Cape York

JUNE 2013NewsA Cape York Welfare Reform initiative

A U r U k U N C o E N H o p E VA l E M o s s M A N G o r G E

Cape York News

Home Ownership finally arrives at Mossman GorgeThe residents at Mossman Gorge are soon to become home owners at last. Mossman Gorge upgrades are now set to go ahead, surveying and subdivision will commence in the near future which will allow for the Cairns Regional Council (CRC) to take over normal municipal services.

With Bamanga Bubu Ngadimunku Inc (BBNI) and the Queensland Government signing a land and housing reform package, the local people can now buy their houses.

The community, through BBNI, will always own the land. Home owners will be issued 99 year leases just like in Canberra. The land at Mossman Gorge can never be sold or lost.

The Cape York Regional Organisations (CYI, Balkanu, CYLC, CYP) provided lots of support to BBNI. The BBNI Board of Directors gave special thanks to their ‘colleagues’, Stuart Downs (Balkanu) and Shannon Burns (CYLC):

“They played a big role in helping us understand the process, supporting the Board and ensuring that the Mossman Gorge community got the best deal.”

Commonwealth funding of $1.5m through the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA) Kick Start home ownership initiative has been allocated to be spent on infrastructure and subdivision within Mossman Gorge. This funding will be spent to upgrade essential community infrastructure to allow CRC to take over the responsibility for Municipal Service Delivery, and to survey and subdivide land in

the community to allow for home ownership opportunity. The Cairns Regional Operations Centre (FaHCSIA) has worked in partnership with BBNI, Mossman Gorge, Cape York organisations, the State Government and CRC since 2010 to develop and finalise this investment and arrangement.

It is hoped that this progress at Mossman Gorge can be brought to other remote Indigenous towns in Cape York, Queensland and Australia.

Cape York Regional Organisations will continue to work with BBNI to help develop home ownership policies and procedures. Aspiring home owners can now express their interest with BBNI and commence discussions about home ownership arrangements so that people are ready to act as soon as land reforms have been completed.

“Through welfare reform we could make our voice heard through the negotiations through the years. We have been in a unique position to negotiate because of welfare reform.”

“This is a good day. A day to remember.”Karen Gibson, BBNI Chairperson and FRC Commissioner.

pictured: BBNI CEO Peterson Opio and BBNI Chairperson and FRC Commissioner, Karen Gibson and Deputy Director-General, Housing Services at Department of Housing and Public Works, David Eades signed the agreement on behalf of the Queensland Government and BBNI. Also pictured; Stuart Downs, Manager Infrastructure Business Unit, Balkanu and Shannon Burns Policy Officer, Cape York Land Council Aboriginal Corporation.

Cape York News

Cape York parTNerSHIpS SNapSHoTThese fami ly st or ies fr om Aurukun, C oen, Hope Vale and Mossman Gorge

show t hat humble but pr ofound changes are taking place acr oss t he Cape.

Referred by the Family Responsibilities Commission in late 2012, Gertie Koonutta was required to join Strong Families to get her three children back from Child Safety. ‘My children were with Child Safety in Weipa, and I wanted them home with me’, said Gertie. As part of Strong Families, Gertie regularly attends group and one-on-one sessions where she is able to discuss her parenting issues and develop competencies in the sixteen Triple P parenting strategies. ‘Now I have my children back. I walk my girls to school every morning and pick them up every afternoon’, said Gertie. ‘My family is really proud of me. My partner has also signed up to the course. The parenting program has changed our lives—now I’m a great mum and I have my three children home and safe.’ Gertie is on track to complete the program and will graduate during a ceremony in May. Her experience with Strong Families

has been so beneficial to her life, she has signed up for Baby College. ‘I am going to do more parenting training for my baby’, said Gertie. ‘I want to learn as much as I can.’ As part of Baby College, Gertie will develop skills around caring for and bonding with her son, reducing parenting stress, and strengthening her relationship with her partner.Gertie’s experience is not unique: across the four communities, 151 parents, grandparents and family members have committed to positive parenting by joining up for parenting classes under It takes a village to raise a child. Through regular parenting sessions, participants build the knowledge skills and confidence they need to prevent behavioural, emotional and developmental problems in children. Through these sessions, It takes a village to raise a child promotes healthy families by increasing the skills of all parents.

MpoWer“I can create my own wealth.” Elizabeth Olbar has been a member of CYP’s money management program since the beginning.‘It was a program I thought could help me a lot’, said Elizabeth. ‘I have my sister’s children in my care and I need to make sure I have money available to buy the things they need for school. It’s been very helpful for me to set up a Student Education Trust for the children.’Having taken control of her finances, Elizabeth has been able to make plans for her future. ‘I didn’t think I could do it but I’m achieving things in life’, she said. ‘I have a car and I’m saving for a deposit to buy a house. I have a pre-approved loan to buy a block of land and build a house at Hope Valley estate. After that I want to buy a boat. I’m making sure I spend my money the right way.’Mpower supports individuals and families to manage money for basic material needs; builds capabilities through financial literacy and behavior change; and builds assets through saving and disciplined money management. To date, Mpower has helped more than three quarters of the adult population in the four Welfare reform communities take control of their finances. For those like Elizabeth, Mpower has also assisted families to use their finances as a launch pad for other goals, such as home ownership.

As March came to a close we had... • Eighty-one per cent of Aurukun’s adult population signed up to at least one Opportunity

Product and thirty-seven per cent of children with a Student Education Trust. • Ninety-nine per cent of Coen’s adult population signed up to at least one Opportunity

Product and 115 per cent of children with a Student Education Trust. • Fifty-nine per cent of Hope Vale’s adult population signed up to at least one Opportunity

Product and thirty-four per cent of children with a Student Education Trust. • One hundred and seventy-three1 per cent of Mossman Gorge’s adult population signed

up to at least one Opportunity Product and 2771 per cent of children with a Student Education Trust.

1It is possible to have more than one hundred per cent signed up because of limitations in the 2011 Census data.

It takes a village to raise a child “It has changed our lives.”

Cape York News

Pride of Place has given Kim Missionary both the inspiration and the tools to develop her interest in gardening. ‘When I signed up to POP and they told me about the Maintenance Kit, I was so excited’, said Kim. ‘The day I got my mower, I started mowing and I didn’t want to stop. I started at five and didn’t stop until seven.’Having completed her Backyard Blitz, Kim is amazed at the changes POP and her hard work have made.‘My garden was big and bare but I knew it would look good with a bit of work’, she said. ‘Now when I wake up, I go into my garden and I feel really good about all the work that I’ve put in. Next I plan to cover my fence with bamboo mesh, get a few garden gnomes and grow food in a vegetable patch.’Kim’s garden impressed the judges during the Best Garden in the Village Awards last October, and received Best Garden Runner-up.

pride of place is a Cape York partnerships backyard renovation project that supports families to carry out small-scale outdoor improvements to their homes and backyards. By saving money for renovation costs and working together in their backyards Pride of Place families build stronger family ties and family pride as well as beautiful backyards. So far, seventy-three households – nearly fifteen per cent of houses in the four communities – have finished their backyard projects.

PRIDE OF PLACE “I started mowing and I didn’t want to stop.”

Gavin Creek thinks more fathers should sign up to CYP’s parenting program; It takes a village to raise a child.‘It makes a lot of sense’, he said ‘There are things that I didn’t know, and some stuff I already knew. And I get a chance to talk to other parents and practise my parenting skills at home.’Gavin has used his skills to help other family members deal with issues they have in raising their children.‘It’s good knowledge to have’, he said. ‘I can give them advice on what I’ve learnt, especially the younger family members when they have problems with their children.’

Gavin has also opened a Student Education Trust for his son.‘SET is a good thing’, he said. ‘I don’t spend all my money and I don’t have to worry about uniforms and books. If my son wasn’t signed up to SET we would have struggled. It’s a good thing.’Gavin Creek is one of seventeen fathers who attend parenting classes under It takes a village to raise a child. a growing demographic, these men act as role models for other fathers in their village. Through their support, advice and guidance, other men are encouraged to join in, gain new skills and ultimately work together to build stronger families.

STUDeNT eDUCaTIoN TrUST “My family is achieving great things.”Before signing up to Student Education Trust, May Kepple often found it stressful to find money for bills and educational items for her three grandchildren. ‘I signed up to SET to take the stress out of paying for all the school things the kids need’, said May. ‘It is so much easier when the bills come in and I know I have money in SET to pay for things. Now I’m helping my family to achieve great things, like my granddaughter [Kym] going overseas for sport.’ Kym is an avid netballer and will join her school team to compete in a competition in the United Kingdom later in the year. May was able to use the funds in Kym’s education trust to pay the deposit for the trip. Student Education Trust supports parents to meet their children’s education and development needs from birth to graduation. Like May, more than half of the adults in the Welfare reform communities contribute funds to a child’s educational trust. These contributions are leading to real change for the 764 children across the Cape who have a Student education Trust, says Vicki Sparkes, Mossman State School principal. ‘as a result of Student education Trust, children from the Mossman Gorge community are more school ready than they were previously. Those with an education trust now come to school like other mainstream students, with uniforms and the required school supplies. SeT not only allows students to be school ready, but it creates a more positive learning environment. They are happier and enthusiastic about engaging in school-like behaviour because they fit in with the other students.’

It takes a village to raise a child “It’s good for men to learn too.”

Cape York News

CYAAA are holding their second annual Leadership Camp from the 7 – 10 of June, 2013. The Leadership Camp will offer a taste of secondary school life for Year 7 students and give parents important information to help support students in their transition from primary to their chosen secondary school.

CYAAA staff, with the help of trained facilitators, Cape York Partnerships, Cape York Institute, Education Queensland’s Transition Support Services and other partner organisations will help students and their parents become familiar with the types of facilities and routines to expect at boarding school and learn from positive role models about making choices to set themselves up for success.

Students will have the opportunity to meet with current boarding students who have already made the transition from community to a regional secondary school, get to know other Year 7’s from around the Cape and engage in outdoor adventure activities.

Parents will have the opportunity to attend facilitated sessions to provide tools to support their child at boarding school, workshops to plan and manage money matters and the experience of life at a Boarding school campus.

Leadership Camp 2013

In early May, two classes at Hope Vale campus celebrated huge achievements within their classes. Miss Compton’s class all moved up a grade level in reading and language which means the majority of the students in her class are at grade level or now above grade level.

Miss White’s class has also finished their reading program and also all moved up a whole grade level. The test to get into the new reading program is extremely difficult and Miss White’s class is the first class in CYAAA to make the jump without having to do a transition program, which is a huge achievement!

Both classes had a celebration of their successes with parents and the students loved having the chance to show off their new reading and language skills.

Hope Vale’s Star Classes

It’s been a busy semester for CYAAA students during Term 2! A big thank you to students who took part in the recent national literacy and numeracy testing (NAPLAN) and everyone – teachers, parents, principals – involved in assisting them. In other testing, our Term 1 testing benchmark has been calculated. This was our best coverage for benchmark testing yet, with an average participation rate of over 90% in all tests. Extra special mention to Ms Naomi Gibb, Ms Kiriana White and the campus testing teams for raising the bar with this outstanding result!

This term we also farewell with a heartfelt thank you to our collegue and close friend, Ms Claudia McKnight, from the National Institute of Direct Instruction who leaves us happily to retire. Her expertise is invaluable as it is cheery and we’re all touched to have worked with her – we bid her a lovely retirement and look forward to keeping contact well into the future. Kris Althoff returns next term as Hope Vale’s new Implementation Manager and will be visiting our other campuses as well.

The CYaaa Culture program has been

announced as a 2013 Queensland

reconciliation awards finalist in the

education category!

overview

STOP PRESS!

Cape York News

CLAss REPORt

Miss White’s Class at Hope ValeMiss White’s class has had a BIG term so far! We have been adopted by Cape York Partnerships’ MPower and are proud to be sharing what we do in class with them every week! We have been working hard in culture to create art pieces and artefacts to display in this terms art exhibition – this includes making clay models, jewellery, paintings and carvings. We have worked really hard and finished a whole reading program this term. We have also celebrated being class of the week and being the class with the best average attendance. We love getting visits from our parents and families because we are very proud of all the hard work we have been putting into our education this term.

CLAss REPORt

Miss Grace’s class at Aurukun This term our class is working hard to improve the presentation of our work. Every day we complete our writing lesson on lined paper to practice the shapes and sizes of letters. Our work samples from other lessons are now starting to show big improvements and we know that our hard work is paying off. Our hand writing is so neat and we take great pride in the beautiful work that we produce.

Birthday Club has launched in aurukun and Hope Vale!This term class sponsors, teachers, students and parents have joined together in Aurukun and Hope Vale to celebrate students’ birthdays. Class birthday parties and award presentations have made Fridays an exciting day at school as well as a great chance for families to meet their child’s teacher and class sponsor.

Please come along and join in the fun at 1.15pm on Fridays and celebrate with us!

A big thank you to all parents, teachers and the class sponsors PCYC, Queensland Health Clinic, the Local Program Office, Apunipima Cape York Health Council, Cape York Partnerships’ Parenting Group, RAATSICC, Wellbeing Centre, Hope Vale Supermarket Island & Cape York Partnerships’ Opportunity Hub and the Family Responsibilities Commission for helping make Birthday Club a great day to be at school.

Cape York News

Background to Cape York Welfare Reform Before CYWR started in 2008 you may recall leaders from your community and government representatives speaking about the CYWR in Aurukun, Hope Vale, Coen and Mossman Gorge.

CYWr has four aims:

1. Restore positive social norms

2. Re-establish local Indigenous authority

3. Move people away from welfare passivity

4. Move individuals and families from welfare housing to home ownership

CYWR combines resources under four streams: Social Responsibility, Education, Economic Opportunity and Housing to support these aims. You may be aware of these services and activities in your community which are shown in the table below.

Social responsibility • Family Responsibilities Commission (FRC) • Support services – including Wellbeing Centres,

Parenting Programs, Ending Family Violence • Conditional Income Management • Mpower

education • Cape York Aboriginal Australian Academy (CYAAA) • Multilit (which went before CYAAA) • Attendance Case Management Framework (now known

as Student Case Management) • Student Education Trusts (SETs)

economic opportunity • Business Precincts • Mentoring and up skilling • Conversion of CDEP jobs into real full-time jobs • Mobility

Housing • Mainstream tenancy • Pride of Place (PoP) • Home ownership

Evaluations of Wellbeing Centres and CYAAA are being conducted separately.

CAPE YORk WELFARE REFORM EvALuAtIOnCape York Welfare Reform - Facts from the Independent Evaluation

What is this document about?This document is to let you know about some of the results from the recent evaluation of Cape York Welfare Reform which your community was involved in. Firstly, the Australian Government would like to thank you and all community members who contributed to this evaluation by talking to researchers about their experiences living and/or working with Cape York Welfare Reform (CYWR), including community leaders, service providers, FRC Commissioners and staff, and especially the many people who participated in the Social Change Survey.

INDIGeNoUS aUTHorITY

Most community members and other stakeholders believe that the FRC has strengthened leadership, particularly through the Local Commissioners’ listening, guiding and supporting role. One community member expressed this as “A lot of the elders are stepping up and being confident”. The CYWR Evaluation Report noted that the FRC conferencing process is similar to traditional Aboriginal dispute resolution practices and that a successful feature of the trial has been the rebuilding of Indigenous authority to tackle antisocial behaviour through the local FRC Commissioners.

The evaluation report found that the foundations for CYWR have been established, which have helped to bring about behaviour change. However, this success relates more to the streams of Social Responsibility and Education than it does to Housing and Economic Opportunity.

sOCIAL REsPOnsIbILItY

CYWR has had an impact in encouraging and assisting community members to better meet the needs of their children and families. One community member said “We are making a better place for our children to live in and to grow up in so they can be proud of their community.” Community members feel that people are generally taking more responsibility for their families and children and trying to be better parents. This was highlighted by one community member who said “everyone is starting to see what happens in the community as their responsibility.”

WHaT DID THe EvALuAtIOn FInD?The evaluation found some positive changes and shows that progress is being made towards the aims of CYWR in the four communities.

Cape York News

eDUCaTIoN

The evaluation found that there has been a large increase in school attendance in Aurukun and this increase was supported by FRC conferencing and Student Case Management. The three other CYWR communities have maintained relatively high attendance rates.

eCoNoMIC opporTUNITY

While there is a long way to go, employment has risen through the conversion of CDEP positions into 103 properly paid jobs and the creation of 118 new service delivery jobs through the trial itself. CYWR also established the foundations for economic development, through developments such as the Mossman Gorge Centre, and the construction of Business Precincts in Aurukun and Hope Vale.

HoUSING

Some progress has been made in helping individuals and families to take responsibility and pride in their homes. Many residents are contributing more to their homes by paying normal public housing rent. Some residents are taking advantage of an opportunity to improve their home through the Pride of Place program, which provides funding for home improvements conditional on the householder demonstrating commitment and responsibility by contributing their own time and money. Home Ownership was identified by community members in the evaluation as a key area still to be addressed.

thE sOCIAL ChAngE suRvEY

The Social Change Survey, which included 582 adults (about 35% of adults) from the four CYWR communities, asked people about how things were going since CYWR started in July 2008.

thIs Is WhAt PEOPLE In thE FOuR CYWR CoMMUNITIeS THoUGHT:

• Almost three-quarters of people felt that most people were willing to speak up and get involved (74%).

• There was a high level of respect for community leaders (71%).

• Across the four communities, 69% agreed that if people cannot pay for rent and food because they spend their money on other things, then they should be put on the BasicsCard.

• The majority of people felt there was strong leadership in their community (68%).

• Many thought people worked together to fix their problems (67%).

• Many people have experienced change and see change happening in their communities.

• Almost two-thirds of people felt that children were eating healthier food. Half felt that kids are happier than they were three years ago (54%) and that kids were more active (50%).

• The majority of people were supportive of the FRC. • Nearly all those who participated in the Social Change

Survey considered themselves motivated to make their life better for themselves and their family (91%) and their community (82%).

• Half of those not working (56%) felt that they would be willing to leave the community if they were offered a good job.

• Approximately two-thirds also agreed that governments already do enough, so people should do more to help themselves (69%), and felt that families look after their old people (69%).

The Social Change Survey also found that inter-clan rivalry, competition and tension can reduce the community’s capacity to work together to fix problems, as expressed by one person in the following way; “When we are working together as one, then we will be [in a] strong place.” Another community member observed that “Welfare reform is working for people who want to make it work”.More results of the Social Change Survey can be found at the website below.

THINGS To THINk aBoUTThe evaluation found that despite the establishment of new services in the four communities, stronger leadership, and more people taking good care of their children and families, there are challenges that will take longer to overcome. Challenges that still remain in the communities include:

• increasing employment and home ownership opportunities • assisting particular groups in the communities, including young people who are no longer engaged in education • providing more intensive alcohol and other drugs treatment and services The Australian Government is considering the evaluation findings and is talking to the Queensland Government, the Family Responsibilities Commission and the Cape York regional organisations to develop a shared view on the next steps.

FInDIng Out MORE AbOut thE EvALuAtIOnThe full CYWR Evaluation Report can be found at the following website address: www.fahcsia.gov.au/our-responsibilities/indigenous-australians/publications-articles/evaluation-research/cape-york-welfare-reform-cywr-evaluation-report.

You can also talk to your Government Engagement and Coordination Officer or Indigenous Engagement Officer.

Cape York News

Recently the Family Responsibilities Commission held a development week in Cairns for all the Local Commissioners. The week involved enhancing professional skills and expanding their understanding of and relationships with other Indigenous organisations, government departments and support agencies.

The highlight of the week was a visit by Noel Pearson. Mr Pearson spoke of the wonderful achievements of Cape York Welfare Reform and the ongoing challenges. He thanked each Local Commissioner for their dedication to their communities, acknowledged the impact their role has had on each of their lives and spoke of his admiration for their continued leadership. Mr Pearson said he was immensely proud of what each of them had achieved and that each of them individually had been responsible for the betterment of their communities.

Other highlights of the week involved a visit to the Cape York AFL Boarding House to see where Indigenous students live in a small, personalised residential house’ while attending day schools and colleges in Cairns. The more family friendly atmosphere assists students to adjust to being away from home and the many demands placed on them living and studying away from home. Students are

case-managed and culturally supported. Local commissioners were excited to see that the students are well looked after and supported to succeed.

A guided tour of the Cairns Botanical Gardens included information on historical Aboriginal rainforest plants known to be used for tools and weapons, food, medicine and construction. Local Commissioners exchanged information with the guides on which plants they use for dying and weaving baskets and for making of grass skirts.

The Gindaja Treatment and Healing Indigenous Corporation invited the group to visit their accommodation catering for both men and women with drug and alcohol related problems on a residential or daily basis. Discussions were held around the holistic approach offered at the Centre to treat recovering substance abuse individuals and the ongoing support offered during their rehabilitation.

Queensland Police Detectives and James Cook University (JCU) Associate Professor Alan Clough of the Community-based Health Promotion and Prevention Studies Group, presented on the Cape York Cannabis Project, an initiative between the communities and Queensland Police Service to target the problems directly related to substance abuse. Dr Ernest Hunter, a psychiatrist and public

health doctor who has been working in Indigenous communities for 30 years talked of his research on alcohol and its effects upon Aboriginal populations.

The Mossman Gorge Local Commissioners proudly hosted a visit to Mossman Gorge and the eco-tourism development of the Mossman Gorge Gateway Centre. The Centre serves as the entry to the Mossman Gorge World Heritage site. The Centre displays authentic Aboriginal artifacts and provides a realistic Kuku Yalangi cultural experience with rainforest tours and local Aboriginal artistry. The group was welcomed with a smoking ceremony. FRC staff and Local Commissioners were also guided through Mossman Gorge community to view horticultural and artistic initiatives based on the culture of the Kuku Yalangi people.

Finally the Local Commissioners were invited to tour JCU. Commissioners were advised that in excess of 400 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students are currently studying in Townsville, Cairns and study centres in Mackay, Mount Isa and Thursday Island. Indigenous students are provided with mentoring to assist with their studies and university life. We hope to see this figure continue to rise as more and more Indigenous people choose to study at university.

LOCAL COMMIssIOnERs COME tOgEthER FOR DEvELOPMEnt WEEk

Cape York News

Guugu Yimidhirr revitalisation continues

5

Yirrgii Guugu Yimidhirrbi Lesson 21

Presentation Book 3

2

For the following exercise Family Poster 1 will be required.

Exercise 2 kinship noun, alienable possession

biiba ngamu

a. Ngayu nhila. (Point to Wesley on the poster.) Nhangu gadil

Wesley.

Nhangu gadil nganaa?

(Tap 3.) Nhangu gadil Wesley.

Repeat step a. until firm.

b. Yurra nhila. (Point to biiba.) Bandila biiba. (Tap.) Biiba.

ngamu.) Bandila ngamu. (Tap.) Ngamu.

Ngayu nhila. (Point to Robert on the poster.) Nhangu gadil

Robert. Nhulu Wesleywi biiba.

Yurra nhila. (Point to Robert on the poster.) Yurra bandila:

Nhangu gadil Robert. (Tap 3.) Nhangu gadil Robert.

Bandila: Nhulu Wesleywi

biiba. (Tap 3.) Nhulu Wesleywi biiba.

Repeat step b. until firm.

c. Ngayu nhila. (Point to Cheryl on the poster.) Nhangu gadil

Cheryl. Nhulu Wesleywi ngamu.

Yurra nhila. (Point to Cheryl on the poster.) Yurra bandila:

Nhangu gadil Cheryl. (Tap 3.) Nhangu gadil Cheryl.

Bandila: Nhulu Wesleywi

ngamu. (Tap 3.) Nhulu Wesleywi ngamu.

Repeat step c. until firm.

d. Yurra nhila. Bandila Robert nguba Cheryl. (Point to Wesley

on the poster.) Nhanu ngamu wanhu? (Tap.) Cheryl.

Nhanu biiba wanhu? (Tap.)

Robert.

Repeat step d. until firm.

e. Ngayu nhila. (Point to Robert on the poster.) Nhulu

Wesleywi biiba. (Point to Cheryl on the poster.) Nhulu

Wesleywi ngamu.

Gurraaygu. Ngadhundhirr nhila. (Point to Robert on the

poster.) (Tap 3.) Nhulu Wesleywi biiba. (Point to Cheryl on

the poster.) (Tap 3.) Nhulu Wesleywi ngamu.

Gurraaygu. Yurra nhila. (Point to Wesley on the poster.)

(Tap 2.) Nhulu Wesley. (Point to Robert on the poster.)

(Tap 3.) Nhulu Wesleywi biiba. (Point to Cheryl on the

poster.) (Tap 3.) Nhulu Wesleywi ngamu.

Repeat step e. until firm.

f. <Students name>, nhundu wulbu bandila. Nhanu biiba

wanhu? (Tap 3.) Ngadhu biiba <name of student’s father>.

Nhanu ngamu wanhu? (Tap 3.) Ngadhu ngamu <name of

student’s mother>.

Repeat step f. with several students.

In the Hope Vale school, students continue their work to revitalise their ancestral tongue Guugu Yimidhirr. Language teacher Lillian Bowen impresses all visitors with her delivery of Direct Instruction-style Guugu Yimidhirr lessons. Veteran Cape York educator Don Anderson says that Lillian’s teaching is among the best he has seen. Richie Ah Mat and Noel Pearson wholeheartedly agree after having witnessed the students’ enthusiasm in Lillian’s classroom.

Parents and extended family members in Hope Vale have often asked whether students are only learning single words or whole sentences. Slowly building up students understanding of Guugu Yimidhirr grammar has been the purpose of the teaching since lesson one. Using the third lesson book delivered by CYI to CYAAA, Lillian Bowen has begun teaching longer sentences with grammar and endings

on words, such as “Nhulu yarrga mayi budaaral” (the boy is eating the food). Step by step the building-blocks of traditional language are put in place.

Currently a new children’s book – Dharnggan – is being published with words by Irene Hammett and illustrations by Donna Cobus. Dharnggan is a true story from the author’s childhood and it is the first in a series of children’s books to be published in Guugu Yimidhirr.

Language steps continue forward for Coen and aurukun.

In Coen work is being conducted with the Kalan, Lama Lama and Ayapathu rangers in order to develop language teaching materials to be used in the school. Aurukun have recorded some local songs for use in the school and more work is being done in both communities to further develop strong language skills.

The Turtle Dugong Taskforce is made up of over twenty key leaders and hunters from coastal clan groups and land trusts, nominated by their families, land trusts, ranger programs and/or communities to represent the interest of each group. The taskforce meets every two months to develop local and regional strategies and plans to ensure the long-term sustainability and survival of Cape York’s Turtle and Dugong populations. CYI and Balkanu support taskforce members to workshop and prioritise projects and bring in expertise requested by Traditional Owners.

Taskforce members facilitate meetings and workshops on ground with hunters, land trusts and community members to detail actions relevant to local priorities and issues. A broad range of actions have been identified ranging from establishment of hunting permit systems, controlling feral pigs in nesting areas, saving Raine Island (one of the largest Green Turtle nesting sites in the world), developing turtle rescue centers to reinstating traditional authority to manage hunting.

CYI is now working with Balkanu and the task force to develop a funding strategy for the implementation of community Turtle and Dugong Management plans. This fundraising program will seek funding from government, the private business sector and the public to ensure sufficient and diverse funding is raised to support this important issue

Turtle and Dugong Taskforce

Cape York News

My name is Kym Kepple and I am from Coen. I am a year 12 student at the Cathedral School in Townsville. I have been on the Cape York Leaders Academic Secondary Program since grade 8.

Through the Program for Secondary Students, I have been able to achieve many things this year, the highlight of my school life will be when I graduate with a year 12 certificate.

During my time on the scholarship program I have learned how to be a great leader and how important it is to be committed to completing my education.

I have met a lot of great people, including students from other communities who are on the program and we have formed a bond for life.

This year has been the busiest by far with my studies. Another highlight this year was when I was nominated and later elected as Girls Boarding House Captain. My role as Captain is to “lead by example”, and to encourage and support my peers.

I am involved in school sports at Cathedral including netball, touch football and various other activities. After completing year 12, I want to go to university in Brisbane and study nursing so that I can become a midwife and return to my community one day and work as a nurse there.

Kym’s teacher, Catriona McGuire said, “I have taught Kym for the last 3 years as her English teacher. I have watched her grow from a shy young woman to a confident and capable one, both in class and in our school community.” Ms McGuire went on to say, “This week the year 12 English for ESL learners’ class delivered speeches for their assessment. Kym’s speech about violence in communities and in the world, and the effect of violence, and how we all have a part in seeing the end of violence, made me feel so proud of her. Her preparation was careful, and I am proud she chose to speak about something so meaningful for her. With the assistance of Indigenous support here at the School, she edited her work and she delivered it with dignity.”

Cathedral teachers and Indigenous Support Coordinators, Kylie Mitchell and Velma Gara pictured with ALS student Kym Kepple (middle).

Hi my name is Jahmillah Johnson, from Palm Island Townsville. I am a second year Law Student on the Cape York Leaders Program (CYLP), Academic Leaders Tertiary. I am currently studying a Bachelor of Law at James Cook University, Townsville.

During my time on the CYLP, I have gained skills that equip me to achieve my goals, of completing my studies and being successful at University.

I have grown in confidence through education and experience. I have developed life skills and professional skills, by overcoming many obstacles. I am now a strong believer that education is the key to a successful future. Recently, I was elected to the James Cook University, Law Student Society Executive Committee.

My role as the ATSI Student Representative is to engage Indigenous law students in the Law Student Society activities. My role as an executive member involves, attending meetings, helping organise events such as the Law Ball, Mayo lecture, social events and assisting with fund raising events, like the weekly bbq’s.

This role also allows me a voice for my fellow Indigenous law students, as my primary role is to identify any Indigenous relevant issues, and feedback to the Executive Committee.

I am very privileged and excited to be nominated as the ATSI Rep for Indigenous Law students, I am confident and excited about my future in this role and achieving the required outcomes as the representative for all Law students.

Meet Kym Kepple - Academic Leader Secondary

Meet Jahmillah Johnson - Academic Leader Tertiary

Cape York News

Cape Y or k Leaders t hr ough reaching t heir goals, are creat ing a legacy of success for Indigenous people wit hin t heir communit ies and acr oss t he nat ion.

Is your child a keen student doing well in their studies and would benefit from attending one of Queensland’s top boarding schools? If yes, talk to us today by phoning our office.

The Academic Leaders Secondary (ALS) program was developed to enable and assist talented Indigenous Australian students attend Queensland’s leading boarding schools (from grade 8 to year 12), achieve academic excellence through a supported environment to secure a solid future through tertiary education or employment opportunities.

The program offers excellent educational opportunities by strengthening students’ academic grades, social and emotional capabilities, allowing them to go on to prosper within the workforce. Talented Indigenous students living within the Cape York, Palm Island and Yarrabah regions are encouraged to apply.

Through a selection process students are offered scholarships to Queensland’s leading boarding schools and are provided with on-going case management and support networks throughout their education. As an ALS student you can be assured that you have been selected through an independent and open selection process as a young Indigenous person who has the drive, ability and family support to complete year 12.

Academic Leaders Secondary Students will receive a range of benefits, financial assistance for your families to assist with meeting the costs of boarding and tuition as well as other compulsory school fees and excursions. An annual allowance, for

a set of uniforms, pairs of school and sports shoes and books, stationary and educational equipment. Private tutoring can be provided in addition to school tutors to assist with literacy, numeracy and general subjects. Invitations to attend Leaders conferences/camps organised by CYI to assist with your study skills, career planning, motivation and leadership development. Ongoing support from a Student Support Officer and Mentor.

OuR sChOOLs InCLuDE;Brisbane Boys College, ToowongBrisbane Grammar School, Spring HillClayfield College, BrisbaneColumba Catholic College, Charters TowersMarist College, BrisbaneRockhampton Girls Grammar, RockhamptonSt Peter’s Lutheran College, BrisbaneStuartholme, BrisbaneCathedral School of St Anne and St James, Townsville

expressions of Interest are now due for students for 2014.

All applications must be received by 16 August 2013Information Packs and Application Forms available fromCape York Leaders Program website: www.cyi.org.auCape York Institute Phone: (07) 4046 0600Email: irene.barnard@cyi.org.au

RECRUITING NOW Secondary School Scholarships in 2014

Cape York News

If you would like to contribute please contact: Cape York Welfare Reform Program OfficeLevel 3, 139 Grafton Street, Cairns QLD 4870

PO Box 3099, Cairns QLD 4870Phone: (07) 40 460 600 • Fax: (07) 40 460 601 • Email: info@cyi.org.au

On Sunday May 26, crowds gathered at Federation Square in Melbourne to launch the ‘Journey to Recognition’ relay - working towards Constitutional Reform. The event was attended by politicians and Indigenous leaders all in support of constitutional recognition.

Cape York Traditional Owners Harold Ludwick, Gertrude Ygosse, Davis and Timmy McGreen, (pictured) flew down to attend this important event and show their support. Shireen Morris, constitutional reform research fellow, was also there representing CYI.

The relay will take grassroots supporters and political leaders all along the south coast from Melbourne to Adelaide, then up to the Northern Territory, past Uluru, to Nhulunbuy on the Gove peninsula on 9 August for the Garma Festival.

People need to understand why change is needed – what is wrong with the Constitution as it is?

There are two problems in our Constitution that have troubled this nation since 1901.

The first problem is the non-recognition of Indigenous peoples. Since the explicit exclusion of Indigenous peoples was reversed after the 1967 referendum, our Constitution now makes no mention of Indigenous people at all.

The Constitution should recognise the prior and continuing Indigenous presence on this land. It should recognise that our Indigenous history and heritage is an important part of our national identity.

The second problem is ‘race’. Our Constitution still contains racially discriminatory provisions that allow governments to treat Australian citizens differently on the basis of race. These provisions are undemocratic, out-dated and unfair. The Constitution should be reformed so that these discriminatory provisions are removed, and so that every Australian is treated equally before the law, without discrimination on the illegitimate basis of race.

As Noel Pearson wrote in The Australian on the weekend of the relay launch:

“Constitutional reform would be a guarantee of inclusion in the nation, finally, as equal citizens. This is a great, nation-changing opportunity. Australia can lead the world in rising above “race” and racial divides.”CYI supports constitutional reform for recognition and equality before the law. With your support, we are continuing our journey towards this important reform.

Working towards Constitutional Reform