Get documents about "Vicdeaf Christmas Rally
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May/June 2009 | Communicate Issue 17
Issue 20 Nov/Dec 2009 Special Newspaper Edition
communicate
The newsletter for Victoria’s Deaf
and hard of hearing people
Photo: Members of the Deaf community at the Rally. Photo: Children enjoying the horse carousel ride.
Vicdeaf Christmas Rally
Vicdeaf hosted their annual Christmas Rally on There was a classic car display and Lawn Bowls tryout
a warm and sunny day on Sunday 6 December at at the nearby Bowls Club. Santa Claus made an
Edinburgh Gardens in North Fitzroy. It was a appearance in a red Mustang and greeted everybody
wonderful event attended by over 500 members of and gave children some Christmas lollies. Everybody
the Deaf and hard of hearing community. enjoyed meeting old friends and making new friends
as well as the BBQ and soft drinks.
There were plenty of activities on offer to keep
everybody busy. Many children enjoyed the activities Vicdeaf President Mac Adam and CEO Graeme Kelly Photo: Volunteers at the BBQ table.
organised by Deaf Sports Recreation Victoria as thanked all for coming and gave their Christmas wishes.
well as the jumping castle, horse carousel and the Raffles were held and only a few lucky people won Vicdeaf wishes to thank the volunteers who made
magic show by Deaf magician George Walker. The prizes donated by VCOD and Deaf physiotherapist, the day a great success, including members from
Melbourne Fire Brigade turned up and showed the Penny Gillett. Everybody enjoyed the Christmas spirit the Melbourne Deaf Cricket Club who helped with
children their shiny red fire truck. and went home with happy memories of the day. the BBQ.
Photo: Children doing their best at the tug-o-war. Photo: Santa greets children and gave lollies. Photo: Santa arrives in a red Mustang.
Photo: Deaf magician George Walker showing off his Photo: Catching up with old friends at the Rally. Photo: The Melbourne Fire Brigade at the Rally.
magic tricks. Photo Source: Simon O’Neill.
2 Communicate Issue 20 | November/December 2009
Report from the CEO
By Graeme Kelly
Chief Executive Officer
In the first edition of Communicate this also immediately provided free interpreting us to provide more services to meet the You will also see an
year I commented that it was going to services and case management support to growing and changing needs of Deaf and article about the
be a year of celebration of our 125th those who needed it which has continued hard of hearing Victorians. Government Gaslight Awards that
Anniversary as well as a difficult year with through the year. This has been important provides less than 40% of the funding we are being introduced
the economic downturn that was just because the severe impact of that day need for our current services and if we to recognise
starting. remains for some of our community and relied on that funding only we would have outstanding
we will continue to give it. to close many services and this would have contributions to the
In part my prediction was right, we did Victorian Deaf Society over its 125 year
celebrate the 125th Anniversary with very a major impact on the community. Because
The economic downturn was the major history and in the years ahead. This is a
successful events such as the Gala Ball in we have looked after Vicdeaf’s financial
contributor to a larger deficit result lasting record of the wonderful work done
conjunction with Deaf Sports Australia health, we are able to provide new services
reported at our AGM and in the Annual over 125 years and a fitting finish to our
and the Garden Party at Government like the Deaf Leadership Mentor Program
Report. It is encouraging to report that 125th year.
House. The difficult year was highlighted and an employment consultant in regional
the second half of 2009 has been much I wish you and your families a safe and
tragically by the Black Saturday bushfires Victoria. It will also make it possible to
better and if it continues we will improve happy Christmas and a terrific 2010.
in February much more than by the plan for new services as part of the new
our financial position.
economic downturn. The response to the Strategic Plan that starts in July 2010. Regards,
disaster from Victorians was remarkable I know that we are seen by some to We have put a lot of effort into getting
concentrate too much on the ‘business feedback from a wide range of people Graeme Kelly
including from the Victorian Deaf
side’ of what Vicdeaf does. The financial about the next Strategic Plan and you will Chief Executive Officer
community. Vicdeaf played an important
role with the quick availability of critical health of Vicdeaf is critical for us to survive see an article about the consultation in this
information on our website in Auslan. We and grow. The healthier we are allows edition.
Results of Community Consultation
This is a summary of the Deaf Community’s • 101 Ways Group: 8 people The Community Consultation forms a the Deaf and Deaf Children Australia.
feedback on what direction Vicdeaf could • Sounds Unlimited: 21 people part of the overall consultation to develop
As outlined in the CEO’s Report,
take in the next five years, 2010-2015. the Vicdeaf Strategic Plan. We are also
• Online survey: 44 responses the Strategic Plan will commence
consulting with Vicdeaf staff as well as
Natalie Sandon, Vicdeaf’s Community • Total: 309 implementation in July 2010.
various organizations including Deaf
Activities Project Officer undertook the organizations such as Victorian Council of
Ten main topics arising from consultations
community consultation, assisted by
based on the number of times a particular
Vicdeaf staff members David Peters, Steve Community Consultation
topic was raised. These are as follows: Wodonga/Albury
McKean and volunteer Zdenko Jovica, Online survey 10%
involving the following stakeholders. 1. Support for Deaf youth 14%
13 community groups were consulted as 2. Deaf awareness
Geelong
follows: 3. Deaf centre/Deaf club 10%
4. Support for Deaf/hearing parents and
• Wodonga/Albury Deaf group: 30 Sounds Unlimited Wodonga/Albury
Deaf/hearing children 7%
Geelong
people Migrants
5. Access to interpreters
• Geelong Deaf group: 30 people 101 Ways
Migrants
5%
Seniors
Bendigo
6. Increase in services for Regional Deaf 3%
• Migrants group: 15 people Gippsland (Morwell)
communities Melbourne
1% Mildura
• Seniors group: 40 people Ballarat
7. Support for Deaf Seniors Shepparton
• Bendigo Deaf group: 20 people Melbourne
8. Workshops and social activities 101 Ways
• Gippsland Deaf group (Morwell): 15 9. SMS emergency notification services Seniors Sounds Unlimited
people Shepparton
13% Online survey
10. Auslan services 14%
• Mildura Deaf group: 12 people
The Vicdeaf Board, CEO and Senior
• Ballarat Deaf group: 25 people
Management Team will consider the
• Shepparton Deaf group: 45 people results of the survey and develop a strategic Bendigo
6%
• General Deaf community: 4 people plan in line with Vicdeaf’s vision, mission Ballarat
Gippsland (Morwell)
8% Mildura
(more responded online) and principles. 4%
5%
To be Deaf is to be a Global Citizen
By Jessica Frank the most important factors of lifestyle and communication equal in their communication with each other.
access allows a person to be aware of and fully involved
To be Deaf is to use other forms of communication, such
Imagine being located in a town in a strange country, such with its surroundings. The Deaf community, most of
as China, where no-one speaks English. Suddenly, you are as sign language, miming gestures or writing notes. Yet,
whom communicate primarily through sign language,
alone. There is no-one you are able to communicate with. being a part of a Deaf community also involves many
embraces the full access it receives when all the other
And then imagine the wave of relief you immediately feel other cultural aspects, which are often rooted by different
people in the room are also using the same language.
when you find another person in this foreign Chinese sensory needs. For example, to be culturally Deaf is also to
town who also speaks English. Odds are that you two will The Deaf community consists of people who have a be more comfortable with physical touch, as it is a means
soon become fast friends. thorough understanding of Deaf (sensory) needs as well of capturing someone’s attention. Deaf people also rely
as fluency in sign language. It is a community made up of heavily on visual cues, often from either sign language, the
Imagining yourself in this kind of scenario allows for a the Deaf, the hard-of-hearing, Codas (children of Deaf large range of facial expressions used in communication, or
new person to understand the Deaf community from a parents), as well as friends and family of Deaf members. waving of hands to begin communication. When someone
deeper perspective, rather than giving in to the general Frequently, sign language interpreters find themselves is missing one of their senses, often the other four senses
misconception that the Deaf community is an exclusive a part of this community. Nevertheless, the Deaf
one. are strengthened. In this case, the Deaf person’s visual
community is an inclusive one, as long as any new person, sense is heightened. Not only this, but as a minority, it
Rather, it is a community, as a linguistic minority, that hearing or Deaf, provides full communication access values the people in its community, thus developing a
savours the open access to language they can receive when (through interpretation or being aware of communication
greater cooperative attitude. In other words, often to be
in each other’s presence. differences) when participating in an activity or establishing
Deaf is to welcome the new Deaf person in its community
a relationship with a Deaf person(s).
Deaf people most frequently feel foreign when surrounded as well as its home, savouring the similar communication
by hearing people who communicate primarily in spoken The importance of bridging the two worlds, Deaf and and sensory levels in the two persons. As many may say, to
English. Communication, for all sorts of people, is one of hearing, is made possible by enabling both sides to feeling be Deaf is to be a global citizen.
November/December 2009 | Communicate Issue 20 3
Vicdeaf Deaf Leadership Editorial
Mentor Program By Michael Parremore
Editor
Hello to all our readers,
By Natalie Sandon – Community Activities Project Officer participated in this Program. The Program had interesting
challenges and we learnt a lot from this pilot program. This is a very short
From April to November this year, Vicdeaf ran a pilot Editorial, due to the large
Vicdeaf hopes to run this Program again. More information amount of articles in this
Deaf Leadership Mentor Program with the assistance of will appear in Communicate as they become available. edition. I hope you like the
Leadership Plus.
This initiative is part of Vicdeaf’s commitment to ‘newspaper’ format? It is a
Four mentors and mentees: Anna Seymour & Melissa Jones one-off, meaning we will go
developing and nurturing leadership in the Victorian Deaf
(dancing); Jen Blyth & Helen Kennedy (psychology); back to our old ‘newsletter’
community. The main objective of this Program is to
format after this edition. Send me an email on
Meg Aumann & Suzanne Thomas (human resources) provide Deaf people with a better opportunity to become
mparremore@vicdeaf.com.au and tell me what you
and Christine Thomas & Trisha Balharrie (goal-setting) leaders. think?
Job interviews and interpreters! I wish you all Merry Christmas and
Happy New Year and safe holidays.
By Mark Quinn – Interpreter of having a successful interview? Yes, • Make a time with the interpreter
your interpreter has a skill level that either just before the interview
Many people know what a job
interview can be like. It can be
is required, and is bound by a code
of ethics and professional standards
or at your convenience to inform Editorial Policy
them of what the role is, why you
awkward and nerve racking! But what are to be expected, but what other are applying and what the main Communicate is published six times a year. Reader
about the extra strain of having to things should you think about? points are that you wish to get contributions are greatly welcomed. Articles
make yourself understood in English Working with an interpreter could must relate to Deaf and hard of hearing issues.
across in the interview.
when Auslan is your preferred mode either work to your advantage or All contribution, once submitted, becomes the
of communication? Deaf people disadvantage! • The interpreter and yourself may property of Communicate.
often have the problem deciding wish to become familiar with each The editor reserve the right not to publish, or
Here are a few things you should
whether they should disclose their other’s signing styles or develop to edit, any article submitted for publication. All
keep in mind:
deafness to the employer or ‘keeping communication strategies in editing shall strive to remain true to the spirit of
it secret’ until they arrive at the job • Prior to the booking, it is worth order to enable the process to the original article.
interview. finding out the name of your run as smoothly as possible. Opinions expressed (except in articles that are
interpreter.
Fortunately, Deaf people now If the interpreter doesn’t know your signed in an official capacity) are those of the
have access to the ‘Auslan for • How many years experience background, and your employment author/s and not necessarily endorsed by the
Employment’ (AFE) program where do they have and what type of history and is not aware of what editor or by Vicdeaf.
funding is made available to cover settings have they worked in? you would like to see happen in
the cost of an interpreter in a job • Each interpreter has a different the interview (apart from being
interview. This can take away the
argument of who will pay for an
‘personality type’, does this
interpreter’s ‘personality type’
successful of course!) then this may
be more difficult to interpret without
Correction
interpreter. work well with you? And are they preparation. In Communicate Issue 19, there were a few
flexible? references to a Deaflympian called Craig Flindell
Once the job interview is organised By arranging a time to go through from WA. His name is actually Glen Flindell.
and the interpreter is booked, there • How does the interpreter ‘voice’ these various points it enables YOU Vicdeaf wishes to apologise for the error.
is nothing much more that needs to or ‘interpret’ you? What language to manage the situation as much
be done right? Well, not really! register would you prefer? as you can to your advantage and
Have you ever thought about the • What dress standard are you increase the control that you have
fact that the interpreter you have in expecting the interpreter to over the interpretation process to Condolences
your job interview can have a huge follow? This may depend on the allow effective communication to
Vicdeaf would like to offer sincere condolences
impact and influence your chances type of job you are applying for. take place. to the families of those who have recently passed
away. They are the families of :
Proposed exemption meets strong opposition Angelina Furno
Peter Robertson
Recently an application was made by Village Roadshow, week. At this pace, it will take 1,000 years to achieve Tommy David Bradley-Smith
Greater Union, Hoyts and Reading Cinemas to the access to all screenings in all cinemas across Australia.
Australian Human Rights Commission requesting an
In July 2008, the Australian Federal Government signed
exemption from the Disability Discrimination Act for a
period of two and a half years. the UN Convention on the Rights of People with
Disabilities, part of which states:
Victorian Deaf Society
This means that Australians who are Deaf, hard of Level 4, 340 Albert Street,
hearing, legally blind and vision impaired, stand to lose “People who are have a vision or hearing loss are entitled East Melbourne, Victoria 3002
their right to complain to the Australian Human Rights to enjoy and participate in the arts; in particular they TTY: (03) 9473 1199;
Commission about the lack of provision of captioning have a right to have accessible Cinemas. These patrons Voice: (03) 9473 1111;
and audio description services at any of the 125 cinemas have the right to reasonable accommodation to eliminate Fax: (03) 9473 1122
(1,182 screens) owned by the four exhibitors. discrimination (UNCRPD article 5.3), and a right to Email: info@vicdeaf.com.au
If the exemption is granted, cinemas will provide enjoy access to films in accessible formats (UNCRPD
article 30.1).” Toll-free for country people,
captioning and audio description for a minimum of three TTY: 1300 780 235, Voice: 1300 780 225
screenings in 35 cinemas around Australia. Let’s put that It makes sense for the Australian Human Rights
into perspective: Vicdeaf office hours:
Commission to reject the proposed exemption and Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5.00pm
• Jointly, these exhibitors have 1,182 screens protect the rights of all Australians regardless of their
Regional offices: Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Sale
across Australia. abilities.
and Wangaratta
• They show approximately 30 movies per screen, Vicdeaf along with many other organisations and Patrons: Professor David de Kretser, AO and
every week. individuals is opposed to the proposed exemption. Such Mrs. Jan de Kretser
That’s a total of 41,370 screenings per week (1,182 an exemption would be contrary to Vicdeaf’s vision of
screens x 5 sessions per day x 7 days) “social justice and equity for Deaf and hard of hearing www.vicdeaf.com.au
people”. Printed on 100% Recycled Paper
Of these, only 105 will be captioned and audio described.
This is equal to less than 0.3% of all movies screened per Source: Arts Access Victoria
4 Communicate Issue 20 | November/December 2009
Vicdeaf’s accommodation service New road rules
in Victoria
celebrates 10th birthday On Monday 9 November, many road
rules have been made or changed to
On Sunday 11 October, Vicdeaf’s accommodation service together, talk about old times and share stories. Mark, who improve road safety for all Victorians.
celebrated their 10th birthday since opening in October has lived there since the houses opened gave a lovely speech, It is important for the Deaf and hard of
1999. The celebration was held in their newly landscaped thanking everyone for coming and for the work that was put hearing community to learn what the new
outdoor BBQ area. Past and present clients and staff as into preparing for the day. Mark and Wayne then cut a cake rules are especially text messaging while
well as friends and family enjoyed the opportunity to get and sent their well wishes for the next ten years. driving.
About mobile phones while driving,
including when stopping at traffic lights,
it is against the law to do the following;
- text messaging,
- video messaging,
- sending/reading an email,
- entering data into the phone (other
than by voice),
- sending or looking at anything in the
phone,
- turning the phone on or off, and
- taking photos.
The law also says it is against the law to
hold the phone while driving, even when
drivers are not making text messages or
doing anything else. Even if drivers have
a mobile phone resting on their laps, it is
against the law too.
The best thing for drivers to do is don’t
touch a mobile phone. If drivers want to
send a text message, they would need to
park the car legally and turn off the engine
before touching a mobile phone, or ask a
passenger to send a text message for them.
There are many other road rules which
Photo: Mark and Wayne cuts the birthday cake while Kirsten Whitehill looks on. have changed. Have a look at the
Photo Source: Vicdeaf. website: www.racv.com.au/roadsafety
Life as an undergraduate student at Gallaudet University
By Jessica Frank with an international concentration, from linguistics to photography. There is also the option
of self-designing a major with a wider array of courses offered in a joint program with 13 other
I am a member of a Deaf family of five and am a product of three Deaf higher education institutions in the Washington metropolitan area. Top ranked universities
generations. I attended one of the best Deaf schools in America in such as George Washington and American University are also part of the joint program.
the state of Maryland for 12 years. But when I enrolled at Gallaudet Gallaudet also offers masters and doctorate degree programs in a variety of fields.
University in Washington DC as an undergraduate student in 2005, I
truly understood what it meant to be Deaf. Gallaudet is an experience 90% of my personal growth in Gallaudet came from hands-on experience.
in itself. You won’t find any place in the world where there’s a campus Gallaudet is not all studies; it also greatly encourages hands-on experience through
filled with five thousand people that know sign language. You won’t extracurricular activities. The university has a rapidly growing athletic program that has a
find any place in the world where you’re in an elevator filled with volleyball team with two Capital Athletic Conference championships in 2005 and 2006
Photo: Jessica Frank. strangers and start a conversation because you like the jacket the under its belt. Other sports offered are basketball, cheerleading, football, tennis, track,
Photo Source: Jessica woman next to you is wearing or because the guy next to you happens swimming and wrestling. If you’re not interested in sport, there are plenty of other areas
Frank. to be quite good looking. to participate, with more than 20 student-run organisations along with the famed theatre
program. There is also an opportunity for involvement in politics and advocacy with the
Gallaudet University prides itself as being the Mecca of the Deaf World. Student Body Government. If you have an interest in writing, there is the chance to become
After attending a Deaf school for 12 years, I understood that I had grown up in a sheltered a writer for the ‘The Buff and Blue’ which is a student newspaper, or to become the editor of
and privileged environment and wanted to attend a hearing community college for 6 months the annual yearbook, ‘Tower Clock’.
to gain a new perspective. Overall, I had a good 6 months at the hearing college. But, I
cannot forget when some hearing students complained when the interpreter had to ask the Currently, there are over 15,000 Gallaudet alumni from all over the world.
teacher to repeat what he has said. I cannot forget the times I had class discussions and Students from all over the world have taken this opportunity to become part of the rich
because the interpreter was always a few seconds behind, I couldn’t ever really join in. After experience at Gallaudet. If you wanted to enroll at Gallaudet, there are several options to
6 months, I knew then that I wanted to attend Gallaudet University, where communication choose from. You can enroll as a full-time student, be a
would always be accessible. transfer student for a year if you are already enrolled in
another university, or study at the university as a non-
This is the best thing about attending a bilingual university. degree seeking student. However, because Gallaudet
In 2008, Gallaudet University became a bilingual university, making both American Sign is a federally funded university, the cost of tuition for
Language (ASL) and English its official languages. What is bilingualism? Bilingualism in a an international student is high and has often become
university means you may have a choice between writing an essay in English or signing a an issue for students from abroad. Don’t worry, there
video blog (now known as v-log). All classes are taught using ASL and students will be able are still options of obtaining financial aid through
to rebut or build off a point you’ve made through direct, signed communication. There opportunities such as the Sasakawa Foundation
are universities all over the world with International Scholarship Fund, or after performing
strong educational foundations, but for well on your studies in the first year, you will be eligible
me, there was nothing richer than being to apply for financial aid in the United States.
able to fall into a deep discussion in class
using the language I was most comfortable The friends you make at Gallaudet are friends you’ll
with: ASL. Throughout my four years at have for life.
the university, my confidence as well as my For me, Gallaudet has truly proven itself to be an
social and emotional intelligence improved experience to remember. After four memorable years,
greatly. I felt that I had experienced enough I understood thoroughly what it meant to be Deaf
in four years to fill in ten years. and I am proud of it. Upon graduation last May, I left
the university with a group of friends I knew I could
If I had to choose one word to describe always fall back on, stories that I will continue to share
Gallaudet, it would be ‘opportunity’. for years to come and all the confidence in the world
Photo: The signage outside Gallaudet. For the undergraduate student program, to handle anything that comes my way. To make this Photo: Sign banner of Gallaudet
Photo Source: http://dcist.com/attachments/ the university offers more than 40 majors experience yours, go to http://admissions.gallaudet. University.
dcist_martin/gallaudet%20image.JPG that range from Deaf studies to government edu/Admissions/International/ Photo Source: Cesar Ayala.
November/December 2009 | Communicate Issue 20 5
Is Christmas Day a happy time for
Deaf people with hearing families?
By The Editor everything is muted and without captions. An enormous The benefits of learning Auslan can be rewarding,
amount of concentration goes into lipreading, which can especially at the dining table on Christmas Day.
The answer is of course, yes! Many Deaf people do enjoy be tiring and with even the best lipreaders only catching
For more information on Auslan courses;
spending Christmas Day with their hearing families. about 40% of the conversation at any time. Many Deaf
However there are some Deaf people who find it difficult, people simply give up trying to engage in conversations Email: auslan@vicdeaf.com.au
mainly due to the communication barriers they face. and sit on the couch to watch television or go outside Ph: 03 9473 1135
I spoke to a few signing Deaf people about this topic. and play with children. In some cases, Deaf people find For more information on Counselling services, contact
Their family members have very little or no knowledge of Christmas Day boring and a waste of time. the Duty Worker;
Auslan. It was interesting to find that their responses were
Many family members of Deaf people do try their Email: duty@vicdeaf.com.au
quite similar so it must be a common situation. I thought
best to engage in conversations, but usually the topic TTY: 03 9473 1199 Ph: 03 9473 1111
it was important to publish this article to create a greater
of conversations can be limited to a few subjects. It is Please note: Duty Worker is only available Tues, Wed and
awareness about the importance of communication and
unfortunate because many Deaf people lead interesting Thurs; 9.00 am - 2.30 pm
the effects on a Deaf person’s mental and emotional
and busy lives, many of which go unnoticed by family
wellbeing due to social isolation.
members. Another common situation is when a family
One Deaf person said, “When I lose track of a conversation, goes to another family’s place for lunch, Deaf people will CHRISTMAS
I ask, “Sorry what did you say?” very often they say, “Oh
it’s not important, don’t worry” or “I will tell you later””.
do anything to stay at home or go elsewhere, because
they know that they won’t be included in conversations SPECIAL
They said that they experienced frustration by their
inability to join verbal conversations, but also frustration
and quickly develop boredom. Vicdeaf are offering
at their family members’ lack of effort to include Deaf
I asked them what they could change to make Christmas
Day better, they all wished their family members could
Auslan courses at 15% off.
people in conversations and lack of adequate Auslan skills.
communicate in Auslan. One Deaf person said, “My You need to apply before 8 Jan 2010
Deaf people rely on visual cues such as lipreading to identify parents are too old to learn Auslan and they find it or until places are full. Apply early!
what’s going on around them and they look around to confusing to learn.” At first, Auslan can be difficult to
see everyone engaging in conversations and laughing, but
Email: auslan@vicdeaf.com.au
learn but it is never too late for anyone to learn Auslan.
FireReady Kit Emergency Alert telephone
warning system is ready
The bushfire season has already started for your Bushfire Survival Plan in this Following extensive community testing warnings as the primary data source for the
and CFA has produced the FireReady brochure. in Victoria, the new national telephone- Emergency Alert system, the Integrated Public
Kit to help you understand your bushfire Fire Danger Ratings: understand how based warning system for life-threatening Number Database (IPND) does not capture
risk, prepare your property and develop the Fire Danger Rating scale will alert emergencies – Emergency Alert – is live and information about which telephone numbers
a Bushfire Survival Plan that is right for you to danger so you can take action. ready for use. are linked to a teletypewriter. However,
you and your family. Emergency Alert will alert communities to the project team is working through the
Community Fireguard - A Bushfire emergencies via a recorded voice message provision of these warnings with the Australian
Not all homes can be defended from Safety Program: join a Community Communication Exchange and other relevant
on landline telephones and a text message
bushfire and survival must be your Fireguard group and learn about government bodies. Further information will
on mobiles, based on the subscribers’ billing
number one priority. The only guarantee planning and preparation for bushfire. address. be provided in the near future.
of safety is to be away from a bushfire. Further information about the Emergency
Radiant Heat: understand the dangers The warning messages will provide official
The Kit includes five publications and authorised emergency information on the Alert system can be found on the website www.
of radiant heat and how you can protect emergencyalert.gov.au
which work together plus some smaller current situation and provide direction to the
yourself from bushfire.
brochures. To order a Kit, please call community on actions to be taken and where You are welcome to contact David Peters at
the Victorian Bushfire Information You are urged to read this information further information or advice can be sought. Vicdeaf if you wish to find out more about
carefully. The Kit is just one of the tools Emergency Alert provides emergency services Emergency Alert. He will be happy to discuss
Line on TTY: 1800 122 969 (Ph: 1800
you should use to prepare for bushfire. with another useful tool to issue warnings, with you. Contact details are on page 3.
240 667). The publications can also
be downloaded from the CFA website: but it is crucial that communities do not rely
For more information, CFA on receiving a telephone warning and have an
www.cfa.vic.gov.au recommends: emergency plan.
Prepare a Bushfire Survival Plan using • attending a local community At this stage TTY phones will not receive
the following items in the Kit. meeting*
The Gaslight Award
1. Understanding Your Environment: • attending a Bushfire Planning
learn about your surroundings and Workshop in your area*
work out the level of risk to your • joining or establishing a
home and family.
2. Household Bushfire Site-Assessment
neighbourhood Community
Fireguard Group* (For Outstanding Service)
Workbook: this will help you work * call ahead to request Auslan As we announced at the Government House in any given period, indeed it may be that there
out if your home has enough interpreters Garden Party in October, a special award will is only one award for any given time-period.
defendable space and also help you be made to celebrate the 125th Anniversary of You may nominate any person, group or
decide whether staying to actively Emergency Contacts the Victorian Deaf Society. organisation for an award who you feel
defend is the right option. The purpose of the award is to recognise the has contributed in some special way. Each
In an Emergency, call Fire, Police &
3. Preparing Your Property: make your most outstanding contributions made to the nomination requires a seconder and must be
Ambulance on TTY: 106 (Ph: 000)
home fire ready even if your plan is Victorian Deaf Society since its inception and completed by a person 18 years or older.
to leave before a bushfire threatens. For Fire Warnings and Updates, call the through the 125 years of its service. The award Once received the nomination will be examined
Victorian Bushfire Information Line on will be considered for each 25 year era/period and researched by the Awards Panel. You may
4. Leaving Early: how to plan and
TTY: 1800 122 969 (Ph: 1800 240 667) of time identified later in this article. be contacted to provide additional information
prepare to leave before bushfire
Nominations will be called for, and in the case for consideration.
threatens. You’ll find a template for Visit websites: www.cfa.vic.gov.au and
of the inaugural awards, the closing date for all Each recipient of the Award will receive an
your Bushfire Survival Plan in this www.dse.vic.gov.au
nominations and all time periods will be Friday individual Award and be recorded on the
brochure. 26 February 2010.
This information has been provided by Vicdeaf Roll of Honour which will be displayed
5. Defending Your Property: learn the Country Fire Authority, 2009. The award can be made to individuals, groups at Vicdeaf.
what it takes to actively defend your or organisations, and can of course be made Nomination forms can be downloaded from
property and understand the real risks posthumously. In keeping with the importance the Vicdeaf website (www.vicdeaf.com.au).
associated with staying, including the and significance of the award, it is unlikely that You may request a form be posted or faxed to
risk of death. You’ll find a template there would be more than two or possibly three you, please contact Vicdeaf.
6 Communicate Issue 20 | November/December 2009
DEAF SPORT
Social
Deaf Professionals Network Sale Auslan Chat Group
JML Centre, Vicdeaf, Level 3, 340 Albert Centre Bakery, 103 Cunninghame St, Sale Deaf Australia
Street, East Melbourne
Events held approximately once every 3
meets every Wednesday at 11.00 am
Leanne Wishart, deaf access VICTORIA,
CLUBS/ASSOC. 271A Stafford Road
Stafford QLD 4053
Deaf Basketball Victoria
Clubs/
months Gippsland Postal: PO Box 1083
Natalie Sandon TTY: 03 5143 1537 Deaf Football Victoria Stafford QLD 4053
TTY: 03 9473 1199 Fax: 03 5143 1814 Deaf Golf Victoria Email: info@deafau.org.au
Fax: 03 9473 1122 Email: gippsland@deafaccessvic.com.au Deaf Netball Victoria TTY: (07) 3357 8277
Kew Deaf United Soccer Club
Groups
Email: dpn@vicdeaf.com.au Ph: 03 5143 1537 Ph: (07) 3357 8266
Ph: 03 9473 1111 Melbourne Deaf Cricket Club Fax: (07) 3357 8377
Deaf Professionals Network will close for Seaford Deaf Gathering Club Victorian Deaf Anglers Club Web: www.deafau.org.au
Christmas but will reopen with new and Pines and Seaford Fishing Club, Corner Deaf Bowls Victoria (Victorian Deaf Lawn
exciting events for 2010 in the New Year.
Keep an eye on Vicdeaf eNews.
Moresby and Miline Avenue, Seaford
meets every 2nd Friday each month (Feb
Bowls Association)
Victorian Deaf Squash Association
ORGANISATIONS
Albury Wodonga Deaf Group to Dec) Victorian Deaf Tennis Association
Victorian Deaf Ten Pin Bowling Club
SERVICING THE DEAF
Lavington Panthers Club, Centaur Road, East Gippsland Deaf Club Joseph Heenan
St Mary’s Parish Centre, at Barinsdale and Email: seaforddeafgatheringclub@yahoo.com deaf access VICTORIA - Hume
Lavington For contact details for the above
outdoor activites of East Gippsland For transport from Kananook Railway Julie Kiroluch
First Friday of every month. 6.00 pm in Deaf Sports club/association,
On the second week every second month Station, go past Frankston Basketball at Email: hume@deafaccessvic.com.au
club bistro (except January) contact Deaf Sports Recreation Victoria.
(Sat or Sun) Bardia Avenue, Seaford or Frankston Bus Voice/Fax: 03 5722 9175
Jessi Hartley
TTY: 03 5722 9451
TTY & Fax: 02 6025 1649
Email: maximumrain@hotmail.com
Louise Bartheyl
TTY: 03 5155 2443
780 or Frankston/Ringwood Bus 901 (next
to Kananook Station) as last bus leaves for DEAF ORGANISATIONS Web: www.deafaccessvic.com.au
Fax: 03 5155 2443 Ringwood at 12.06 am. Toll Free Numbers:Voice: 1300 302 335
Members join in activities like mixed Deaf Arts Network
Email: bartheyl@ozemail.com.au This Club were founded by Joseph Heenan TTY: 1300 302 325
netball competitions, Deaf dancing Ross Onley-Zerkel, Deaf Arts Coordinator
classes. Soon we will have regular photo Saturday 13 February - Annual General and the late Peter Mathers as the club Deaf Arts Network
Meeting - St Mary’s Parish Centre at opened in March 2008. deaf access VICTORIA - Gippsland
scrap-booking nights. Arts Access Victoria
Bairnsdale. Leanne Wishart
Deaf friendly workshops are available for 24 Eastern Road
Victorian Deaf Senior Citizen Club Email: gippsland@deafaccessvic.com.au
local businesses. South Melbourne Victoria 3205
Geelong Deaf Social Group JML Centre, Vicdeaf, Level 3, 340 Albert Voice & TTY: 03 5143 1537
TTY: (03) 9699 7636
Church of Christ Hall, 275 LaTrobe Terrace, Street, East Melbourne Fax: 03 5143 1814
Ballarat Deaf Social Club Inc. Ph: (03) 9699 8299 (leave message with
Geelong meets every second Thursdays at 10.00 Mobile/SMS: 0448 866 331
Eastwood Leisure Complex, 20 Eastwood reception)
Street, Ballarat 2nd Tuesday of each month except January am - 2.00 pm Fax: (03) 9699 8868
Nina Howell Cheryl Rankine, Secretary National Relay Service
1st Friday of each month except January Email: ross@artsaccess.com.au
Fax: 03 5241 9898 TTY: 03 9473 1199 Lance Hately
Marjorie O’Donnell deafartsnetwork@artsaccess.com.au
Email: gdsg40@gmail.com Fax: 03 9473 1122 Email: victoria@relayservice.com.au
Fax: 03 5335 7019 SMS: 0404 226 061
Welcome back after long holiday to GDSG Email: info@vicdeaf.com.au Phone: 1800 555 660
Email: bdsc_ballarat@hotmail.com MSN: deafartsnetwork@live.com.au
on Tuesday 9th February 2010. Ph: 03 9473 1111 TTY: 03 9473 1149
Web: www.ballaratdeafsocialclubinc.net Web: www.artsaccess.com.au
Fax: 03 9473 1122
1st Club Night for 2010 on Friday 5 February
Pankina Deaf Senior Group Werribee Deaf Club Inc. Mob: 0402 016 185 (SMS only)
at 7.30 pm Deaf Sports Australia
10th Starlight Ball, Mercure, Main Road, 25-35 High Street, Prahran Central Park Community Centre, 80 TTY: (03) 9473 1154
(Postal address - PO Box 443, Prahran, Lonsdale Circuit, Hoppers Crossing Sign Language Communications
Ballarat on Saturday 31 July 2010 Ph: (03) 9473 1191
VIC, 3181) meets on the fourth Friday of every month Victoria (SLC VIC)
Fax: (03) 9473 1122
Every fortnight on Mondays at 10.30 am from February to November Email: slc_vic@slcommunications.com.au
Benalla Auslan Chat Group Level 3/340 Albert Street
to 3.00 pm. First get together for 2010 on Patricia Shields, Secretary Freecall Ph: 1300 123 SLC (752)
Rambling Rose Coffee Shop, Benalla East Melbourne, VIC, 3002
Monday 18 January. Voice: 0404 068 659 TTY: (03) 9473 1143
Every second Monday, 12.30 – 1.30 Email: dsa@deafsports.org.au
Admission $4.00 Email: werribeedeafclub@gmail.com Ph: (03) 9473 1117
Julie Kiroluch Web: www.deafsports.org.au
Activities like Bingo $3 a book and Crazy Werribee Deaf Club Inc. holds social nights or (03) 9473 1118
TTY: 03 5722 9451
Whist & 777s $1.00 on the fourth Friday of each month, such as Fax: (03) 9473 1144
Fax: 03 5722 9175 Deaf Sports Recreation Victoria
Email: hume@deafaccessvic.com.au Morning and afternoon teas provided. All Information nights with various topics and Email: dsrv@pacific.net.au
welcome. games nights from February to December SensWide (Melb, Frankston & Preston)
Ph: 03 5722 9175 Fax: (03) 9473 1122 - Attention to DSRV
Cheryl Clarke each year. All welcome to attend. Email: info@senswide.com.au
Chat group will resume in Jan 2010. TTY: (03) 9473 1161 Ph: 133 677, then
TTY & Fax: 03 9078 2600 Entry fee for Members $3.00, Non Phone: (03) 9015 5155
Please let Julie know if you are planning quote our TTY number (above) The DSRV
Email: cherylclarke49@hotmail.com Members $6.00, Children under 16 Free. Fax: (03) 9614 3070
to attend in case there are any last minute office is open from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm on
Jan 18th Welcome. Memberships available. TTY: (03) 9614 3062
changes to date/venue, etc. Mondays and Fridays. Contact us for an
Feb 1st Bingo, 15th Crazy Whist. appointment!!
March 1st 777s, 15th Bingo, 29th Crazy Other Deaf Clubs and Groups hearservice
Bendigo Deaf Gathering
Whist and Easter raffles. throughout Victoria include: Email: info@hearservice.com.au
Hudson Coffee, Hargreave Street (Mall), John Pierce Centre
April 12th Outing to Aquarium, 26th 777s. Casey Deaf Club (Glendonald Association Inc.) Ph: 1300 30 20 31
Bendigo 25-35 High Street
May 10th Bingo, 24th Pankina’s AGM. Gippsland Deaf Regional Centre (Traralgon) TTY: (03) 9567 0422
Every 4th Friday of the month at 4.00 pm Prahran VIC 3181
- 5.45 pm Northern Deaf Club Postal: PO Box 443, Prahran, VIC 3181
Jo Richards Seymour Kilmore Deaf Support Group TTY: 03 9525 1337 Ph: 03 9525 1158
Email: richards_jo@hotmail.com Shepparton Deaf Support Group Fax: 03 9525 1191
Next monthly get together starts on Friday Email: admin@jpc.org.au
26 February 2010 at 4.00 pm - 5.45 pm Victorian Council of the Deaf
Email: info@vcod.org.au
Compliments, comments and complaints about interpreters
We want to know what you think!
Deaf people use interpreters to communicate more often • Filling out our online feedback form at www.vicdeaf. 1. The person you give your complaint to must give you an
now than before. com.au/feedback answer.
We want to encourage you to let us know what you think • Requesting from any of the above contacts a feedback 2. If you are not satisfied with the answer, you can ask
about the interpreters that come from Sign Language form be posted to you for your complaint to go to a manager and/or an
Communications Victoria (SLC VIC) at Vicdeaf. You can give us information about our service that you liked investigating officer.
We always welcome feedback and now is a good opportunity or didn’t like. For example: 3. If you are still not satisfied with the answer, you can ask
for you to tell us what you think of our service. • The name of interpreters you prefer to work with for your complaint to go to the CEO of Vicdeaf and an
• If you feel an interpreter has not followed their investigating officer.
You can let us know your comments by contacting us in the
professional Code of Ethics 4. If you are still not satisfied with the answer, the last step
following ways:
• If you feel the quality of interpreting was good or bad is you can ask for your complaint to go to an outside
• Email us at: slc_vic@vicdeaf.com.au
• If you like how our booking office works and provide organisation such as the Disability Service Commission,
• MSN us on: slc_vic@vicdeaf.com.au suggestions to improve the service Disability Rights Victoria, VCOD or the Health Services
• Video Relay Interpreting service • any other feedback you have Commission.
• Call us by TTY on 03 9473 1199 After we receive your comments we have to follow steps to Let us know what you think about SLC VIC and our staff.
• Call us by voice on 03 9473 1117 make sure you are satisfied. All feedback is important to us See below for details on how to contact us. We look forward
• Send us a fax on 03 9473 1144 and helps us to improve our service to you.
to hearing from you.
If your feedback is a complaint, you can choose to make your
• Come in and see us face to face (interpreters provided Marc Curtis, SLC VIC Manager
complaint direct to an outside organization at any time. You
upon request) Voice: 03 9473 1146
can do that before talking to Vicdeaf about it or at any time
If you would prefer to not raise your comments with SLC during the complaint process. After we receive a complaint, Karen O’Mahoney, SLC VIC Booking Office Coordinator
VIC contact the Vicdeaf Quality Coordinator by: we must follow these steps: Voice: 03 9473 1117
November/December 2009 | Communicate Issue 20 7
Afternoon tea at Government House
By David Oliver with all of the guests as afternoon tea was for this occasion – “From Gaslight to now be known as the Gaslight Awards
Manager served. Gigabyte” which showed how our world to be made and presented in the second
Community Relations and Development has changed in many ways over the years. half of 2010. The awards will recognise
Vicdeaf President Mac Adam chaired a
“There have been many challenges and the most outstanding contributions made
program of recognition, reflection and
Vicdeaf celebrated its 125th Anniversary changes over the years” Mac said, “Today to the Victorian Deaf Society since its
challenge as well as directing the audience Vicdeaf’s services are provided consistent inception and through the first 125 years
with a Garden Party at Government
to the arrival of an unexpected visitor from with our vision and mission and deeply of its service.
House on Thursday 22 October 2009.
the past. It was the Town Crier (James rooted in the concepts of social justice and
More than 200 people enjoyed a sunny The occasion also provided an opportunity
Blyth) who arrived in full costume, which equity”.
afternoon as they acknowledged the to recognise and acknowledge the
included a brilliant red coat and a very
proud history of the Victorian Deaf CEO Graeme Kelly spoke about the new volunteer work provided by members of
impressive three-corner hat. His chauffeur
Society. Guests included representatives Video Relay Interpreting service (VRI) – the current and previous Boards at Vicdeaf.
drove a lovely old-fashioned carriage
from many Deaf organisations, clubs and at the gigabyte end of the scale, which has Certificates were presented to 10 present
drawn by two horses. His message was
sporting associations, volunteers, Board been recently put in place and will, with and past Board members and further
one of congratulations, but also one of
members, Trusts and Foundations, past the support of the State Government, be presentations will be made at a later time.
challenge as we look forward to the next
Chief Executive Officers, Life Members, important to Deaf and hearing people The afternoon was a very pleasant and
125 years.
donors and staff. Of course the Governor in regional Victoria. Graeme went on to happy event, with many people staying on
and Mrs de Kretser were present to meet Mac Adam spoke of the theme chosen introduce the Roll of Honour, which will to chat in the beautiful garden setting.
Photo: Past and present Board Members receive their certificates . (L to R) Mac Adam,
Sam Patterson, Adam Brooks, Garry Fowler, David Peters, Felicity Pantelidis, Faye
Photo: Town Crier James Blyth arrives to deliver his message. Kendall (obscured) Therese Pierce, Bob Roff and Carole Wagner.
Photo Source: Vicdeaf. Photo Source: Vicdeaf.
Deaf Golf Victoria 40th anniversary weekend
Deaf Golf Victoria celebrated its 40th over Pierce, of Melbourne. The Junior Handicap
the recent weekend (November 27-28, category, which is the first time ever that this
2009) in style by hosting the Victorian Deaf category has been held in the long proud
Golf Championships at Kingston Links. 18 history of Deaf Golf Victoria, was won by
Victorian golfers were joined by 12 golfers Cameron Gabriel of Geelong.
from interstate, to contest the championships.
In the middle of these championships, a
Melbourne tuned the weather on and we had
marvelous function was held at Knox Club,
4 seasons in a day !
in which 65 past players, committee persons,
Jack Besley of Melbourne won the and supporters attended. Deaf Golf Victoria
Championships with a score of 77 and 74, was also proud to have Coral Hately attend
3 in front of Denver Magnusson of Kyneton the function. Coral was the wife of the late
and Craig Douglas of Sydney. The A Grade Wally Hately who was a proud committeeman
Handicap section was won by Paul Hammond of Deaf Golf Victoria over many years. Many
of Sydney, whilst the B Grade Handicap was wonderful stories were shared and old faces
won by a young Dechlan Birt, of Bendigo. (or foes!) caught up. All left with many warm Photo: All past and present Deaf Golf Victoria golfers.
The Womens Handicap was won by Therese memories of the night. Photo Source: Deaf Golf Victoria.
Photo: Cameron Gabriel : Junior Winner. Photo: Jack Besley : Scratch Winner. Photo: Therese Pierce : Ladies Winner.
Photo Source: Deaf Golf Victoria. Photo Source: Deaf Golf Victoria. Photo Source: Deaf Golf Victoria.
8 Communicate Issue 20 | November/December 2009
SPORTS Deaf women’s cricket match
The idea to have a Deaf Women’s
Cricket Match started at a meeting
between Melbourne Deaf Cricket Club
(MDCC), Deaf Sports Australia and
On Sunday 15 November, all the women
showed up in their new hot pink MDCC
Gorillas polo shirts. Two teams were
formed, one was called the ‘Gorillas’ and
Geelong wins bid to host
Cricket Victoria. But the idea turned to the other was called ‘Princesses’. Melissa
reality when MDCC Secretary Melissa said, “Some of the girls were amazing,
received many replies on Facebook from hitting fours and sixes! The team spirit
2012 Australian Deaf Games
Deaf women wanting to play a game of and competitiveness came out in us all
cricket. She received enough replies to and we played such a great game!” The
field two full cricket teams! ‘Gorillas’ team won by 28 runs. The
women enjoyed the game and are keen
Deaf Sports Australia has announced Deaf and hard of hearing community Cricket Victoria gave their full support by
for more games in the future.
that the City of Greater Geelong has and Deaf Sports Australia is looking providing world class indoor cricket nets
been chosen as the host city for the 2012 forward to partnering with the City of and facilities at the MCG for the women For any Deaf cricket enquiries,
Australian Deaf Games, which is likely to Greater Geelong to host an unforgettable to practise a few days before the cricket contact Melissa Lowrie on Email:
attract up to 1000 participants and up Games,” Mr Phillips said. match with a top junior women’s cricket melbournedeafcricket@gmail.com
to 1600 support staff. Geelong out-bid coach, Di Day. Melissa
The Australian Deaf Games is one of the said, “We were all slightly
Wodonga in a competitive bidding process
oldest sporting events in the country. The in awe at training in the
to secure the event following a tour by
origins of interstate deaf sport competitions nets that the Victorian
organisers of the city’s sports and social
can be traced back to 1895 when the Bushrangers train in! We
facilities.
Victorian Deaf Cricket team travelled to learnt how to put all the
Deaf Sports Australia President Brent South Australia for a friendly cricket match. equipment on, how to
Phillips said that Geelong was an excellent The first Deaf Carnivals were held in 1911 bowl and bat and how to
choice to host the 16th Australian Deaf and continued regularly until the Games attempt to run with all
Games in 2012. “The bid by the City in its current format started in Sydney in those leg pads on us! I tell
of Greater Geelong was outstanding and 1964. The most recent Games were held you, we have never had so
it presented us with an opportunity to on the Gold Coast in January 2008. Held much fun in our lives and
deliver a successful sporting and social every four years, the Games involve up to by the time it was over,
event in one of Australia’s largest regional 20 different sports and attract competitors we were all exhausted
cities.” from all over Australia and New Zealand. and sore but pumped for
“Interest and anticipation for the 2012 The Australian Deaf Games will be held in Sunday’s match!”
Games is very high in the Australian early 2012.
Photo: Kaylene Knight enjoys a game of cricket.
Photo Source: Vicdeaf.
VDTBC 30 Years
The Victorian Deaf Tenpin Bowling Club centres. So many things have changed in
(VDTBC) held their 30 Year Anniversary 30 years.
celebration on Friday 6 November which
VDTBC continues to run strongly and
was held at the Alfred Homestead in
will continue in the next 30 years or more.
Warrandyte South. It was a very successful
Currently, VDTBC is held at Forest Hill
evening which was enjoyed by 135 people.
AMF Bowling Centre which they meet
The smorgasbord meal was provided.
and play their league tenpin bowling once
Master of Ceremonies were both Ron
every 4 weeks. Our next Nationals will be
Chapman (President) and Sylvia Gusts
held in Frankston AMF Bowling Centre in
(Vice-President).
Easter 2010.
Also Wendy Devlin, a long time member
VDTBC would be pleased to welcome
gave a great speech on the history of
any new bowlers or visitors. To contact
VDTBC. In the old days, scores were done
VDTBC, send an email to vdtbc@hotmail.
manually by paper and pencil. Now it is all
com or post a letter to PO Box 4185,
electronic and automatic. Also in the old
Alfredton VIC 3350 or send an SMS
days, smoking was allowed but nowadays
message on 0403 490 217.
smoking are banned at all tenpin bowling
Photo: The women celebrate wildly when a wicket falls.
Photo Source: Vicdeaf.
Photo: 1st year 1978 Committee who helped
started VDTBC.
Photo: Ron Chapman (President) and
Sylvia Gusts (Vice President) both Master
of Ceremonies.
Photo: Wendy Devlin, giving out a speech Photo: It’s game on as Melanie Merhi comes in to bowl.
Photo: Our 30 Year Anniversary cake. on the history of VDTBC. Photo Source: Vicdeaf.
