Synod Papers, Section 3

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as" SYNOD

ANGLICAN CHURCH OF AUSTRALIA

DIOCESE OF GIPPSLAND

SECOND SESSION

13 -15 MAY 2011

Drouin, VIC

Section 3Diocesan Organisations - Reports

Issued by the Registrar, Diocese of Gippsland, PO Box 928, Sale Vic 3853

Phone - (03) 5144 2044 Fax - (03) 5144 7183 Email- [email protected]

Website - http://www.gippsanglican.org.au21 April 2011

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.gippsanglican.org.au/

http://www.gippsanglican.org.au/




SECTION THREE

AN(;LICAN DIOCESE OF GIPPSLAND

SECOND SESSION OF THE THIRTY-SIXTH SYNOD

2011

DROUIN, VIC

DIOCESAN ()RGANISA TIONS - REPORTS TO SYNOD

7

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Anam Cara Community

Report to Synod 2011 from Anne Turner (Soul carer)

Sincc my last report to Synod in 2010, there have been significant changes and growth

within the Community.

About the Community, clarifying perceptions

Mission: The Anam Cara Community is a dispersed Christian contemplative community of

prayer and support for the inner journey into God.

Objectives

• The Anam Cara Community will serve God, the Anglican Diocese of Gippsland and

the wider church by:

o Forming a community of individuals (associates) who seck to live thecontemplative life, in all its dimensions;

o Providing resources for individuals, parishes and other groups to support the

inner journey into God;

o Being a community of prayer, worship, the Bible, reflection, discernment,

justice and mutual support.

r .ast year it carne to our attention that there were some misunderstandings about the nature

of the Anam Cara Community. To address this, a definitive statement about the community

was published which the Bishop forwarded to all Rectors and Parish Priests. We have also

recently sent a copy to all parish secretaries for wider parish information. As well as this

publication, an article was written for The Gippsland Anglican, outlining our understandingof ourselves as a contemplative prayer community committed to providing many and varied

ways of making the inward journey, through prayer, study, reflection, silence and stillness.

We draw the inspiration for our journeys from the Bible, the historic tradition, the creeds

and other formularies of the church. Our commitment to the Dioecsan mission statement

and strategy of "making Jesus Christ known here and now through the inward journey and

through the outward journey," remains as a key part of our mission. We are not some "new

age" movement, or only catering for those with a "mystical" bent, but rooted and grounded

in the traditions of the Christian church as well as being open and inclusive in exploring

modern dimensions of faith and spirituality. The Anam Cara Community understands itself

to have a special ministry to those who feel distant from the church, or "on the outside",

and seeks to provide a safe space for everyone to explore the inner journey. We understand

that there will be some who continue to have questions or concerns, and we encourage them

to speak with us in order to learn more about us, and perhaps 'taste' part of our ministry.

A decision was made at the end 01'20 I0 that the leadership team would comprise one soul

carer of the community, gatherers of meeting places and others with specific tasks to be

known as "servant lcadcrs'l.Thcsc leaders continue to meet bi-monthly to pray and work

together for the good ordering of this dispersed community.

We are pleased to have Associate, Archdeacon Heather Marten as our liaison with Senior

Staff, thus keeping all community matters well accountable and keeping the Bishop andSenior Staff well informed.



The Bishop continues to encourage us as a Community. This last year saw the beginning of

a "Meeting Place' in the Diocese of Canberra - Goulburn. Bishop John liaised with Bishop

Stuart Robinson who has enthusiastically embraced the concept of the Community and the

leader the Rev'd Jeannette McHugh. Bishop Stuart sent out information to his clergy and

an article will appear in the Tri-Diocesan newspaper ofCanberra-Goulburn; Riverina and

Bathurst.

We continue to have several lone Associates around the country and one in London. This

frail aged, faithful, lay Christian leader, finds great sustenance, spiritually, for her journey,

through the Community publications and my regular letters. I have been encouraged to

continue writing personal letters to Associates at particular times in their lives and journeys.

Communications

A new brochure for "Seekers" was produced which gives basic information about the

community - we have taken the liberty of providing each of you with a copy of this

brochure, A more detailed publication for all Associates is in production.

Our chief publication "Waterholcs" continues to be edited by our web servant Colin

Thornby who is always looking for, and willing to receive contributions. We aim to have

quarterly newsletters or more.

For those without internet access hard copies are sent of all publications. The Community's

web site (www.anamcara-gippsland.org) continues to bc well used and accessed, often

bringing new Associates from other parts of Australia, and enquiries from across the world.

Ministries

Every month around the different meeting places of the community, including A'Beckett

Park, quiet days were held, led by Associates using their particular gifts. This year's

programme is well underway. These days are open to ALL whether associates or not. All

days are advertised on the website www.anamcara-gippsland.org, in The Gippsland

Anglican, and via email to associates.

As well as quiet days there are a growing number of small groups regularly meeting around

the Diocese exploring different aspects of the inner journey. There are also regular

occasions of contemplative style worship offered in different parishes.

One new group this last year "The Circle of Friends," a soul friendship group of

"differently-abled adults meets weekly in term time in Sale,

As a community we are encouraging of individual parish days set aside for the inner

journey and advertise them on our website along with the Abbey programme. It is good if

we can know of special parish days so that we can support and advertise.

Within the Community we have several trained Spiritual Directors/Companions/Soul

carers, whose expertise and ministry is invaluable for those seeking a companion for their

own journeys of faith. We encourage all Associates and others to have such a trusted

spiritual companion. This ministry is specialised and the Servant Leaders recognise the

2

http://www.anamcara-gippsland.org%2C/

http://www.anamcara-gippsland.org%2C/



need for ongoing support and professional development for those engaged in this ministry.

To this end, May 21 st has been set aside for a day in conversation with Ms Cheryl Russell,

the Director of Professional Standards within the Diocese. The Community also aims to

provide ongoing supervision, support and ministry development for those engaged in the

ministry of spiritual direction

The Anam Cara Community continues to actively support the Abbey of St. Barnabas, and

to this end has committed to leading two retreats this year. Jane Macqueen continues to act

as the liaison servant leader with the Abbey and the Community will provide a "praying

presence" at the Abbey from July 4th -16th. During this time the Dean will lead a quiet day.

The end of year service is now well established in the Diocesan Diary on the Saturday

immediately prior to Advent Sunday. Here we can come together as a Community, as we

are able, to welcome new Associates and commission the servant leaders. This last year

"symbols" of membership were set aside at the service and then distributed to the gathered

Associates. As Associates renew their membership so they receive a symbol of

membership. It was good to have Dean Don preside at the Eucharist and Vicar General

Heather, in the Bishop's absence, to preach and lead our time of thanksgiving and re-

commitment.

All costs are covered by the annual subscriptions, with a nominal contribution by

participants of quiet days. Our treasurer, Kate Campbell, does a great job keeping the books

and we are now in the habit of giving a substantial donation at the end of the financial year

to a chosen "cause." This last year $1000 went to the 11 Seeds of Peace Project" Rwanda

just as the previous year a $1000 had been given to the Abbey of S1. Barnabas at A 'Beckett

Park.

Summary

At its heart the Anam Cara Community is one of deep prayer and as individuals and as a

community we hold the whole chureh in prayer as we continue our particular ministry in

providing opportunities to grow more and more into the image of Christ, our true head. and

servant leader par excellence.

FINANCE RE»()RT from Treasurer Kate Campbell

On the following page is the audited financial statement for the Community for the

financial year ending September 2010.

Administration expenses are kept to a minimum and quiet day income is mostly on par withquiet day expenses.

It has been encouraging to have some associates make personal donations to the Abbey of

St Barnabas through the community, adding to the donation from community funds the

previous financial year.

The donation to the Rwanda "Seeds of Peace" project and offering financial support to the

Circle of Friends group were highlights.

3



ANAM CARA COMMUNITY GIPPSLAND

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

From 1st October 2009 to 30th September 2010

DIOCESE OF GIPPSLAND ADF ACCOUNT 5403150

ANAM CARA COMMUNITY GIPPSLAND Statement of Income and Expenditure

INCOME EXPENDITURE

Balance brought fwd 2,497.26 Worship - organist 80.00

Donations 215.00 Petty Cash Drawings 70.00

Associate Membership 1,240.00 Stationery, Resources, Photocopying 284.09

A'Beckett Donations 125.00 A'Beckett Donations 125.00

Donations 1,214.50

(Seeds of Peace & Circle of Friends)

Trust Interest 89.99 Catering 220.00

Quiet Days 580.00 Quiet Day expenses 561.35

Associate Badges

"Bank" Balance 30.9.10

357.98

1,809.33

$4,747.25 $4,747.25

Balance brt fwd 1.10.09

plus total income

less total expenditure

Closing bank balance

2497.26

2249.99

2937.92

1809.33

4



ANGLICAN WOMEN OF AUSTRALIA

Diocese of Gippsland

REPORTTO SYNOD

May 2010 - May 2011

AWA is an Australian wide organisation. Here in Gippsland we continue the aims of AWA and bring

women together from across the diocese in worship, service and fellowship. Our aim is to deepen

the friendship and connections between women from all parishes big and small. All women are

automatically members of AWA and can attend any meeting organised by the organisation.

Our Executive meetings have been held in Rosedale and in Traralgon. We have two members of the

executive who travel from Bairnsdale and we are attempting to shorten their travel, by meeting

sometimes in Rosedale. Our meeting always begin with worship. Our Chaplain Lyndon Phillips has

been a great support in planning the worship for our meetings.

In May 2010 we held a general meeting in Rosedale. This meeting is an opportunity for people fromacross the diocese to meet and decide which mission projects will be supported through the money

already raised from offertories and trading tables from the Deanery Rallies, memberships and

donations given from parishes across the diocese. We gave $10892 divided between 12 different

Mission projects. Our Mission project for 2010 was the Abbey of St Barnabus.

The AWA retreat was held in June at Pallotti College at Millgrove. Rev Anne Turner led the retreat.

This was a time for all to pause, to spend time in quiet. in prayer and reflection. Rev Anne had spent

many hours preparing the Retreat. Each talk she gave was followed by worship. The booklets we

received are a continuing guide to worship. They are an ongoing resource, bringing to mind the

spiritual road we travel with God.

The Annual Bus Trip was held in October. The bus as always was fully booked.

The trip last October was to Lakes Entrance. Jean Hillsley and Anne Connelly led the Bus Trip, which

was planned by Merrill Johnstone and Pat Cameron. As always it was a time of fun interest and

fellowship.

The annual meeting is also held in October at the Cathedral .in Sale. The day began as always with a

Eucharist, taken by Bishop John. The Annual meeting is held in Delbridge Hall. Our President Jane

Macqueen gave her annual report. At the end of the report she informed everyone that she was

stepping down from the President's posltion. Our faithful mission secretary Ethel Armstrong

resigned and everyone thanks her for her many years of service to AWA. Bishop John spoke to the

meeting about the difficulty of finding people who are able to stand for office in AWA. It was

decided to have a small interim committee and spend next year in seeking support from across the

diocese for a new executive committee. Pat Cameron stood in as interim President, Carolyn

Raymond continued as secretary and Denise Rich as treasurer until after the Deanery Rallies.

Our speaker was Pastor Abraham from the Sudanese Church in Moe. He spoke of his own personal

journey from a boy in war-torn Sudan, where death was an every day event, to Australia He had

brought several of the members of his community and the completed the day by singing hymns for

us. This was a moving experience.

The Deanery Rallies were held early in March. We began in the east of the Diocese at Metung, then

Yarram. Our night meeting was at Newborough. Then we travelled on to Korumburra, and finally at

Bunyip. As always we begin with worship. We then had reports from AWA itself asking for support

for the new executive. We had reports from Mother's Union, and our interim Mission secretary. The

5



new mission project was announced, we will be supporting the establishment of a new library at the

Newton Theological Training college at Rabaul. Our speaker was Beth Hookey from Anglicord. She

informed us of the work of Anglicord through the descriptions of inspiring women who work

tirelessly for those who are so severely disadvantaged. She spoke of Valerie Browning the director of

the Afar Pastoralist Association in Ethiopia, the director of AI Ahli Hospital in Gaza and the leader for

Anglicord of the Karen people in the refugee camps on the Thai-Burma border. She encouraged us

too to step outside our comfort zone as these women do on a daily basis.

We have decided to cancel the Retreat and the Rosedale meeting for this year due to the small

interim executive.

President

Pat Cameron

36 Henry St

Maffra 3860

Secretary

Carolyn Raymond

PO Box 104

Tyers 3844

Oliver RAYMOND

60 Cooloongatta Drive,TYERS,VIC. 3844

AUSTRALIA.

o [email protected]

0411420345

(03) 51 918 343

Int'l 61 351918343

6





David Wilcox

Community Development OfficerApril 2011

SYNOD report 2011

Hi from the top of Mount Tassie (actually I am back in my lounge room now but it

sounded good) and it looks much healthier than it did when I started working as your

Community Development Officer back in August 2009.

Nobody seems too sure how many homes were on this mountain before Black Saturday

because there was so much bush here but as houses are rebuilt you start to get an idea asto how populated this mountain was.

For the past 20 months I have endeavored to stand with the people of Callignee and

surrounding district and have only been able to do so because of the generous support of

you and your people. God has been so good as I have seen many breakthroughs in

people's lives as they rebuild physically and emotionally.

Here is a breakdown of some of what has taken place since the last Synod meeting:

• The "Cup of Tea" team and visits have taken up much of my time. The team

has been reduced over time but visits still happen. These visits open up many

opportunities and are very valuable. Also:

• Many local churches and the Anglican Diocese of Gippsland

have helped by supporting us with material goods and financial

assistance.

• Some visits have given us the opportunity to pray with

individuals which is an awesome privilege.

• I am considering reducing visits to essential people who come

in on referrals, thus using the reduced team to maximum effect.

• This is probably a natural flow on effect that would have

happened over time anyway as people move back into their

more "normal" lives.

• Emergencv food relief support has come from the Anglican Diocese of

Gippsland through financial support, from Enjoy Gippsland (formerly Valley

Christian Centre in Morwell) with hampers from their Helping Hand program,

Vic Relief and from the co-operating churches of Churchill with financial

support. The need for this type of support has almost stopped.

Working ill partnership with

The Anglican Diocese of Gippsland and the Uniting Church ; 1 1 Australia.7



David Wilcox


• Much furniture was needed to fit out sheds and after a call went out through

"The Assent" (Sarah Gover) and I spent many hours travelling throughout

Gippsland collecting from very generous people. Many people were helped

with this.

• My time is mostly consumed by one on one ministrv or with couples.

• Some of these are ongoing from the start of my employment.

• Some are new and have come in over the last few months.

December 2010 was my busiest month ever with some work

needed to be done while on leave. Not the best scenario I know

but I have the people's trust (both on the mountain and

Government) and so decided to go see these people rather than

have them held up with other people on leave. They were

serious issues and know I did the best thing I could at the time.

• I was asked by VBRRA to attend a building seminar that was held in the new

Callignee hall and to be available to talk with anyone that needed it. I talkedwith many people over the afternoon and was asked by others to do follow up

visits to their homes.

• Most issues revolve around mental health and people's fears

and concerns about relationships or rebuilding.

• Many of the issues are also about unresolved grief or anger and

have taken nearly 2 years to come out in the open.

• There are many angry men on the mountain and these are very

time consuming visits ~ some are phone sessions only as this is

a very confronting issue for the men and their families.

• The new Callignee complex has been completed and opened by the local State

member Russell North on Australia Day 2011. It was a great day!

• Some fire affected people have been to our home {or a meal. We plan to

continue this as we think it will be very beneficial to some of the people.

• 20 large Christmas hampers were handed out prior to Christmas Day to needy

families and individuals. Support came from the Anglican Diocese of

Gippsland, the Uniting Church in Australia (Gippsland), Enjoy Church

(Gippsland Campus), Vic Relief, David & Barbara Wilcox.Working in partnership with

The Anglican Diocese of Gippsland ami the Uniting Church in Australia.g



David Wilcox


• Some of the "shedded" people are now in nearly completed houses and this has

brought about such an improvement in mental and overall health for them.

• I completed a one dav course on "Alcohol Abuse" in Melbourne. This course is

available for the fire survivors and I will look to where I can use it. Alcohol

consumption has certainly increased since Black Saturday but there is a huge

perception in Australia that if it is legal then it must be ok.

• Only in this past month have some of the "emergency" situations began tosettle down. It has been an enormous task to date and has been some of the

hardest work I have ever undertaken. This will enable me to re-connect with

some of the people who have had to be left for awhile as I dealt with the more

critical situations.

• The two biggest issues and will remain for a long time are the building of

houses and the mental health of people. These are very long term issues for

these fire affected people.

• More free counseling sessions have just been made available as

it becomes more obvious that more mental health support is

required.

• The 12 month "Certificate IV in Christian Chaplaincy and

Pastoral Care" course I am completing will end in July.

• Government had given people living in sheds till March this

year to get started with rebuilding but have extended this till

March 2012.

• There are still at least 25 families living in sheds (still some in

caravans) and there are just so many issues associated with this.

Building restrictions have meant the cost of rebuilding has

increased way beyond what it would have cost to rebuildbefore the fires. Insurance doesn't cover those costs. VBRRA

payments are all but used up getting sheds set up and with day

to day living. This issue alone is causing much stress.

• In one instance all available money was poured into turning a

shed into a home only to be told they might not get permission

to live in it. This situation is being followed up vigorously but I

suspect will be something we face often over the next year or

Working ill partnership with

The Anglican Diocese of Gippsland and the Uniting Church ill Australia.9



David Wilcox


so. It will mean putting some pressure on people to decide what

to do and make the necessary plans.

Around last August I began working in partnership with both the Anglican Diocese of

Gippsland and the Uniting Church in Australia. Reports go to both groups and I meetwith both Bishop John and with Rev Tim Angus when necessary. I also meet with Rev

GeoffPittaway (my supervisor) on a regular basis.

Some of the people I see I have seen since starting

this job, some I have just met. Some are grief

counseling issues. Some are life issues. Some are

about health or mental health. Some are marriage

issues and some are just simply walking with people.

Please keep praying for these precious people and

for my work as I walk with them through their

recovery.

Thank you,

David Wilcox

The simple cup of tea is still the best

way to develop relationships.

Working in partnership with

The Anglican Diocese oJ Gippsland and the Uniting Church in Australia.10



CURSILLO

During the last twelve months Cursillo has taken some new initiatives, and has had some

exciting results.

It was with pleasure we saw our Bishop John McIntyre attend Men's Cursillo in Melbourne,and we look forward to his renewed support to Gippsland Cursillo.

In September last year we held the tirst Parallel Cursillos. There were separate teams (or both

men and women, led by Len and Chris Makin. The Cursillos were run at the same time and

place and in general the response was positive.

Most of the activities were separate, but some worship and all meals were together. Itwas

good to sec that the Teams and Candidates mixed well, encouraging and supporting each

other.

We will be holding Parallel Cursillos again next year. It was decided, for various reasons, notto hold Cursillos in 201 1.

During the year, Jodie Pincini and her Team ran a very successful Senior's Day.

Itwas held at St. Paul's Cathedral, Sale.

There were some forty people who attended and enjoyed the time of sharing and fellowship.

It is planned to run another one this year.

The format included two talks based around the thought:-

"There is no use by date with God".

The Scripture reference chosen was Jeremiah 31 :3:-"I have loved you with an everlasting love".

It was Cursillo Gippsland who hosted the National Secretariat meeting in March this year.

There were representatives from many of the Dioceses around Australia present, and it was

helpful to hear the challenges and possible solutions that they were either considering or

carrying out.

We have adopted two ideas from National.

One is a revamp of the Ultreya program which we think will revitalise Ultrcyas.

The second is a Three Day Pilgrimage, which will be run by Cursillo, but open for all whowish to attend.

We are hoping to hold this in September this year.

I must acknowledge the great work of Liz Hall who organised the National meeting, arranged

the venue, co-ordinated transport, and all the meals and general housekeeping tasks, which

led to a smooth running and enjoyable time for all. Thanks Liz.

Co Lay Director

Gippsland Cursillo

Peter Down

11



Diocesan Mission Support Group

Report to the 2011 Synod

The Diocesan Mission Support Group ran its first Diocesan function in October 2010. This

took the form of a Mission Expo to which we invited the main Mission Agencies and other

smaller ministries involved in local mission to both speak about their work and to distributeinformation and share with us matters where prayer support is needed. Key Note speaker was

the Rev, Paul Arnott who spoke on the basic principles that should undergird the work of

Missionary Ministry and Mission support.

The day finished with an emphasis on our own Diocesan Mission Support Project - the need to

complete "Gippsland House" - our contribution to "the Seeds of Peace Conference and

Accommodation Centre in Gahini". Since then $50,000 has been raised towards this project

and this May Neville and Lynne Beatty return to Gahini accompanied by Francis McKinlay, a

Master Plumber from Warragul parish, to assist the locals to move the project towards

completion. Lynne and Neville will be in Rwanda for three months and Francis will work there

lor a month.

After the success of the Diocesan Mission Support Day at Sale it was decided that a Diocesan

Mission Rally would be held at the Cathedral on the second Saturday in October each year

with a regional mission support function held in each quarter in one of the three

Archdeaconries.

The first of these Regional Mission Support activities was held in March this year at Christ

church Drouin which provided an ideal venue for a Jazz and Blues Evening featuring BCA

State Secretary Greg Jones and the jazz pianist Bob Sedergreen. During the well received

presentation Greg Jones shared about the current work and special needs of BCA. There was

special interest in the new RCA work being undertaken in semi-urban rural areas which isbearing good fruit. Greg also shared about the widespread personal support work provided by

I3CA in flooded areas.

The South Gippsland Regional Support Gathering will be held at Leongatha with a program to

be arranged by CMS with possible other functions around the Archdeaconry the same week.

The East Gippsland Mission support Rally will be held in early November at Lake's Entrance

with a special emphasis on both our own Koori ministry in Gippsland and the training of

Aboriginal Priests, Deacons and evangelists at Nungalinga College in the Northern Territory.

We are very conscious that a number of parishes do not have active Parish Mission Secretaries

and that advertising for diocesan and Regional Rallies and proj ects get very little mention in a

number of parishes.

Jenny MacRobb

Coordinator

Diocesan Mission Support Group.

12



FROM THE PRINCIPAL

2010 saw Gippsland Grammar finally exceed an enrolment of 1000 across all three campuses.

\VIe started the year with 1007 students and this number steadily increased throughout the year

with us finishing with about 1020. Much of this growth has been at the St Anne's Campus

where the effect of creating a two-stream ELC program some years ago is now being seen. This

program is highly regarded within the local community and has obviously contributed to a more

consistent Prep enrolment now flowing through the middle years of the primary school. The

Bairnsdale Campus has also seen gradual growth and we will be able to add our 71 h class in 2011.

At the Garnsey (Senior) Campus, numbers have held steady, despite a smaller than usual Year 7.

There has been significant interest during the year in enrolment in Years 9 to 11 and this has

contributed to the steady enrolment growth through the year. I suspect this owes much to the

very strong VCE results obtained in 2009.

Infrastructure development has been focused on the junior campuses with the BER funding

allowing the completion of the old Girls Boarding House conversion into classrooms for Years 5

and 6 as well as our Art room. In addition, the old Boys Boarding House has been transformed

into a Music Centre which opened in Term 2. The area outside these rooms has now been re-

landscaped to form a passive area for the upper primary students. The funding also allowed us to

significantly improve the Lorna Sparrow Hall, creating a new entrance and adding toilets and a

function kitchen which will also house the School Canteen.

Meanwhile, the new multi-purpose building at the Bairnsdale Campus had been taking shape and,

despite some fmstrating delays, was finally ready for occupation at the beginning of Term 4. 111i5

wonderful building, which will be named the James Beard Centre in honour of our long-serving

former Principal, contains a Hall, Library and Art room as well as a Music Centre, changing

rooms and function facilities. Itwas a particular delight to 'open' this facility with the Bairnsdale

musical "Pirates of Penzance" at the beginning of Term 4.

The rowing facility has been significantly improved with the building of a floating pontoon,

which was achieved with help from sport council grants and assistance from Wellington Shire.

At the senior campus, we have finally installed a specialised Long and Triple jump runway and

new pits, which has led to a significant number of new school records set in these events this

year. I would like to acknowledge the work of our Business Manager, Colin Price, who managed

these projects, along with the bureaucratic labyrinth of BER funding.

This year we have enjoyed another year of stl"Ong student leadership, with our School Captains

Ryan Leyden and Tahlia Deschepper, and Vice-Captains Aiden Beauglehole and Tara Snelling

and an excellent group of Prefects. They have been very approachable for younger students and

have certainly led by example.

One exciting innovation in 2010 has been the introduction of Net book computers into Year 9.

This has created some excitement amongst students and has allowed a very mobile use of

technology with an improved wireless infrastructure allowing us to accommodate the research

demand of these very technology-aware students. This innovation flows into Year 10 in 2011.

2010 has also seen some changes to the executive structure of the School. In the middle of the

year, the Principal, Mike Clapper, responded to a request from St Paul's Anglican Grammar

School to assist them following the sudden departure of their Principal. The school was able to

accede to this request because of the velY strong executive team we have here at Gippsland

Grammar. The eventual outcome of this was that the two School Boards agreed to trial a joint

13



venture over the next three years which sees Jan Henry step into the role of Head of School at

Gippsland Grammar with responsibility for all operational aspects of school life, whilst Mike

works across both schools as Executive Principal with responsibility for strategic management.

The two schools remain independent with their own Boards, uniforms and school cultures,

though there are many potential advantages of a co-operative relationship which we shall be

exploring over the coming years. It is certainly exciting to see the two Anglican Schools in the

Diocese entering into such a co-operative venture.

\Ve were also very pleased to welcome our new Chaplain, Jon Taylor, to the school and delighted

to see Jon becoming ordained during the year.

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS

vee RESULTS 2010

This year's results are another strong performance for the School. The School's mean ATAR

(formerly ENTER) score was 75.4, well up with the average over the last 10 years. 21% of

students obtained an ATAR score of over 90 putting them in the top 10% of the state, whilst

64% obtained an 1\TAR score in excess of 70 placing them in the top 30%. 95% of the studentsplaced in the top 50%. In terms of study scores in individual subjects, we were delighted that

74% of the scores were above the state average of 30, whilst 13 % of the scores were over 40 and

hence will be published on the VCE high achiever's list. The boys did particularly well this year,

with six in the top ten placings.

These excellent results in VCE courses were backed up by some very strong results in university

enhancement courses in Mathematics, Biology and Media/Communication. Both of the students

who sat the Mathematics exam obtained a High Distinction as did the student who sat Biology.

Six students also took the Media/Communication exam, with four achieving High Distinctions

and two Distinctions. Once again, it was a Gippsland Grammar student, James Gray, who

topped this course.

The Dux of the School was James Gray from Tinamba, with an ATAR of99.9. Close behind

were Agnik Sarkar from Sale (99.4) and Sarah Christie from Bushy Park (99.1). Other very high

achievers included April Rowe from Sale (98), Hayden Meade, also from Sale (97.9), Clare

Chapman from Bairnsdale (97), Daniel Woo, an overseas student (97) and Tom Sellings from

Lakes Entrance (95.75). James Gray obtained a perfect 50 in International Studies, to match the

one he obtained last year in Media Studies, whilst two students obtained scores of 50 in English,

Sarah Christie and Isabelle Hangar. Very close behind with scores of 49 were Jenny Hwang

(English-ESL) and April Rowe (History-Revolutions)

The Jist of high achieving students continues to show an impressive geographical diversity

reflecting the School's large catchment.

This year has seen some changes in Board membership with two long standing Board members,

Elizabeth Davis and Bruce Savage, stepping down. Both have made a significant contribution

over the years. Bishop John McIntyre has continued as the Chair and Peter Skeels as the Deputy

Chair. Ann Mwagiru and Tony \'{!icking, both from I3airnsdale, have joined the Board and the

new Dean of the Cathedral, Donald Saincs has taken up his ex officio position. The Board

oversees the strategic direction of the school and has oversight of its financial operations. \'('ork

by the Board over the last few years has seen the School move into a very secure financial

situation with good control over our borrowings and a healthy operating surplus which will allow

us toplan appropriate capital development over the years to come. This year, in addition to their

14



general strategic and financial work, Board members have been very involved in the development

of the new executive structure. \'(Ie also had an excellent Board and Executive retreat which

discussed many things, particularly the Anglican ethos of the School and how it is visible in our

daily operations. I thank the Board for their contribution and support of the School.

This report is based on the School's official Annual Report. Copies of this report will be made

available at Synod.

Mike Clapper

March 2011

15



--I-GfS

I

\<1ds Plus _REPORT TO SYNOD

MAY 2011GIPPSLAND DIOCESE

Our diocesan Network continues to meet four times a year, with all meetings being openly

advertised for representatives of affiliated or interested parishes to attend. Our aim is to support

parish based ministries to children. GFS An Anglican Ministry with it's broader networking

(State, National and Worldwide communication) has a lot to offer in it's variety of ministry

models , resourcing and leader development programs. Our local networking evaluates and

ensures the relevance to our diocesan ministry practises.

Eleven of our 30 Gippsland Parishes have actively registered or affiliated to our network, some

more actively than others, however the potential for growth communication and support is to be

commended. We are thankful for the coverage of our activities provided through the GippslandAnglican and the Diocese, AWA MU have all encouraged our ministry \through financial

donations. We use such funding for our "open outreach ministry, leader development and

resourcing for any interested parish.

We are particularly keen to be able to subsidise leader development and skills training events for

voluntary leaders in the diocese. During 2010 the parishes of Moe, Heyfleld, Newborough,

Yalloumlvorth, Rosedale, Sale, Trafalgar, Leongatha, Drouin and Maffra affiliated with the

Gippsland Network, Moe Parish ami a number of adults from across 'he diocese continue to be

registered with the national and world wide society enjoying the newsletters, opportunities for

conferences and mission support through GFS ministries. We are particularly delighted that one

of our GFS Moe leaders, Lauren Jankovic has been selected from applicants across Australia, to

be the National Junior delegate to the GFS World Council. This will be held in Ireland this

coming June. Gippsland has had a number of representatives attending World Councils, as

observers, over the years but Lauren is our first National delegate.

In 2010 the Network organized Leader Development workshops in Morwell and Inverloch, a

Theatre sports evening for youth at Rosedale, the Annual CmVlyarr Weir Picnic and a Diocesan

Camp at Mill Valley Ranch. As this goes to print we have recently returned from the 2011

successful camp held at Forest Edge Neerim East. We had 41 participants at this event sponsored

so generously, this year, by a number of Gippsland parishes, individuals and groups. Thankyou.

The Adult Friends of the Network have met for fellowship, and worship several times through

the year and continue to offer great encouragement and support to our ministries to younger

people. This support group has a significant mailing list of approximately forty adults.

As Chairman I particularly wish to acknowledge with appreciation the individuals from parishes

across the diocese, who not only are fully committed to their own parish ministries, yet show

extra dedication to voluntarily offer the ongoing support to all others in the diocese. Those

involved recognise the strength available across the wider Anglican Communion and wish to

provide opportunity for our young people to share support and fellowship. The network grew out

of our work as the combined councils of CEBS The Anglican Boys Society and the Girls'

Friendly Society( GFS as it is now known} ..After providing a remarkable contribution to the

diocese ,CEBS as an entity ,ceased it's Gippsland operations in November 2010. We are now,

challenged, but determined, to maintain that special ministry to boys and young men as well as to

the girls and women of the diocese. We hope you will join in that challenge and maintain a strong

diocesan network for these ministries.

16



The GFS National Statement of purpose identifies the goals of our own Diocesan Kidsplus+

Network:

1. To provide ministries to children, youth, families and adults in a safe and accepting

environment where Christ's love is evident and the Gospel is proclaimed.

(a) Children's, youth and family ministry

n to encourage children, youth and families in local communities

{] to purposefully support and encourage family life

[J to equip children and youth with life skills to reach their God-given potential

(b) Adult ministry

lJ To support and nurture adults in a faith community

[J To encourage prayerful support to children's and youth ministry

o To encourage adults to be positive role models to all members, particularly

those in leadership

2. To serve the community locally, nationally and globally through our motto "Bear

one another's burdens and so fulfil the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2)3. To receive and disseminate information and facilitate communication locally,

nationally and globally, within the organisation and with related service agencies.

4. To encourage Dioceses within the organisation to maintain appropriate standards in

equipping people for ministry.

MARY NICHOLLS ( GFS GIPPSLAND CHAIRMAN: for the Team)

17



MOTHERS UNION

At MU Lady Day celebrations last year, Deanne Bray, Australian Presidentsaidi~~MU

is not just prayer, Bible study, reconciliation, faith and action etc. MU struggles with

opposition, relevance and credibility." Deanne asked, HDo we meet people where they

are, or do we expect them to be where we are? That is the challenge today - meeting

families' needs, often practical needs, where they are."

Sarah Gover challenged us, too, at June-Join in, to consider the different

characteristics of the various generations - to inform us and to encourage us to be

relevant in the activities/programs weprovide. We appreciate working cooperatively

with Anglicare.

Following onfrom the establishment of the MU St Barnabas Family Retreat Fund, MU

Invitation Week has been slotted into the The Abbey of St Barnabas at A 'Beckett Park

program. This year, places will be offered from July 5 to July 10, during the school

holidays. Several families will be invited to take up the offer of a 3-night midweek

break, or a 2-day weekend stay. Information re this week will bepublished in The

Gippsland Anglican.

As well as supporting the MU St Barnabas Family Retreat Fund, MU Gippsland

members contribute to the AWA project Newton College, at Popondeta, in Papua New

Guinea has a very old and poorly stocked library for the use of theological students.

This, in some cases, forces Bishops to send ordination candidates overseas for training.

So, the project seeks toprovide the latest books and best possible research material so

that candidates will be able to complete their training. Popondeta is in a remote area.

The college relies on a petrol- fuelled generator for power 4 hours a day!

One of the things that Rev. Greg Magee said at our MU Quiet Day at Cowes was that,

"God is not just a generating event, God is Trinity. " As MU develops its new theme for

2011, Relationship Not Rules, we will consider our relationship with God, through

Jesus. This relationship is not a theory, it's not a set of rules to live by, but rather, a

reacting with, responding to and knowing Jesus personally.

So ... as MU founder, Mary Sumner, saw a need to supportfamilies and set out to meet

that need over a century ago, inspiring others tojoin her in forming a grass-roots

movement that continues today, MU Gippsland in 2011 hopes to articulate the needs of

our families and meet them in their place. We need to tell our congregations about our

vision and plans that others may join us. Our challenge is to be visible and relevant!

Join me as I pray Mary Sumner's personal prayer:

All this day, 0Lord,

Let me touch as many lives as possible for thee;

And every life I touch, do thou by thy spirit quicken,

Whether through the word I speak, the prayer I breathe,

Or the life 1 live.

Amen

Karin McKenzie, Gippsland MU President

18



Cathedral Parish of St Paul Report to Synod 2011

Liturgical Worship:

The liturgical and worship life of the Cathedral continues to attract a steady and hopefully

growing number attendance of young families. The spirit of worship in both Sunday morningservices is always encouraging and we continue to be built upon ways to help others

connect to our liturgical tradition, and parishioners to the community of Sale. The varied

character of the two Sunday morning services in the Cathedral is valuable and we seek to

offer thoughtful, lively and relevant worship. Congregations average around 45 at Bam First

Order Holy Communion and 75 at lOam Family service with Holy Communion. We continue

to explore our all age inclusiveness at the lOam Family Service especially on a first Sunday of

the month. We are noticing a steady attendance of young families, if not every week then

certainly returning regularly. This age group of young families and younger adults is an area

of ongoing concern for outreach and for Christian formation. Evening services are held with

the monthly rhythm of Healing Eucharist, Hymn Service, families@five and theContemplative Prayer service led by members of the Anam Cara Community. During

Christmas and Easter we attracted respectively, congregations totalling 399 and 320.

Christian Formation:

Four Home / Study Groups s have continued to meet throughout the year; these groups

have used their own study/discussion resources or the weekly resources from Seasons of

the Spirit as a link to the Sunday Liturgy. An Education for Ministry Group of ten people -

seven new to EfM - now also meets weekly and is led by mentors, Kate Campbell, Heather

Toms and the Dean. Over fifty people joined in Lent Study Groups using Bishop John's study

'Set free'. Several others used the study for private reflection.

Twelve Candidates were Confirmed by Bishop John on Sunday 5thDecember - 7 youth and 3

Adults from the parish, together with 2 students from Gippsland Grammar School. 23

Baptisms were performed and 5 Marriages throughout the year. Making Love Last

Workshops for marriage preparation were held in May and September.

The Ministry Team

The ministry of the Cathedral is ably supported by a well-trained team of lay and clergy

ministers, and volunteers. The Revd Marilyn Obersby concluded her ministry with us at the

end of 2010. Marilyn was Senior Assistant Priest and paid a stipend for one day per week

during the previous year. As well as Sunday liturgical ministry Marilyn assisted with mainly

music, with pastoral care and in the latter part of her time organising and undertaking the

Baptismal ministry. The Cathedral Congregation expressed is thanks to Marilyn for her

ministry and friendship at her final service on Christmas I. The Revd Lloyd George and The

Revd Stuart Lawson continue at the Cathedral as Assistant Priests (Han.). As well as paying

tribute to Stuart and Lloyd we are thankful for the ministry of Lay Readers Marion Jones and

Michael Chadwick who help minister in other centres in the Parish.

Christine Morris continues in her capacity as Children and Youth Minister. Christine has been

re-appointed by Chapter to that position to the beginning of October 2011. Chapter applaud

Christine Morris for her untiring energy in this ministry and the many other areas of

ministerial support at the Cathedral. I have asked the new Chapter to explore with me waysfor us to support and develop this ministry further.

19



A Regular Ministry Team meeting has been reinstituted and consists of Clergy, Lay Readers,

Pastoral Assistants. Its purpose is to review Cathedral worship and ministry and to

encourage and pray for each other in the light of our ministry goals.

OUTLOOKMagazine - The OUTLOOK magazine has hitherto been a monthly production but

the Chapter decided in late 2010 to make this a bi-monthly magazine and to also include

more articles of reflection and thought. An editorial committee has been convened.

The annual Summer in Seaspray ministry between Christmas and New Year was a great

success - many families were contacted - over 120 people during the week - including

locals families. A review meeting has been held and a working group is to meet in mid-year

for planning this year's event.

A new family originally from the Sudan has joined us. We are delighted that that this family

is among us at the lOam services. Other families of Sudanese origin are also coming to live

in Sale.

A new Men's Graup has begun under the oversight of a team led by Grant Woolcock, Arthur

McPherson, Joe Sestokas and the Dean.

Cathedral Events:

Numerous Diocesan and Parish Community events were held at the Cathedral over the past

year. These included: Synod Eucharist and Synod (21-23 May); Regional Ultreya (21 August);

RSCMWorkshop (11 Sept); Organ Recital (12 Sept); Police Memorial Service (29 Sept);

Anglican Women Rally (12 October); Cathedral Fair (16 October); Ordination of Priests (13

Nov); Friends ofthe Cathedral Annual Meeting and Lunch (13 November); Ordination of

Deacons and Priest (19 February); Concert for Victorian Flood Victims (20 March); Mothers

Union Lady Day Celebration (25 March); Diocesan Teaching day on Hope with the Rev Dr

David Powys (9 April); The Easter Art Show ( 19- 26 April); .

Bishop John Presided and Preached at St Paul's Cathedral on six occasions throughout the

past twelve months and we are thankful for his ministry and support.

Governance and Strategic Planning

The Cathedral Chapter reviewed the strategic plan and held a special meeting on August zs"for reflection and prayer. Valuable discussion and ideas arose about our ministry to areas of

Sale where membership of our church is minimal. Reponses to these ideas are part of

ongoing discussion by Chapter.

Cathedral Office Holders and Volunteers - Cathedral Lay Canons (Arthur McPherson, Ann

Miller, Pam Schmack) together with other members of Chapter deserve thanks for their

diligence and ministry. Similar thanks go to our financial committee, especially treasurer

Colin Price (whom we farewelled in early 2011), Karina King, Kate Campbell and Helen

Gardiner. Helen Gardiner who is the Cathedral Sacristan also deserves special thanks for her

numerous duties undertaken with diligence and with care for the mission of the Cathedral.

Similarly Cathedral Office volunteers offer their time each week-day morning and I want to

note the work of Margaret Mynard who concluded her voluntary office work in early 2011

after many years of faithful service.

The Annual Meeting of the Friends of St Paul's Cathedral was held on Saturday is"

November following the Ordination Lunch. The Guest speaker was the Dean of St Paul'sCathedral Melbourne, Bishop Mark Burton.

20



The Greater Chapter of the Cathedral met on ri" November and considered a Paper

presented by the Dean proposing a process for Theological Education and Ministry Training

(TEMT) based at the Cathedral arising out of the Cathedral's role in the Diocese.

The proposal suggested that the Greater Chapter would help coordinate, encourage, and

seek ways to resource clergy and lay leaders across the diocese. This could mean

encouraging the take-up of courses currently available through Trinity College or Ridley

College in Melbourne or CSU/St Mark's in Canberra and look into the possibility of formal

links with the Diocese for further developing TEMT. While this is still in process it is planned

to offer in 2012 to clergy and laity a Cert IV in Christian Counselling and Communication

Skills under the auspices of St Mark's Canberra. Further details about this course will be

made available as soon as possible.

The Cathedral Chapter has accepted in principal a proposal to offer part-time employment

to a person at the end of 2011 who will work in youth/community development in the

parish and in the Diocese but centred in Sale. The Cathedral's share in this ministry remains

for the Cathedral a serious matter of prayer and planning as the Cathedral Parish Finances

are to this point in the year languishing behind budget.

(The Very Revd Dr) Don Saines

Dean

21



ANGLICAN GRAMMAR SCHOOL _

Synod Report 2010FR OM TH E PR IN CIPA L

2010 has been an unusual year for St Paul's with the departure of former Principal Mark Robertson in the

middle of the year. Given the rather sudden nature of this event, the School approached Mike Clapper, the

Principal of Gippsland Grammar, who agreed to assist the school temporarily as Interim Principal, whilst the

School established a new Executive structure. After much discussion, the decision was taken by the Boards

of both schools to establish a joint venture over the next three years which would see a Principal appointed

at St Paul's with responsibility for all operational aspects of school life (with a similar arrangement in place

at Gippsland Grammar), with Mike Clapper working across both schools as Executive Principal with

responsibility for strategic management. The two schools remain independent with their own Boards,

uniforms and school cultures, though there are many potential advantages of a co-operative relationship

which we shall be exploring over the coming years.

The next step in this arrangement was the appointment of a new Principal and, from a very strong field of

applicants, the School appointed Lisa Moloney, formerly the Deputy Principal at Radford College, Canberra,

to be the fourth Principal of St Paul's, commencing at the start of 2011.

Though I have only been involved with St Paul's for six months, I have discovered a warm and welcoming

community and look forward to my association with the school over the coming years. During the second

half of the year, I was greatly assisted by Ann Moxham, who stepped into the position of Acting Principal,

whilst continuing her responsibilities as Director of Curriculum. At the end of the year, Ann left the Schoolto take up the position of Principal at Blackheath &Thornburgh College in Charters Towers, Queensland.

Infrastructure development has been focused on the junior campuses with the BERfunding allowing the

completion early in the school year of Stage II of the Warragul Junior School Gymnasium, which included

the art room, foyer, toilets and additional storage space. At the Traralgon Campus, the new Gymnasium

was completed at the very end of the year ready for the beginning of the 2011 school year. The declslon

was also made at the Traralgon Middle School to allow two streams of entry at Year 7 and to extend to Year

10 in 2011. This necessitated providing more specialist facilities very quickly and some demountable

buildings have been purchased which arrived at the end of the school year to form a new module including

a music room, art room, food technology and hard materials room. This will allow the Middle School to

offer the entire curriculum onsite, eliminating the need of previous cohorts to travel either to Warragul orto Flinders College for their elective programs. These buildings were available for occupancy very early in

2011. I congratulate all involved in the delivery of these significant projects and thank business Manager

Leah Young and Property Manager Murray Davidson in particular for their oversight in delivering our

facilities on time and on budget.

This year we have enjoyed another year of strong student leadership, with our School Captains

Thomas de Vries and Vanessa Kirkbright, and Deputies, Victoria Green and Benjamin Beamish and an

excellent group of Prefects. They have been very approachable for younger students and have certainly led

by example.

Synod Report 2010 P ag e 1



As always, the School has had a strong focus on community service and this year, the SRC organised

fund-raisers for 'Jeans for Genes' and the 'bring a present' appeal for underprivileged families. The Prefects

organised the 'Largest Morning Tea' in aid of Cancer Research and many students were prepared to 'Shave

for a Cure' for the Leukaemia Foundation. The school continues its active program of community Service in

East Timor. The spiritual dimension of School life continues to be ably led by our Chaplain, Daniel Lowe,

who became an ordained deacon early in the year.

I A C A D EM IC A C H IE V E M .E N T S

vee RESULTS

This year's results are another strong performance for the School. The School's mean ATAR (previously

ENTER)score was an impressive 72.9, whilst the median score was 74.3. 22% of students obtained an ATAR

score of over 90 putting them in the top 10% of the state, whilst 45% obtained an ATAR score in excess of

80 placing them in the top 20%. 89% of the students placed in the top 50%. Six girls and three boys

obtained scores over 95.

In terms of study scores in individual subjects, we were delighted that 70% of the scores were above the

state average of 30, whilst 11 % of the scores were over 40 and hence will be published on the VCEhigh

achiever's list.

The Dux of the School was Amelia Harrison from Korumburra with an ATAR of 99.5. Close behind were Tim

Kallady from Bayles (98.7) and Barnaby Matthews from Maryknoll (98.7). Other very high achievers

included Alexandra Gummer from Warragul (9B.2S), Emma Bechaz, also from Warragul (96.7S), Aleksandra

lovanovic from Warragul (96.2), Benjamin Beamish, from Morwell (96), Elizabeth Brentnall from Warragul

(96) and Brittany Lewis from Arawata (95.35). Perfect scores of 50 were obtained by Amelia Harrison

(Human Health & Development), Emma Bechaz (Media Studies) and Alexandra Gummer (Psychology).

The list of high achieving students continues to show an impressive geographical diversity reflecting the

School's large catchment.

BOARD

There have been a significant number of changes to Board membership in 2010. In February, long-serving

Board member and former Chairman and Treasurer, Ian Sowerby stepped down after over 18 years of

service. Ian's contribution to St Paul's has been Significant, including his Chairing of the Gymnasium appeal

committee and his significant work in establishing the Traralgon Campus. Also in February, consultant to

the Board, Franco Santucci stepped down after 12 months of service. A number of Board memberscompleted their service to the Board in May; Ron Gowland, after 16 years of significant service, and more

recently asTreasurer; Louise Curran, after 9 years of service including 3 years as Deputy Chair and a year as

Chair; Peter Rehfisch, a Board member for 4 years; Zvonko Marie, also a Board member for 4 years; and

Peter Holdsworth, Board member for 6 months including several months as Chair. I thank all of these

former Board members for their contribution.

New Board members are Mark McKibbin, Brendan Jenkins and Gavin Jones, each appointed in May and Tia

Navanteri, Darren Jennings and Liz Keilty, appointed in July along with Julie Kennedy, who was appointed as

a consultant to the Board. John Mitchell took over as Chair of the Board after the AGM of the school

company in May. Having worked with this new Board over the last six months, I have been more than

Synod Report 2010 Page2



impressed with their energy, preparedness to give time to the School and their passionate belief in St

Paul's.

I LO OKIN G TO 201 1

With a new Executive Structure and a number of new staff, 2011 promises to be an interesting and exciting

year. I particularly welcome Lisa Moloney, our new Principal, to the school and also the return of Donna

Sweeney as Director of Curriculum. The continued growth at the Traralgon Campus is most exciting and

another building is on the drawing board for construction in 2011. 2010 has been a somewhat difficult year

and I look forward to sharing a more stable future with you.

Mike Clapper

Executive Principal

March 2011

Synod Report 2010 Page 3



Omitted from synod mailing

A'Beckett Park - Report to Synod May 2011

The A bbey of St Barnabas at A'Beckett Park

A Centre for Spirituality and the Environment

T he V is io n

A 'B ecke tt P ark is a n in tern atio na l C hristia n re sid en tia l c en tre fo r sp iritu ality a nd th e e nviro nm en t

a nd a p la ce o f p ilg rim ag e, re fle ctio n, h ea lin g, le arn in g a nd re crea tio n.

T he S tr a teg y

To develop A 'B eckett P ark as a n ico n of the church's ca mm itm ent to and rationale for th e care o f G od's crea tion ,

both in its b uilt an d na tu ral environ ment, a nd in th e [acuities, services and program s itoffers to visitors.

To d evelop A 'B eckett P ark as 0 centre that lea ds the w ay in sus tain ability for the future,

w ith cutting edge d esign a nd techno lo gies that m in im ise its environm ental im pact.

The development of A'Beckett Park as a Centre for Spir ituality and the Environment is beginning a new

era: The Abbey of St Barnabas at A'Beckett Park -Stage One.

InJanuary 2011 the Development Working Group made the significant decision to discontinue operating

A'Beckett Park as a campsite and at the conclusion of the camping season in May 2011 to focus all our

efforts on the development ofThe Abbey of St Barnabas at A'Beckett Park.

The last camp is booked to conclude on the 6thMay. On the ih May, RevCanon Caroline Nancarrow will

lead the third of the Trinity of Saints Days, and from io" May Rev Brian Turner, with a team of workers,

will prepare the site replacing the camp bunk beds with motel style furniture. On 31 May 'The First

Abbey Program' will commence in the new accommodation units and Short term/ 2 week communities

will live in Ena Sheumak House ensuring a praying presence on the site and regular prayer in St Barnabas.

looking back over the past year

Refurbishment of Accommodation Units

On behalf of the A'Beckett Park Development Working Group, I want to thank Synod for their

encouragement and the Diocese for making funds available to commence the refurbishment of the old

Numby Numby Accommodation Units.

Following the preparation of the business plan asrequested by Synod, Bishop in Council made available

$200,000 which has enabled the upgrade of the old Numby Numby Accommodation Units to provide

eight "three and a half star motel style units. With water tanks and solar panels, they point in the

direction of care for the environment.

The Accommodation Units were completed for their Dedication on 7 December 2010 and promptly

returned to the bunkhouse accommodation in time for the summer camping program to which we were

previously committed.

I also want to thank Bishop in Council for making available an addit ional $10,000 to convert West

cottage into a three bedroom room cottage. This is highly cost effective accommodation that increases

our capacity to provide accommodation for leaders over the winter months and during the period of The

Abbey Program and also increase our potential revenue during the summer months.




I want to stress the significance oj this development. Thissmall start of eight appropriate

accommodation units along with an additional three individual rooms in West Cottage has made

possible the implementation of The Abbey of St Barnabas at A'Beckett Park - Stage One.

Promotion and Communication of the Vision

As you would be aware Abbey brochures and flyers were distributed throughout the Diocese and will be

available again at Synod. They mark a significant step forward in articulating the way in which the vision

is taking shape. The brochures are available on the Diocesan website, the Anam Cara Website, the

website of St Peter's by the Lake and will be available on the website ofThe Abbey of St Barnabas at

A'Beckett Park in due course.

We are currently engaged in discussion of the 'brand' for The Abbey of St Barnabas at A'Beckett Park.

We recognise brand in the wider sense of the word - the expression of all we are and do. In considering

our brand we reflected on the values that we want to permeate our being our doing and our words.

The following is an overview of our discussion to date.

Our core values:

Honesty, respect (for persons and al l creation), creativity, integrity (we are finding ways to l ive what we

believe about creation and environment and God), learning and wisdom, Simplicity, trust, faith, journey and

openness, welcome, relationship and reconciliat ion (in Christ all things find their proper place) celebration, to

seek the welfare and wellbeing of all who engage at The Abbey, listen to the wisdom of those (people and

plants and animals) who are on the margins.

Our brand promise - our promise to customers

a. When you spend time at The Abbey of St Barnabas at A'Beckett Park you will find, peace, welcome,

comfortable accommodation, in an environment of beautiful natural surroundings on the Gippsland Lakes.

b. Through The Abbey Program you will work, learn and grow within a small group of like minded people,

find time to be with yourself, to explore the environment, to pray and develop your spirituality, to

explore your creativity.

c. The Community of St Barnabas, a servant community to The Abbey of St Barnabas. The community offers

achance for service and prayer, for being in and with the natural environment that nurtures and draws

one to God.

We are thinking to use the earth sea sky colours of green blue and soft orange/ochre and as our logo Dr

symbol, that of the orchid that was considered to be extinct but that has been found on Raymond Island.

Approval of status as a Deductible Gift Recipient Association

Anglican Earthcare Gippsland Inc has been approved as a Deductable Gift Recipient Association and

listed on the Register of Environmental Organisations. We have just heard that this status has been

granted and will enable us to move forward with the necessary fundralsing efforts to developed the next

stage of the vision.

Submission of the Planning Application to East Gippsland Council

This has been a more complex and involved process than we ever anticipated. With many statutory

bodies needing to offer their a pproval we have been able to proceed due to the strong support of the






looking forward: May - October 2011

The Abbey Program

The Abbey Program comprises a range of workshops, and retreats that provide multiple entry points for

people who are interested in anyone of a range of issues- environmental issues/ issues of spirituality

or retreat/ creativity and the arts/ being in or appreciating the environment. The retreat, or workshop is

designed to allow people to enjoy being at The Abbey and to journey at their own pace to a deeper

place of connection with themselves, with the environment, with each other and with their God

The First Abbey Program, May - October 2011, will comprise retreats and workshops following the four

themes

Hospitality: being welcomed by the environment (pale blue)

Journey: aI/owing the environment to nurture you (orange)

Sustainability: water, power, waste andfire (purple)

Natural Environment: caringfor flora and !auna(green)

The attached program gives an overview of planned retreats and workshops. Brochures and booking

details will be available at Synod.

Short Term Communities in Ena Sheumack House: May - October 2011

• living in Ena Sheumack House

• Praying in the Church of St Barnabas

We are seeking to establish a regular presence of prayer and support which includes the formation of

short term 2 week communities as the beginnings ofThe Community of St Barnabas. Individuals, from

Gippsland Diocese or further afield, who are interested to support The Abbey are invited to become part

of a short term/2 week praying community. Participants wHilive in EnaSheumack House, pray in the

church of St Barnabas and support the First Abbey program as it becomes appropriate

looking Forward: November 20ll-April2012

For this popular holiday period we are planning to make the units available for booking at commercial

rates. We are still working to finalise this rate.

EdieAshley, April 2011

For the A'Beckett Park Development Working Group

Bishop John, Brian Norris, Robert Fordham, Ann Miller, Rev Brian Turner'



Omitted from synod ma i l i ng

__1grief

2 and loss

3

4

6 invitation 10 wind 7 12 week

7 11 and 8 13--

8 9 14

9 15

12 environmen _ _ _ _ ! § _ environme 13 dance

__l1_.issu.esand 17 week 14 drama

____~.JiJstite 18 15

15 19 16

28 art

r-------t-------+~~----- a 30 stranger

r--~-t-------+~---------g

r- ~__+--------_e

25 welcoming

26 th e

_ _ _ ] ] _ d i ff e re n t ly

2 8 a ble d

29

Documents

Synod Papers, Section 3