BELCONNEN COMMUNITY

newsletter

A CONNECTED, ACTIVE & STRONG COMMUNITY

Issue 3 - 2015

20th July 2015 - 11th October 2015

In this issue...

The Art of Mindfulness

• Benambra Intentional Community Seeks Members p7

• Bit Bent Retreat p17

• Anxious Architecture – Artist Janet Angus

p16



Australian Government try, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education

Message from the CEO 3 The Art of Mindfulness – an overnight retreat for seniors 4 English Conversations at the National Portrait Gallery 5 Rolling with the National Disability Insurance Scheme 6 Benambra Intentional Community Seeks Members 7 Too Old for This, too Young for That 7 Get Involved in Belconnen 8 News from our neighbourhood 10 Go Social, All Around Canberra 11 social@bcs 12 gallery@bcs 14 Anxious Architecture 16 Bit Bent Retreat 17 10/10 Project - many hands make light work 18 Get on Board - Community Bus Excursions and Lunch Tours 19 Tracks to Reconciliation 20 National Youth Week 21 Spring School Holiday Programs @BCS 22 Community Calendar 23 A Conversation with Tim Bourke 27 CONTACTS Belconnen Community Service Belconnen Community Centre, Swanson Court, Belconnen. PO Box 679, Belconnen, ACT 2616. Tel: 6264 0200 Fax: 6253 2901 Email: [email protected] Web: www.bcsact.com.au www.facebook.com/BCSACT FOLLOW@BCSACT Newsletter Editor

[email protected] 6264 0205

BELCONNEN COMMUNITY SERVICE INC. ACKNOWLEDGES THE SUPPORT AND ASSISTANCE OF: The ACT Government • The ACT Chief Minister and Treasury Directorate • The ACT Community Services Directorate • The ACT Environment and Sustainable Development Directorate • The ACT Health Directorate The Australian Commonwealth Government • The Department of Social Services • The Department of Health

Message from the CEO

as I head home on a Monday night but I’d never met the whole group before. On Friday May 29, I attended a morning tea to farewell the members of Bit Bent as they headed off to their retreat. It was a great opportunity to realise the impact that Bit Bent has, not just on the young people who attend, but on their families as well. There were quite a number of parents at the morning tea. A mother of one participant told me that she saw an article about Bit Bent in a previous edition of this newsletter. Her teenager had recently come out to the family and she suggested that they might want to look into Bit Bent. After attending the group for the first time, her child came home and said, “I’ve found my people.” Like other parents I spoke to, this mother was very happy that her child had somewhere to go for support and a strong sense of belonging.

Over the past few months, three of our social support groups have taken trips away from Canberra. On our front cover is Rena McCawley, who is 99 years old and recently attended two trips away with the Silver Threads and Golden Needles program of creative arts for seniors. You can read Caroline White’s account of their overnight retreat to Murrumbateman on page four. On page 13, in our Social pages, you’ll see pictures from a trip to Eden attended by staff and participants in our mental health programs. And on page 17, you can read about the Bit Bent Retreat to Camp Wombaroo, near Mittagong, NSW. Bit Bent is a social support group for same sex attracted and sex and gender diverse young people that meets at the corner@bcs on Monday nights. It’s an award-winning group that’s been running for over a decade. I’ve often seen the light on at the corner

Attending the Bit Bent morning tea with me was one of our board members, Riki Sutherland. The value of an engaged and active board in a not-for-profit organisation can’t be overestimated. BCS’s current board is one of the most committed and effective groups I have ever had the pleasure of working with. They’re all volunteers and our treasurer, Ann Thorpe, does extra volunteer work with BCS’s English Conversation Group. This long-established group recently went on an excursion to the National Portrait Gallery. You can read Simone Penkethman’s story about the day on page five. Bit Bent and the English Conversation Group are just two of the long running social support groups that BCS provides. This year we celebrate 40 years of community leadership in Belconnen. Our next issue of this newsletter will have details of our combined Annual General Meeting and 40th birthday party on Tuesday November 10. I hope that many of you will come along and help us celebrate.

Dira Horne

Stretching the boundaries at the Bit Bent retreat

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BELCONNEN COMMUNITY

newsletter Issue 3 - July 20th - October 11th 2015

that was one of the highlights of the day. He honestly altered my state of consciousness and that is a HUGE thing to do. I nearly dozed off!

The Art of Mindfulness – an Overnight Retreat for Seniors

Caroline White shares some highlights from the Silver Threads and Golden Needles group overnight mindfulness retreat.

That evening we got into our glad-rags and were taken to Flint in the Vines. We spent a wonderful evening at the restaurant, which is set on the grounds of the Shaw Estate Wineries. We also sampled some very, very good red and white wines. What a treat! The next morning – after a short lesson on PostImpressionist painters – we tried our hands and talent at landscape painting. Some of us felt more confident than others but we all became absorbed in the work. At times you could have heard a pin drop, which is a fabulous feeling; the absolute concentration. After lunch we had a Singing and Voice Workshop, learning to project our voices and harmonise. Most enjoyable, and we actually were all rather proud of our singing! After afternoon tea we loaded our suitcases on the bus, and said a very fond farewell to Redbrow – we shall be back! Before we headed home, we stopped at the Chocolate Factory right next door. All had complimentary chocolates and some of us bought extras. We were home around five-ish, after a truly fabulous and highly interesting one nighter.

Silver Threads and Golden Needles soaking up the sun at Redbrow Gardens and Guesthouse.

We left Belconnen Community Centre on an autumnal Wednesday morning in April, and made our way north. There were 12 participants, as well as myself and our lovely Team Leader, Katie Anderson-Kelly. We headed to Redbrow Garden and Guest House, a little oasis just between Hall and Murrumbateman. We missed it the first time around but with a little help from the people at the Murrumbateman garage, we found it. Oh my word… I thought we had all just been wafted heavenwards! It was ever so pretty, with the autumn-coloured trees around the still waters of the dam making for a picture-perfect setting. Our hosts at Redbrow welcomed us with a delicious morning tea on the patio over-looking the beautiful dam. Then we were straight into our first craft task; decorating glasses to make candle lanterns. We got to know each other over this small task and talked ten to the dozen! After a tasty lunch and a short break for a rest or walk, we met up for a story-reading with our poetry and literature aficionado, Colin. At 4.00pm a rather good-looking and reserved young man found his way into a darkened room where we were all lying or seated on our yoga mats. Using mindfulness exercises, he proceeded to calm us down to a complete state of tranquility. I can only speak for myself in saying

Making candle lanterns and talking ten to the dozen.

Finished candle lanterns.

English Conversations at the National Portrait Gallery By Simone Penkethman

On a rainy Thursday in June, I accompanied the BCS English Conversation Group on an excursion to the National Portrait Gallery. The English Conversation Group is run by dedicated volunteers. Members of the group come from all over the world and they meet weekly in Belconnen. The BCS Community Bus brought the group to the gallery where we were greeted by three guides and educators. I joined a group of eight advanced English speakers. We followed our guide, Katrina, to John Webber’s 1782 portrait of Captain Cook. Katrina directed our attention to various aspects of the painting including Captain Cook’s hand which is beautifully painted and points, almost boastfully, to the artist’s signature. One of the group members said that Captain Cook had sexy fingers. Katrina had shown many people that portrait but had never heard anyone point that out before. We discussed Cook’s voyage to Australia and the group members shared some of their stories. Their countries of origin included Indonesia, Vietnam, Iran, France and Bosnia Herzegovina. Some are in Australia temporarily and others have made it their home. Katrina gave us all boards, papers and pencils and took us to see Potters’ Portrait Pot. This unusual ceramic portrait is by the Hermannsburg Potters, who are Aboriginal women living near Alice Springs. It shows local animals and aspects of their country to which the artists feel a connection. Katrina asked us all to draw an animal with which we feel a connection. Our drawings included a butterfly, dog, snake, horse and quite a few birds.

Predrag with Rod McNicol’s portrait: Tariro

showed people from many cultures. Our conversation was lively and vocabularies were stretched. The ideas behind the art traversed the boundaries of language, showing that the power of art is universal. We were all very grateful to the National Portrait Gallery and our three dedicated guides. I also thank the members of the English Conversation Group for making me feel so welcome among them. Despite the grey day, the warmth and generosity of our city and our community made me feel happy and lucky to be there. The English Conversation Group meets at the Belconnen Library Community Room from 10am12pm on Thursday during school terms. It’s free and no bookings or registrations are required. New members are always welcome and the group is currently seeking volunteers to help plan and facilitate classes. For more information, phone BCS reception on 62640200. Members of the English conversation group with portraits of Captain Cook and Joseph Banks

Our next activity was a real communication challenge. We divided into pairs with one person electing to draw and the other to speak. As the drawer, I sat with my back to a painting. My partner used words and gestures to describe what he saw. It was a portrait of an old man with a moustache, a goatee, a pipe and a smoking jacket. I drew what he described and, while my drawing wasn’t nearly as good as the painting, all the elements were there, right down to a vase of gladioli. In another gallery, Katrina asked us to choose the portrait that we felt showed the most power. People’s choices were quite diverse and it was interesting to talk about all the different ways that power and status are expressed. Our final destination was a new exhibition, Life and time: Portraits by Rod McNicol. These photographic portraits of contemporary Australia

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BELCONNEN COMMUNITY

newsletter Issue 3 - July 20th - October 11th 2015

Some of the families that use BCS services

Rolling with the National Disability Insurance Scheme

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is being progressively rolled out across the ACT. This Australian Government initiative provides individuallytailored support plans for people with a permanent and significant disability that affects their ability to take part

in everyday activities. BCS has more than 300 clients currently accessing services who may be eligible for an NDIS package. “We are finding that people’s understanding of NDIS processes vary considerably,” says BCS Program Manager, Margy Wylde-Browne. “ Some participants who have been receiving support for many years are not concerned about the new way of receiving services while others are highly anxious and confused about the new processes.” To help people navigate the transition to the new arrangements, BCS staff are undertaking pre-planning conversations that help people prepare for their NDIS planning meetings and clarify the services that BCS can provide. “If requested we sometimes accompany people when they attend meetings with their NDIS planner,” Margy says. “This has been particularly useful with some of our mental health participants” When people receive their approved NDIS plan and wish to purchase service from BCS, staff discuss the practicalities of how this can be provided, and these ideas inform the service agreement that formalises the support BCS provides. “People appreciate these opportunities to clarify the steps involved.” says Margy. “We regularly advocate with people’s NDIS planner to get support items changed or negotiate with other service providers about support.” If you would like more information on how BCS can work with you, please call us on 6264 0200 or email [email protected].

Benambra community members on a weekend away at the beach

Benambra Intentional Community Seeks Members By Sally Richards

Benambra Intentional Community is a Housing ACT development that comprises 25 dwellings, including the homes of three young men living with disability. Of the remaining 22 dwellings, seven form an Intentional Community. These tenants, along with the three young men, create a connected and supportive environment by actively engaging with others living at Benambra. The intentional community has a mix of families and individuals. Some of the families in the Benambra development who are not a formal part of the intentional community also contribute to and participate in community events and activities. Benambra is a residential development like no other. It’s a vital, positive community of involvement, contribution, friendship, social events, music, support and fun. Benambra’s second anniversary was on June 14, 2015. Community members celebrated together with music, food and good company. Some examples of how the community works and plays together are: • Clean up Australia Day brought many community

members together to clean up around the outskirts of Benambra • Everyone enjoyed a community dinner at a local club •  Some members assisted a family clean up their back garden •M  usic events are regular highlights • Everyone attended a barbeque to welcome our new community builder • Birthdays and significant events are celebrated with community parties • Herbs, eggs and vegetables are often shared • There is a community vegetable garden • There was recently a whole-of-community week-end at the beach Benambra Intentional Community is actively seeking people who are eligible for public housing through Housing ACT to be prospective members as vacancies arise. The houses are two-bedroom and two storey. If you are a person or family who would like to live in a vibrant community where you can be a good neighbour who likes to contribute, then please contact us. To register your interest or for further information, please email: [email protected] or visit the website www. gettingalife.com.au

Too Old for This, Too Young for That

Talented youngsters from the Bungee drama class ended term three with an engaging production based on a series of monologues at the theatre@bcs. Titled “Too Old for This, Too Young for That” the show was also a farewell to drama tutor Liliana Bogato, who is travelling to Poland to visit family this term. Props were made by young artists in the Bungee arts program.

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BELCONNEN COMMUNITY

newsletter Issue 3 - July 20th - October 11th 2015

Scribblers Writing Group

Get Involved in Belconnen Join a Ukulele Empire

Term 3 at Belconnen Community Centre



Every Tuesday, 12:45pm – 2:45pm Room 1, Belconnen Community Centre Swanson Ct, Belconnen Explore your passion for writing with a group of likeminded people. This weekly creative writing group encourages members to improve their writing skills in prose and poetry through practice, discussion and critique. The group also produces an annual themed anthology. Attendance costs $5 per session. To find out more email [email protected]

Coming soon to theatre@bcs

Under a Ghawazee Moon Student Showcase 2015

Saturday 25 July, 6:30-8:30pm theatre@bcs, Swanson Ct, Belconnen Photo by IntimateImagery | Stephen Kaak

Belconnen Community Service’s popular ukulele program has expanded with the Ukulele Empire; a new weekly social ukulele session on Tuesdays at 5:30pm. Perfect for those with some existing proficiency in ukulele, the Ukulele Empire is a facilitated group with an experienced teacher and costs $100 for a 10 class pass or casual visit for $12 (pre-payment essential). Songs and charts are provided but participants are encouraged to bring songs to share. There are also new weekly classes for ukulele learners every Thursday. Beginner Classes are held from 1pm – 2:15pm, Continuing Classes from 2:30pm – 3:45pm. Class costs are $100 for 8 lessons. Ukulele classes are fun, the teachers are helpful and friendly, and learning to play is easier than you think. As one new ukulele player found, taking up the ukulele is “really great. Didn’t think I could learn” To book or find out more, please call 6264 0200 or email [email protected]

Established in 2007, Ghawazee Moon Bellydance encourages a healthy, natural body-image and brings a joyful acceptance of our bodies. The Student Showcase 2015 features pieces performed, and choreographed by students from Ghawazee Moon Bellydance in bellydance styles from Folkloric through to Fusion, with special guest stars Gypsy Dreaming. Experience joy in movement. Tickets from $7 - $20, group discounts are available and kids under 5 free, see www.ghawazeemoon. com.au for more details.

Tempo Theatre presents:

Arsenic and Old Lace

Friday 4 to Saturday 12 September theatre@bcs, Swanson Ct, Belconnen

BCC Movie Club Launch

Wednesday 6 August, 6pm theatre@bcs, Swanson Ct, Belconnen The BCC Movie Club launches with a screening of Les Misérables. The movie will be preceded by a short slideshow of highlights from BCC group adventures, including the recent Silver Threads and Golden Needles trip to the Vivid Sydney festival. BCC Movie Club tickets are just $8 or $6 concession. All members of the public are welcome.

Insane Championship Wrestling

Saturday 15 August, Doors open at 5:45pm theatre@bcs, Swanson Ct, Belconnen

Tempo Theatre presents a classic comical farce by Joseph Kesselring, best known from the film of the same name that starred Cary Grant. Insanity runs in Mortimer’s upper-crust family. In fact, it practically gallops. His Aunts, the sweet old Brewster sisters, have a dastardly hobby concerning the lonely bachelors who would like to rent a room. His brothers are an escaped convict and a schizophrenic who thinks he’s Theodore Roosevelt. Mortimer needs to whisk his lovely new bride away on their Honeymoon before she finds out…but what if he’s mad, too? Tickets $30/$35 on sale in July call 6275 2700 or got to www.canberraticketing.com.au. For more information see www.tempotheatre.org.au.

Ickle Pickle Productions presents:

Goldilocks

10 shows in the October school holidays – theatre@bcs, Swanson Ct, Belconnen It’s Ickle Pickle Productions 10th birthday, and to celebrate they are re-staging their very first show: Goldilocks The Pantomime, a tale of love, hope, struggle against overwhelming odds - and porridge. The classic children’s story is brought to life in a fun musical written by Canberra playwright Peter McDonald. The evil Sheriff of Gunningham is trying to steal the Three Bears’ recipe for porridge so that he can start a chain of porridge outlets. He and his assistant Frogmore kidnap Goldilocks and hold her ransom for the porridge recipe. Can Dave the Woodcutter save the day? Don’t miss this tenth anniversary edition, ten shows only, all tickets just $10. For more information please visit www.icklepickle.com.au.

Round up the family and come cheer and boo your favourite heroes and villains at the Insane Championship Wrestling August show. Tonight’s title match features Chris Shadows and Captain Ultimate. Tag Team Match with I.O.D. and Dead Wrestler Society, and Women’s Tag Match with Asha, Sofia, Flame & Kandi. Adults $10, Students $8, Kids $5, (under 5 years free).

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BELCONNEN COMMUNITY

newsletter Issue 3 - July 20th - October 11th 2015

News from our Neighbourhood

Hidden Treasures of Our Place

Carers ACT chef, Michelle Buckley

The enterprise adds an important new business line for Carers ACT, allowing them to continue their work supporting around 8000 carers within the Canberra and South East NSW community.

Image by Fiona Edge of Edge Design

The Belconnen Arts Centre (BAC) annual Community Exhibition is now open for submissions. This year’s theme is Hidden Treasures, and entries close on 3 August. Artists of all ages and abilities are invited to reveal the treasures of their own lives, the west and north-west neighbourhoods of the ACT, or beyond. BAC encourages artists to engage with the ‘hidden treasures’ theme playfully, thoughtfully, radically, or somewhere in between; exploring the people, relationships, places, adventures and environments they cherish. The Hidden Treasures exhibition opening coincides with Our Place – an afternoon event to launch BAC’s celebrations of Belconnen’s 50th birthday on Saturday 19 September. For more details and to enter the Community Exhibition, visit www.belconnenartscentre.com.au or find BAC on Facebook and Twitter.

Carers ACT serves up compassionate catering

“The enterprise also hopes to establish a community garden that provides valuable skills to those that tend to it and produces ‘patch to plate’ fresh fruit and vegetables” says Carers ACT CEO, Dee McGrath. Experience the Branch Out café in Stirling from 8am-4pm weekdays, or try the catering service for your next function. Bookings, menus and pricing can be found at www.branchout.org.au

Keep Canberra’s Gardens Open Open Gardens Canberra was established by founding President, Shirley Pipitone, following the closure of the national scheme, Open Gardens, Australia. Shirley aims to create a community of garden lovers in the Canberra and the surrounding region, and will open at least nine gardens in 2015, with more planned for 2016. For a small annual fee, members have free entry to all gardens opened by, Open Gardens Canberra. For more information email opengardenscanberra@ gmail.com and look out for the forthcoming website www.opengardenscanberra.org.au.

Early this year, Carers ACT opened the doors to its social enterprise, Branch Out Café and Catering Services at the ACT Education and Training Directorate, Hedley Beare Centre in Stirling. The enterprise includes café services, in-house catering, and training opportunities. Participants engage in customer service, food preparation, financial and cash management and other activities associated with running a small business.

Japanese-influenced cottage garden by Helen Cohen

Go Social, All Around Canberra By Chanel Cole

Elaine has been a BCS Community Transport regular since she moved to Belconnen from Lismore five years ago. She’s made quite a few friends through the transport service, including the drivers. “The drivers are excellent and they really look after us all,” she tells me. “Make sure you put that in.”

Elaine shows how to use the wheel-chair access

Elaine lost mobility after four successive hip operations and a long recovery from a fall that left her with a broken pelvis. “When I first got up, I couldn’t walk, stand or anything. I had to start from scratch,” she says. Elaine appreciates the wheel-chair accessible lift in the new commuter and says she doesn’t miss driving around in her car at all “Let the drivers have the hassle” she grins.

Elaine’s ongoing rehabilitation schedule means she doesn’t have much time for social activities during the week, so the Go Social program on Saturdays works well for her. “I thoroughly enjoy the Saturday trips. I’ve put my name down for every one,” she says. “They’re lovely. I particularly enjoyed the Handmade markets; there’s another one just before Christmas which I hope we can go to.” I discover that Elaine has a 101 year-old Dad, that she contracted polio at age 11 and recovered fully with exercise, and that she’s an accomplished crafter who sews, crochets, does silk ribbon work and knits. The covetable cardigan Elaine wears is her own work.

Elaine bids driver Paul a fond farewell until next time

BCS transport driver, Paul – who is at the wheel when I meet Elaine – has a wide knowledge of Canberra history and loves giving his clients mini-guided tours, when time permits. Paul says clients like Elaine make his job “the best in the world. You can’t beat this job,” he declares. “There’s not a day when you don’t look forward to going to work. I’m very lucky”.

Go Social, All Around Canberra

Go Social activities run every Saturday. The new wheel-chair accessible commuter comes right to your door and pick up generally begins from 10am. Seats are limited to 10 passengers, so advance bookings are essential. August 1 August 8 August 15 August 22 August 29

Parliament Houses Craft and Quilt Fair at EPIC Lunch in Gold Creek Canberra Mountains Tour Royal Australian Mint

September 5 Gundaroo September 12 MV Southern Cross Lake Cruise ($9 fare) September 19 Lunch at Poachers Pantry/Settlers Inn, Murrumbateman September 26 Floriade

Go Social also runs a Shopper Shuttle service every Monday from around 10am, visiting a variety of shopping destinations around Canberra. During August and September, the Shopper Shuttle will visit centres and outlet stores in Weston, Gungahlin, Woden, Majura, Tuggeranong and Fyshwick. To find out more about transport@bcs, or to book with Go Social, contact the team on 6278 8124, email [email protected], or visit www.bcsact.com.au. You can also talk to the team to find out more about week day Go Social activities including the new Home Visiting Service.

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BELCONNEN COMMUNITY

newsletter Issue 3 - July 20th - October 11th 2015

English Conversation Group excursion to the National Portrait Gallery, July 18

social@bcs

Bridges and Community Access and Skill Development Programs for adults living with disability.

Bungee Team Curry Night, June 15

Evan Roupas working on a plaster hand print (My Art Class).

Back row: Tutors Tim Burke, Jim Sharrock, Emma McCann, Stewart McDonald, and Liliana Bogato Front: Administrator and Assistant Tutor, Felicity Spellman and Program Coordinator Susan Pfanner

Baby Shower for BCS Facilities and Assets coordinator, Melinda Smith, May 13

Marjorie Ogilvie, working on Aboriginal inspired dot painting (Craft Club).

Toby Clarke at Sky Zone (Be Active Group).

Melinda Smith and Sarah Helmers

Community Services Directorate Reconciliation Week awards, May 29

To Eden for Mental Health In early June, as winter descended, 24 intrepid travellers from the Open Art and Leisure programs for adults living with mental illness headed to Twofold Bay, Eden. At the historic Edrom Lodge they enjoyed three days of art activities, walks along the beach and through the bush, parachute games, scrabble tournaments and driftwood collecting. At night they gathered together for sumptuous feasts, bonfires on the beach, and long chats.

Tammi O’Callaghan, Merin Ahern and Sue Gore-Phillips with their award for the annual Tracks to Reconciliation event.

Silver Threads and Golden Needles Sydney trip

Katie Anderson-Kelly, Caroline White, Adam McEvoy, Masia Ermacora

Bonfire singalong

John Vance, the kitchen philosopher

Naidoc Week Exhibition Opening in gallery@bcs, July 8

The end of a wonderful retreat

Artists exhibiting in the “Empowering Sacred Knowledge” exhibition: Minyaada Swan, Lyn Talbot and Noelene Morrison

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BELCONNEN COMMUNITY

newsletter Issue 3 - July 20th - October 11th 2015

What’s on in gallery@bcs

Belconnen Community Centre, Swanson Court, Belconnen Open 9:00am – 4:30pm Monday-Friday

Mixed Earth Part 1

A Ceramic Installation by Stephanie Hunt July 28-August 7

Official opening 5:30pm, Wednesday July 29

The exhibition is in two sections; the first is a mixed installation combining fired ceramic and unfired sealed clay that is displayed in the gallery, the second is a collection of ceramic artworks displayed outside the gallery in the showcase.

The mixed installation is about the connection between ceramics and nature; about how ceramics relate to the earth by originating from clay which is naturally occurring. It will also relate to the many changes that the earth goes through to create clay, how clay changes to ceramic through the firing processes, the chemistry that occurs, and what happens to ceramic as it ages.

The showcase works explore connections between ceramics and civilization, contrasting traditional uses of ceramic artworks with modern ideas of installation. These works range from of practical pieces to ornamental objects, exploring the idea of a slow loss of function. The artist’s intention is to show both clay itself - and the idea of what it means to be a ceramic artist - to the viewer in an unusual way.

The gallery@bcs Springboard Series presents:

Mental Case

An exhibition of paintings by our Emerging Artists Support Scheme prize winner Janet Angus August 11 – 28

Official opening 5:30pm, Wednesday August 12

Every year gallery@bcs awards one graduate from the ANU School of Art three weeks free gallery hire, printing of flyers, and catering for an exhibition as part of our contribution to the school’s Emerging Artist Support Scheme.

Janet Angus’ work represents psychological space, through constructed worlds that are symbolic of internal emotion. She is interested in exploring the narratives of dreams as driven by the unconscious, and how this association can be used to give visual form to an internal experience. The works incorporate methods of engaging a sense of vast space, embodying the viewer within the work.

Janet’s works take the form of three-dimensional constructions as a means of reflecting the structure of the human mind. They acknowledge architecture as a method for constructing composition and establishing the psychological foundations of the work. Their aim is to generate an experience of the paintings, which is understood both visually and emotionally.

The gallery@bcs Piece of Mind Series presents:

Brian Hennesy House

A mixed media exhibition by participants of Brian Hennessy Rehabilitation Centre September 1 –11

Official Opening 2:00pm, Wednesday September 2

The exhibition will show a collection of artworks by consumers at Brian Hennessey Rehabilitation Centre (BHRC). The consumers use art as a form of relaxation and entertainment and they have shown great skill and talent when creating artworks. Consumers have created artworks at BHRC and with outside groups such as the Pottery Group at Watson. Works are both two-dimensional and three dimensional and display wonderful originality and creativity.

Ickle Pickle

An exhibition of memorabilia by the BCS homegrown theatre company, Ickle Pickle Productions September 14 - 25

Official Opening 5:30pm, Wednesday September 16

This year, Ickle Pickle Productions celebrates 10 years of producing theatre in Canberra. Part of the celebrations will see an exhibition at gallery@bcs from September 16 to 25.

The exhibition will feature memorabilia, photos, multimedia, costumes and other materials associated with the 40 + productions that Ickle Pickle has produced since 2005. Given that Ickle Pickle’s first ever show was at theatre@bcs (then known as Belconnen Community Theatre), gallery@bcs is the perfect venue for this exhibition. There will even be the last remaining piece of set and some costumes from the original production. Ickle Pickle is producing an updated, 10th anniversary edition of that first production, Goldilocks by Canberra playwright Peter McDonald, the week after the exhibition in theatre@bcs, and visitors to the exhibition will have a chance to win tickets to the show.

The gallery@bcs Piece of Mind Series presents:

Act Belong Commit

A showcase of recent work from Canberra artists in celebration of Mental Health Week Sep 29 – Oct 16

Official Opening 12:30pm, Thursday October 8

As a part of Mental Health Week, artists with diverse abilities share visions, experiences and images of significance using painting, drawing, printmaking, textiles, ceramics, sculpture and photography. Act – keep mentally, physically, socially and spiritually active, take a walk, read a book, meet with friends. Belong - Join a club, take a class, volunteer, stay connected, get involved in your community, make new friends. Commit - take up a cause, help a neighbour, learn something new, and take on a challenge.

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BELCONNEN COMMUNITY

newsletter Issue 3 - July 20th - October 11th 2015

Anxious Architecture

By Ben Drysdale

Janet Angus is a 2014 honours graduate from the ANU School of Art, who is exhibiting a showcase of new works this August as part of the gallery@bcs Springboard series. Janet was awarded free exhibition space, launch catering, and design and printing of flyers, as part of the annual gallery@bcs contribution to the ANU Emerging Artists Support Scheme. After ten years in corporate graphic design, Janet tried her hand at some life drawing classes. She began working with oil paints, and was encouraged by her tutor to do a portfolio preparation course and apply for art school. Her application was accepted and she began study in the BCS is exhibiting Janet Angus’s work as part of the ANU Emerging Artists Support Scheme (EASS). ANU School of Art painting department Janet is interested in exploring the narratives of in 2011. Throughout her degree she worked and dreams as driven by the unconscious, and how this volunteered part time in local art institutions such as association can be used to give visual form to an the Drill Hall gallery, and Belconnen Arts Centre, where internal experience. Her works take the form of threeshe interned under the then Creative Program Manager dimensional constructions as a means of reflecting the Jacquie Shultz, working on the community-driven structure of the human mind. Intersections exhibition. The pieces acknowledge architecture as a method Though she always knew she wanted to do honours, for constructing composition and establishing the Janet nearly switched departments at the culmination psychological foundations of the work. Their aim is of her Bachelor’s degree. Dissatisfied with her work to generate an experience of the paintings, which is in panting she considered transferring to the Print understood both visually and emotionally. Media department. After meeting with her supervisor - who stopped short of discouraging the transfer but suggested that she was being a bit hard on herself and was doing better than she may have thought – Janet decided to pursue painting in her honours year. It is perhaps this anxiety surrounding her art that informed the subject matter that her honours work would focus on, winning her two Emerging Artist Support Scheme prizes in her honours graduation show. “My recent body of work is an investigation of the representation of psychological space, through constructed worlds symbolic of emotional anxiety,” she says.

When asked about the theme of anxiety in her work Janet notes that though she has never been diagnosed, she knows many people who have been, and definitely she experiences it in her life.

“It’s something that comes out of my work even if I try to avoid it,” she says. “There’s a certain darkness that I felt I needed to explore further.” Janet’s exhibition “Mental Case” will be held in gallery@bcs from August 10 – 28 with an official opening on Wednesday August 12 at 5:30pm.

Bit Bent Retreat By Jen Lewis

Bit Bent is a social support group for same-sex attracted and sex and gender diverse young people. It meets at corner@bcs every Monday evening. On the morning of Friday 29 May, 17 Bit Bent members and five Belconnen Community Service (BCS) employees, embarked on the first ever Bit Bent Retreat. They travelled by coach to Camp Wombaroo, a fantastic facility on the outskirts of Mittagong NSW, run by The Outdoor Education Group. On the first evening BCS employees, Nick and Tasi, built a camp fire that was perfect for toasting marshmallows. The young people participated in a candle making activity and a workshop around body image presented by Youth and Family Support Worker, Helen. With excited chatter and plenty of giggling, the Bit Benters fell fast asleep, ensuring they were well rested for the excitement to follow the next day. On Saturday the group participated in archery and a high ropes course. In the afternoon, they were joined by Tom Ballard, a well-known Australian comedian who presented a workshop on the importance of our personal stories. The Bit Benters were encouraged to craft their own stories and share them with the group. On day three they explored the camp surrounds through orienteering before tackling the giant swing. Perhaps the most fun for the young people was watching the frightened staff take their turn. After such a huge and exhausting weekend, they all piled on to the bus to return home. Below is one group member’s recollection of the retreat experience. Identifying as queer (that’s the word I use to identify myself, other people use lots of other words) can be hard sometimes. My identity, both related to my sexuality and my gender, has effects on the way I interact with the world around me, from work to hanging out with my friends. Bit Bent retreat provided me with a much-needed break from worrying about the way that others perceive me because of my identity; it was a weekend away from the concerns of everyday life.

Pictures: Activities at the Bit Bent Retreat

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The outdoors provides me with a sense of comfort that I don’t regularly get in Canberra. Camp Wombaroo, where the Bit Bent retreat was held, had vast spaces to explore. The space of the camp brought me a sense of calm: as though I was not confined but had the space to wander. This space was not just physical but also made me feel more comfortable stretching my boundaries, both in terms of fears (such as heights) and the extent to which I was honest with others about who I am. Comedian Tom Ballard visited retreat: talking about his experiences of coming out in a small town. During his workshop, I was able to tell more of my coming out story than I had ever previously felt comfortable telling. This was both a scary and enlightening experience. I am not often one for telling people about the harder times I’ve experienced, but I felt comfortable to do so at Bit Bent retreat; I think because of the positive and supportive atmosphere. Since returning home from retreat, I’ve been able to reflect on how much of an impact being outside and with groups of people who I trust has on my mental health. I’ve gone out of my way to take time outside, exploring nature reserves around my house, and spending time with positive people. The retreat acted as a reset button for my mental health and is an experience I can now draw upon in testing times.

BELCONNEN COMMUNITY

newsletter Issue 3 - July 20th - October 11th 2015

10/10 Project – Many hands make light work

10/10 Project volunteers not afraid of yard work

•T  he current condition of the yard/gardens prevents the family from using the outside areas.

Last year, volunteers completed all 10 yards in one day

On Saturday 10 October 2015, our 10 teams of volunteers will be beautifying up to 10 yards in the Belconnen area, and nominations are now open. Started four years ago, the 10/10 Project is an opportunity for staff at Belconnen Community Service (BCS), Housing ACT, and Uniting Care Kippax to show appreciation for the people who access their services by undertaking tasks such as lawn mowing, basic pruning, gardening and mulching, as well as green waste and light rubbish removal. This year the BCS Energy Efficiency Team will be on hand to provide energy efficiency tips for anyone registering for this year’s 10/10 Project.

To ensure the 10/10 Project continues to grow, we are launching a new fundraising event: The Amazing Belco Race. A cross between a scavenger hunt and a popular television contest, The Amazing Belco Race will see teams of up to five people scrambling to all corners of Belconnen. The Amazing Belco Race on Saturday September 12 is open to all members of the public; all you need to be involved is a team, sponsors, a sense of adventure, and some transport. Entry costs $50 per car and there will be prizes on the day. Those without access to cars can consider purchasing a seat on the BCS community bus. More information and registration forms for the 10/10 Project and The Amazing Belco Race are available online at www.bcsact.com.au. Or you can contact our Project Manager Graham McKerchar on 6278 8126 or [email protected]

Anyone living in the Belconnen area that accesses services provided by BCS, Housing ACT, or Uniting Care Kippax can apply. Members of the public interested in volunteering for the 10/10 Project are also encouraged to get in touch. Registrations close on Friday September 11 2015, and nominations are prioritised using the following key criteria: • Risk of eviction or homelessness due to the current condition of the yard/gardens. • Current condition of the yard or garden presenting a high fire risk as we move in to bush fire season. • Physical limitations that prevent the occupants from maintaining the yard/gardens.

You don’t have to be a green-thumb to volunteer

Get on Board -

Community Bus Excursions and Lunch Tours

These outings are an opportunity for Belconnen residents to get out and about, meet new people, and share a lunch and conversation in the surrounds of some of Canberra’s places of interest. Transport generally begins at 11:00am and we return around 2:30pm, depending on the activity. Pick up can be arranged from your door or a convenient meeting point, such as the Belconnen Community Centre in Swanson Court, Belconnen, or the Kippax Health Centre in Kippax place. Bus Excursions and Tours and Bus Lunch Tours are coordinated by BCS Community Transport Service. Bus Excursions and Tours Friday July 24th Canberra Galleries Tour Canberra has a wide array of galleries including the National Portrait Gallery, Drill Hall Gallery, Beaver Gallery and more. Join us for a tour of these highly regarded galleries and see some beautiful works of art including painting, sculpture, ceramics and glass. Friday August 28th Canberra Glassworks Take a walk through the exhibitions, visit the shop and the café, and take an unguided tour of the public areas and talk to Glassworks staff. Then it’s off to the Kingston shops for a wander, some shopping and a bite to eat before heading back home. Friday September 25th Floriade Running from Saturday September 12th – Sunday October 11th, Floriade is Australia’s biggest celebration of spring. Be part of this annual festival filled with music and cultural celebrations with the stunning backdrop of over 1 million blooms.

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Bus Lunch Tours Monday July 20th The Pancake Parlour Enjoy a variety of lunch options ranging from slow cooked lamb crepes, warm spinach salad, dessert pancakes and crepes or delicious savoury pancakes and crepes. There’s something for everyone with prices ranging from $12.00 - $30.00. Monday August 17th Wilbur’s Café Bar Take a journey to a world of relaxed and warm calm at Wilbur’s Café Bar in Hackett. For lunch the options range from the familiar to the creative and include all day breakfasts through to pizza and braised beef risotto. Monday September 21st Belluci’s Our “Foods of the World” BLT’s return with lunch at Belluci’s. Featuring all the most popular Italian dishes with an Australian twist including Penne Belluci’s and Risotto Pescatore. Meal prices range from $13.00 $30.00. Bookings are essential and can only be taken in the month that the excursion is happening. Eligibility criteria apply and a gold coin donation for transport is appreciated. To make a booking or find out more about the Bus Excursion and Lunch Tours, please contact the Community Bus Service on 6251 2100 or email [email protected] We would also love to hear your ideas on destinations for future excursions in the Canberra region, so please get in touch.

BELCONNEN COMMUNITY

newsletter Issue 3 - July 20th - October 11th 2015

Tracks to Reconciliation

By Merin Ahern

Tracks to Reconciliation is an annual event in West Belconnen that celebrates Reconciliation Week. It’s presented in partnership by community service organisations and it involves ‘tracking’ from one service to the next to participate in a range of fun activities. Now in its third year, Tracks to Reconciliation was held on June 2, 2015. Belconnen Community Serivce, UnitingCare Kippax, West Belconnen Child and Family Centre, Libraries ACT and Strathnairn Arts all joined together to contribute to this event to highlight the significance of reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians. Tracks to Reconciliation is for children from all backgrounds and their families. A group of over 60 children and their teachers, parents and carers started the day at UnitingCare Kippax with a series of playgroup activities that had an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander focus. The next venue was West Belconnen Child and Family Centre where they enjoyed morning tea, story time read by workers from the Kippax Library, and a circus workshop facilitated by BCS. In cars, they then tracked out to Strathnairn Arts to wind up the day with a BBQ lunch and several group art projects. On May 29, 2015 the Tracks to Reconciliation partners were awarded a Community Services Directorate Reconciliation Award for efforts in building relationships between indigenous and non-indigenous peoples as well as between agencies that work in the Kippax region.

Artwork at UnitingCare Kippax

Morning activities at UnitingCare Kippax

Ngunnawal Elder Warren Daley giving a heart-warming Welcome to Country before the day’s proceedings

Artwork at Strathnairn Arts

Photos. Top: BCS and Wirrpanda Foundation stall at the National Youth Week Expo. Below: Henna tattoos at the National Youth Week Expo. Bottom: The three ringed circus themed cake.

National Youth Week By Merin Ahern

From April 10-19, staff and participants at BCS celebrated National Youth Week. Throughout the week they hosted and attended many events including the annual National Youth Week Expo held in Garema Place that is hosted by the Youth Coalition ACT. BCS shared a stall with the Wirrpanda Foundation, an organisation that is committed to leading a social service paradigm shift for Aboriginal people by engaging and empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians to make well-informed life choices. A mentor from Wirrpanda came and played the didgeridoo. BCS staff gave out free popcorn, henna tattooing, promotional pens, and stress balls to the many people that passed by. The corner@bcs hosted two main events: an Authors’ Evening, and A Three Ring Circus Extravaganza. The Authors’ Evening was the brain child of a participant of the Youth Engagement program, Kim Morton, who used his initiative to apply for and was successful in receiving a Youth InterACT Grant. Local authors Daniel O’Malley, Tracey Hawkins and Jennifer Bradley all came along and shared stories about writing and publishing. They also gave advice for budding young authors.

The Three Ring Circus Extravaganza started off with a performance from Questacon’s Excited Particles and the Dr Scar travelling exhibitions. The performances were followed by a circus skills workshop facilitated by Warehouse Circus. Local band Triumvirate played into the evening and everyone enjoyed a delicious cake that had been made in theme to the ‘3-tiered’ event. Thank you to everyone who came along and celebrated National Youth Week 2015.

Happy Mothers’ Day By Yolanda Ayala Rivas

Staff from BCS’s Kippax office celebrated Mother’s Day on May 8 2015. Employees were treated to home-made delights cooked by the Family Support team. The team were encouraged to bring a plate of food that reminded them of their mother or grandmothers. This topic stirred emotions and employees were able to reflect on the wonderful smells of their childhood. A wonder word search kept people busy as they munched on gingerbread, nachos and a Swiss roll. A wall hanging was decorated with the names of employees who are mothers along with the names of their mothers as a form of remembrance and appreciation.

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BELCONNEN COMMUNITY

newsletter Issue 3 - July 20th - October 11th 2015

Spring School Holiday Programs @BCS For school aged children

BCS School Aged Programs operate the West Belconnen School Holiday Program that is located at Cranleigh School situated in Holt. West Belconnen School Holiday Program caters for children of all abilities from Kindergarten to year 6. Educators provide the children with opportunities to maximise their potential, develop life skills and

experience a sense of enjoyment through play and leisure. The program provides a stimulating array of activities including music, sport, craft and excursions to name a few. Spring School Holiday Program runs from Tuesday September 29 to Friday October 9, 2015. The Program is not open on Monday 28 September and Monday October 5 due to Public Holidays. The Program is ChildCare Benefit and ChildCare Rebate approved and we are a proud NDIS provider. For enrolments or queries please call Children’s Services administration team on (02) 6264 0200 or email [email protected]

For people aged 12 -25 years

Staffed by experienced youth workers, the corner@bcs, on the corner of Swanson Court and Chandler Street Belconnen, provides a safe space for young people to hang out. A range of activities are offered every week-day, including craft, internet access, pool table, table tennis, board games, books, X-Box and Wii. Holiday opening hours are 12-5pm, Tuesday to Friday (closed Mondays due to public holidays). The Youth School Holiday Program is offered in addition to these daily activities. All the corner@BCS activities are offered FREE of charge. Bookings and permission notes are essential for all excursions and places are limited. For more information, enrolment and permission forms please contact Jen Lewis on 6264 0204 / [email protected], or Merin Ahern on 6278 8109 / [email protected]

Spring 2015 28th September Closed – Public Holiday

29th September Screen Printing T-Shirts

30th September Mini golf excursion & “Happy Gilmore” Screening

1st October Tidbinbilla day trip Table tennis comp

2nd October Dragon art & craft workshop with Miehalia

5th October Closed – Public Holiday

6th October National Gallery excursion

7th October Archery excursion Cake decorating

8th October Geo-caching at Floriade

9th October Skyzone excursion Still Life Painting

BCS Community Calendar July-October 2015

Women’s Group 12.00pm - 1.30pm, Room 2 LPACT Mental Health Support and light lunch Cost $5 for lunch Call John on 6264 0202 Aerobics/Circuit Class 12.30pm - 1.30pm, Gym Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Martial Arts – Bridges Program 2.00pm - 3.30pm, Sports Hall A Martial Arts class for people living with disability, taught by James from the Korean Martial Arts Academy Canberra Cost $150 per 10 week term Call Kelly on 6264 0200

Monday Art Therapy 9.30am - 12.00pm, Civic Small group mental health program. Individual Art Therapy avaliable by appointment Call Kate on 6264 0200

GROW Meeting 1.30pm - 3.30pm, Room 1 Mutual support and self-help for people with anxiety or other mental health difficulties Cost FREE Call Kristin on 6295 7791

Mothers’ Voice 10.00am - 12.00pm, Belconnen Library Community Room Singing group for mothers with babies and pre school aged children Cost FREE Call BCS Reception 6264 0200

Knit, Nibbles & Natter 1.00pm - 3.00pm, Art Room 1 Social knitting and yarn group Cost $5 per session Call BCS Reception 6264 0200

Silver Threads Digital Photobooks 10.00am - 12.00pm, Art Room 1 Learn to use iPads to make beautiful photobooks. For people aged 65+ Cost $50 per term, Aug-Sept Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Healthy Body, Healthy Mind 1.45pm - 2.45pm, Gym LPACT, a women-only fitness class for mental health support Cost FREE Call John on 6264 0202 Koori Kids 3.30 - 4.30pm, West Belconnen Child and Family Centre Group for 8-16 years old Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. creative arts, music, physical education and cultural pride Cost FREE Call Nick White 6278 8108

Aerobics – Low Impact 10.15am - 11.15am, Gym Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Social Badminton 10.30am - 12.15pm, Sports Hall A social game for all levels of players Cost $6 per session / $4 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Expressive Art – Bungee Program 4.30pm - 5.30pm, Art Room Build resilience and self-confidence through expressive art; for children ages 7-11 years Cost $30 per term, conc. available Call Susan on 6264 0242 Bit Bent Belconnen 6.00pm - 8.00pm, corner@bcs Social support group for LGBTIQ young people aged 12-25 years Cost FREE Call Jen Lewis on 6264 0204 ACT Shotokan Karate 6.30pm - 8.30pm, Sports Hall Cost $40 per month Call Ryan on 0414 802 429 or Wally on 6254 6593

Tuesday Tiny Tumblers Session 1: 10.00 - 10.45am Session 2: 11.00 - 11.45am Sports Hall Educational gym play for under-5s Cost $12 per class / $100 for 10 classes Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 BEST Club 11.00am - 1.30pm, BCS Flynn Belconnen Energetic Seniors on Tuesday, social club for Over 65s Call BCS Reception 6264 0200 Fun Fitness with Judy 10.00am - 11.00am, Gym Cost $8 per class Call Judy on 6288 0768 My Art – Bridges Program 10.00am - 12.00pm, Art Room Inclusive mixed-media art class for people living with disability Cost $100 per 10 week term Call Kate on 6264 0200

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Mature Fitness 11.30am - 12.30pm, Gym Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

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BELCONNEN COMMUNITY

newsletter Issue 3 - July 20th - October 11th 2015

Women’s Swimming Group 11am - 12pm, CISAC. LPACT mental health support Cost $2 per session via BCS Reception Call John on 6264 0200 Power Bar 11.20am - 12.30pm, Gym Please arrive 20 minutes early Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Swiss Ball Class 12.30pm - 1.30pm, Gym Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Social Chess, Backgammon, Scrabble 12.30pm - 2.30pm, Belconnen Library Community Room LPACT mental health support Cost FREE Call John on 6264 0202 Scribblers Writing Group 12.45pm - 2.45pm, Room 1 Creative writing to form friendships and produce anthologies Email scribblerswritinggroup@ gmail.com Let It Be You 1.30pm - 3.30pm, Meeting Room 2 CASD Program Social and recreational program for people living with disability Cost $100 per 10 week term Call Kelly on 6264 0200 Open Art Mental Health Painting, Drawing and Print Making 1.00pm - 3.00pm, Art Room 1 With Tim Cost $100 per 10 week term Call Kate on 6254 0200 Get Into Reading 1.30pm - 3.30pm, Woden Library Great fun, beginners welcome;

D2DL mental health support Cost FREE Call John on 6264 0202 Youth Engagement – Open Access 2.00pm - 6.00pm, the corner@bcs Safe place for young people aged 12-25 years to drop in and hang out. Cost FREE Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Yoga and Meditation 2.30pm - 3.30pm Tuggeranong Library Meeting Room LPACT Mental health support Cost $7 Call John on 6264 0200 Elementz Rhythmic Gymnastics 3.45pm - 5.45pm, Sports Hall Recreational, school-based or competitive Rhythmic Gymnastics for all ages from 2 years – adult. During school term only Call Elementz on 6112 8460 Art Ventures - Bungee Program 3.30pm - 5.00pm, Art Room 1 Building resilience and selfconfidence through expressive art; ages 7 – 11 years Cost $30.00 per term, conc. available Call Susan on 6264 0242 Acting – Bungee Program 4.00pm - 5.30pm, Meeting Room 2 Drama group helping to build resilience and self-confidence; for children ages 8 – 13 years Cost $30 per term, conc. available Call Susan on 6264 0242 Ukulele Empire 5.30pm - 6.45pm, Room 1 Suitable for ages 8 years and over with some Ukulele experience Cost $12 per class / $100 for 10 class pass Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

The Birthing Tree – Prenatal Yoga 5.30pm - 7.00pm, Meeting Room 2 A flowing meditative practice that includes safe, gentle postures, breath work and relaxation Cost $18 per class or $180 per term Call Dani on 0447 231 280 Sculpture Class 6.00 - 8.00pm, Art Room 1 A mixed media sculpture class. No experience necessary, all levels welcome Cost $15 per class or $130 per term Call Tony on 0406 151 865

Wednesday Tiny Tumblers 10.00am - 10.45am, Sports Hall Educational gym play for under-5s Cost $12 per class / $100 for 10 classes Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Mature Strength 10.00am - 11.00am, Gym Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Cooking – Mental Health Support 10.00am - 12.00pm, Woden Youth Centre Cost $5.00 per class Call Carmel on 6293 3951 Creative Writing – Mental Health Support 10.00am - 12.00pm, Woden Library Learn how to write engaging stories and poems with a published author Call John on 6264 0202 Social Club – Bridges Program 10.30am - 12.30pm, corner@bcs Social and recreational activities for people living with disability Cost $100 per 10 week term Call Kelly on 6264 0200 Mature Fitness 11.30am - 12.30pm, Gym Includes the use of Swiss Ball and hand weights for better strength Cost $9.50 per class /$7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Advanced Badminton 12.15pm - 1.45pm, Sports Hall Call Clive on 0424 659 497

Canberra Tamil Badminton 8.30pm - 9.30pm, Sports Hall Also play Sundays 9am – 10am Call Sri 6258 0633

Power Bar 12.30pm - 1.30pm, Gym Please arrive 20 minutes early Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Thursday Playgroup in the Park 9.45am – 11:00am, corner Lance Hill ave and Evelyn Owen cres, Dunlop School terms only; bring a hat, snack and water Cost FREE Call Yolanda on 6278 8115

Interchange AA Group 12.30pm - 1.30pm, Room 1 Support to stop drinking Call Judy on 0408 051 203 Yoga and Meditation 1.30pm - 2.30pm, Meeting Room 2 Gentle yoga and meditation class Cost $7.50 Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Tiny Tumblers 10am - 10.45am, Sports Hall Educational gym play for under-5s Cost $12 per class / $100 for 10 classes Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Mental Health Drop-In 1.30pm - 3.30pm, the corner@bcs Pool, table tennis, air hockey, X-Box, computer access Cost FREE Call Kate on 6264 0200

Belconnen Women’s Group 10.00am - 12.00pm, Room 1 Outings, guest speakers and fun for women aged 50+ Call Ianon on 6259 8068 or Barbara on 6258 7263

Social Badminton 1.45pm - 3.30pm, Sports Hall A social game for any level of player Cost $4 per session / $3 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

English Conversation Group 10.00am - 12.00pm, Belconnen Library Community Room Supported by BCS volunteers, morning tea provided. Cost FREE Call Kate on 6264 0200

Silver Threads Spoken Stories 2:00-3.30pm, Meeting Room 1 Read aloud literature and poetry social group for seniors Cost $5 per session Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Be Active Gym – Bridges Program 10.00am - 12.00pm, Gym Gentle exercise gym class for people living with disability. Cost $150 per 10 week term Call Kelly on 6264 0200

Dance Club – Bridges Program 2.00pm - 3.30pm, Gym Hip-Hop dance classes for people living with a disability Cost $150 per 10 week term Call Sally or Kelly on 6264 0200

Power Bar 11.20am - 12.30pm, Gym Please arrive 20 minutes early Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Bruce Toastmasters (fortnightly) 6.00pm - 7.30pm, Room 2 Call Andrew Wirth on 0408 117 113 ACT Shotokan Karate 6.30pm - 8.30pm, Sports Hall Cost $10 per class or $40 per month Call Ryan on 0414 802 429 or Wally on 6254 6593

Lunchtime Volleyball 12.30pm - 1.30pm, Sports Hall Call Michael on 6252 5955 Stretch & Flex 12.30pm - 1.30pm, Gym Gentle stretch and flex exercises Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Messengers Program 12.45pm – 3.00pm, Art Room 1 Arts-based early intervention and resilience program for young people aged 13-18 years. During school terms Cost FREE Call Messengers on 6293 2212 Craft Club – Bridges Program 1.30pm - 3.00pm, Art Room 1 Creative crafts group for people living with a disability Cost $100 per 10 week term Call Kelly on 6264 0200 Ukulele for Beginners 1.00pm - 2.15pm, Room 2 Suitable for ages 8 years and over Cost $100 for 8 weeks Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Continuing Ukulele 2.30pm - 3.30pm, Room 2 Suitable for ages 8 years and over with some Ukulele experience Cost $100 for 8 weeks Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Backs in Balance 2.00pm - 3.00pm, Gym Strength and balance for falls prevention and health Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Beginning Badminton 2.00pm - 3.30pm, Sports Hall LPACT mental health support Cost $2.50 per session Call John on 6264 0200

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BELCONNEN COMMUNITY

newsletter Issue 3 - July 20th - October 11th 2015

Youth Engagement – Open Access 2.00pm – 6.00pm, the corner@bcs Safe place for young people aged 12-25 years to drop in and hang out Cost FREE Call BCS reception on 6264 0200

Friday Florey Paint and Play 9.30 - 10.45am, Florey Primary A playgroup for parents and their children, held during school terms Call Denae on 6278 8131 Get Up – Young Parents Group 10.00am - 11.30am, West Belconnen Child and Family Centre A playgroup for parents aged 25 and under and their children, runs during school terms only Call Emma on 6278 8110 Mature Strength 10.00am - 11.00am, Gym Weight training for people over 60 Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Philosophy@Woden 10.00 – 11.30am, every second Friday from October 17 Smith Family Building, Woden LPACT Mental health support Cost FREE Call John on 6264 0202 Positive Links 10.00am - 1.00pm, BCS Flynn Friendly social group for people who’ve experienced a stroke or other life-changing experience Cost FREE Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200

Social Badminton 10.30am - 12.15pm, Sports Hall All levels of players welcome Cost $6 per session / $4 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Mature Fitness 11.30am - 12.30pm, Gym Cost $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Power Bar 12.30pm - 1.30pm, Gym Please arrive 20 minutes early Costs $9.50 per class / $7.50 conc. Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Advanced Badminton 12.15pm - 1.45pm, Sports Hall A social game for advanced players Call Clive on 0424 659 497 Open Art Pottery 9.30pm - 12.00pm, Watson Join artist Tony in creating pottery pieces and ceramic artworks Cost $100 per 10 week term Call Kate on 6264 0200 Open Art Mental Health Mosaics 1.00pm - 3.00pm, Art Room Join artist Tony in creating mosaics Cost $100 per term Call Kate on 6264 0200 Get Into Reading – Mental Health Support 1.30pm - 3.00pm, Woden Library Read and discuss great stories and poems from the past and contemporary literature Cost FREE Call John on 6264 0200

LPACT Healthy Body, Healthy Mind 1.45pm - 2.45pm, Gym Fitness class, mental health support Cost FREE Call John on 6264 0200 Youth Engagement – Cheap Eats 3.00pm - 8.00pm, the corner@bcs Safe place for young people aged 12-25 years. Learning to cook on a budget Cost FREE Call BCS Reception on 6264 0200 Kathak Dance School 6pm - 7pm, Sports Hall Indian classical dance form that exercises the body and mind Cost $17 per class Contact Ira Patkar on 0430 942 375

A conversation with Tim Burke Bungee Tutor and Community Art Therapist

What do you do in your Bungee classes? At the moment we’re screen printing t-shirts with words or some kind of funky image or artwork. It’s a fun medium because almost everything looks great on a t-shirt. I use a multi-modality approach – that’s using lots of different art forms. So we might start the class with some simple theatre games, and over a term we might do a bit of sculpture, painting, printing or collage. I like to find out what’s important to each person and help them find ways to express that creatively. What other arts therapy do you do? As an arts therapist I’ve worked with everyone from elderly people, to people with disabilities, children and young people, and people with mental health issues. I find that very satisfying; I like working with an array of people. So in addition to Bungee, I run a creative group therapy classes on the ANU campus for the Open Art program and a class for patients at the Calvary Hospital 2N ward. And I run a class for the Step Up Step Down program in the inner north of Canberra, which is for people transitioning from institutional care to independent living. That’s also good service for people who might feel like they’re nearing an episode and want to check in for some respite. People I meet at 2N and Step Up Step Down often end up coming along to the Open Art classes at BCS. I find my classes act as a good gateway into other community centre activities and build resilience for people wanting to move into a more traditional art class, as opposed to art therapy. Describe one of your most rewarding moments

Belconnen Newsletter caught up with Tim Burke to talk about his role as a Bungee Tutor, and the joys and benefits of art therapy. What is the Bungee program about? Bungee is an arts-based resilience building program. We work with kids aged from 5 – 18 years who maybe have had some difficulties in their lives or trouble fitting in with others. We create a safe and non-judgemental space where young people can be creative, socialise, develop some confidence, and learn to work cooperatively in a group. We have lots of discussions about our lives and what’s important to us, like the environment or hope. There’s lots of cross over and they find things in common and they make friends. It’s easier to talk about difficult things when you have something in front of you. By making, you can concretise your thoughts.

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One year, in Bungee, I was working with 8 year olds on a group project based on the game Snakes and Ladders. We talked about good and bad experiences. One little boy spoke up and said “A snake was when my Father left and moved interstate. A ladder is when he rings me up”. Because we were talking in that context he was able to share and we got a discussion going about how things feel – like the joy when his father phones up – and other ways he could communicate with his father, like letters or postcards. It was very poignant, and the whole group acknowledged it. It was just something he wanted to say and I thought “what a wonderful deep thinker.”

ong community r t s & e v i t c ected, a n n o c A BELCONNEN COMMUNITY

newsletter Issue 3 - July 20th - October 11th 2015