communities committee meeting of griffith city council to be

AGENDA

_________________________________________________________________________________Communities Management Committee - 15 July 2014 -

COMMUNITIES COMMITTEE MEETING OF GRIFFITH CITY COUNCIL TO

BE HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS, GRIFFITH ON TUESDAY 15 JULY

2014 AT 4.00 PM

CL01 Apologies

CL02 Confirmation of Minutes

CL03 Business Arising

CL04 Declarations of Interest

CL05 Community Development Update From Previous Meeting

CL06 Youth Mental Health Forum - Update

CL07 Frog Hollow Land Claim - Update ( R Carroll)

CL08 Aboriginal Liaison Officer - Update

CL09 General Business

CL10 Action Report

CL11 Next Meeting

DISTRIBUTION LIST

Councillor Anne Napoli (Chair), Councillor Alison Balind, Councillor Pat Cox, (Councillor Doug Curran - Alternate), Councillor John Dal Broi (optional), Susan Delves (Community), Michelle Druitt (Community), Anita Naidoo (Community), Sue Reynolds (Community), Jenna Thomas (Stakeholder), Hifo Loseli (Community), Lexi King (Community)., Director Sustainable Development, Neil Southorn; Community Development Coordinator, Peta Dummett; Minute Secretary, Jennifer O'Donnell-Priest; Aboriginal Liaison Officer, Roger Penrith

Quorum = 6_____________________________________________________________________________________________________ AGENDA ~ COMMUNITIES COMMITTEE ~ 15 JULY 2014 ~ Page 1

MINUTES

_________________________________________________________________________________Communities Management Committee - 20 May 2014 - Page 1

MINUTES OF THE COMMUNITIES COMMITTEE MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS, GRIFFITH ON 20 MAY 2014

COMMENCING AT 4.08 PM

PRESENTCouncillor Anne Napoli (Chair), Councillor Alison Balind, Councillor Pat Cox, Sue

Reynolds (Community), Jenna Thomas (Stakeholder), Robert Carroll (Community).

STAFF PRESENTDirector Sustainable Development, Neil Southorn; Community Development Coordinator,

Peta Dummett; Minute Secretary, Jennifer O'Donnell-Priest; Aboriginal Liaison Officer, Roger PenrithQuorum = 6

The Chair, Councillor Napoli, welcomed and introduced Robert Carroll from Griffith Lands Council as a member of the Communities Committee. The Committee introduced themselves to Mr Carroll.

CL01 APOLOGIES

RECOMMENDED on the motion of Sue Reynolds and Councillor Cox that apologies be received from Susan Delves (Community), Michelle Druitt (Community), Anita Naidoo (Community), Lexi King (Community).

Absent: Hifo Loseli (Community).

CL02 CONFIRMATION OF PREVIOUS MINUTES

RECOMMENDED on the motion of Councillor Cox and Jenna Thomas that the minutes of the previous meeting held on 15 April 2014, having first been circulated amongst members, be confirmed.

CL03 BUSINESS ARISING

3.1 Griffith Blood Bank Closure

The Committee discussed the status of the Blood Bank. Mr Southorn advised that a Media Release has been published. The mobile van will be commencing operations in June with plasma collection available in September. They will be attending Griffith on a fortnightly basis.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________ AGENDA ~ COMMUNITIES COMMITTEE ~ 15 JULY 2014 ~

MINUTES


3.2 Anzac Day Wreath Ceremony

Mr Penrith advised that two members of the Aboriginal community participated in the wreath laying ceremony on Anzac Day which was a very proud moment for indigenous people. Discussion took place on the proposed Memorial plaque to recognise local/regional aboriginal people that served for Australia in War time. It was noted that a steering committee was being formed to research/investigate this initiative. Funding will be required for the project to be undertaken.

CL04 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Nil.

CL05 ARRANGEMENTS FOR REPLACEMENT OF COMMUNITY SERVICES OFFICER

Ms Thomas raised the query of what Council's process is to replace the FTE vacant position in the Community Development Department. Mr Southorn advised that it was Council's Standard Operating Practice to have all vacant positions re-evaluated by the Senior Management Team prior to advertising the vacancy. It has been noted that the position is still being contemplated as there has been an identified need for Council to resource other community projects and a diversion of tasks may be required from this position. Alternatively, to meet identified Community Development targets, resources will need to be identified and accounted for in Council 's budget.

The Committee discussed resources, workloads and focus on Community KPI's. Ms Thomas queried where Council's focus is for this committee and if it is to oversee the Community Strategic Plan, what resources is Council allocating to deliver this plan. The Committee agreed that a lot of the current Coordinator's work was consumed with administrative functions rather than tackling identified projects.

It was agreed that Council's contribution to the development of the community requires strategic direction and focus. Ms Thomas stated that there were issues and needs in our community that require long term and strategic development. Mr Carroll stated that the Griffith Land Council has a long term strategy and was hopeful that with Council and interagency assistance that they could progress to bring outcomes to fruition. Mr Southorn advised that it was timely for the Communities Committee to identify community development priorities and provide future strategies.

RECOMMENDED on the motion of Councillor Balind and Jenna Thomas that an extraordinary meeting be called for the Committee to review the Community Development Roadmap (Community Strategic Plan) to determine Community Development Focus.

The extraordinary meeting of the Communities Committee is to be held this Thursday, 22 May at 6.00 pm in the Council Chambers.

CL06 KEY FOCUS AREAS (NEXT 6 MONTHS) - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

With the above item discussed and resolution made, this item will be discussed Thursday.


MINUTES


CL07 MEMBERSHIP REVIEW - ALTERNATE MEMBERS

Councillor Cox requested that an alternate aboriginal member be identified to represent the aboriginal community when Mr Carroll was unavailable to attend. Mr Carroll will make enquiry with the Chairperson of the Aboriginal Lands Council to see if Board Members would be available.

Ms Dummett advised that she had spoken to a CALD community member who expressed an interest on nominating for the committee but had not received confirmation.

CL08 GENERAL BUSINESS

8.1 Outstanding Land Claim

Mr Carroll advised that the Aboriginal Lands Council had previously proposed to acquire land through the Regional Land Acquisition Program. The land is situated in Brayne Road and was to be used to negotiate for Crown Land on the corner of Noorla Street and Dickson Road (Frogs Hollow). The land was to be used for building an Aboriginal Elders Retirement Village.

The Lands Council has decided to resurrect the project for an Aboriginal Elders Retirement Village and Mr Carroll has requested that the Communities Committee be a connection to discuss and make recommendations to Council.

Mr Southorn requested that Mr Carroll supply the concept plans, claim and blueprint for the project to Council so that Development staff can evaluate and give advice prior to Communities Committee meeting.

8.2 Yenda Progress Association

Mrs Reynolds advised that she had not attended the Yenda Progress Association's meeting held recently so did not have an update. Mr Southorn advised that toilet amenity building in Yenda Memorial Park was being progressed. Council's Planning officers have liaised with stakeholders and have agreed on the site of the toilet block.

8.3 Indigenous Advancement Strategy

Mr Penrith advised that the General Manager, Mr Stonestreet had requested that information received from the Minister of Indigenous Affairs, Nigel Scullion regarding the 2014/15 budget be forwarded to the Committee. Initial correspondences suggests that 150 individual programs will be replaced and the Indigenous Advancement Strategy to come into effect by July 2014. A copy of the correspondence is attached to these minutes for the Committees information.

8.4 Aboriginal Liaison Officer (ALO) Updates

Councillor Napoli made comment on the ALO updates that Mr Penrith sends to the Committee prior to the Communities Committee meetings and thanked him for keeping them informed.


MINUTES


8.5 Headspace4Griffith

Ms Dummett advised the current Headspace4Griffith strategy included postcards addressed to six key stakeholders and politicians outlining the Regions need for a local service. The first bundle of signed postcards were presented to Michael McCormack MP during the Youth Well-being forum held in Leeton.

8.6 Griffith Neighbourhood House

The Committee was informed that Sione Nosa is currently volunteering at Griffith Neighbourhood House on Tuesdays between 10 am to 2 pm to assist persons in the CALD community to complete forms.

8.7 Community Expo

Ms Dummett advised that Wednesday 28th and Thursday 29th of May, there is a Community Expo being held at Griffith Central Plaza. A community survey will be undertaken to identify gaps in service provision.

Robert Carroll left the meeting the time being 5.08 pm.

8.8 Update from Director of Sustainable Development

Mr Southorn advised the Committee on the following items:

Crown Land - White Paper reform.

Government has the ability to take ownership of Crown Land that the State does not want.

Neighbourhood House Multipurpose Centre

A Development Application has been lodged for the Neighbourhood House Multipurpose Centre. An application for funding is being prepared, key stakeholders are meeting with ministers.

Griffith Community Private Hospital

Development is progressing.

CBD Strategy

Council's Project Planner, Nathan Farnell (Urban Design Team) is in the process of developing a broader CBD strategy. Mr Farnell has stated that he would be happy to present the strategy to the Committee.

Higher Education - Deakin University

Deakin Vice-Chancellor Professor Jane den Hollander and Riverina Institute Director Kerry Penton have signed a MOU to provide Guaranteed Entry into Deakin degrees for Riverina Institute students.

Designed to help build the skills, qualifications and employability of students living in the region, the Deakin-Riverina Pathways Program will make obtaining a tertiary qualification even more affordable and accessible. In a first for Deakin, students who complete a nominated Diploma with TAFE NSW Riverina Institute are guaranteed entry into corresponding Deakin University degrees.


MINUTES


Community Road Map

The percentage of unemployed youth is higher than other demographics therefore the community needs to provide an environment that supports building skills and educational opportunities that align with local employment and business needs. Local agencies such as GetSet and Campbell Page have been informed their funding will cease this year leaving many young people with support services.

8.9 Murrumbidgee Medicare Local (MML)

Ms Thomas advised that in the 2014 budget the MML initiative will be discontinued with 12 months funding remaining. The number of regional boards will reduce considerably and future contracts will be tendered.

At this point in the meeting, Councillor Napoli declared an interest in this item as she is in the Stakeholders Reference Group for Murrumbidgee Medicare Local.

8.10 Aboriginal History Information Day

Mr Penrith advised that an Aboriginal History Information Day was being held at Westend Stadium next Wednesday (28 May). Mr Penrith to send an email with date to the Committee for their distribution to various stakeholders.

8.11 Celebration of Anniversary of the Apology

Mr Penrith advised that a celebration for the anniversary of the Apology will be held on Monday 26 May at the Griffith Lands Council Community Hall commencing at 1.30 pm.

CL09 NEXT MEETING

The workshop/extraordinary meeting is to be scheduled for Thursday 22 May 2014 in the Council Chambers commencing at 6.00 pm.

The next Ordinary Meeting of the Communities Committee is to be held on 17 June 2014 in the Council Chambers, Griffith commencing at 4.00 pm.

Councillor Napoli, Jenna Thomas, Sue Delves and Jennifer O'Donnell-Priest tendered their apologies for this meeting.

There being no further business the meeting closed the time being 5.36 pm.

ATTACHMENT

(a) Correspondence from Minister for Indigenous Affairs


MINUTES


(a) Correspondence from Minister for Indigenous Affairs


MINUTES



MINUTES


0189RESOLVED on the motion of Councillors Balind and Napoli that the minutes of the Communities Committee meeting held on 20 May 2014, having first been circulated amongst members, be adopted.

0190 RESOLVED on the motion of Councillors Balind and Cox that Council staff speak with Post School Options with regards to the existing lease on the Olympic Street site and to speak with Neighbourhood House Committee to discuss the options for an alternative site for the Community Centre and a report be brought back to Council.


Fw: Emailing: Community Development Update for meeting 17 June 2014Peta Dummett to: Jenny O'Donnell 08/07/2014 01:35 PM

From: Peta Dummett/Griffith City Council

To: Jenny O'Donnell/Griffith City Council@Griffith City Council,

----- Forwarded by Peta Dummett/Griffith City Council on 08/07/2014 01:35 PM -----

From: Peta Dummett/Griffith City CouncilTo: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected],

[email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], Leanne Austin/Griffith City Council@Griffith City Council, [email protected], Marisa Martinello/Griffith City Council@Griffith City Council, Mayor/Griffith City Council@Griffith City Council, [email protected], Neil Southorn/Griffith City Council@Griffith City Council, [email protected], Roger Penrith/Griffith City Council@Griffith City Council, [email protected], [email protected],

Date: 06/06/2014 03:35 PMSubject: Emailing: Community Development Update for meeting 17 June 2014

Hi,

I have attached an overview of the outcomes from the meeting held 17 June. This was to establish direction and priorities for Roger and myself in lieu of possible changes to staffing arrangements.

I also included an update of my projects as suggested at the meeting.

Attached is the draft report from the Mental Health Youth Forum which has NOT been adopted.

We already have four apologies for the next meeting so please advise in advance if you are unable to attend.

The results of the Wellbeing Survey undertaken by Faculty of Health University of Canberra clashes with other appointments so am unable to attend. '(We are currently organising a series of public presentations on results of the survey to be held in different locations around Australia during July‐September. If you would be interested in assisting us to organise a presentation in your region,

CLAUSE 05


please let me know.)' I will forward to senior management for approval to do so. The report willprovide information for direction in economic and community development.

Regards

Peta DummettHealthy Communities CoordinatorGriffith City CouncilPO Box 485 Griffith NSW 2680

02 69628211 / 0438658683

Community Development Update for meeting 17 June 2014.docxCommunity Development Update for meeting 17 June 2014.docx

Youth Mental Health Forum.pdfYouth Mental Health Forum.pdf


Community Development Update for meeting 17 June 2014

Outcome of the special meeting on 22 May 2014

Community Roadmap ‐ short, medium and long term objectives were discussed from areas identified in the Community’s Road Map. These were then

prioritised/grouped into short term focus areas for the coming year. From this we looked at the medium term objectives and what areas needed to be

further developed and the longer term outcomes. Below is a table of key areas.

Roger discussed these outcomes with members of Youth Interagency who supported establishing a youth committee. Decided instead of reinventing a

committee we could invite SCR’s to attend Youth Interagency in preference to a commitment of another meeting. Before we can proceed we will need to

discuss suggestions with the high school principals and/or students.

Short Medium Long Term Step 1 - Focus Step 2 - Develop Step 3 - Community Wellbeing

Youth Advisory Committee/Team/Service Engage with Youth Interagency and

schools to involve young people asper Youth Advisory Board

Partnership with PCYC graffitiprogram

Youth mental health Forum Dramatic Minds Festival

COG – community reference panel information exchange and awareness

Community Action Plan 2010

Advocacy – for agencies and unmet needs Community Expo Griffith Interagency

Leadership and mentoring Volunteering


Grants – applications and dissemination Community Donations Scheme (under

review) ClubGRANTS External applications

Active Living – Healthy and Wellbeing/infrastructure, cultural significance

Funding is available for new initiatives

Crime Prevention CDAT Liquor Accord Community Precinct Meetings Community Safety Audit CEPTED

Access to self -education Reduction in crime statistics Crime prevention tools incorporated into new and established developments

Medical Students Social support Financial support

Educational pathways Medical students return to regional and remote communities

Diversity/Cultural Awareness – celebration and integration

Role model Employment Community activities

Seniors Watch Diversity within the community – social inclusion and employment Vibrant and engaged community

Social Planning- inter-departmental collaboration

Community engagement Impact statements Information exchange

Multipurpose community centre Liveable and informed community


Update of current programs/projects (Peta)

Community Heart Griffith – completed by 30 June 2014o Signage, cycling and walking maps and posters are still being developed.o Fitness sessions are continuing at some fitness centreso Healthy Lifestyle program is continuing till end of year

Toolbox talks or coaching sessions being reviewed

CDATo Funding has been applied for from Australian Drug Foundation.o Developing a partnership with Riverina TAFE Drug and Alcohol class at Griffitho Partnership with the Liquor Accord

With the above we will be gathering data to identify trends, unmet needs, local service provision which will provideinformed program delivery.

Delivering a one or two day educational workshop / training session based around AOD needs for people alreadyworking in these areas

Attending the Creating Synergies Conferenceo Invited to participate in the Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol Clinical Services Plan Focus Group by the Murrumbidgee Local

Health District

Granto A second grant writing workshop will be held on 16 June 2014o ClubGRANTS being assessedo Citizenship – 10 June 2014 – 17 people undertaking their citizenship

Youtho Youth Mental Health Forum report identified a drop of around 18% in attendance with 80 students participating. 60% of student

stated the forum was effective in destigmatising mental health and inspire young people to speak openly. (Draft report attached)o Dramatic Minds Festival scheduled for 26 June 2014. Disappointing response from high schools with only 4 plays registered at

this time.o Youth Week funding was acquitted.


o Graffiti removal and public art program with PCYC o Met with a teacher who is keen to begin a graffiti and garden project in Pioneer to address child and youth issues. Working bees

will be held in Term 3 at the food forest as a trial program with students

Headspace4Griffith o 10 new services have been identified in the Federal budget. Date yet to be announced – probably next year in line with funding

changes in youth projects o 10,000 postcards addressed to 6 key stakeholders were printed as part of the lobbying campaign. The majority have been

distributed across the region o Letters are being sent to lobby politicians by agencies o Request for the General Manager to invite REROC & RAMROC to support the campaign

Multicultural o Refugee Week (Multicultural Interagency) 21 June 2014 o Morning tea for Afghani men at the Griffith Shed for Men –invitation only.

UTS Social Planning module. Overall the course focused on community engagement, whole of community including societal areas of need, incorporating strategies and impact states (short and long term) using indicators to prevent negative outcomes and addressing needs before they arise.

Social Planning o Addressing long term societal problems

Stakeholder Analysis and Community Engagement Social Infrastructure

o Access for everyone o Planning that meets the needs of all community members eg transport, childcare

Social Impact Assessments o Both short term and long term impacts

Policies o Importance of policies that are inclusive and informed from community engagement

Community Indicators


o The importance of community indicators. Most councils have ID Profile which provides important information and demographicsabout their communities.

o Determining long term needs in changing communities Crime prevention through environmental design - CEPTED – examples used were City of Sydney and howthey address alcohol fuelled

violence, Aged care for the homeless, Central Park which models CEPTED and incorporated historic building and cultural influences Cultural Planning –

o importance of community engagement when planning public places/spaces eg public art, theatres, community centres, librariesetc

Inter departmental working in Councilo Ensuring community engagemento Input across departments when designing or processing


Riverina Regional

YOUTH

Mental Health FORUM

REPORT

Wednesday May 7

Leeton Roxy Theatre

CLAUSE 06


Youth Mental Health Forum 2014

1

Overview

The 2014 Annual Youth Mental Health Forum brought together student representatives from

high schools across our region and connected them to local youth and mental health service

providers and presenters enabling an exchange of information, experience and ideas. The

day was both practical and engaging, delivering an open domain for peer discussion

concerning youth mental health. A steering committee made up of local service providers

with an invested interest in youth coordinated the Forum. This year Batyr were appointed

facilitators for the event’s activities.

Batyr provided and appointed two guest speakers - Dom Greenwood and Carli Freiberg. Both

speakers presented on their personal stories and shared their experiences with mental

health.

The primary goal for the day was to reduce the stigma associated with Mental Health issues.

Students developed an action plan of how the well-being of all students within their school

can be improved.

Student Surveys

80 students from various High Schools in our Riverina region (Table 1) attended the event

with 70 surveys being completed.

Table 1: Attendance by School

School No. Students Attended Percentage (%)

Ardlethan Central School 4 5

Barellan Central School 6 7

Balranald Central School 8 10

Griffith High School 6 7

Lake Cargelligo Central School 7 9

Leeton High School 10 13

Marian Catholic College 12 15

St Francis De Sales Leeton 11 14

West Wyalong High School 9 11

Yanco Agricultural High School 7 9

Total 80 100

Although in comparison to the 2013 Youth Mental Health Forum there was unfortunately a

decrease of student attendance by 18%. Despite liaising with local schools and the

Department of Education and Communities, the timing of the forum did not correlate well

with the school calendar.



2

Section one of the survey asked students to circle five words that they considered to

describe their experience at the Youth Forum. A word frequency cloud was created to

indicate the most frequently used words selected Figure 1 demonstrates the most common

words chosen by the students. See below Figure 1.

Figure 1: The most common responses in section 1 of the 2014 Youth Mental Health Forum

survey

The top five words indicated by students include:

1. Motivating

2. Eye Opening

3. Fun

4. Inspiring

5. Empowering

Students were asked to provide a written response for the following question - ‘What was

the main message you learned from today’s forum?’ In order to determine the most

common response the Word Cloud Frequency tool was used. Word Cloud Frequency

increases the size of the word depending on its frequency.

Figure 2: Main message learned from the Youth Mental Health forum



3

Figure 2 clearly demonstrates that the majority of responses included the words help, health,

talk, listen and need.

Below is a short list of responses from the students. Students and school names have been

kept anonymous for privacy.

‘It is okay to not be okay’

‘There is always going to be someone there to help and listen’

‘There are a lot of people who can help you.’

‘You don’t need to suffer in silence’

‘It is okay to have a mental illness’

‘Speak out, don’t be afraid’

‘Everyone has a story, everyone wants to be listened to’

‘Never give up on anyone, always offer your support and simply ask ‘are you okay?’

‘Mental health is just as important as physical health’

Out of the total 70 responses 41 students stated they knew who to contact prior to the Youth

Mental Health Forum, 27 answered no and 1 was unsure.

Figure 3 illustrates who students indicated they would contact prior to the Youth Forum. It can

be noted that ‘Counsellor’ was the most prominent response.

Figure 3: Services students knew about prior to the Youth Mental Health Forum

Students who responded no or unsure were then asked to state if they knew who to contact

after attending the Youth Mental Health Forum and 100% of those students stated yes.

Figure 4 demonstrates who students have now identified as contacts if they or someone they

knew were suffering from a mental illness. Again, the most prominent contact is the

counsellor. This response assists in concluding that all students who have attended the

forum are now fully aware of who they are able to contact.



4

Figure 4: Who students will contact after attending the Youth Mental Health Forum

In order to determine what session students found most beneficial, participants of the

survey were asked which session they found most helpful and which they found least. The

findings are demonstrated below in table 2.

Table 2: Student Survey Results

Session Most Helpful Least Helpful Totals

Guest Speakers – Personal Story 47 2 49

Question & Answer panel 12 4 16

Colourful Wall Activity 1 53 54

Sticking it to Stigma Activity 10 3 13

No Comment 0 8 8

According to Table 2, 67% of students indicated that the session they found most helpful was

the ‘Guest Speaker-Personal Story’. 75% of students indicated that the ‘Colourful Wall

Activity’ (see appendix 1) was the least helpful session. It should be noted that 8 students

chose not to respond which could be due to them indicating that all sessions were helpful in

some way. Many students provided written responses requesting more activities and student

networking.

Figure 5 Most helpful session

67%

17%

2% 14%

Most helpful session

Guest Speakers - Personal Story

Q & A Panel

Colourful Wall Activity

Sticking it to Stigma Activity



5

As part of the survey participants were also asked to respond to an attitudinal statement

where respondents could strongly agree, agree, not sure, disagree, or strongly disagree. The

survey asked whether the participant felt youth forums were an effective way to inspire

young people to speak more openly about mental health. Figure 6 illustrates that 72% of the

respondents strongly agreed that Youth Forums were in fact effective initiatives. No

respondents provided a negative response, with 27% stating they agreed and only 1% stated

they were not sure.

Figure 6: Student responses towards the effectiveness of Youth Forums

In order to develop the Youth Forum for next time, participants of the survey were asked

several questions to provide ideas on how it could be improved.

Firstly students were asked how it could be improved. Responses were very similar and were

able to be divided into several categories.

The following is a list of the categories including an example of the responses provided by

participants:

Interactive – ‘More activities’, ‘Group interactions with other schools and mix everyone up’

Q and A panel – ‘Shorter q and a session’, ‘more questions from the box’

Guest Speakers – ‘More guest speakers’, ‘more personal stories

Schools – ‘More interaction between participants’, ‘More people’

Forum – ‘It doesn’t need to be improved’, ‘Raise more awareness, make it on a larger scale’

Mental Health topics – ‘Activities that show what it is like to have a mental illness’

Venue – ‘Distance’, ‘warmer facility’

60%

36%

4%

Strongly Agree

Agree

Not Sure



6

Participants were then asked if there was anything else they would like to know about mental

health that was not covered during the Youth Forum. The following is a summary of their

suggestions:

More drastic statistics

More detailed insight into depression – how do people survive in a situation where people

know they are suffering but are still pressuring them

Difference between mental illness and autism

Role playing scenarios to assist with how to talk to a friend that needs help

Self harm and suicide help

Effects on people who are living with people that are suffering from a mental illness

An overview of how schools can address the issue

In Session 2 of the program Batyr facilitated a colourful wall activity, much similar to the ‘Walk

about Wall’ activity implemented in previous years. Students were asked to write on post it

notes what they learnt during the day. The following are some examples of student

responses:

Your mental health problem is a part of your identity, but don’t let it define you

Don’t ever be afraid to talk to someone

Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem

If you had a broken bone you wouldn’t let it slide. Mental health is just as serious so don’t

let it slide either.

There’s someone else going through the exact same thing

I can overcome my anxieties

Help is never far away

Look, listen , talk and seek help

Responses were similar and demonstrated that the students were inspired to make a

difference and encourage change.

Figure 7 Most common words students used to describe their learning’s at the Forum



7

School Staff and Organisers Surveys

43 school staff and organisers attended the Forum. From this total there were only 8 surveys

completed. A low return rate was expected due to a number of the attendees being members

of the steering committee and organisation of the day. 7 surveys received were completed by

teacher or school staff which is the ideal target audience in gaining critical feedback.

As part of the survey participants were asked to respond to a series of attitudinal statements

on a 5 point likert scale, where 1 = negative, 3 = neutral, and 5 = positive. (Figure 8)

Figure 8: School Staff and Organisers Rate Their Experience

From Figure 8 it can be noted that respondents rated all the aspects of the Forum questioned

in the survey between neutral to positive. It also suggests that more communication between

the organisers and schools needs to be implemented and the timing of the Forum should be

re-assessed. Analysing the data further, from Figure 9 we can determine that overall 71% of

respondents rated the forum as positive.

Figure 9: Total comparison of school staff and organisers feedback

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Nu

mb

er

School staff and organisers rate their experience

1 = Negative

2

3 = Neutral

4

5 = Positive

72%

27%

1%

Positive

Neutral



8

School staff and organisers were asked to provide written responses to a series of questions.

Participants were asked how any negative aspects could be improved and the following are

some responses provided by participants:

‘More contact between schools and organisers’

‘Very far Balranald’

‘Term 2 is very busy! Maybe end of Term 1’

‘More students have access to days like this’

As part of the Youth Mental Health Forum initiative, students are encouraged to develop action

plans which they can implement in their schools. In order to support the schools and students,

school staff and organisers were asked to provide ideas on how it could be done. The following

is a summary of their responses.

Provide resources such as statistics

Provide information packs to the schools

Liaise closely with the Schools

Develop a competition

Invite staff contacts to a meeting

Participants also provided suggestions on how the Youth Forum could become a sustainable

initiative. The following are their recommendations for the steering committee to consider:

Charge students or schools a small fee.

Community fundraising, business sponsorship.



9

Appendix 1

Colourful wall activity – what students learned from attending the forum

Continued on the next page



10

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

AGENDA ~ COMMUNITIES COMMITTEE ~ 15 JULY 2014 ~


11

Appendix 2

The Irrigator – 13 May 2014


1 Attachment

Jenny

I have been so busy that I am not sure if I have previously provided you with a copy of the Griffith LALC –Frogs Hollow Land Claim number 17093.The Aboriginal community have identified this area of land which is bordered by Noorla Street and Dickson Road as crucial for the development of their much needed Aboriginal Elders Accommodation facility.

Could I please have the Land Claim included on the Agenda for discussion and hopefully support at the next Communities Committee meeting.

Regards

Robert CarrollChief Executive OfficerGriffith Local Aboriginal Land CouncilPh: 02 69 626711Fax: 02 69641477Mob: 0407965009

From: Jenny O'Donnell [mailto:Jenny.O'[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, 3 July 2014 5:33 PMTo: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; Neil Southorn; Peta Dummett; Roger Penrith; Councillors Diary; Mayor; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]: Leanne Austin; Marisa Martinello; Wendy KrzusSubject: Call for Agenda Items

Hi All

The Agenda for the Communities Committee will be compiled on Tuesday 8 July. If you have any agenda items or updates (i.e. ALO update) please advise or send through report (any format) before then. Thank you.

Kind regards

Jenny O’Donnell

RE: Call for Agenda ItemsRobert Carroll \(Acting CEO\) to:'Jenny O'Donnell'04/07/2014 10:12 AMHide Details From: "Robert Carroll \(Acting CEO\)" <[email protected]>To: "'Jenny O'Donnell'" <Jenny.O'[email protected]>,

Frogs Hollow - Land Claim.pdf

Page 1 of 2

8/07/2014file:///C:/Users/jennyod/AppData/Local/Temp/notes51E25C/~web0509.htm

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Printed By: Stan PenrithDate Printed: 02/02/2009Land NSW Office: GRIFFITH

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_________________________________________________________________________________ - Communities Management Committee - 15 July 2014 - Page 1

GRIFFITH CITY COUNCILREPORT

SUBJECT: ABORIGINAL LIAISON OFFICER UPDATE FROM: Roger Penrith, Aboriginal Liaison Officer

SUMMARY

The following report is an update of activities from Council's Aboriginal Liaison Officer, Roger Penrith.

RECOMMENDATION

The Committee note the report.

BACKGROUND

Aboriginal Liaison Officer Griffith City Council April –May-Jun Update

24th

April – A Youth Activities Day at Dave Park Pioneer was organised by YOTS/Campbell Paige/Council. Activities include Face Painting, Wool Bombing, Making Loob Bands, Basketball, touch football and Tandem Tennis. There were drinks and BBQ that were free also.

25th

April ANZAC Day – Helped in planning for the wreath lying to honour the Aboriginal Solders on behalf of the Griffith Aboriginal Community.

29th

April – CWP meeting with Presentation by Margaret Sutherland from ICAC

1st

May – PTAG Meeting – Safety Audit needed for Pioneer, Paving Project now completed with left over pavers that could be used on a vacant space near the back step area.

Meeting with Steven Collins from the GAMS re: Family History Information Day that will be held on 27-28

th

May at the West End Stadium.

5th

May – Intereach 40th

Year Celebrations

6th

May – Youth Interagency meeting-various stakeholder were in attendance

7th

May- Catch up meeting with Aboriginal Staff to discuss training and how the course was progressing.

13th

May – Meeting with Aboriginal Lands Council, CEO Robert Carroll Re: Aboriginal Lands Council Clean-up Project and inspection on the Property Wirrumbira?

CLAUSE 08


_________________________________________________________________________________ - Communities Management Committee - 15 July 2014 - Page 2

15th

May – Working with Steve Forbes-Taber from TAFE Wagga and meeting has been set for the 27

th

May to discuss the Pre-Employment Program that was done in Wagga. This lead to a number of Aboriginal people enrolled with TAFE to undertake a 4wks General Building & Construction course. This lead to a number of employment outcomes on the Stage 2 to the Wagga Base Redevelopment and in other areas.

20th

May – Pre Employment Meeting with TAFE Re: Private Hospital and Indigenous Employment Outcomes.

21 May – Attended a Riverina Local Lands Service Capacity Building Workshop

26 May – Attended CWP meeting and provided a update to the members and went through the Agenda

27 & 28 May – Family History Day at West End Oval

28 May – Griffith Services Expo at the Central Shopping Centre

30 May – Attended the National No Tobacco Day at Yawarra Park Three Ways

3 June – Attended the Sureway Business Breakfast & Youth Interagency Held on this day

5 June – Meet with Kristy Warr from Summit to share information on Aboriginal Employment outcomes at council. Neil Barber from Unitedcare to discuss funding opportunities

10 June – Aboriginal Solders Committee

11 June – Mentoring of Aboriginal Staff

16 June Organise and promote the Griffith Aboriginal Bicycle Program

19

June Mentoring of Aboriginal Staff

21 June – Attended the Aboriginal Bicycle Program held at Olympic Park Griffith and 15 people attended.

24 June CWP meeting and council update to members

25 June School Visit to Pioneer Park – Welcome to Country for Elder

26 June attended the Dramatic Minds Festival

27 June – Work on getting last of the Invoices for the Aboriginal Lands Clean Up Grant.

July 7-11 NAIDOC Week Activities.


ACTION REPORT – 15 JULY 2014

COMMUNITIES COMMITTEE

Action Report – Communities Management Committee – Review and Update – 15 July 2014 Page 1

Date of Meeting Agenda Item Action Action Officer Date Comment

18 June 2013 Community Development Road Map 2013

Peta Dummett to send out info via email and Committee to give feedback at the next meeting.

Peta Dummett 12/08/2013 Road Map emailed and awaiting comment.

20/08/2013 This item to be listed on the next Agenda (24/9) for discussion.

24/09/2013 Item discussed. Request for Committee to give further feedback.

17/12/2013 RECOMMENDED on the motion of Jenna Thomas and Sue Delves that the Griffith City Council Community Road Map be endorsed and a six month status report on community strategies and KPI's being reviewed. (June Review)

18/02/2014 KPI’s to be reviewed in June

16 April 2013 Review of Community Assistance Programs

A copy of all current Policies be emailed to the Committee.

Peta Dummett 11/06/2013 Policies emailed to Committee members

20/08/2013 Guidelines for funding applications need to be amended. Priority item for the next meeting: (24/09) Community Donations Scheme Criteria.

CLAUSE 10





Date of Meeting Agenda Item Action Action Officer Date Comment

24/09/2013 Selection criteria reviewed and amended. Awareness campaign be undertaken to promote criteria.

18/02/2014 Ms Tabrett undertaking review of the Community Assistance Funding program including policies relating to any financial assistance given by Council.

16 April 2013 Community Volunteering Update

Council investigate opportunities of Work Development Orders with Summit Employment & Training.

Roger Penrith

24/05/2013 Meeting with Danny, Roger & Margaret on 24 May at Summit. Detail on the WDO program obtained.

17/12/2013 No further Action at this stage.

18 Feb 2014 Community Services and Equipment (Road Map)

Promotion of Council’s community services and equipment for hire

Peta Dummett 18/02/2014 Ms Dummett advised that a media release about home security and free loan of engravers was done prior to Xmas. PCYC has the sports van. Promotion to be followed up.

18 Feb 2014 Youth Engagement Strategy Meeting to be set up with Principals of Wade and Griffith High Schools regarding Education Foundation Project

Peta Dummett 13/04/2014 Update: Ms Dummett has spoken to Principals but a suitable date is yet to be _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

AGENDA ~ COMMUNITIES COMMITTEE ~ 15 JULY 2014 ~




Date of Meeting Agenda Item Action Action Officer Date Comment and future youth engagement strategies confirmed (busy).

15/04/2014 Update: Awaiting new appointment of WHS principal and then a suitable date to be confirmed.

18 Feb 2014 Community Opinion Group Technical and communications issue with COG – Request for what information has been sent out.

Neil Southorn 13/03/2014 Update: Mr Southorn to give a verbal update at 18 March meeting. 15/04/14: Update, issues have been addressed and Ms Thomas advised that she had been receiving communications via COG.

15 Apr 2014 Request for List of Council’s Projects

Ms Thomas requested that a list of Council's current projects being undertaken that requires community consultation or input be provided to the Communities Committee.

Neil S/Peta D


communities committee meeting of griffith city council to be

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