme weather, but with societies
LEGAL
inequalities are also exacerbated exposed to the effects of climate improvements, the government that are safer and fairer in all kinds
Maidie Wood in those that are industrialised change. They have far less ability should embrace the opportunity to of other ways as well”. S
THEATRE
Catherine Skipper
FILM
Lindsay Cohen
BOOKS
Shale Preston
MUSIC
Tess Ridgway
SPORT & FITNESS
Steve Turner
SUB EDITORS
Cathie Harrison
Melinda Kearns
DISTRIBUTION
distro@ssh.com.au
DESIGN
GasolineGroup | www.gasolinegroup.com.au
PRINTER
Spotpress Pty Ltd | www.spotpress.com
“We gratefully acknowledge the
many volunteer contributors
and distributors who make this
publication possible.”
REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS
Alice Anderson Sam McNair
David Angell Patricia Morgan
Adam Antonelli Peter Murphy
George Barrett Thea Ormerod
Andrew Chuter Julie Patterson
Philippa Clark This year’s takings from the barbecue at the Alexandria Sunday Funday will be donated to NSW Fire Relief – supporting people and our native wildlife. Photo: Supplied
Miriam Pepper
Pat Clarke Stephen Pickells
Residents band together for fun, firies and action
Lindsay Cohen Sue Plyde
Gregg Dobson Tess Ridgway
Louisa Dyce Heather Robinson
Rosalind Flatman Stafford Sanders
Katie Gompertz Nina Serova
David Gore
Michael Shreenan
Kat Hines
Alexandra Hogan
Catherine Skipper THE LOCALS a fabulous food selection, a second Wednesday of month together to collaborate on
Brittany Johnson
Aline Smith trash and treasure market, and (excluding January) at the submitting objections to some of
Perry Johnstone Gai Smith
Laura Jones Gary Speechley VANESSA KNIGHT shopping opportunities for all! Alexandria Town Hall at 7pm. the larger developments that seem
Adrian Spry
Anne Jordan
Velvet Steele
Bring a picnic blanket and invite The issues we cover to come our way on a regular
Roger Jowett
Laura Kelly Geoff Turnbull ALEXANDRIA: The signature family and friends to come along include development, parking, basis. There are great examples
Steve Turner
Caitlin Kensey Scott
Claire Lewis Marg Vazey event of the Alexandria and enjoy a day in the park. There traffic, transport, infrastructure of people sharing knowledge
Marjorie Lewis-Jones Stephen Webb Residents Action Group (ARAG) truly is something for everyone! and, of course, plans to improve and information to get better
Chris Lodge Megan Weier
norrie mAy-welby Justin Whelan is the Alexandria Sunday Funday This year, the Alexandria our suburb. We invite interesting outcomes and, in the process,
Julie McCrossin Alan Williamson which is held annually at the Sunday Funday is being held speakers and make the meeting as getting to know their neighbours.
Isobel McIntosh Bill Yan
end of March. We invite local on March 29 in Alexandria interactive as possible. It’s great to We advocate for Alexandria
businesses and community Park from 11am to 3pm. ARAG see people’s passion come alive! at local, state and federal levels
DISTRIBUTORS
Alice Anderson Dorothy McRae-
groups to participate in a fun will be donating takings from There’s a lot happening in and try to get our politicians
Eleanor Boustead McMahon day with a real village fair feel. the barbecue to support NSW and around Alexandria – some to work with us to get better
Gabrielle Brine Marie Moradinis
Michael Condon Jane Morro Fire Relief – supporting people great and some not so great. outcomes.We work with Friends
Yvonne Cowell
Alice Crawford
Margaret Neale Each year, the event grows and our native wildlife. Alexandria’s excellent sense of of Erskineville and REDWatch in
Jim Patsouris
Jules Cure Pepsee just a little larger and this year Please save the date and community and its wonderful hosting candidate forums for local,
Sue Dahl Des Perry
Peter Dodds
David Pocklington
we are including a licensed come and join in the fun! location means that we are a target state and federal elections and
Perry Johnstone
Anne Jordan
Heather Robinson area serving craft beer, which ARAG is an active group run by for developers who have a strong this year, of course, we have the
Lincoln Sharp
Desley Haas
Colin Sharp is a great addition. There is resident volunteers, which aims profit motive, which is sometimes council elections for the City of
Gabriel Haslam
Rod Haslam Adrian Spry something for everyone – rides, to share information on issues at odds with the neighbours. Sydney which we are sure will be
John Lanzky Rikki Taylor
Julie McCrossin Margaret Vazey jumping castles, petting zoos affecting our neighbourhood We encourage residents to an interesting contest. S
norrie mAy-welby Rosie Wagstaff and face painting for the littlies, so that residents are more take a stance on issues that are
Mary Ellen McCue Naomi Ward
Matt McLennan Diane Whitworth a marvellous dog event for our informed and can take collective important to them – including For more information ARAG’s website
four-legged family members, action. The group meets on the getting neighbours to band www.arag.org.au or email info@arag.org.au
FEBRUARY 2020 NEWS 3
How a first edition of ‘Principia’ with Newton’s notes got to Sydney
SPONSORED peer-review process. Handling “Through Principia, Newton fields of the mathematics and
the physical item itself is a established the fundamental fact physics, a signal distinction
MICHAEL SPENCE special experience; you can that the same laws apply here on of our time and race”.
see the words inked on the Earth as those in the heavens.”
FIRST published in 1687, page and know that they came Professor Williamson The future of Principia at Sydney
Principia (Philosophiae Naturalis from Newton’s own hand.” last year was elected as the Ms Sommerfeldt described the
Principia Mathematica) is one youngest living Fellow of the condition of the book as excellent:
of the most important books on How significant is the book? Royal Society, the world’s “With careful handling, this copy
natural philosophy in which Explaining the significance oldest scientific academy and will hopefully withstand centuries
Isaac Newton establishes the of Principia for the field of publisher of Principia. Newton to come so that future generations
modern science of dynamics and mathematics and science in was President of the Royal can enjoy and study it.”
outlines his three laws of motion. general, Professor Geordie Society from 1703 to 1727. The University of Sydney copy
Williamson calls the work of Principia has been digitised
While the original print run “completely revolutionary”. How Principia almost didn’t go to print and is available online alongside
is estimated at between 250 “The publication was really As Newton was finalising other digital resources via the
and 400 copies, there are only the first time we saw a physical his work the Royal Society University’s digital collection. S
189 surviving first editions in Image: Supplied law that was true everywhere. was printing a book called
the world and only four with Without this work, for instance, The History of Fishes. Members of the public, students and staff
annotations by the English ideas were received by his Maxwell’s equations governing “This book is quite lavishly can access the book at the University of
mathematician himself. Of these contemporaries”, said Julie electricity or Fourier series illustrated and unfortunately Sydney Fisher Library by using the booking
four copies, the Sydney copy of Sommerfeldt, Manager of Rare equations on heat, would not have the Society didn’t have enough system at library.sydney.edu.au/collections/
is the only one in the Southern Books & Special Collections been possible”, said Professor budget to publish Principia,” rare-books.
Hemisphere and is held in the Rare at the University library. Williamson, Director of the Ms Sommerfeldt said. “So,
Books & Special Collections at Scottish mathematician John Sydney Mathematical Research Edmond Halley – the English
the University of Sydney library. Craig is thought to have authored Institute at the University. astronomer of Halley’s Comet
This extremely rare copy of the the corrections which feature at “Isaac Newton totally rewrote fame and also a Clerk of the
seminal text is believed to be a the front of the book along with the rule book in terms of the Society – stepped in to personally
personal copy of Newton’s, which other annotations throughout. separation of what happens fund publication of the book.” Authorised by Dr Michael Spence, Vice
he and his assistant Roger Cotes Further corrections can be seen on Earth and what happens The first edition of Principia Chancellor of the University of Sydney.
sent to other mathematicians to in this copy, written by Roger in space. Before Newton, features a poem written in
eliminate any errors before the Coates and Newton himself. European science considered Latin by Halley, titled “To the Contact Details – Security & After Hours:
second edition was published. “You could liken it to the there was a fundamental divide illustrious man Isaac Newton 1800 063 487 (24/7). Enquiries: 9114 0523
“It clearly shows how Newton’s 17th-century version of the between ‘Heaven and Earth’. and this his work done in local.community@sydney.edu.au
Story Factory sparks confidence to last a lifetime
EDUCATION
AMY GOODHEW-BANKS
REDFERN: Redfern locals have
known it, and regularly peer
into the bowels of its green-
tinged depths from Redfern
Street, trying to figure out
what exactly it IS? It’s the Story
Factory, a creative writing centre
that works with kids from
marginalised backgrounds.
From the very beginning, Story
Factory has sought to create space
for kids to use their imagination
and discover their own voice, free
from the constraints of tests and
judgement. Through engaging
in creative writing, the world
becomes theirs to create. This
is powerful for all kids – but
is particularly potent for kids
who struggle with English as
an additional language, school
attendance or tests, or may have
extra challenges at home.
The recent release of the
Programme for International
Student Assessment (PISA)
literacy and numeracy test results
painted a less than ideal picture of
Australian education standards.
This comes hard on the heels Supporting young people with creative writing can make a real difference to their experience of education says Matt Roden (standing) from the Story Factory. Photo: Maja Baska
of a Four Corners investigation
into declining writing skills; a Helping that happen for other volunteer, is very reassuring. to help out, you just need to care. “That’s when a volunteer has
decline many are describing as a young people was really exciting.” “We work with students for “When I think about our best the chance to say, ‘It’s not only
crisis in Australian classrooms. Story Factory uses the whom the school classroom has volunteers, I think about men and okay, it’s amazing! You’re the
Senior Program Manager and powerful mix of volunteers, not been a place they associate women of all different ages and first person to put that together!’
Chippendale local, Matt Roden, has teamed with expert storytellers with success. By supporting backgrounds, but who have all And to see their faces light up, to
spent seven years at Story Factory, (read: experienced educators) and them with volunteers sitting with shown themselves to be patient, discover that they are the author
where he began as a volunteer fun and engaging programming to them, they have the reassurance kind, supportive and encouraging of a moment of pure creativity.
– and he has seen the difference inspire and support young people that a place like school is a place collaborators,” says Matt. That’s a beautiful moment.
creative writing can make to a through the process of creation. where they can succeed.” “One of the best moments in our And the impact of that moment
child’s experience of education. Matt explains: “For lots of kids, Volunteers can be anybody, work is when a student turns to can go on to last a lifetime.” S
“My initial interest was in giving the moment you do anything and the 1,200 or so people who you and realises they are the one
value to imagination and creativity creatively, you are wandering have registered as Story Factory in control of the narrative – ‘Wait Amy Goodhew-Banks is Communications
in the classroom. I grew up loving into the unknown – so to do volunteers prove that you don’t a minute, I can add chocolate to Manager for Story Factory. To volunteer
stories, and wanting to tell stories. that with a supporter, in a need to have a particular skill set peanut butter, and that’s okay?!’ or donate see www.storyfactory.org.au
4 NEWS FEBRUARY 2020
Jenny Leong MP
STATE M EM B E R New Darling Square Library offers plenty to explore
FOR NEWTOWN
URBAN DESIGN is four times the size of the their phones and reading Chinese
Haymarket Library it replaced. newspapers. I’m tempted to
MARJORIE LEWIS-JONES It is open seven days a week and borrow So Here I Am: Speeches
houses a large Asian literature to Empower and Inspire by Anna
Always was. Always will be. SYDNEY’S new Darling Square collection. It also offers spaces Russell, a Ben Harper CD and
Library is now open with more to read, work and study, which an illustrated book about the
January 26 is not a day to celebrate. For some it is a day of than 30,000 items available to include meeting rooms available Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama.
mourning, for others a day to acknowledge and recognise survival. borrowers and located over two for hire, public computers and free My companion borrows a Bill
floors of the Exchange. Wrapped wifi. A dedicated children’s area Bryson audio book, and is happy
This year, I joined over 60,000 others across the country in in over 20 kilometres of timber hosts regular bilingual rhymetime we’ve explored this urban oasis.
solidarity with Aboriginal people at the Invasion Day rally in ribbons, this unique spiral-like and storytime sessions. The Council of the
building is a focal point of the The Ideas Lab on level 1 is City of Sydney says there
Sydney. The struggle for justice continues – and those rallying
new neighbourhood next to a dedicated makerspace and are eight reasons to love
called for meaningful action on Aboriginal deaths in custody, for Haymarket and Darling Harbour. multipurpose room to create, Darling Square Library.
an end to the removal of Aboriginal children from their families, invent or tinker. The program They are: the architecture;
to change the date, and for an end to the ongoing oppression As well as housing the library, of hands-on workshops features membership and borrowing
the Exchange is home to a child- 3D design and printing, robotics are free; space to study, work,
and exploitation of Indigenous people in our society – including
care centre, a rooftop restaurant and electronics to help startups collaborate or just relax; a
through treaties. The sense of momentum for positive change is and bar and, on the ground floor, and curious makers upskill, dedicated space and an exciting
growing – and it was powerful to be amongst so many Aboriginal an upmarket food court, the share knowledge and network. program to help startups and
elders and leaders standing strong and showing us the way. now-opened Maker’s Dozen – Membership is free for curious makers to upskill,
which includes dessert and pastry NSW residents and members share knowledge and network;
creators to craft beer aficionados can enjoy borrowing up to classic video game consoles to
and fusion food specialists. 30 items for three weeks. borrow; and free wifi, free events
Darling Square is the last On the day I visit, the library and workshops for all ages.
stage of the NSW government’s is buzzy with children, parents Why not visit the library at
$3.4 billion revitalisation of and grandparents, staff helping 1 Little Pier Street, Haymarket,
Darling Harbour, rising from borrowers and chatting while and see for yourself? S
the space once occupied by the shelving, and teens tinkering with
Sydney Entertainment Centre. their creations in the makerspace For more information see
The new library officially room. In quieter areas people www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/explore/
opened on November 9 and are checking emails, charging libraries/locations/darling-square
Following the rally and the march, like thousands of others,
I headed to Yabun – the largest one-day gathering and recognition
Grant extends care for rough sleepers and their pets
of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures in Australia – VELVET STEELE AND Technology Sydney (UTS) Business
which happens in our own electorate of Newtown, on Gadigal MARJORIE LEWIS-JONES School and Director of its Masters
land. The Corroboree Ground, the live music, the speakers, the of Not-for-Profit and Social
FACED with the choice of Enterprise Program. She founded
stalls and the community atmosphere gets better and stronger
giving up their best friend Ruff Sleepers in early 2017 with
(and hotter!) each year. or being accommodated in Linda Castelazzi and Tully Rosen
social housing where pets as a social enterprise (under the
Over the course of this year’s aren’t always welcome, many auspices of UTS) and its dedicated
activities, there was also strong homeless people will choose team has washed and groomed
and growing support for the to remain on the street. more than 100 dogs since then.
Dr Dalton says the team
call for people to #paytherent.
“Think to yourself, if you were is also passionate about:
I strongly support this real and alone and you have something
practical step towards justice beautiful like this in your life, what Barry stole everybody’s heart when the Ruff Raising money for an emergency
and recognising that this would you do to protect it?” asked Sleepers team washed dogs at Woolloomooloo fund for homeless people’s pets
one dog owner who is homeless in in mid-January. Photo: Supplied that need lifesaving surgery.
always was, and always will be
Ruff Sleepers – A Dog‑umentary.
Aboriginal land – and the fact Another owner said he’d made working to make the new Advocating to ensure homeless
that it was stolen. a makeshift dog shelter that grooming van a reality but, in people are able to have their pets
he could see from the window the meantime, a variety of hoses, with them in their housing –
I urge you to find out more about this campaign – and, if you are of his new housing that didn’t buckets and brushes are being some of whom depend on their
an ally in the struggle for Aboriginal justice, to join me in paying allow pets – but soon realised happily employed in its work. pets to help them feel safe.
the rent. it was crazy to be separated. On Sunday January 12, despite
“If you experience the bond Sydney’s bushfire smoke, the Enhancing public awareness of
Let us all acknowledge that it is Gadigal land that we live, work you can have with a dog, it’s one Ruff Sleepers team washed the value of pet ownership for
of the greatest gifts in life.” dogs in Woolloomooloo on the the mental and physical health of
and play on, and pay respect to elders past, present and future. Not surprisingly, the grateful corner of Forbes and Cathedral people doing it tough.
dog lover quickly returned to streets – and 2 year-old Barry
While there is clearly so much work to do in righting the wrongs sleeping rough, with his furry stole everybody’s heart. Linda Castellazzi says a
perpetrated against Aboriginal people in this country, it is clear the companion by his side. When Coco and Mon Cherie pet is often the only source of
movement for change is growing. And we commit to doing all that Ruff Sleepers is a Sydney- turned up to be pampered unconditional love for a homeless
we can to support it. based not-for-profit charity that everyone was extremely pleased person and Ruff Sleepers works
takes care of homeless people’s to learn that Mon Cherie had fully to protect the important bond
pets. It offers a free and mobile recovered from her lifesaving between a human and their
pet washing service, access emergency surgery provided by furry family.
to flea and worm treatments, Ruff Sleepers partner Project HoPe. “Many people sleeping
referrals to free vet clinics and The Ruff Sleepers team provides rough have told me they try
information about services for these grooming, information to remain clean from drugs
Jenny Leong, MP for Newtown
homeless people with dogs. and support sessions on the or alcohol because they have
If you have a question or are keen to be involved, send a text to Last September, it was awarded second Sunday of each month, to make sure to be alert in case
0421 665 208 with your name, suburb and message and we’ll a $101,000 grant by the NSW offering tea and biscuits to the something bad happens to their
government’s My Community dog owners; a pet nutrition dog. The dog makes them feel
give you a call or you can email newtown@nsw.greens.org.au
project, to help it purchase a information kit; and free dog responsible and, in many cases,
grooming van with warm water, food and other pet accessories saves them.”
which would mean it could (courtesy of Give a Dog a Bone). As one appreciative dog owner
Authorised by take care of more dogs, serve Its volunteers also create a says: “I struggle with mental health
Jenny Leong MP more locations, and connect safe and discrimination-free issues, but my dog actually helps
State Member for Newtown more volunteers to homeless place where homeless people me get out of bed, because I have
people who own dogs. and their furry friends can to take her for a walk.” S
383 King St, Newtown, NSW 2042 Ruff Sleepers received the connect with other pets and pet
T: 02 9517 2800 F: 02 9230 3352 grant courtesy of an impressive lovers, and also access help. Donate to Ruff Sleepers at
Newtown@parliament.nsw.gov.au number of votes from its Dr Bronwen Dalton is associate www.ruffsleepers.org/donate or to
community supporters. It’s still professor at the University of volunteer email ruffsleepers@gmail.com
FEBRUARY 2020 NEWS 5
TANYA PLIBERSEK MP
How to be a better cat guardian Federal Member for Sydney
VELVET STEELE serious black cat with patches of
white. She was my best friend
NEWTOWN: A month or so ago, and companion, and despite her
you may have been given a cat health troubles, I was pleased to
as a Christmas gift. There is a help her live to 12 years of age. 31% INCREASE IN SYDNEY GP FEES
great deal of responsibility that My mother-in-law met Marlene Official new data has confirmed that health costs
comes with having a furry life when she was six months old have reached an all-time high under the Morrison
companion, and you may find and had a fractured pelvis. The Government.
yourself unable to care for this option was to put her to sleep or
cat. If so, I’d like to tell you about in a cage for her to rest. After five The Government’s own Health Department has revealed
a place you can take the cat to months, she could walk again to the Senate that people in the federal seat of Sydney
ensure it will be safe and looked and – being the cat she was – she pay an average out-of-pocket fee of $46.11 to see a GP.
after – rather than dumping it in escaped. Marlene was wild for a This is a 31 per cent increase in GP fees since the
the dark. time, and then gave birth to two Liberals were elected seven years ago.
kittens. That was when I met her.
The Cat Protection Society The Cat Protection Society in Newtown cares for I’m thrilled to say that she was The Health Department has also contradicted the
(CPS) is an organisation for cats cats and kittens in need. Photo: Supplied a very trusting mother, and would Government’s claims on bulk billing, admitting that
and kittens in need. Most of the often leave the kittens in my almost 40 per cent of patients in Sydney have to pay
workers are volunteers, which there are some good finds care. She had spinal-cord damage to see a GP.
means they aren’t paid money for there! Alternatively, people can and, as she aged, she became
These new figures showcase the Coalition’s record
their work, but they are paid in donate goods to the opportunity less able to look after herself. So,
of cuts and neglect in health. It was the Liberals who
the wonderful experiences they shop, which will be sold to I took over the job of grooming
introduced the Medicare freeze. It was Scott Morrison
have with the cats and through customers to further help her – and I had to shave her so
himself that extended the freeze as Treasurer, leading
the pleasure they get from opening support the cats in the cattery. that she could remain clean. As
directly to the out-of-pocket costs that people in
up opportunities for cats that need Fostering can be another great she aged, she further deteriorated
Australia face today.
support. All profits go towards way to assist cats and kittens and I trained her to use nappies,
the young kittens and cats, so in need and to free up space to as she became very distressed
that they can have a better life. allow new kittens to come to CPS about dirtying the house. When VOLUNTEER GRANTS 2020
The CPS is located in Newtown for care. Fostering also enables I introduced her to the nappies,
Volunteers make an invaluable contribution to our
and people are welcome to adopt kittens to learn about and grow she took to them very quickly.
community, but we know that volunteer based
a cat or kitten, or even just to go up in a home. They get used to Marlene was very fierce and
organisations are often underfunded and under
there for a look and to play with noises like the radio or the vacuum loved playing. We knew it was the
resourced.
the kittens. Because the society cleaner, which they wouldn’t hear end when she didn’t want to eat
has limited space, it asks foster in the cattery. They also learn or play anymore. Even with all of This year, Volunteer Grants of between $1,000 and
carers to foster kittens until they how to interact with other pets this, I was the responsible human $5,000 are available to help not-for-profit community
are trained and home-ready, and humans (including children!) and I would label myself as her groups give more support to their volunteers, including
after which there should be or how to be peaceful with one guardian rather than her owner. the purchase of small equipment items, reimbursement
space for them in the cattery companion. Foster caring isn’t Obviously, I loved and adored her, for volunteers’ transport costs, and contributions
where they can be adopted. easy but it’s very rewarding in that she was my catty companion, and towards the cost of training and background screening
The CPS has an opportunity you get to know sweet cats and she followed me around the house checks.
shop which is run by volunteers – help prepare them to go to their until she couldn’t walk and I had to
Grants are available to organisations where at least
with all money raised supporting loving forever home – no matter carry her. I was lucky that I could
40 per cent of staff are volunteers. The grants are also
the cats in the cattery. There how sad it is to see them go. form that bond with her; that’s
designed to support the inclusion of vulnerable people
is a wide selection of goods on Louisa Dyce, assistant editor for what every cat is really looking
through volunteering, and increase participation in
sale, from clothing, crockery, the South Sydney Herald, shares forward to with a human. S
volunteering.
books, shoes, jewellery, and her story about being a good cat
more. Everyone is welcome, guardian. “Marlene was a lovely, www.catprotection.org.au Unfortunately, the Liberal-National Government has
limited grants to $66,000 per electorate. This is despite
70 per cent of organisations missing out in previous
Pemulwuy – project on the up and up!
rounds, even though they had worthy applications.
Labor has written to the Government and requested a
review of funding levels to make sure they reflect local
community need.
SPONSORED Our new Elouera Tony Mundine
Gym will be a wonderful state- Volunteering is part of the Australian character. I
AMANDA FLEMING of-the-art facility for the whole want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who
community to enjoy. volunteers at an organisation to benefit our community.
REDFERN: As we move into the If you know an organisation that would like to be
second month of 2020 we would On Precinct 1 (Affordable housing/ nominated for a grant, please ask them to email my
like to acknowledge the work gym/gallery): We are up to level office with their expression of interest by 14 February
carried out over the holiday 6 on the apartments above the 2020.
season on the Pemulwuy site. gym! The roof pour will be
Formwork construction completed this month, along
continued throughout with the ground-level slab for MY OFFICE: HERE TO HELP
December and January, the townhouses. Level 1 of the My office is always available to help with Centrelink,
which resulted in more levels apartments and the gym has been Veterans’ Affairs, Medicare, Immigration, NBN and
going up on Precinct 1 and 3. stripped with the formwork taken other federal matters (contact details below).
out. Bricklaying commenced
Everyone who has stopped in the basement along with
by the site recently to say plumbing for stormwater drainage JUSTICE OF THE PEACE
hello to Uncle Micky has been and fire hydrants. My office provides Justice of the Peace (JP) services
especially happy to see the - simply call to make an appointment. JP Services are
affordable housing gain ground. On Precinct 3 (Col James Student available on:
The 62 dwellings are a mix of Accommodation): Over Christmas
apartments and townhouses 2019, level 2 was completed and J Mondays (2pm-4.30pm)
for Aboriginal and Torres Strait level 3 has been poured. Level 4, J Wednesdays (10am-1pm); and
Islander people only to rent parts 1 and 2, are being completed J Thursdays (2pm- 4.30pm).
through us (the Aboriginal this month and 90 per cent of the
Housing Company). screening has been installed. S
We are also excited to see the
gym and gallery spaces taking
shape. The ground floor of the
ing
people together TANYA PLIBERSEK MP
ng
Federal Member for Sydney
bri
gym will house fitness and weight
training equipment, and a boxing 1A Great Buckingham St, Redfern NSW 2016
ring. A mezzanine level will be T: 9379 0700 E: Tanya.Plibersek.MP@aph.gov.au
dedicated to floor-exercise classes pemulwuy
and will include another boxing
ring. A lift between the two Authorised by Michael Mundine, CEO, More floors added to Pemulwuy in January 2020.
floors has already been installed. Aboriginal Housing Company Limited Photo: Lyn Turnbull
6 SOCIAL JUSTICE FEBRUARY 2020
It’s time to tackle wealth inequality
ALAN WILLIAMSON only 10 people seated, surrounded
by an ever-growing mountain of
IT’S Lunar New Year, and there food. “Those people can never eat
are around 1,000 people in all that,” he thinks, “not in a year 140
the restaurant. With everyone of New Years.”
seated, trolleys laden with a huge If Australia were that restaurant, Wealth distribution
120
variety of food begin to appear, then the people in the private
distributed by white-jacketed dining room are the top 1 per cent,
waitstaff. Plump dumplings, and together they own more than 100
chicken wings, steaming twice as much as the 500 people
seafood, pork buns and stir-fried in the cheap seats combined.
80
vegetables are brought to tables. There are 36 listed billionaires
in Australia, and in the last year
After a while, some of the diners (2018-19) their average growth 60
recognise that not all of them are in wealth was $667m each. Next
getting the same quantities, and Lunar New Year, they will need a
40
some of the trolleys are arriving bigger room.
only partly loaded. They become The argument in favour of
a little unsettled when they realise obscene wealth accumulation has 20
there may not be enough for them long been that such concentration
to properly celebrate the occasion, will lead to greater prosperity
0
let along take leftovers. Some for all by “trickling down”. This
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
tables only get a few pork buns, has the strongest appeal to the
and they are the unhappiest of all. other 490 people in the room, Illustration: Sam Mcnair (@thatsneakyrabbit)
In addition, for every load of those in the aspirational middle;
food wheeled into the crowded but professionals, tradies, wealthy line with profits, and collecting hope of city home ownership, including opportunities for
least attended area, where nearly retirees and others mostly appropriate royalties on behalf of pay scant allegiance to the dream action. Unlike many countries,
500 people are seated, another susceptible to the dangled carrot of the Australian people for the sale offered them, and will be the Australia retains a reasonable
trolley goes into a small private comfort. of mineral-rich dirt, the Australian agents of radical change. The well-functioning democracy, with
dining room, its frosted glass Rather than directly government embellishes the fairy visceral response of (mainly) aged people fairly elected to represent
windows denying view. contributing to the common tale with marketing rhetoric about white men to the passion and the citizens of a given area.
“This must be a massive room wealth by enforcing appropriate “having a go to get a go”, our commitment of Greta Thunberg The contact details of all such
for so much food to be needed,” marginal rates of taxation, limiting version of the American Dream. is an indicator that their threat is representatives are listed on the
thinks one of the diners, finally tax avoidance measures by both There is a storm brewing, with real. websites of the assemblies of all
raising the courage to peek individuals and corporations, climate change the catalyst, which See the Oxfam report on global three levels of government. S
through the doorway. In his brief providing a structure to ensure will threaten such privilege. Young wealth inequality released in late
glimpse, he is astonished to see reasonable increases in wages in people, largely deprived of the January for more information, www.oxfam.org.au/what-we-do/inequality
Accurate fire information and community action
ENVIRONMENT lowest-emitting countries. were road barriers, or cleared
“The fires could be part of buffer zones around houses.
JESSICA MORTHORPE an ominous feedback loop: Where used as part of a suite
the more land burns, the more of fire preparations, planned
IN my work with Uniting Earth carbon dioxide gets released into burning is most effective close
I’ve compiled a comprehensive the atmosphere, and the more to the buildings or houses to be
resource on the bushfire crisis trees — which act as natural protected. But planned burning
– covering ecological and social carbon sinks — disappear,” in these areas is also difficult and
justice aspects, and including says Dr Richard Thornton, chief expensive, and accompanied by
relevant references. The following executive of the Bushfires & the danger of fires escaping.
is an abridged version. Natural Hazards Co-operative
Research Centre. “The more CO2 Arson Endangered – Blue Mountains water skink Photo: Sylvain Dubey (Ecological Management & Restoration)
Climate change gets released, the warmer our Only about 1 per cent of the
Climate change exacerbates planet gets; that raises the risk land burnt in NSW this bushfire that the Aboriginal cultural adapted to fire, they have not
the conditions in which bushfires of more big and deadly fires.” season can be officially attributed fire practitioner has with dealt with fires of this size and
happen. According to Greg Perhaps more than any to arson, and even less in Victoria. Country and everything in it. intensity before, and with over
Mullins, former commissioner of other wealthy nation on Earth, Specifically, the Gospers Mountain This relationship-based approach 1,000 species already threatened
Fire and Rescue NSW, we have Australia is at risk from the “mega-blaze” and the Green Wattle allows for the involvement of in Australia, these fires may push
been seeing: unprecedented dangers of climate change and Creek fire, which are both near other than human beings such as some species into extinction.
dryness; reductions in long-term our extreme vulnerability means Sydney, were ignited by lightning. bettongs, bandicoots, lyrebirds, Whole ecosystems will be
rainfall; low humidity; high incentive for change. According All the major blazes in the Snowy wombats and brush turkeys who affected.
temperatures; wind velocities; to economist Dr Ross Garnaut, we Mountains and South Coast which all assist with cultural burning
fire danger indices; fire spread could “be the biggest economic have taken hold since New Year’s by turning over and reducing What we can do immediately
and ferocity; instances of pyro- beneficiary of effective global Eve were also started by lightning. the leaf litter. Cultural burning See the full resource for
convective fires (fire storms mitigation because we have the is a landscape-wide approach information (re donating to the
– making their own weather); best renewable energy resources Cultural burning unlike the more strategic hazard Moderator’s Bushfire Appeal
early starts and late finishes to and the best opportunities for Shaun Hooper is a Wiradjuri reduction approach. It provides for and WIRES), spreading reliable
bushfire seasons; an established capturing carbon in our geological man, a fire behaviour analyst, emergent outcomes for a range of information, providing water and
long-term trend driven by a and biological landscapes”. volunteer fire fighter, and a species who contribute in various food for wildlife). S
warming, drying climate. cultural burning practitioner ways to the implementation.”
It is estimated that Australia’s Planned burning currently doing his post-grad To get involved with climate action
fires have already released A study in Tasmania has found studies on cultural burning. Wildlife Download “I’m worried about the climate
between 350 and 400 million that planned burn-offs have little He says implementing an It is estimated, conservatively, — what can I do?” (http://bit.ly/36AJsoo).
metric tons of CO2 into the impact on reducing the extent and Aboriginal cultural burn that 1.25 billion animals have Sign up to our climate action groups
atmosphere. That’s roughly 1 per intensity of bushfires. A 2010 study does not generally look like a died in the fires. This comes on (http://bit.ly/38R3Y5J) and to Uniting Earth
cent of the total global carbon from Wollongong University also hazard reduction. It is not. top of the already serious impacts enews (jmorthorpe@uniting.org), or follow
emissions from 2019. It is also found there was only a 10 per cent “An Aboriginal cultural burn is of land clearing, deforestation us on FB for campaign updates.
more than the total combined chance of a fire being stopped by not guided by a prescription. It is and climate-altered habitats. (see full resource at www.unitingearth.
annual emissions of the 116 a planned burn. More effective guided by the close relationship While Australian animals are org.au/bushfire-crisis-info).
This page is sponsored by Uniting, the services and
advocacy arm of the Uniting Church NSW and the ACT.
Please note that Uniting has no editorial influence on the content of this page.
uniting.org
FEBRUARY 2020 COMMENT & OPINION 7
Mourning
colonisation
FAITH and/or with local Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander
DOROTHY MCRAE-MCMAHON Peoples of their area.
“The Day of Mourning is
AS we approached “Australia not a new concept in Australia.
Day” in 2019, the Uniting The first such day was held on
Church in Australia was Australia Day in 1938, organised
encouraged by its national by the Aborigines Progressive
governing body, the Uniting Association in New South
Church Assembly, to add to Wales. with support from the
its life a Day of Mourning. Australian Aborigines League
This was to be held on the in Victoria to coincide with
Sunday before “Australia sesquicentenary celebrations.
Day”, so that we would “The Uniting Church
never simply celebrate the acknowledges in its constitution
arrival of those who took (nationally in 2009 and
over this country from its formalised by State Synods
Indigenous people without in 2011) the dispossession,
any negotiation or respect. violence and decimation of
First Peoples and laments
We non-Indigenous people the fact that, as a church and
cartoon: norrie mAy-welby
may well love this country as Second Peoples, we were,
in which we live, but to and remain, complicit.
Public housing more than a roof overhead celebrate this each year without
acknowledging how we arrived
“Our decision to declare a
Day of Mourning annually from
here, and what we did to its 2019, is a way in which we
EDITORIAL various interview and focus disproportionately due to the owners, is to make that day stand together in Covenantal
groups, and concludes that the size of the estate and because the disrespectful and dishonest. relationships to honour,
SSH human services system has same number of public tenants Stuart McMillan, a senior remember and acknowledge
been unresponsive to needs, will be living with their existing national staff person in the the truth of our history. For it
AS part of the consultation fragmented, complex and opaque. problems in a redevelopment Uniting Church, has given us is only through our lament and
process for the Waterloo The report recommends: of three times the density. a summary of what happened truth telling that we together,
redevelopment, local agencies addressing accessibility deficits If issues facing residents are to change things and how First and Second Peoples, look
Counterpoint Community by extending and improving not addressed in the promised we have responded. with hope to the future.”
Services (CCS) and Inner services to CALD, Aboriginal human services plan, the South “On the Sunday before Stuart McMillan prays that
Sydney Voice, with REDWatch and other cohorts; improving the Sydney Herald will join REDWatch Australia Day, Uniting Church “one day, the whole nation
residents’ group, pushed for capabilities of residents to use and others to campaign congregations across the may, in a coming of age, fully
an effective human services technologies and funding more against the master plan. country hold worship services accept this history and take
plan to accompany the built place-based outreach services Maybe it is time to think about to reflect upon and lament a significant step towards
environment master plan. to local community centres; an upper house inquiry into how the effect of the invasion and healing for our nation”.
Back in 2017, FACS/LAHC improving service delivery human service supports for public colonisation of this nation To begin by mourning our
undertook to provide such a plan. and referral protocols, and; housing tenants work or do not upon her First Peoples. history together, is an honest
addressing cultural and structural work. There has been a lot of “The observance of a Day of and creative way of changing
Now, as the Department of issues within agencies, both work recently getting homeless Mourning was endorsed by the our future. People of faith can
Planning and LAHC negotiate government and non-government. people into public housing. 15th Assembly at the request lead the way, but this mourning
the master plan parameters, it An effective human services If the supports are not there for of the Uniting Aboriginal and really belongs to us all as we
seems LAHC no longer wants to plan, as REDWatch argues, must those who need public housing, Islander Christian Congress assume responsibility for our
discuss a human services plan. address existing challenges facing however, are we really addressing (UAICC). Rather than seeking a past and present as a nation.
This is deeply concerning. tenants and agencies, and not just the problem? We cannot assume change to the date of Australia One of the beautiful things
In a soon-to-be-published select issues around relocation. that just putting a roof over Day as some propose, the about the nature of faith in parts
report, “Waterloo Impact Project”, Yes, this is a state-wide issue, someone’s head addresses his or UAICC asked the church, in the of the Indigenous community
CCS synthesises input from but it will affect Waterloo her problems or challenges. S spirit of the Covenant between is its God, “The Wanjina”.
us, to declare the Sunday before Images of this God indicate
Australia Day as a Day of that the very special feature
Bushfire chiefs offer terms of reference Mourning. Assembly members
enthusiastically agreed.
of it is that it has no mouth
for judgement. Obviously, it
“Sunday January 19 will be is a loving, understanding,
LETTER preparedness to fulfil their roles services – training, equipment, marked by the Uniting Church forgiving and kind God.
of protection and defence of life command structures, cross as the Day of Mourning for If the First and Second
To the Hon. David Littleproud, MP and property generally and in an agency/states and all three levels 2020. Local congregations Peoples of our land could move
Member for Maranoa emergency, including bushfire of government. are encouraged to honour into deeper, just, and more
Minister for Water Resources, emergencies. First Peoples on this day. respectful relationships with
Drought, Rural Finance, Investigate communications The Assembly wants to each other, maybe we could
Natural Disaster and Emergency Investigate the adequacy of the on the ground – radios, encourage congregations, learn many things together.
Management allocation and budget of bushfire compatibility, digital and mobile agencies and schools to Let us commit ourselves,
preparation and mitigation network, vehicle location make local connections with as we enter 2020 as a
We note the prime minister’s resources in each state and technology. the Uniting Aboriginal and community, to develop new
comments of taking a royal territory. Islander Christian Congress and deeper relationships. S
commission to Cabinet, and we Conduct an audit of all other
call on you, as our responsible Examine the adequacy of inquiries, reviews and royal
minister and with your government, Commonwealth resources – commissions into bushfires and
to support the creation of a royal including aviation and ground natural disasters and determine September. About 2,500 homes Mick Holton – Volunteer
commission into the 2019-2020 fires. fleets for use in a bushfire or whether recommendations have been destroyed and more Firefighters Association – Rural Fire
We, the elected leadership of other major emergency. from those reviews have than 11.7 million hectares of Service NSW
emergency services, are available to been implemented – and, forestlands have been razed.
you to consult on appropriate terms Investigate the issues related to if so, to what effect. John Oliver – United Firefighters
of reference, but as a starting point, power and water supplies across Stewart Little – Public Service Union QLD – Fire Rescue QLD
the following is what we believe state and territory borders. Delay could mean the loss of Association of NSW – NSW State
needs to be investigated if a royal Consider the impact on further life and property. We urge Emergency Service, NSW Rural Fire Max Adlam – United Firefighters
commission is called and therefore firefighter health and welfare you to call this royal commission as Service, NSW National Parks and Union SA – Metropolitan Fire
the terms of reference should – physical and mental – that soon as possible so together we can Wildlife Service, Fire + Rescue NSW, Service SA
include: comes from participation at the make sure Australians are protected Forestry Corporation of NSW
Investigate the adequacy of frontline of this crisis. in the future from fires like these. Lea Anderson – The United
the allocation and budget of Across Australia bushfires have Leighton Drury – Fire Brigade Professional Firefighters Union of
firefighting resources in each Investigate the issues related to killed 33 people and an estimated Employees’ Union, Fire + Rescue NSW Western Australia – Fire Rescue
state and territory and their inter-operability of all the fire one billion native animals since Service WA
You can also read
