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Take a journey into cultural complexity. ‘Maps of the Heart’ is written by Geelong-based artists North Youth Theatre, and tells the stories of eight characters from different times and countries, based on their lived experiences. Interwoven with these stories are the actors’ reflections on who they are, where they have come from and how it feels to be living in a society that sometimes struggles to embrace difference.

Showing over two nights, from 25–26 MARCH at Platform Arts, MOTH is a must-see performance. Tickets: https://platformarts.org.au/events/maps-of-the-heart

“Maps of the Heart is about the journey of coming of age and trying to find your place in the world.”
– Abraham Herasan, NYT Ensemble Member

“Youth Mentors needed for local Geelong Schools” visitwww.raise.org.au for more information.

Would you like to learn how to respond to people at risk of suicide?

If so, please see details of these two free upcoming accredited safeTALK workshops Hope Bereavement are running in Geelong, directed towards schools and community groups.  These training dates are targeted to people who have contact with young people in their roles, including teachers, well-being and school support staff, coaches, team managers, and community and parent volunteers.

Places are limited, so register now.  If you would like to find out more about running a specific safeTALK workshop for another group, or if you would like to go on a waitlist for future training dates, please get in contact Hope at melinda@bereavement.org.au

Training dates and booking links:

Tuesday 22^nd March 2022 9.30am-12.30pm – safeTALK Suicide Alertness Training TUESDAY 22ND MARCH 9.30am- 12.30pm Tickets, Tue 22/03/2022 at 9:30 am | Eventbrite

Tuesday 29^th March 2022 4.00pm -7.00pm –  safeTALK Suicide Alertness Training TUESDAY 29TH MARCH 4.00PM-7.00PM Tickets, Tue 29/03/2022 at 4:00 pm | Eventbrite

Photo Supplied.

Many different cultures enjoying a wonderful day in peace and harmony.

Hear Dr. Niki Vincent, Victoria’s Public Sector Gender Equality Commissioner, speak this Thursday on initiatives, issues and challenges in implementing Victoria’s trail blazing Gender Equality Act.

Dr Vincent will also launch both the Empowering Women Network and WILD’s (Women In Local Democracy) 3 year Gender Parity Strategy – copies of the Strategy will be available at the launch.

The evening also includes updates on the City of Greater Geelong’s gender equity initiatives, Young WILD training and a very special cameo appearance, courtesy of Drop of A Hat Productions.

It is an important occasion to demonstrate strong support for gender equality in our community and to begin the campaign for gender parity at the 2024 Council elections.

Note: all attendees over the age of 18 must provide proof that they are fully vaccinated against COVID.

The event is this Thursday 24th February at the Geelong Regional Library from 5-7pm. You must register to attend this free event here:

https://events.grlc.vic.gov.au/event/5987765

Photo of Dr Niki Vincent supplied.

Book Fair, with all proceeds going to community projects and causes, hosted by the Geelong West Rotary Club. You can pick up some marvelous books for just a couple of dollars and know that you are supporting some very worthy local charities. There is a huge variety of genres, fiction and non-fiction.

It’s on at the Geelong West Town Hall, today 9-6pm, Sat 9-5pm and Sun 9-2pm. Thanks to all involved!

These change maker artists look very pleased with their prizes! Poppy (left) and Georgia, from Oberon Primary School, won $100 vouchers to Adventure Park after winning the Kindness Art Competition at the Humans in Geelong Expo on December 5^th, 2021.

The competition was a collaboration between Humans in Geelong and VALID’s peer action group, the Victorian Advocacy League for Individuals with Disability. You might have seen their impressive ‘I AM’ sculpture at the Geelong Waterfront.

The student art pieces floated in the breeze from trees at the Racecourse on Expo day, spreading messages of inclusion and kindness. VALID’s peer action group judged the competition and will distribute these beautiful messages among their members.

Thanks to all who entered!

“My partner lives with a serious disability so our gym wanted to provide for her and members of the community in a similar situation. She was accessing a small exercise place before the pandemic struck and forced it to permanently close its doors, meaning a lot of its members went without a suitable place to maintain their health and fitness. So, we sprung into action, and created a gym for those identifying with a disability, our aged community and also members of our community who just feel uncomfortable accessing a regular gym or exercise facility.” We hear from Tony Rankin.

“Dash is a local family-owned gym and wellbeing center. Our mission is to provide a safe and inclusive exercise environment to members of our community of all abilities and ages.

“We completely supported local businesses throughout the center fitout and development process, from equipment suppliers to all tradespeople… it has all been locally supported. We had zero assistance from any local or federal governments or grants relying upon only ourselves to turn this dream into a reality.

“We are extremely community minded and have immense understanding and compassion for the demographic we are focussed on providing for. We are taking membership enquiries before we officially open at the start of February.”

https://www.dashgw.com.au/    Photos supplied.

Rhonda Burchmore and Jack Earle woo-ed audiences last night at the Piano Bar Geelong. Rhonda was in the original Australian Mumma Mia stage show.

She’s had a long, colourful, varied career. What an amazing voice and I loved her amusing stories too. Google her.

Not long after Timor-Leste gained independence in 2001 Christian College established a Friendship House in Viqueque, which created the first formal link between Geelong and the Viqueque District. In 2007 Peter Cannon and wife Tricia Blane travelled from Geelong to Dili, across the mountains to Viqueque with two staff members of Christian College. It was a long trip, and one which they made another 12 times.

On all of their visits they became fully aware of the value young people and their parents placed on education. It was quite amazing and uplifting to see students in very large numbers walking long distances to and from school, six days a week. Whilst in the classroom they also noted how attentive they were. Their school buildings were neglected, with almost no resources. In many situations the teachers were keen but had limited training, some being volunteers.

Continue reading “Viqueque Friendship House.” →